Straw Content Research Articles

Influence of phosphorous fertilizer on mineral nutrition and yield attributes of wheat: Acquisition with PSTOL1 gene for arid environment

To boost agricultural yields, understanding mineral nutrition’s reliance on fertilizers is crucial, underscoring the need to evaluate nutrient-use efficiency for optimal fertilization. In this regard, a field study was conducted to elaborate the role of phosphorus fertilizer in enhancing growth, yield and marginal rate of return in four wheat varieties; two Zn-biofortified (Zincol-2016 and Akbar-2019) and two standard types (Anaj-2017 and FSD-2008). The study revealed that application of phosphorus significantly enhanced the uptake of nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P) and potassium (K) contents in straw (13 %, 59 % and 79 %) and grains (63 %, 92 % and 28 %) respectively. Similarly, the contents of Zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) were reduced in straw (23 % and 19 %) and grains (19 % and 18 %) respectively after application of 80 and 120 kg P2O5, however at 40 kg P2O5 the contents of Zn and Fe were slightly enhanced. The grain yield (21 %) and harvest index (11 %) was maximum at 80 kg P2O5 as compared to 40 and 120 kg P2O5. The Marginal rate of return over investment (MRR) in P2O5 was maximum (241 %) in Akbar-2019 when P-fertilizer was applied at the rate of 80 kg P2O5 per ha−1. Regression analysis showed a positive correlation between grain yield and its determinants. Biofortified wheat varieties responded better to 80 kg P2O5, outperforming standard varieties in yield. Additionally, our findings demonstrate a significant upregulation of PSTOL1 gene expression at 80 kg P2O5 level. Concludingly the application of P-fertilizer at the rate of 80 kg P2O5 per ha−1 enhanced growth, yield and rate of return of testing wheat varieties especially the biofortified ones; Zincol-2016 and Akbar-2019.

Integration of organic amendments and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria improves wheat growth and yield by modulating phosphorus availability and physiological reponses

Saline calcareous soil presents significant challenges for crop production due to its poor nutrient availability and adverse effects on plant growth. Hence this study aimed to investigates the impact of integrating organic amendments—specifically Moringa seed residues, biogas manure, and vermicompost (Ver)—with and without phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB), alongside two types of phosphatic fertilizers, ordinary super phosphate (OSP) and rock phosphate (RP), on the growth, yield, and nutrient uptake of wheat plants in saline calcareous soil conditions. The results indicate that the combined application of Ver + PSB, particularly when paired with OSP, consistently yields superior outcomes across all measured parameters, followed by Ver + PSB with RP. Notably, the Ver + PSB with OSP treatment exhibits the highest values across several key parameters: chlorophyll levels (chlorophyll a at 1.8, chlorophyll b at 0.84, and carotenoids at 0.72 mg g−1f wt), proline at 38.5 μg g−1 DW, relative water content at 80.76%, membrane stability index at 67.62%, as well as net photosynthetic rate (Pn), transpiration rate (Tr), and stomatal conductance (gs). Furthermore, this treatment showcases the highest antioxidant enzyme activities (Superoxide dismutase, SOD at 9.27 A564 min−1 g−1 protein, Catalase, CAT at 78.53 A564 min−1 g−1 protein, Peroxihdase, POX at 1.86 A564 min−1 g−1 protein), as well as NPK content and uptake in wheat straw and grains. Additionally, it leads to significant increases in wheat growth parameters, including plant height, straw weight, grain weight, 1000 grain weight, and protein content. However, it also results in a notable decrease in other parameters such as total soluble sugars and nonenzymatic antioxidants (Ascorbate, AsA; Total glutathione, GsH; and α-Tocopherol, α-TOC).

