Volume 2 Number 1 (January 2017)

Effect of nitrogen fertilizer on different attributes of gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorous L.) cv. American Beauty

Kuldip Kumar, C. N. Singh, V. S. Beniwal, Rohit Pinder, Ravinder Singh Poonia

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of nitrogen fertilizer on growth, flowering and vase life of gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorous L.) cv. American Beauty at the farm of the Department of Horticulture, C.C.R (P.G.) College, Muzaffarnagar (Uttar Pradesh). The treatments comprised of four levels of nitrogen (0, 40, 60, 80 kg/acre) in a randomized complete block design with factorial concept and replicated four times. The results revealed that minimum days taken for spike initiation (86.89 days), days taken for first flowering (99.37 days) were observed under control treatment N0 whereas, maximum plant height (49.21cm), spike length (127.17 cm), rachis length (61.31 cm), number of florets per spike (18.00) and vase life (11.73 days) was found with N2 (60 kg/acre Nitrogen). The result shows that using 60 kg/acre nitrogen can improve the growth and yield of gladiolus cv. American Beauty like vegetative, flowering and vase life attributes. Hence, this optimum nitrogen level can be recommended for the commercial cultivation of gladiolus.

Effect of Different Stages of Umbel Picking on Seed Quality Parameters, Yield and Economics of Fennel

The fennel seeds with uniform size green colour and optimum fiber content are preferred by customer and have high demand in national as well as International Market with premium price. For this purpose, the present investigation was carried out at the Vegetable Research Farm, Department of Vegetable Science and Seed Science and Technology, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar to find out the optimum stage at which umbel/seed should be harvested for maximum acceptable fiber content in seed. For this purpose seeds of all order umbels were harvested at 25,30,35,40,45,50,55 and 60 days after anthesis. The fiber content of seed irrespective of umbel order was found optimum when seeds/umbels were harvested at 30 and 40 days after anthesis but maximum net return was obtained at 40 days after anthesis stage. In case of other quality parameters i.e. test weight, germination percentage, seedling length; vigour index and yield were increased with each 5 days delay in harvesting after 40 days of anthesis.

Design of vacuum impregnation chamber for soaking of Gulabjamun in sugar syrup and optimization of wall thickness by Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Maheshkumar G. , Menon Rekha Ravindra

The application of vacuum impregnation technique for soaking of Gulabjamoon in sugar solution was conceptualized and the equipment was designed and developed. Vacuum impregnation unit (VIU) was operated under vacuum and hence the design of its wall thickness was of critical consideration. VIU facilitated rapid soaking of Gulabjamun in sugar syrup under full vacuum in cyclic process. VIU is cylindrical in geometry, designed to work at 65-80 ºC at 5 kPa pressure (vacuum) on the inside and was exposed to atmospheric pressure on the outside. This leads to compressive forces acting on inside of the cylinder wall. The shell thickness will have direct bearing on stresses developed. There will be implosion (due to compressive forces) of VIU when Von Mises stress generated is more than yield stress of stainless steel (205 MPa). Wall thickness of cylinder of VIU was optimized by Finite Element Analysis (FEA) by modeling and simulation using Pro/ENGINNER. ANSYS-14 was used for analysis of Von Mises stress, deformation and factor of safety. The wall thickness of shell was analyzed by hyper tetrahedron meshing. To validate, design software developed by ASME was used for shell thickness determination. The model prediction was shown to be in good agreement with the analytical calculation. The FEA resulted in Von Mises Stress of 135.79 Mpa, deformation of 1.55 mm and factor of safety of 1.5. VIU was fabricated as per FDA C-GMP standards from 4.00 mm thick AISI-316 SS material. The working drawings were developed and actual fabrication was carried out adopting the prescribed sanitary standards. The unit was subjected to various safety tests and it successfully passed out all of them. Satisfactory production of Gulabjamoon was carried out in the newly designed and developed equipment resulting in a product of excellent quality confirming validity of the design.

