Test Weight Research Articles

Univariate and multivariate genomic prediction for agronomic traits in durum wheat under two field conditions.

Genomic prediction (GP) has been evaluated in durum wheat breeding programs for several years, but prediction accuracy (PA) remains insufficient for some traits. Recently, multivariate (MV) analysis has gained much attention due to its potential to significantly improve PA. In this study, PA was evaluated for several agronomic traits using a univariate (UV) model in durum wheat, subsequently, different multivariate genomic prediction models were performed to attempt to increase PA. The panel was phenotyped for 10 agronomic traits over two consecutive crop seasons and under two different field conditions: high nitrogen and well-watered (HNW), and low nitrogen and rainfed (LNR). Multivariate GP was implemented using two cross-validation (CV) schemes: MV-CV1, testing the model for each target trait using only the markers, and MV-CV2, testing the model for each target trait using additional phenotypic information. These two MV-CVs were applied in two different analyses: modelling the same trait under both HNW and LNR conditions, and modelling grain yield together with the five most genetically correlated traits. PA for all traits in HNW was higher than LNR for the same trait, except for the trait yellow index. Among all traits, PA ranged from 0.34 (NDVI in LNR) to 0.74 (test weight in HNW). In modelling the same traits in both HNW and LNR, MV-CV1 produced improvements in PA up to 12.45% (NDVI in LNR) compared to the univariate model. By contrast, MV-CV2 increased PA up to 56.72% (thousand kernel weight in LNR). The MV-CV1 scheme did not improve PA for grain yield when it was modelled with the five most genetically correlated traits, whereas MV-CV2 significantly improved PA by up to ~18%. This study demonstrated that increases in prediction accuracy for agronomic traits can be achieved by modelling the same traits in two different field conditions using MV-CV2. In addition, the effectiveness of MV-CV2 was established when grain yield was modelled with additional correlated traits.

The degree of toxoplasmosis and testicular histomorphometry in rats.

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) ranks as the third most common parasitic parasite worldwide, and it is estimated that > 60% of the population is infected with T. gondii worldwide at some point in their lives. So. Therefore, it is highly curious that T. gondii could be a potential cause of idiopathic infertility that is incidental to male partners, who are responsible for nearly 50% of cases. Testicular histomorphometric analysis was developed to investigate fertility problems. The objective of this experimental study was to assess the impact of toxoplasmosis on spermatogenesis indicated by histomorphometric changes in rat testes and its correlation with the degree of infection in the brain. Ninety male Wistar albino rats were infected with T. gondii, and 30 male rats composed the control group. The studied parameters were investigated from the seventh week until the twelfth week postinfection by estimating the body weight, the weight of the testes, histopathological examination, and metric analysis of the testes. Each time, correlations were detected between the investigated parameters and the infection severity calculated by estimating the cyst burden in brain homogenates and brain lesion grading of stained histological sections.Our findings demonstrated a significant adverse impact of toxoplasmosis on absolute body weight, testis weight, and testis histomorphometry. The grading of brain lesions and the number of brain cysts paralleled each other. There was a reverse correlation between the gonado-somatic index and the number of brain cysts and brain lesion grade. There was a statistically significant correlation between the brain cyst count and the brain lesion grade and the indices 20A, 20b, 250, and 200 of the testes metric analysis. Conclusion: Our results revealed that toxoplasmosis has an adverse impact on male rat spermatogenic cells, which in turn affects spermatogenesis and fertility. This impact is significantly correlated with the degree of latent infection in the brain.