Preparation of modified silica gel supported silver nanoparticles and its evaluation using zone of inhibition for water disinfection

In this work, preparation of modified silica gel supported silver nanoparticles and its evaluation using zone of inhibition for water disinfection were investigated. The silica contents of the teff straw [TS] and teff straw ash [TSA] are 5.92 and 92.21 %, respectively. The calcinated TS ash at 700 °C was mixed with NaOH solution. The solution is then neutralized with HCl solution and then gel formation using the sol gel method. The silica gel yield was recorded and characterized. The SG with major silica functional group, amorphous structure, high porosity from the morphology, high surface area of 807.163 m2/g, pore volume of 0.34 cm3/g, pore diameter of 1.70 nm and silica gel purity of 99.39 % were achieved at a calcination temperature of 700 °C. It is then; further modified using trimethylchlorosilane (TMCS)/ethanol/hexane at different volumetric ratio and the resulting product is modified silica gel (MSG). MSG has excellent hydrophobic properties that have been required during water treatment. In this method, MSG with a major silica functional group, well ordered structure due to the TMCS modifier, maximum surface area of 510.40 m2/g was achieved at volumetric ratio of 0.25:0.25:1 of TMCS/ethanol/hexane, respectively. Then, MSG supported AgNPs (MSG-AgNPs) was prepared by mixing different concentrations of AgNPs-MSG and characterized. The MSG-AgNPs have shown AgNPs on the surface of MSG from the EDX result, different absorbance, pore from the morphology, with a maximum surface area of 475.0 m2/g was obtained at 1.5 mM of AgNPs concentrations. The performance of MSG-AgNPs was evaluated using zone of inhibition measurement and batch disinfection studies against E. coli and S. aureus. At 1.5 x 108 CFU/mL initial bacterial concentrations, the maximum inhibition zone diameter was 12.80 and 14.30 mm for E. coli and S. aureus, respectively.

Surface modification of self-adhesive straw-based fiberboard via alkali treatment combined with DES

Self adhesion is a simple and effective bonding technique that can be used to produce environmentally friendly and green straw-based fiberboard (CLS) through deep eutectic-like solvent (DES) treatment. This article mainly introduces the use of DES composed of choline chloride and oxalic acid. DES is diluted with deionized water and straw is immersed in it, and finally dried into pretreated fiber raw materials. Fiber boards are prepared by adjusting the hot pressing parameters and the preset moisture content of straw itself for hot pressing solidification. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different processing parameters (hot pressing temperature and straw moisture content) on the microstructure, physical properties, and mechanical properties of CLS. Straw-based fiberboard heated at 180 ° C exhibited the best mechanical and water resistance performance. The fiberboard reached its highest mechanical performance at a moisture content of 50%. The bending performance of fiberboard produced at 180 °C reached 13.5 MPa, and compared with the board manufactured at 120 °C, the bending strength, tensile strength, and internal bonding strength increased by 320%, 224%, and 280%, respectively.

Biomass carbon with defective structures as effective ORR catalyst for DMFC

Oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), as an important reaction carried out on the cathode of direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC), directly affects the performance of the cell. Previous experimental studies have shown that there are some interactions between the defect structure and N doping to promote the ORR performance of the catalysts. In this work, the binder was first utilized to reduce the lignin content in the cotton straw (CS) system, thereby increasing the defective structure of the carbon substrate. Here, we obtained 5C-NP-Fe catalysts by increasing the defectivity of the carbon substrate through binder. The coordination environment surrounding the Fe-N4 sites is optimized by the synergistic action of the N and P atoms and the faulty structure, as shown by DFT theoretical calculations. In alkaline medium, half-wave potentials as high as 0.88 V in the three-electrode system and a peak power density of 10.8 mW cm−2 in a direct methanol fuel cell at 60℃. Compared to a 20 wt% commercial Pt/C catalyst (0.84 V, 7.5 mW cm−2), 5C-NP-Fe showed good ORR activity. The binder modification strategy provides a simple and green approach to the structural optimization of biomass-based catalysts.