Response of Pea (Pisum sativum) to Sugar Industry Effluent Treatment

Kamlesh

Sugar mills play a major role in polluting the soil and water bodies by discharging a large amount of waste water as effluent. The present research work has been carried out to assess the impact of sugar mill effluent applied in different dilutions i.e 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% along with control on pea (Pisum sativum) seeds to investigate their effect on seed germination and growth parameters such as germination percentage, shoot length, root length, seedling vigour, plant fresh weight and dry weight by pot culture. The low effluent pH (4.3), Total dissolved solids (TDS, 1990 mg/L), Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD, 850 mg/L) and Chemical oxygen demand (COD, 2920 mg/L) indicated the high inorganic and organic content with an acidic load. The present study was carried out with the aim that sugar mill effluent shows positive or negative effect on plant growth. The result indicated that sugar mill effluent did not show any inhibitory effect on germination percentages and germination values at lower concentration in the seeds tested.

Production Function Analysis of Member Dairy Cooperative Society for Milch Cow in District Etawah (U.P.)

Dr. Ashish Chandra, Dr Arun Bhadauria

This study covered Cobb douglas production function, Tukey and Kramer analysis on members dairy cooperative society for milch cow in district Etawah of U.P. In study researchers have taken post- stratified into Landless, Marginal, small, medium and large herd size categories. The study effect of various factors of production in (Rs.) like Feeding cost included (dry fodder + green fodder), expenditure of concentrate included (grain + khali + mineral material and chunni / choker) and miscellaneous expenses included (labor charge and fixed cost) on milk produced by the cow of dairy cooperative society members in annual in different categories of farmers. Further, the researchers have found out the comparative analysis of all the categories of dairy cooperative society members. At last Tukey and Kramer test was applied on all the category of dairy cooperatives society members in milch cow to get into the depth of the problem under investigation. This study is helpful to find out the elasticity of different factors of milk production by means of comparative analysis in all categories of members dairy cooperative society in milch Cow by Cob douglas production function analysis.

A Study on the Removal Characteristics of Nickel Ion from Wastewater by Low-Cost Nano Adsorbent

R Sivakumar, S Arivoli,V Marimuthu

The work aims at adsorption studies of nickel from aqueous solution onto activated nano carbon prepared from Syringodium Isoetifolium Leaves, by acid treatment was tested for its efficiency in removing nickel ion. The process parameters studied include agitation time, initial nickel ion concentration, adsorbent dose, pH and temperature. The adsorption followed second order reaction equation and the rate is mainly controlled by intra-particle diffusion. The equilibrium adsorption data were correlated with Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, Dubinin-Radushkevich, Hurkins-Jura, Halsay, Redlich-Peterson, Jovanovich and BET isotherm models. The adsorption capacity (Qm) obtained from the Langmuir isotherm plot at an initial pH of 6.5 and at 30, 40, 50, 60 ± 0.5 0C. The influence of pH on nickel ions removal was significant and the adsorption was increased with increase in temperature. A portion of the nickel ion was recovered from the spent ASI-NC using 0.1M HCl.

Quantitative Analysis of some Germplasms of lablab Bean in Uttar Pradesh

Arvind Kumar

Lablab purpureus (L.) sweet is an ancient multipurpose legume that combines use as human food and forage in addition to serving as a cover crop for soil conservation. The crop is believed to be cultivated in south India as early as 1400 – 1500 BC. Although wide variability for agro-morphological traits exists in India, a more extensive germplasm collection and evaluation has not been reported so far. Hence the present study was undertaken with a set of 50 lablab accessions mainly collected from south India including nine accessions of exotic origin. All the 50 accessions were characterized for 29 qualitative and 10 quantitative traits. Further, there exists very high genetic differentiation between the exotic and the lines of Indian origin as also evident from biplot and scatter plot analysis. Although the exotic lines deviated for the Indian lines for majority of the traits, much of the useful variation for genetic improvement of vegetable traits existed among the Indian accessions while, the exotic lines possessed traits of forage importance.

Fertility of agricultural soils in the area of Jorf Lasfar (El Jadida-Morocco)

K. Moustarhfer, N. Saber, H. Mohcine, C. Marrakchi

The Jorf Lasfar area has known for some decades a remarkable change in lands use. In fact, the installation of the port of Jorf Lasfar, the phosphate complex and an industrial area allowed the invasion of agricultural soils and influenced their fertility. The present work aims to assess the soil fertility through some physico-chemical parameters such as (pH, OM, CaCO3, Total Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium); the soil samples were carried out according two horizons 0-2.5cm and 2.5-10cm in fifty-three points during two agricultural years 2014 and 2015. The main results indicate that the pH ranges from 7.32 to 8.7; the organic matter content is often higher than 3%. Nutritive elements (Total Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) record values that respectively vary from 0.001 to 0.31%, 100.15 to 261.62ppm and 102.36 to 672.17ppm. The high rate of phosphorus is probably due to the excessive use of fertilizers or to the nearby phosphate processing plant.