Prediction model of male reproductive function damage caused by CHOP chemotherapy regimen for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

The CHOP combined chemotherapy regimen (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone) is commonly used to treat non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL). While these drugs are effective for cancer treatment, they may have side effects on the reproductive system that are poorly studied. This study used a mouse model to investigate the mechanisms of reproductive function impairment induced by the CHOP regimen and developed a predictive model for assessing reproductive damage with a non-invasive procedure. From 2022 to 2023, we statistically analyzed the changes of reproductive function of NHL patients before and after receiving CHOP regimen in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University. The NHL mouse model was established and divided into CHOP treatment group and control group. The weight of testis and epididymis, sperm quality and motility were compared between the two groups. Histopathological examination of testicular tissue was performed to determine pathological changes. ELISA was used to measure the expression of cytokines and cytokine pathways in serum, protein expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry, and protein and mRNA levels of cytokines and pathways were evaluated by Western blotting and qPCR. Using stepwise regression method to select important factors, a prediction model of reproductive system damage was constructed. Fifty-two NHL patients included in the questionnaire showed significant reproductive system damage after CHOP regimen treatment. The weight of testis and epididymis, as well as the number and vitality of sperm in the mouse model treatment group were significantly lower than those in the control group. Serum LH, FSH, estradiol and progesterone levels decreased significantly, while inhibin B levels increased significantly. There was no significant change in testosterone or prolactin levels. Inflammatory markers such as CSF-1, IL-1, IL-6, TGF-β1 and GDNF increased significantly, while the level of SOD1 decreased significantly. Immunohistochemical staining analysis showed that CAMP, Caspase3, CSF-1, GDNF, IL-1, IL-6, PRKACB, TGF-β1 and TXNDC5 were all expressed in spermatocytes, and the expression of therapeutic histones was significantly higher than that of the control group. Western blot analysis further detected the protein expression, and QPCR detected the mRNA content. The results showed that the expression of histone and mRNA in the treatment group was significantly higher than that in the control group. Stepwise regression method determined that estradiol (E2) was the most important variable in the prediction model, and the AUC for predicting reproductive damage was 1. The CHOP regimen induces male reproductive toxicity, potentially mediated through alterations in hormone levels and increased expression of inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress. Using E2 as the sole predictor in the model accurately predicts the extent of reproductive damage, offering a non-invasive method for detecting reproductive system damage.

Chemical castration in dogs using calcium chloride: effects on testicular hemodynamics and semen characteristic and serum levels of testosterone.

Dog overpopulation and stray dogs are global issues that are detrimental to public health and animal welfare. Thus, the goal of the current study was to provide alternatives for surgical castration. Therefore, calcium chloride was employed in this study, which might be an option for castration. Ten dogs were divided into two groups of five: a calcium chloride-treated group and a control group. The treated group received a single bilateral intratesticular injection of 1ml of sterile saline containing calcium chloride dihydrate (CaCl2•2 H2O) at a dose of 20mg/kg per testicle. While the control group was treated with 1ml of sterile saline solution, Semen and blood collection, as well as Doppler ultrasonography, were routinely carried out every week on days 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28 in order to evaluate the impact of the injection on semen parameters and testicular blood flow. The testicular volume and echogenicity in the CaCl2-treated group were significantly (P < 0.001) lower in weeks 2 through 4 than in the control group. Furthermore, in canine semen, CaCl2 dramatically decreased the amount, motility, and viability of sperm. When compared to vehicle-control animals, azoospermia was seen 2 weeks after the injection and persisted for the end of the study. The testes of all dogs were surgically removed at 30 days post-injection, and testes were put in 10% neutral buffered formalin for tissue processing. When compared to the control group, the average weight of testes in the chemical groups was dramatically reduced. Significant decreases in spermatogenic processes, necrosis, and degeneration of seminiferous tubules packed with necrotic debris, and fibrosed interstitial tissue, necrosed and calcified Sertoli, and Leydig cells were seen 30 days after CaCl2 injection. There was a significant decrease in testosterone levels compared to day 0 before CaCl2 injection and the control group. From weeks 1 through 4, there was a substantial decrease in both peak systolic velocity (PSV) and end-diastolic velocity (EDV) values (P < 0.001) following a single intratesticular injection of CaCl2. The resistance index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) showed the opposite tendency. Based on the histopathological and semen evaluations in this investigation, the study concludes that a single intratesticular injection of CaCl2 appears to be a practical and generally applicable approach for chemical sterilization of dogs.