Influence of Nitrogen Levels and Microbial Inoculation on Growth, Yield and Straw of Direct Seeded Basmati Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Background: Rice, a staple cereal, serves as the primary food for almost 50% of the world¢s population. Nitrogen is the predominant mineral element found in crops and serves as the primary constraint on Rice production. Direct-seeded rice cultivation has emerged as a potential alternative to traditional transplanting method. The goal is to provide insights that may be used to build sustainable agricultural methods that are specifically designed for Basmati rice production. Methods: This study aim to evaluate the effect of different N application levels (M1: 0 kg ha-1, M2: 40 kg ha-1 and M3: 60 kg ha-1) options as first factor with four microbial inoculation treatments (S1-Control, S2-Azosprillum (618g/ha) + Streptomyces’s (618g/ha), S3- Consortium (1235 g/ha) and S4-AMF (1235 g/ha). The experiment was conducted using a split-plot design (SPD) with three replications. Result: The study revealed that the maximum yield and yield attributes viz. plant height (116.47 cm), effective tillers ( 354.13 m2),leaf area index (2.64), no. of grains per panicle(84.17), length of panicle (24.66 cm), no. of filled grains per panicle (125.0), grain yield (54.30 q ha-1), straw yield ( 80.42 q ha-1), biological yield (134.72 q ha-1) and 1000-grain weight (24.64 g), maximum protein content (%) in grains (8.73%), straw (5.78%) was recorded in M3S2 i.e. 60 kg N ha-1 with azosprillum (618 g/ha) + streptomyces's (618 g/ha) significantly highest compared to other nitrogen levels and microbial inoculation treatments. Hence, the application of N @ 60 kg ha-1 along with azosprillum (618 g/ha)+Streptomyces¢s (618 g/ha) can be suggested to achieve higher rice grain yield, yield attributes and nitrogen content in grain and straw in DSR.

Effect of fertility levels and stress mitigating chemicals on nutrient content, uptake, intercropping advantage and competition effect in cowpea-baby corn intercropping

The primary goal of this study was to analyze how various row ratios of intercrops, in conjunction with different fertilizer levels with spray of two stress mitigating chemical, affect nutrient content, land productivity, and economic viability during Summer season. Furthermore, we aimed to explore the competitive dynamics within legume/cereal intercropping systems. Hence, A field experiment at Agriculture University, Kota, during the summers of 2019 and 2020, investigated different cowpea + baby corn intercropping system's intercropping indices, nutrient dynamics, uptake, and post-harvest soil nutrient balance under varying recommended fertilizer levels and foliar spray of stress mitigating chemicals. Using a split-split plot design replicated four times, the experiment involved thirty treatment combinations, including five intercropping techniques viz. Sole cowpea, sole baby corn, cowpea + baby corn 2:1, cowpea + baby corn 3:1, cowpea + baby corn 4:1 in the main plot, three fertility levels viz. 100 %, 125 % and 150 % recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) in subplots, and two stress mitigation chemicals; CaCl2 0.5 % and KNO3 1% in sub-subplots. The findings revealed notable trends, including nitrogen (N) and (P) content in cowpea seeds and straw, baby corn cobs and fodder, as well as enhanced land-equivalent ratio (LER) and monetary advantage index (MAI) within the cowpea + baby corn 2:1 row ratio. However, despite these advantages, total N and P uptake were markedly higher in sole crops. Notably, sole cowpea demonstrated the highest actual N and P balance and lowest was under sole baby corn. Among the fertility levels, the 150 % RDF level exhibited the most favorable outcomes across various parameters, including LER, MAI, NP content, and uptake in both crops. Additionally, higher fertility levels correlated with increased apparent and actual soil nutrient balances. While, among stress mitigation chemicals, CaCl2 0.5 % resulted in significantly heightened N and P uptake. Hence, to optimize intercropping dynamics and maintain soil nutrient balance, it is advisable to intensify cowpea cultivation along with baby corn in a 2:1 row ratio, utilizing 150 % RDF is beneficial. Additionally, alleviating higher temperature stress during the summer season can be achieved by applying a 0.5 % solution CaCl2 through spraying at the flowering and pod development stages of cowpea.

Catalytic conversion of biomass pyrolysis volatiles over composite catalysts of activated carbon and HY zeolite