Isolation and Pathogenicity Evaluation of Postharvest Fungal of Some Fruits in Cameroon

Yaouba Aoudou, Mpounze Essoua Gaelle Phalone

The present work was designed to study the biodiversity of fungal post-harvest decay of banana, mango and safou fruits sold in local markets in the Dschang locality, Western Region of Cameroon. A total of 90 infected fruit samples were collected from different local markets, small pieces of mouldy part were inoculated on prepared plates of Potato dextrose agar (PDA), after 7 days of incubation, pure isolated fungi were identified according to the recommended references. The pathogenicity of the some most prevalent fungi isolated was evaluated on uninfected fruits. Results obtained showed some variations in isolation frequency of the fungi from each fruit. Aspergillus, Colletotrichum, Fasarium and Veticillium were the most common genera that colonized banana, mango and safou fruits with different incidences. Cercospora capsici was present on safou (50%), C. mangiferae on mango (50.9%) and C. musae on banana (51.7%). Colletotrichum gloesosporioides appeared on banana (8.62%), mango (15%) and safou (22.92%); Colletotrichum musae on banana (22%). Cercospora spp caused injuries with lesions diameters that vary depending on the type of fruit and fungal species. Proper measures should be adopted to protect fruits from fungal decay.

Determination of Thermal Bioclimatic Conditions for Touristsin west and North West of Iran using PET

Ali. Hanafi, Hasan. Atashgahi

Tourism has become an important sector that has an impact on development of country economy. The main benefits of tourism are income creation and generation of jobs. For many regions and countries it is the most important source of welfare.The purpose of this study is to determine the most suitable months for human thermal comfort and tourism activities in west and North Westof Iran by using Physiologically Equivalent Temperature(PET).The data, which covering the period 1985–2010, from a dense network of 32 meteorological stations in west and north west f of Iran was used to compute the PET. Mean air temperature, relative humidity, vapor pressure, wind speed, and cloud cover data were obtained from theIran Meteorological Organization (IRIMO).Ray Man model was used to calculate the PET. Based on the calculations of PET in the region, it is shown that the monthsMarch and Decemberin the west parts of Kermanshah, the monthsApril, May and October in Kermanshah and Kurdistan and the June and September in the northern parts of the region such as Azerbaijan, and Hamadan are laying in the comfortable class that representing the most suitable months for tourism and tourist activities.

Determination of Erosivity of Enugu State

G.I. Okolotu, S.I. Oluka, P.C. Eze.

To combat erosion, there is need for adequate examination of soils and factors of erosion. The study of Erosivity is vital for effective soil conservational planning and agricultural activities in Enugu State of Nigeria of West Africa, and other parts of the world. In this study, rainfall amount and duration were obtained and used in the determination of rainfall intensities in Enugu regions. These rainfall records were used in calculating the three erosivity indices namely; the maximum 30-minute intensity, kinetic energy greater than 25, and peak storm intensity. With the aid of the above data, erosivity of Enugu was uncovered. This was achieved by taking the average of the calculated years. This Erosivity value can be used in modeling a general soil loss equation for all soil types in Enugu. This general soil loss equation can be used to predict erosion in Enugu region. Also, from the force impact of rain capable of causing erosion, erosive rain were separated from non erosive rain using the method based upon the concept that there is a threshold value of intensity at which rain starts to be erosive. With this insight, one can also predict future erosive rain and non erosive rain using the weather forecast data. With the knowledge of these predictions, erosion prevention technique may be applied in areas of possible future occurrence rather than remediating soil after erosion hazard.

Optimal Environmental Conditions for Yam Storage in South East (Tropical) Zone of Nigeria