Effect of Different Organic Liquid Formulations on the Growth and Yield of Soybean: A Case Study from North Konkan Region of Maharashtra

This case study investigates the influence of the six different organic formulations on the growth and yield parameters of soybean (Glycine max L.), which is a popular vegetable oilseed in India. A Randomized Block Design (RBD) with four replications was considered to carry out the field experiment during rabi seasons of year 2022-23. Well-formulated organic liquids, namely Jeevamrut, Panchgavya, Vermiwash, Cowdung wash, Cow urine, and a Control, were applied as part of an integrated nutrient management (INM) approach. Key observations were recorded for various parameters such as plant height, number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, length of pod, number of seeds per pod, test weight, pod yield, seed yield, and straw yield. The study indicate that Panchgavya (T2) was most effective among the treatments, showing highest seed yield of 1223 kg/ha and a corresponding straw yield of 2144.5 kg/ha. The outcomes of the study would be beneficial for other crops currently facing many challenges related to quality and yield due to the use of chemical-based treatments.

Sowing Environments and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.) Cultivars under Changing Climate Conditions of North Western Himalayan Region

Sowing dates, as one of the primary agronomic practices have significant influence over yield of maize especially during the times of climate change. Therefore, the present field investigation was conducted during the Kharif cropping seasons of 2013 and 2014 to evaluate different sowing dates for their influence over maize (Zea mays L.) yield. The field experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with factorial arrangement consisting of four dates of sowing and three maize cultivars. The study results revealed that sowing of crop by 10th June can have taller plants (261.5 and 265.2 cm for 2013 and 2014, respectively), significantly better yield contributing characters of maize such as number of cobs per plant (1.1 and 1.1 for 2013 and 2014, respectively), number of grains per cob (258.7 and 268.3 for 2013 and 2014, respectively) and test weight (268.5 and 271.6 grams for 2013 and 2014, respectively). Similarly, the significantly higher maize grain (57.3 and 60.1 quintal/hectare for 2013 and 2014, respectively) and stover yield (108.8 and 109.2 quintal/hectare for 2013 and 2014, respectively) was recorded with sowing of maize crop by 10th June. Among the maize cultivars, HQPM-1 resulted in substantially higher maize grain (53.9 and 56.5 quintal/hectare for 2013 and 2014, respectively) and stover yield (102.9 and 104.1 quintal/hectare for 2013 and 2014, respectively). Based on the present field investigation, it can be concluded that sowing of maize by 10th June and maize cultivar HQPM-1 can be recommended for better yield levels under the given conditions of North-western Himalayas.

Unravelling genetic variability for yield and contributing characteristics in green gram [vigna radiata (L.) wilczek] germplasm

Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] is an essential crop for food, feed, and income generation in rice-based farming systems across Southeast Asia and other regions. Its popularity stems from its good taste, high nutritional value, and ease of digestion, making it a promising crop for enhancing livelihoods. However, despite its significance, mungbean productivity remains low, primarily due to environmental stresses and a lack of sufficient genetic variability. This study examines the variability, heritability, phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation, and genetic advance among yield-contributing traits in green gram germplasm. A total of 450 germplasm lines were evaluated alongside check varieties, revealing significant variation, with the analysis of variance showing notable differences across nearly all traits. The mean sum of squares for the germplasm was highly significant for all phenotypic traits. Several traits exhibited high estimates of heritability and genetic advance, viz., the number of branches/ plants, number of clusters/ plants, number of pods/ clusters, pod length, test weight, and seed yield/plant, indicating their potential for direct selection in breeding programs. These findings suggest that additive gene effects play a dominant role in controlling these traits, with minimal environmental influence, making simple phenotypic selection an effective approach. The results provide valuable insights for advancing green gram breeding programs focused on improving yield and quality through targeted hybridization and trait selection.