Bio-oil has complex compositions and high oxygen content, which restricts its high-value utilization. Commercial activated carbon (AC) and HY zeolite were used as composite catalysts to study their effect on pyrolysis volatiles from rice straw and poplar sawdust by changing the mixing modes of two catalysts. The results showed that the loading modes of AC and HY zeolite obviously affected the products distribution and bio-oil components. The lowest yield of bio-oil was obtained when HY zeolite and AC were mechanically mixed at a mass ratio of 1:1 (YACM). But the loading mode of YACM was beneficial to the deoxidation and aromatic hydrocarbon generation. Under the mode of YACM, the aromatics content in rice straw and poplar sawdust bio-oil can be increased from 13.8% and 8.0% without catalyst to 56.4% and 53.1%, respectively. However, the layered loading with upper HY zeolite and lower AC (YTACL) was favorable for formation of phenolic compounds. The selectivity to monocyclic and bicyclic aromatic hydrocarbons followed the order of YTACL > ACTYL > YACM, and YACM > ACTYL > YTACL, respectively. Compared with HY zeolite, AC catalyst possessed smaller pore size and fewer acidity, and the active sites of AC were conducive to rearrangement of furan compounds to generate cyclopentanone, 2-cyclopentenone and methyl-cyclopentenone, and further rearrangement to form phenol. Therefore, the loading mode of YTACL exhibited a promotion effect on the formation of phenol, cresol, toluene, ethylbenzene and p-xylene. The strong acidic sites of HY zeolite were favorable for the aromatization, so the loading mode of ACTYL had good selectivity to the formation of naphthalene, methylnaphthalene, anthracene and pyrene. This work will provide a guide for products regulation from biomass pyrolysis and enrich aromatics and phenols in bio-oil.

Influence of air staging variation on agglomeration behavior of biomass fuels in fluidized bed technology

The fluidized bed system is an effective approach widely accepted and commonly used for the thermochemical conversion of solid fuel such as biomass and agricultural residue. In most instances, there are some demerits usually associated with this approach such as development of eutectic mass, increased process of melting and bed agglomeration. This work was carried out to study the behavior of five readily available biomass fuels (Palm tree fronds, corn straw, plantain peels, sugarcane bagasse and domestic woods) in a bubbling fluidized bed (BFB) combustor. Characterization of the bed materials and ash samples were done using SEM-EDX, XRF and XRD. The effect of physical factors on the composition of obtained ash and particles from the bed was assessed. Also, the interaction between the fuel ash and bed particle was evaluated to reveal its influence on bed materials morphology. The results obtained revealed a combustion efficiency that varies between 96.2 to 99.6 % with the highest value obtained for sugarcane bagasse. The corn straw has the highest Potassium (K) content, while the domestic wood ash contained the highest Calcium (Ca) content. The XRF analysis revealed the conversion of the major potassium content of the corn straw to K2O. Meanwhile, bed agglomeration was absent when combustion was carried out with no staging-air as well as with staging air, despite high temperature above 800 oC used. Data obtained from this work revealed that agglomeration effect will be minimal issue when carrying out fluidized bed combustion of the selected biomass.

Dynamic tensile properties of straw fiber reinforced rubber concrete

Rubber concrete (RC) has received a great deal of attention in the field of construction materials, owing to its outstanding mechanical properties and potential for waste recycling. Despite extensive research on the mechanical behavior of RC, there remains a notable gap in understanding the dynamic characteristics of fiber reinforced rubber concrete. This study specifically focuses on the dynamic characteristics of RC with straw fibers as reinforcement. The investigative methodologies employed scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis, computed tomography (CT) scans, and split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) with a high-speed camera system for dynamic tension tests. The CT experimental findings reveal a uniform distribution of rubber particles and straw fibers within the concrete matrix. The dynamic tensile strength of straw fiber reinforced rubber concrete (SFRC) demonstrates a linear correlation with increasing loading rates. The results showed that SFRC-1.5 had 4.8 % lower static strength and 15 % lower dynamic strength than RC without straw fibers at the load rate of 110 GPa/s. In terms of energy, the dissipated energy density increased by 5.36 % at this loading rate. In addition, at a straw content of 2.5 %, the initial cracking time reached a maximum value of 220 μs. The highest level of shear resistance was observed at this content. This study emphasizes the heightened capability of SFRC under dynamic loading forces, thereby contributing to its potential application in green civil engineering and other related fields.

Effect of Phosphorus levels with and without Phosphate solubilizing bacteria on growth, yield and quality of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) L.