E.A. Udom, S.I. Oluka, P.C. Eze

Yam storage methods in Nigeria were studied, evaluated and compared. Among the storage methods studied, evaluated and compared include designed barn, traditional barn, house and pit storages. The parameters taken to assess their performance were tuber weight loss, rotting, sprouting and pest infestation after fourteen (14) weeks of storage. Designed barn storage methods with weight loss of 29.6996kg was compared to other storage methods with weight loss value of 58.199kg (pit storage) 46.800kg (house storage) and 47.8002kg (traditional storage) from the big tuber sizes (1.5 – 1.8kg). From the small tuber size (0.7 – 0.9kg), the weight loss recorded from each storage methods included, designed barn 24.2004kg; pit storage44.8994kg; house storage 43.4994kg and traditional barn 46.6004kg. Rotting was recorded nil from designed barn for both big tubers and small tubers and 10 tubers each were recorded from pit house and traditional barn for big tubers, pit storage recorded 20 tubers and others recorded nil for small tubers. Records on sprouting indicated the following numbers of tubers from each storage methods. From the big tubers set, designed barn had 20 tubers sprouting within 14 weeks duration but pit had 30 tubers while house storage had 20 tubers and traditional barn 30 tubers sprouted. From small sized tubers, records on sprouting indicated the following, designed barn nil, pit storage 80 tubers, house storage 40 tubers and traditional 60 tubers. Data collected from each storage facility were statistically analyzed and compared using Completely Randomized Design (CRD), ANOVA, standard deviation and LSD). Designed storage structure is recommended for use by yam farmers to alleviate their losses after harvest and to help farmers prolong the life span of their produce for future use as food, planting materials, industrial use and commercial uses.

Correlation of Emerging Substances and Physiological Groups of Microorganisms in Surface Water of River Moraca

Radonjic Drazana

The article focuses on the reliable screening analyses of water quality of river Morača section near Podgorica, Montenegro. Sampling of screening analyses of surface water samples from the locality Vukovci, the lower course of the riverMorača during 2012 and 2013. The water samples were analysed by GC-MS. The compounds occurring most frequently in the analysed water samples were phthalates, PAHsdetergents, personal care products, flame retardants, , and corrosive residues, benzoate, pesticides, decane and the additive residues. Dibutyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate, dioctyl phthalate which are on the NORMAN list of emerging substances, and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, which is on the list of the WFD priority substances, were detected in all the examined samples. A large group of terpenes, such as nerol, citronellol, menthol, ionone, and compounds as camphor, ethyl citrate or methyl jasmonate that could be found in cosmetics, personal care products or home cleaning products were determined in river samples. The presence of hormones in all the surface water samples indicates human or animal faecal pollution, while the detected caffeine in all samples confirms an anthropogenic impact.A significant number of separated organic components spaces were not defined, which is acause for performance of microbiological analysis in the presence of physiological groups of microorganisms. The identified compounds can be associated with the presence of specific physiological groups of microorganisms at the site, which can in many ways reduce environmental stress due to their functional and significant role in ecosystem.

Mycoflora associated with cocoa (Theobroma cacao) pods in Cameroon and antifungal effect of plant extracts

Yaouba Aoudou, Ze Medjap Abel Second

Mycoflora associated with the pod rot disease of cocoa (Theobroma cacao) and evaluation of the in vitro efficacy of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of A. conyzoïdes and Chromolaena odorata against the pathogenic fungi, C. gloeosporioides and B. theobromae, isolated from cocoa pods were investigated. After isolation, the fungal species were exposed to various concentrations (5 ; 10 ; 15 ; 20 mg/ml) of aqueous, and ethanolic (1.25 ; 2.5 ; 5 ; 10 mg/ml) extracts. Results obtained showed some variations in isolation frequency of fungi from cocoa pods of each locality. Aspergillus, Colletotrichum, Botryodiplodia, Trichoderma and Verticillium were the most common genera that colonized the cocoa pods from Akonolinga and Tonga with different incidences. Colletotrichum gloeosporioides was present (48.84%) in pods collected in Tonga and in those from Akonolinga (41.46%), followed by Botryodiplodia theobromae which was present on 20.93% and 29.27% respectively. All the used concentrations of extracts of both plants significantly reduced the growth of the fungal pathogens. For ethanolic extracts, Ageratum conyzoïdes completely (100%) inhibited the growth of both fungi at 10 mg/ml and for Chromolaena odorata, total (100%) inhibition was observed on B. theobromae at 5 mg/ml while C. gloeosporioides was completely inhibited at 10 mg/ml. In the case of aqueous extracts, Chromolaena odorata, completely (100%) inhibited the growth of B. theobromae and C. gloeosporioides at 20 mg/ml. Similarly, Ageratum conyzoïdes completely suppressed the growth of B. theobromae at 20 mg/ml, however, this dose was obtained as an inhibition of 78% of C. gloeosporioides. Further investigation of the isolation of active antifungal compound should be done.