Seed Yield, Seed Attributes and Economics of Alfalfa Seed Production as Influenced by Integrated Nutrient Management During kharif Season under Southern Dry Zone of Karnataka, India

The field experiment was carried out at the farm field of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Konehalli, Tiptur taluk, Tumkuru, Karnataka during Kharif season of 2017-18 to examine the effect of integrated nutrient management on seed yield, seed attributes and net benefit of alfalfa. The experiment was laid out Randomized complete block design (RCBD) comprising nine treatments viz T1 : RDF (25:50:25 kg NPK/ha + 10 t/ha FYM); T2 : 75% RDF + 25% N through FYM; T3 :75% RDF + 25% N through Vermicompost; T4 :75% RDF + 25% N through Poultry manure; T5 : 50% RDF + 25% N through FYM + Rhizobium + PSB+VAM ; T6 :50% RDF + 25% N through Vermicompost+ Rhizobium + PSB+VAM; T7 :50% RDF + 25% N through Poultry manure+ Rhizobium + PSB+VAM ;T8 : RDF + Rhizobium + PSB+VAM ;T9 : 10 t/ha FYM + 100% N through FYM and replicated four times. The results of experiments revealed that the plants supplied with of 50 % RDF + 25 % N through vermicompost + Rhizobium + PSB + VAM shown highest fresh herb yield at first harvest (160.65 q/ha), herb yield after harvest of seeds (187.50q/ha), 50% flowering (35.00 days), pod initiation (48.50days), pod maturation (73.05 days), while, lower fresh herb yield, pod initiation, pod maturation were recorded when 10 t/ha FYM + 100 % N through FYM was applied. The maximum pod (56.78 %), number of pods (228.75/plant), pod yield (19.90/plant), pod length (6.25 mm), pod weight (87.61 mg), seed set (56.50 %), number of seeds (5.50/pod), test weight (3.33g), seed yield per hectare (223.38kg/ha) and highest net return per hectare were recorded with 50 % RDF + 25 % N through vermicompost + Rhizobium + PSB + VAM. while, poor performance with regard to these parameter were recorded with application of 10 t/ha FYM + 100 % N through FYM. Therefore, application of 50 % RDF + 25 % N through vermicompost + Rhizobium + PSB + VAMmay be recommended for commercial seed productionin Alfalfa during kharif season under southern dry zone of Karnataka.

Evaluation of Genetic Variability for Yield and Associated Traits in Breeding Lines Derived from the Cross RNR-15048 × Tunga

Aims: To evaluate the genetic variability of 45 rice breeding lines for 12 quantitative and 2 qualitative traits, aiming to identify and enhance traits that contribute to improved crop yield and nutritional quality in rice. Study Design: The experiment was carried out in Randomised Complete Block Design with two replications. Place and Duration of Study: During kharif 2023 at Agricultural and Horticultural Research Station, Kathalagere, Davangere. Methodology: The research utilized 45 breeding lines resulting from the cross RNR15048 × Tunga, sourced from the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture Shimoga, along with 5 checks. Data was recorded and analyzed statistically using R software. Results: The significant differences among the breeding lines identified through the analysis of variance highlight the potential for selecting superior genotypes within the studied rice breeding lines. High to moderate values of the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) suggest that there is substantial genetic diversity for the traits evaluated, indicating a promising opportunity for genetic improvement through selective breeding. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the importance of focusing yield improvement programs on specific traits, including plant height, number of tillers per plant, productive tillers per plant, grains per panicle, filled grains per panicle, test weight, protein content, and overall grain yield. Emphasizing these traits is essential for enhancing the productivity and nutritional value of rice, ultimately supporting food security efforts.

Studies on Path Coefficient Analysis and Correlation to Evaluate the Relationships between Yield and Its Components in Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.)