A field experiment entitled “Effect of phosphorus levels with and without phosphate solubilizing bacteria on growth, yield and quality of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) in semi-arid region of South-Eestern Rajasthan was conducted during Kharif season of 2021 at the Experimental Farm of Agronomy, Mewar University, Gangrar, Chittorgarh (Rajasthan). The experiment consists of eight treatments, levels of phosphorus with and without PSB viz., 0, 20, 40 and 60 kg P2O5 ha-1, PSB, 20 kg P2O5 ha-1+PSB, 40 kg P2O5 ha-1 +PSB and 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 +PSB replicated four times laid down in RBD. Cowpea variety Pratap RC-19 was used with seed rate 15 kg ha-1. Growth attributes viz., plant height at 60 DAS and at harvest responded with 40 kg P2O5 ha-1 except 30 DAS where it responded with 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 over control. Primary and secondary branches per plant, number of trifoliate leaf of cowpea statistically significantly responded up to 40 kg P2O5. ha-1 at harvest. Similarly, root nodule number at 45 DAS responded up to 40 kg P2O5. ha-1 whereas nodule dry weight was responded up to 60 kg P2O5. ha-1 at 45 DAS over 40 kg, 20 kg P2O5 ha-1 and control. Yield attributing characters namely number of pods per plant and pod length were perceptibly increase, ed by application of 40 kg P2O5. ha-1 over 20 kg P2O5 ha-1 and control. Further, application of 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 remained statistically at par in enhancing yield attributes. 1000-grain weight, seeds per pod and harvest index was significantly higher up to 20 kg P2O5 ha-1 and control. Grain, straw and biological yields of cowpea perceptibly increased with the application of 40 kg and 60 kg P2O5. ha-1 but the higher dose of 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 remained statistically at par with 40 kg P2O5 ha-1. Improvement in N content both in grain and straw, P content in straw and K content both in grain and straw, protein content in grain and grain protein yield was significantly improved up to 40 kg P2O5. ha-1. P content in grain was responded with 60 kg P2O5 ha-1. Similarly, NPK uptake by both grain and straw and total uptake of nutrients (NPK)Nwas increased significantly under 40 kg P2O5. ha-1 over 20 kg P2O5 ha-1 and control. The dose of 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 remained statistically at par with 40 kg P2O5. ha-1 in enhancing gross and net returns and B:C over 20 kg P2O5 ha-1 and control.

Zinc biofortification of wheat through fertilizer and genotype management

This study investigated the responses of two wheat varieties, Alvand (Zn-inefficient) and Pishtaz (Zn-efficient), to various zinc (Zn) fertilization methods to determine optimal strategies for enhancing wheat growth and grain quality. The primary aim of this research was to evaluate the effects of various Zn fertilization strategies, including foliar applications of Zn sulfate and Zn-EDTA with and without urea, as well as synthetic Zn amino acid complexes, along with soil applications of Zn sulfate, on the yield and nutritional quality of grains in these two contrasting wheat varieties. The results revealed that wheat varieties responded differently to Zn treatments. While Alvand showed a promising trend of elevated grain yield with foliar zinc sulfate application, Pishtaz exhibited a stronger response to foliar treatments like Zn-Met and Zn-EDTA + urea. Yield components as 1000-grain weight and spike weight, were significantly influenced by Zn fertilization. Foliar application of zinc sulfate + urea enhanced 1000-grain weight in Alvand, whereas Zn-EDTA + urea substantially increased spike weight in Pishtaz. Soil application of zinc sulfate was found to be as an effective method to enhance grain Zn content. Furthermore, the Zn concentrations in flour, straw, bran, and roots elucidated the complex patterns of Zn distribution among various plant tissues. Soil applications were particularly effective in increasing Zn levels in flour and bran, while foliar treatments influenced Zn content in straw and roots. Overall, this research highlights the importance of Zn fertilization strategies for different wheat varieties biofortification. These findings can provide practical implications for sustainable wheat production, addressing Zn deficiency challenges, and advancing food security worldwide. Further exploration into the underlying mechanisms of these responses is encouraged to refine Zn management practices for wheat cultivation.

Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Nutrient Content and their Uptake by Mung Bean Crop (Vigna radiata L.) under Mid Hill Conditions of Himachal Pradesh

Aim: To study the effect of integrated nutrient management on nutrient content and uptake by mungbean crop under mid hill conditions of Himachal Pradesh. Study Design: Randomized block design. Abhilashi University, Chail Chowk, Mandi, (H.P.), during kharif of 2023. Methodology: The experiment was conducted with three replications and eight treatments viz. T1= Absolute control, T2= 100% RDF + biofertilizers, T3= 75% RDF + biofertilizers, T4= 75% RDF + 25% N by poultry manure + biofertilizers, T5= 75% RDF + 25% N by vermicompost + biofertilizers, T6= 50% RDF + 50% N by poultry manure + biofertilizers, T7= 50% RDF + 50% N by vermicompost + biofertilizers, T8= 50% RDF + 50% N by poultry manure + vermicompost + biofertilizers. Results: The study of the data revealed that the non-significant effect of integrated nutrient management practices was found on nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in grain and straw of mungbean, whereas, the maximum content of these nutrients was found in treatment T2. However, treatment T2 recorded significantly the highest uptake of N, P and K by grain, straw and total uptake by mungbean crop, which was statistically at par with treatment T5 and T4. The minimum content of N, P and K in grain and straw along with their uptake by grain, straw and total uptake by mungbean crop were found under the treatment T1 during the field experiment. Conclusion: This study showed that the different integrated nutrient management practices had non-significant effect on the nutrient content but it has significantly affected the uptake of nutrients by mungbean crop.

Study on Improving Physical–Mechanical Properties and Frost Resistance of Straw–Mortar Composite Wall Materials by Pretreatment

In recent years, China has increased the material utilization of crop straw, and the strength of straw–mortar composite wall materials is low, which limits their large-scale utilization. Pretreatment can improve the physico-mechanical and frost resistance properties of straw–mortar composite wall materials. In this study, the Box–Behnken design in the Design-Expert software was used to design and carry out a three-factor and three-level interactive experiment and freeze–thaw cycle experiment with the straw content, pretreatment time, and reagent concentration as influencing factors, and the compressive strength, water absorption rate, and dry density as response values. The results showed that the impact of each factor on the response value, from high to low, was the straw content, pre-preparation time, and reagent concentration. When the straw content was 10%, the preparation time was 5 min, and the reagent concentration was 5%, the physical and mechanical properties of the straw–mortar composite wall material were the best. At the same time, the compressive strength was 6.52 MPa, the water absorption rate was 17.7%, and the dry density was 1396.33 kg·m−3, which was 67% higher, 31% lower, and 37% higher than that of the untreated straw–mortar composite wall materials. After the freeze–thaw cycle, the mass loss rate of the composite materials was less than 5%, which met the requirements of the frost resistance specifications; the strength loss rate of the composite materials varied between 19.7% and 27.8%, although some test blocks did not meet the requirements of less than 25% in the specification. The compressive strength was greatly improved compared with the untreated composite materials in the related research, and the water absorption rate was about 25% lower than that of the untreated straw–mortar composite wall materials. Pretreatment significantly improved the physico-mechanical and frost resistance properties of the straw–mortar composite wall materials.

Alternate wetting and drying: a water-saving technology for sustainable rice production in Burkina Faso?

With emerging water scarcity and rising fertilizer prices, optimising future water use while maintaining yield and nutrient efficiency in irrigated rice is crucial. Alternate wetting and moderate soil drying irrigation (i.e., re-irrigation when the water level reaches 15 cm below the soil surface) has proven to be an efficient water-saving technology in semi-arid zones of West Africa, reducing water inputs without yield penalty. Alternate wetting and severe soil drying (AWD30), by re-irrigating fields only when the water table reaches 30 cm below the soil surface, may further reduce water inputs compared to farmers’ irrigation practices (FP). However, acute soil drying may impair fertilizer use efficiency and reduce the bio-availability of some key nutrients. This study assessed the potentials and risks associated with AWD30 for smallholder rice farmers in the semi-arid zones of West Africa. We conducted 30 on-farm field trials over three seasons (wet and dry seasons of 2019, and dry season of 2020), in Kou Valley, Burkina Faso. We assessed yield, water productivity, nutrient uptake, and use efficiency under AWD30 and FP. In FP, farmers maintained their fields submerged as frequently as possible according to the scheme-dependent water provision schedule. With AWD30, irrigation frequency was reduced by 30%, however, soils were seldom completely dried due to a shallow groundwater table. Compared to FP, AWD30 reduced irrigation water input by 37% with no significant effects on grain yields (average of 4.5 Mg ha−1), thus increasing average water productivity by 39%. Both irrigation management practices provided comparable crop uptake of N, P, and K, and use efficiencies of applied N and P. However, the N content in straw and the P concentration in grain generally increased with total water input (rain + irrigation). We conclude that at locations with a shallow groundwater table, AWD30 can effectively save irrigation water without significantly reducing the grain yield and the use efficiency of applied mineral nutrients.