The present investigation was carried out for correlation and path coefficient analysis in Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) The correlation of different traits with seed yield was examined both at phenotypic and genotypic levels and the study showed that genotypic correlation coefficient values were higher than the phenotypic values. This indicated that how much of phenotypic correlation coefficient are influenced by environment. The seed yield per plant was positive and significant with biological yield per plant, test weight and number of branches per plant at genotypic and phenotypic levels. The maximum direct positive effect on seed yield per plant was observed in biological yield per plant, harvest index, days to 50 per cent flowering, number of seed per pod, number of branches per plant and number of pods per plant. In the present investigation, genotypes viz., AFG-4 and RMT-303 were superior for seed yield per plant along with other traits like biological yield, test weight and number of pods per plant. These diverse genotypes can be used in future breeding programme of fenugreek.

Morpho-molecular Genetic Diversity Analysis of Basmati and Non-basmati Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Germplasm

This study evaluated genetic variability and relatedness among 34 rice genotypes, encompassing basmati and non-basmati varieties using morphological and molecular data. The findings revealed significant variability across all traits assessed. High phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation (PCV and GCV) were observed for traits such as days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, biological yield, grain yield, test weight, flag leaf length, and number of effective tillers. Notably, high heritability and genetic advance indicated that these traits are likely influenced by additive gene effects, making them suitable for selection in breeding programs. D2 analysis confirmed substantial genetic diversity among the genotypes and five clusters were formed based on the morphological data. Molecular analysis using 13 SSR primers, out of 13 primers 11 primers are showed the banding pattern, with the highest polymorphism information content (PIC) value recorded at 0.79 for marker HvSSR04-46. Clustering based on Jaccard’s dissimilarity coefficient revealed two distinct clusters. Based on the dendrogram pattern molecular data is divided into two clusters, cluster I and Cluster II, cluster I is subdivided into Cluster Ia and Cluster Ib. This research was conducted at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agricultural &amp; Technology, Modipuram, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, highlights the potential for selecting diverse rice genotypes to enhance breeding programs.

Size effect of typical hygrothermal properties test values for building insulation materials

Thermal and moisture properties of building insulation materials are crucial input parameters for analyzing thermal and moisture transfer phenomena in building environments. Accurate determination of these parameters under different conditions is essential for the correct application and assessment of materials and envelope structures. However, numerous factors influence thermal and moisture properties, and while extensive research has been conducted on this topic, the effects of specimen size on typical thermal and moisture property test values remain unclear. To address the issue of unreliable data caused by random specimen sizes in thermal and moisture property testing of building insulation materials, this study selects three materials—expanded polystyrene (EPS), extruded polystyrene (XPS), and foamed cement—as test subjects to explore the size effects on typical thermal and moisture property test values. The results indicate that specimen size significantly affects the test values for typical thermal and moisture properties, with only a few experiments showing negligible size effects for certain materials. For foamed cement, recommended specimen sizes for thermal conductivity testing using the guarded hot plate method and the transient plane source method are 300 × 300 × 30 mm and 50 × 50 × 30 mm, respectively. Except for equilibrium moisture absorption experiments, the weight of other moisture property tests is generally represented by thickness > planar dimensions.

Assessment of reproductive, genotoxic, and cytotoxic effects of leachate-contaminated water in male mice

Leachate-contaminated water (LCS) poses significant health risks due to its heavy metal content and altered physicochemical properties. This study examined the physicochemical parameters and heavy metal levels in LCS and assessed its reproductive toxicity, genotoxicity, and cytotoxic effects in exposed mice. Groups of mice (n = 5) were orally administered 100 μL of 30 % and 70 % LCS (v/v) twice daily for 35 days. Drinking water served as a negative control, and cyclophosphamide (Cyp) (20 mg/kg bw) as a positive control. On day 36, the mice were weighed, sacrificed, and their testicular weight, sperm count, sperm morphology, viability, acrosome integrity, and serum testosterone were examined. Oxidative stress in the testes, histopathological changes, and serum markers for liver and kidney function (SGOT, SGPT, and creatinine) were also assessed. Genotoxic effects were evaluated using a micronuclei (MN) assay. Analysis of the leachate showed altered physicochemical parameters and elevated heavy metal levels. Exposure to LCS led to a significant decrease in relative testis weight, sperm count, normal sperm morphology, viability, acrosome integrity, and serum testosterone levels. It also caused a notable increase in MDA levels and a decrease in catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione (GSH) levels, along with histological changes in the testes of LCS-treated mice compared to controls. Additionally, there was a significant rise in MN formation in RBCs and elevated levels of liver enzymes and creatinine, indicating liver and renal toxicity. Histological alterations in the liver and kidneys were also observed in LCS-exposed mice. These findings suggest that LCS induces reproductive toxicity, genotoxicity, and cytotoxicity in male subjects.