Effect of cutting schedules and nitrogen management on forage and seed production of oats (Avena sativa L.)

A field research entitled “Effect of cutting schedules and nitrogen management on forage and seed production of oats (Avena sativa L.)” was conducted to find out the effect of cutting schedules (uncut, cut at 50 DAS and cut at 60 DAS) and nitrogen management (120 kg N ha-1, 90 kg N ha-1 + one spray of nano urea 2 ml litre-1, 90 kg N ha-1 + one spray of nano urea 4 ml litre-1, 60 kg N ha-1 + two sprays of nano urea 2 ml litre-1 and 60 kg N ha-1 + two sprays of nano urea 4 ml litre-1) on productivity of oats and find out the effect of foliar application of ‘Nano Urea’. The results revealed that significantly higher plant height, number of tiller 0.5 m-1 row length and dry matter accumulation 0.5 m-1 row length were observed under uncut over cut at 50 DAS and cut at 60 DAS.The results revealed that cut at 60 DAS resulted in significantly highergreen fodder yield as compared to cut at 50 DAS. Yield parameters viz. number of effective tillers 0.5 m-1 row length, panicle length, number of grains panicle-1, 1000 grain weight, weight of grain 0.5 m-1 row length, grain, straw, biological yield and harvest index of oat was significantly higher under uncut as compared to cut at 50 DAS and 60 DAS. Grain yield increased under uncut over cut at 60 DAS by 146.8 per cent and straw yield increased under uncut over cut at 50 DAS and cut at 60 DAS by 69.1 and 182.7 per cent, respectively. Further, uncut recorded significantly higher nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content and uptake in grain and straw as compared to cut at 50 DAS and 60 DAS. Further, number of tiller and dry matter accumulation increased with the application of 120 kg ha-1. Significantly higher green (35.02 t ha-1) and dry (7.35 t ha-1) fodder yield was obtained with the application of 120 kg N ha-1 as compared to application of 60 kg N ha-1 + two sprays of nano urea 2 ml litre-1 and 60 kg N ha-1 + two sprays of nano urea 4 ml litre-1, however, it was at par with application of 90 kg N ha-1 + one spray of nano urea 2 ml litre-1 and 90 kg N ha-1 + one spray of nano urea 4 ml litre-1. Yield parameters viz. number of effective tillers and 1000 grain weight increased with the application of 120 kg N ha-1. Further, grain yield increased with the application 120 kg N ha-1over 90 kg N ha-1 + one spray of nano urea 2 ml litre-1, 90 kg N ha-1 + one spray of nano urea 4 ml litre-1, 60 kg N ha-1 + two sprays of nano urea 2 ml litre-1 and 60 kg N ha-1 + two sprays of nano urea 4 ml litre-1 by 17.4, 14.2, 35.1 and 28.2 per cent, respectively. Straw yield increased with the application of 120 kg N ha-1 over 60 kg N ha-1 + two sprays of nano urea 2 ml litre-1 by 15.3 per cent. Further application of 120 kg N ha-1 recorded higher phosphorus and potassium content over rest of the treatments.

Reduction of inhibitory effect of lignin via degradation and improvement of anaerobic digestion performance of maize straw by oxidative pretreatment with Fe2+-activated persulfate

The stable aromatic structure of lignin is one of the factors that limit the utilization of maize straw. In this study, pretreatment with Fe2+/persulfate (PS) was used to remove lignin while reducing the contents of lignin derivatives produced in the pretreatment. In comparison with the original straw, the lignin and hemicellulose contents of the pretreated straw were reduced to 54.58 % and 72.91 %, respectively. In the Fourier transform infrared spectrum, the characteristic peaks of both syringyl and guaiacyl units were significantly weaker after pretreatment with Fe2+/PS, which indicated that the pretreatment destroyed the structure of lignin. The pretreatment products were examined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and the results indicated that the present pretreatment method reduced the contents of soluble inhibitors produced from lignin. After pretreatment, only levulinic acid, 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde, vanillin, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, xylose, coumaric acid, and 4-coumaric acid were produce, whereas more than 20 soluble inhibitors are known to be produced from lignin. In anaerobic fermentation experiments, in comparison with the control group, the pretreated group exhibited higher gas production (an increase of 18.09 %) and a significantly higher methane content. This indicates that pretreatment with Fe2+/PS can improve the efficiency of the resource utilization of maize straw by degrading lignin.