Comment on: "microplastic presence in dog and human testis and its potential association with sperm count and weights of testis and epididymis".

Comment on: "microplastic presence in dog and human testis and its potential association with sperm count and weights of testis and epididymis".

Impact of Tree Geometry on the Growth and Yield Performance of Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.) under Kadam (Neolamarckia cadamba Roxb.) based Agroforestry System

Agroforestry is an environmentally conscious and comprehensive method of land management that entails cultivating agricultural crops, forest trees, and animals in conjunction on the same parcel of land through the implementation of suitable management strategies. The present study entitled “Impact of tree geometry on the growth and yield performance of Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.) under Kadam (Neolamarckia cadamba Roxb.) based Agroforestry System” was conducted during the Kharif season of 2022-23 within an already established 2-year-old plantation situated at Forestry research farm, RLBCAU, Jhansi. The study encompasses three different spacings, i.e., S1- 5 m x 5 m, S2- 5 m x 4 m and S3- 5 m x 3m. A randomized block design having four treatments each replicated five times was laid out, Outcomes of research revealed that sole cropping of black gram exhibited higher plant height (77.44 cm), leaf and branch numbers (6.38 and 5.32, respectively), dry matter accumulation (17.05 g/plant for above-ground and 2.12 g/plant for below-ground), leaf area (2183.06 cm2), root nodules (11.54), shorter phenological duration viz., 50% flowering, 50% pod setting and maturity (40.11 days, 54.49 days, and 70.84 days, respectively). It also demonstrated significantly higher yield attributes such as number of pods and seeds per pod (27.28), number of seeds per pod (5.82), test weight (36.73 g), grain yield (0.79 t ha-1), straw yield (1.78 t ha-1), biological yield (2.57 t ha-1), harvest index (30.63 %), and grain-to-straw ratio (0.44) compared to the intercropped. Among all the agroforestry treatments Neolamarckia cadamba at 5 m × 5 m with Vigna mungo, found to perform better than closer spacing (i.e., 5 m x 4 m and 5 m x 3 m) spatial arrangements. The study encountered challenges in achieving an optimal balance between tree-crop interactions and resource competition, which are critical factors in agroforestry systems. Nevertheless, it provides significant contributions by offering insights into the optimization of tree geometry, enhancing both yield performance and the sustainability of such integrated systems.

Effects of Weather Conditions on Pod Yield in Groundnut Varieties

Experiments were conducted at the Department of Agricultural Meteorology, Anand Agricultural University, Anand during the Summer of 2015 and 2016 with four varieties of groundnut (GG-2, GG-20, GJG-31 and TG-26) sown on three different dates to study the effect of weather parameters and agrometeorological indices on pod yield of groundnut. The results of the present investigation indicated that pod yield of groundnut was negatively correlated with maximum, minimum and mean temperature during most of the phenophases except P9 (pod maturity to physiological maturity), where the mean temperature has varied between 32.70C to 35.10C during pod maturity to physiological maturity. In our experiment, we have found that more than 33.90C is required for adequate seed development, resulting in higher test weight and higher pod yield. Agrometeorological indices have a significant and positive correlation with pod yield only during P7 (pod initiation to pod development) phase.

Characterization of Sulfur Oxidizing Bacteria and Their Effect on Growth Promotion of Brassica napus L.

Oil seeds sector is one of the major dynamic components of the agriculture world. Oil seeds such as canola (Brassica napus) require a higher quantity of sulfur (S), which is supplied through inorganic fertilizers. However, the overapplication of agro-chemicals to get higher yields of crops is harming the soil health. Therefore, the application of bacterial cultures with plant growth-promoting activity as biofertilizers ensures soil health maintenance and enhances crop productivity. To achieve this aim, the present research was initiated by procuring three sulfur-oxidizing bacteria (SOBs), namely, SOB 5, SOB 10, and SOB 38, from the Microbiology Department, PAU. In the initial assessment, all three SOB cultures showed resilience to pesticide toxicity at the recommended dosage, with the exception of ridomil. These cultures were later characterized morphologically, biochemically, and at the molecular level using 16s rRNA resulting in their identification as Enterobacter ludwigii strain Remi_9 (SOB 5), Enterobacter hormaechei strain AUH-ENM30 (SOB 10), and Bacillus sp. 5BM21Y12 (SOB 38). Functional characterization of these SOB cultures revealed their ability to exhibit multifarious plant growth-promoting traits. Bacillus sp. 5BM21Y12 showed greater functional activity, including high P solubilization (14.903 µg/mL), IAA production (44.28 µg/mL), siderophore production (13.89 µg/mL), sulfate ion production (0.127 mM), ammonia excretion (2.369 µg/mL), and Zn solubilization (22.62 mm). Based on the results of functional and molecular characterization, Bacillus sp. 5BM21Y12 was selected for field trials by formulating different treatments. Composite treatment, T8 (100% S + Bacillus sp. + pesticides) significantly enhanced growth parameters (plant height, root, and shoot biomass), yield attributes (siliqua length, test weight, number of siliqua/plant), yield parameter (total biomass and seed yield), quality parameter (crude protein and oil) as compared to all other sole treatments employed in the field. A combined application of non-pathogenic Bacillus sp. 5BM21Y12, with good functional activity enhanced yield of crop due to synergistic and additive interaction with fertilizer/pesticides. As biofertilizer application reduces the input of pesticides/fertilizers new inoculant formulations with cell protectors and the development of compatible pesticides should be searched to assure the benefits of integrated treatment.

Effect of sacubitril/valsartan and dapagliflozin on athletic performance; can the popular cardiac medications of recent years be used as doping agents?

Abstract Background/Introduction Recent guidelines have highlighted the positive impacts of sacubitril/valsartan and dapagliflozin on heart failure management [1]. Given their potential misuse as doping agents in professional sports, this study evaluates their effects on athletic performance. Purpose To investigate the effects of sacubitril/valsartan and dapagliflozin on athletic performance and cardiac functions in a rodent model. Methods The study had a randomized double-blind design. 24 Sprague-Dawley male rats aged 4 months, divided into control, sacubitril/valsartan, and dapagliflozin groups. The rats were weighed at the start of the experiment. The medications (dapagliflozin 1,5 mg/kg/1 ml/once a day, sacubitril/valsartan 60 mg/kg/1 ml/once a day to their respective groups, and normal saline for control group) were administered via gastric gavage for 30 days. The rats were weighed, examined with transthoracic echocardiography and put on rotarod at the start of the experiment, and on 15th and 30th days. The rats were put on forced swimming tests for 20 days. Exhaustion, loss of coordinated movements and failure to surface for 3 seconds after submersion in the water were defined as indications for ending the test as per the guidelines regarding rat exercise testing [2]. M-mode and Doppler measurements, forced swimming test durations, rotarod durations and weight were recorded on 0th, 15th and 30th days. Results Initial performance metrics, including echocardiography, weight, and rotarod tests, showed no significant differences among the groups at baseline. The distributions in data were non-normal. Over the course of the study, median swimming times significantly differed from the 9th session, with dapagliflozin-treated rats exhibiting a substantial increase in endurance. Specifically, dapagliflozin group's swimming times increased to a median of 3580 seconds by the 20th session, compared to 2382 seconds in the control group and 2591 seconds in the sacubitril/valsartan group, indicating a pronounced improvement in exercise capacity (P&amp;lt;0.0001)(Figure-1). Echocardiographic assessments revealed enhanced cardiac output and ejection fraction, particularly in the sacubitril/valsartan group, suggesting increased cardiac efficiency and potential athletic performance enhancement. Conclusion(s) The study demonstrates a significant improvement in athletic performance with dapagliflozin compared to sacubitril/valsartan. These findings suggest a potential for misuse in sports doping, emphasizing the need for stringent regulation and monitoring within competitive athletics.Figure-1