Influence of Various Nitrogen Levels and Herbicides Application on Nutrient Uptake and Quality Parameters of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

The present study determines the Influence of Various Nitrogen Levels and Herbicides Application on Nutrient Uptake and Quality Parameters of Rice (Oryza sativa L.). A field experiment was conducted during Kharif season 2022 and 2023 at Agronomy research farm, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology Kumarganj, Ayodhya Uttar Pradesh, (India), which consisted of three levels of nitrogen 80, 120 and 160 Kg/ha in main plot and five weed management practices Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10 % WP @ 20g a.i/ha (PE) at 0-3 DAT, Bispyribac sodium 10 % SC @ 25g a.i/ha (PoE) at 25 DAT, Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10 % WP @ 20g a.i/ha (PE) at 0-3 DAT fb Bispyribac sodium 10 % SC @ 25g a.i/ha (PoE) at 25 DAT, Weed free and Weedy check in subplot thereby, making fifteen treatment combinations and replicated thrice in split plot design . Results indicated that protein content and protein yield, N, P and K content in grain and straw and their uptake after harvest were maximum recorded with the application of 160 Kg N ha-1 and Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10 % WP @ 20g a.i/ha (PE) at 0-3 DAT fb Bispyribac sodium 10 % SC @ 25g a.i/ha (PoE) at 25 DAT which was comparable to weed free during both the years of investigation on transplanting rice.

Release and generation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons during co-pyrolysis of straw and coal: A case of corn straw and brown coal

The release of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) during the pyrolysis of corn straw, brown coal, and their mixtures was investigated in this study. The mixing ratios were the essential factor in determining the release and generation of PAHs. Adjustments to the mixing ratio revealed that the activation energy reached its nadir at a corn straw proportion of 75%. As the corn straw proportion increased, PAHs’ yield and toxic equivalents decreased. Furthermore, this study elucidated the generation of PAHs in the products by integrating experiments and reaction kinetics calculations. Low-ring and medium-ring PAHs were generated more readily, while the content of high-ring PAHs and product toxicity decreased rapidly upon adding corn straw. Finally, the high oxygen content in corn straw generates oxygen radicals that reduce the concentration of hydrocarbons and benzenes, which mitigates the generation of PAHs and enhances the quality of the resultant oil.

Effect of Tillage Practices and Fertilization Levels on Nutrient Uptake and Content in Grain and Straw of Wheat under Rice-Wheat Cropping System

The present investigation was conducted at Agronomy Research Farm, CSAUAT, during rabi 2021-22 and 2022-23. The experiment was laid out into Split plot design with three replicates. The parameters were observed plant viz. nitrogen content in grain and straw (%), nitrogen uptake in grain and straw (kg ha-1), phosphorus content in grain and straw (%), phosphorus uptake in grain and straw (kg ha-1), potassium content in grain and straw (%), nitrogen uptake in grain and straw (kg ha-1). Basis on the pooled data the results of study revealed that in case of tillage practices maximum nitrogen content in grain and straw (1.80 and 0.53%), Nitrogen uptake in grain and straw (93.34 and 36.26 kg ha-1). Phosphorus content in grain and straw (0.31 and 0.20%) Phosphorus uptake in grain and straw (16.23 and 13.80 kg ha-1), Potassium content in grain and straw (0.42 and 1.38%), Potassium uptake in grain and straw (22.15 and 93.88 kg ha-1) respectively was reported in conventional tillage whereas in case of various fertility levels maximum nitrogen content in grain and straw (1.83 and 0.59%), Nitrogen uptake in grain and straw (100.31 and 35.06 kg ha-1). Phosphorus content in grain and straw (0.35 and 0.25%) Phosphorus uptake in grain and straw (18.16 and 16.63 kg ha-1) respectively, Potassium content in grain and straw (0.45 and 1.41%), Potassium uptake in grain and straw (24.97 and 101.03 kg ha-1) respectively with the application of 125% RDF+ tebunconzole.