Effect of Iron and Zinc Fertilization on Growth and Yield of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) in Loamy Sand

A field experiment was conducted during rabi 2022-23 at Agronomy Instructional Farm, Chimanbhai Patel College of Agriculture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar. The soil of the experimental field was loamy sand in texture, neutral to alkaline in reaction, normal with respect to salt content, low in available nitrogen and sulphur, medium in available phosphorus, potash, zinc and iron and high in manganese and copper. Nine treatment combinations comprising three levels of iron 0.0 kg Fe ha-1 (Fe0), Soil application of 20.0 kg FeSO4. 7H2O ha-1 (Fe1) and 0.5 % FeSO4. 7H2O foliar spray at 30 and 45 DAS (Days after sowing) (Fe2) and three levels of zinc 0.0 kg Zn ha-1 (Zn0), Soil application of 10.0 kg ZnSO4. 7H2O ha-1 (Zn1) and 0.5 % ZnSO4. 7H2O foliar spray at 30 and 45 DAS (Zn2) were evaluated in randomized block design with factorial concept with four replication. Mustard variety GDM 4 was used as a test crop. Significantly higher number of secondary branches plant-1 (16.59), number of siliquae plant-1 (341.4), test weight (5.18 g), seed yield (2061 kg ha-1) and stover yield (4976 kg ha-1) were recorded with soil application of 20.0 kg FeSO4. 7H2O ha-1 (Fe1) but it was at par with 0.5 % FeSO4. 7H2O foliar spray at 30 and 45 DAS. Stover yield of mustard remained at par with 0.5 % FeSO4. 7H2O foliar spray at 30 and 45 DAS. Significantly higher number of secondary branches plant-1 (16.37), number of siliquae plant-1 (340.1), seed (2001 kg ha-1) and stover yield (4961 kg ha-1) were recorded with soil application of 10.0 kg ZnSO4. 7H2O ha-1 (Zn1) but it was at par with foliar spray of 0.5 % ZnSO4. 7H2O at 30 and 45 DAS except seed yield of mustard.

Effect of Organic Manures and Chemical Fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.)

A field experiment was conducted at experimental farm, Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences, Mewar University Gangrar, Chittorgarh (Rajasthan) during Rabi season of 2023-24 to effect of organic manures and chemical fertilizers on growth and yield of green gram, variety “SML-832‟ was used in this study. The required quantities of fertilizers as per treatments were applied. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications consisting of ten treatments. The data recorded maximum growth parameters like, plant height (51.45 cm), number of branches per plant (4.08) and yield parameters like, number of pods per plant (20.58, number of seeds per pod (8.65), test weight (38.92 g), grain yield (1106.45 kg/ha), straw yield (2583.85 kg/ha) and maximum net return (48100 Rs/ha) and B:C ratio (1.58) was recorded with T9-75% Vermicompost @ 1.25 t per ha. The minimum growth and yield obtained with control treatment. Therefore, concluded that impact of different organic manures and chemical fertilizers on the growth and yield of the green gram. Among different T9-75% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1.25 t per ha registered the maximum production with higher net return. So, it was concluded that the treatment 75% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1.25 t per ha superior among all treatments.