Carbon Trading and Indiaâ€™s Road Map

Dr. Debesh Bhowmik

In this article, the author describes the concept of carbon trading , its global market ,mechanism of global trading, international organization, EUETS, relationship between REDD and carbon market in relation with agreements of Paris convention. The 10 myths of REDD+ and carbon market are additional features which can explore future research. The paper highlighted India’s roadmap for carbon market potentiality in 2020.

Evaluation of Storage Capacity of Iron Fortified Yogurt by Physico-chemical, Chemical and Microbiological Analysis

Debasmita De, Dr. BinataNayak

Yogurt has gained widespread consumer acceptance. It is excellent source of calcium and protein and other nutrients but it contains very little iron. In this study yogurt was fortified with ammonium ferrous sulfate in three different concentrations (20mg, 30mg, 40mg/kg iron). Yogurt samples were analyzed physico-chemically, chemically and microbiologically at 1st,3rd, 5th day of storage. Physicochemical and chemical result shows that there was significant difference between storage period and different sample concentration. Iron in the fortified samples had no significant effect in Lactobacillus count.The results suggest possibility ofmaking good quality yogurt by fortifying milk with ammonium ferrous sulfate.

Comparative Performance of Selected RSJ Bivoltine Silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) Breeds under Subtropical region of Jammu

Murali S., Tayal M. K., Anil Dhar

The study was conducted on selected silkworm breeds viz., RSJ 1, RSJ 3, RSJ 4, RSJ 11, RSJ 13, RSJ 14 and RSJ 15 were utilized. Observations on the different morphological and economic traits of silkworm, Bombyx mori L. were taken. The perusal of the data reveals that the fecundity was recorded from 384.00 (RSJ 13) to 493.67 (RSJ 1) and hatching per cent ranged from 86.88 (RSJ 13) to 97.61 (RSJ 3). The larval weight varied in the range of 36.46 g (RSJ 13) to 42.89 g (RSJ 11) whereas, larval duration was observed in the range of 24.00 (RSJ 13) days to 25.03 (RSJ 3) days. The larval length recorded as on 6th day 7.68 cm (RSJ 14) to 8.32 cm (RSJ 11). Single cocoon weight ranged from 1.24 g (RSJ 3) to 1.77 g (RSJ 15). The highest single cocoon weight was RSJ 15 (1.77 g), Single shell weight ranged from 0.22 g to 0.35 g. Maximum shell weight recorded in RSJ 14 (0.35 g), Shell percentage 16.73 per cent (RSJ 13) to 21.12 per cent (RSJ 3). Maximum yield recoded in RSJ 1 (16.01 Kg), was observed significantly superior compared to others. These findings will help the sericulturists in finding suitable breed for getting more economic returns from silkworm rearing. It is observed that RSJ 1 is having highest yield per 10, 000 larvae.

The biological indicators studies of zooplankton in the Tigris River at the city of Baghdad

Khalid A. Rasheed, Hussain A. Flayyh, AbdulSalam T. Dawood

The study of biological indicators for zooplanktonis important factors in environmental studies to show the extent of the surrounding organisms, distribution and deployment environment affected. Zooplankton samples were collected from three stations on the Tigris River in the city of Baghdad using zooplankton net, specimens preserved and laboratory-diagnosed using internationally recognized classifications. Results show through the presence of relatively high abundance of zooplankton in the three stations and not affected by the city in addition to the species abundance is the other index gave few differences between stations, a lack of environmental pressures on these organisms in the station directory. Also, Shannon-Weiner diversity Indexpointer gave no significant differences between the study stations.

Study of Al-Karamah and Sharq-Dijla drinking water purification and their byproduct effects on the Tigris River

Khalid A. Rasheed

Two studied stations were involved in this study included Sharq–Dijla and Al-Karamah water purification stations. Water samples collected from four sites with three replicates for each sample of each site of the river and the station: before, after, inside the stations and at the pipe. The study started in October 2012 to September 2013. Results showed that the minimum level of water temperature was 11oC during (December-January) at Sharq –Dijla.While the maximum level was 30oC during (August-September) at both AL-Karamah and Sharq –Dijla stations. pH results revealed that the highest level of pH was 8.63 during (October-November) at AL-Karamah station followed by the lowest level was 6.73 in(February- March) at Sharq –Dijla station. The highest level of EC was 1068 µS/cm during (April-May) at Sharq-Dijla station, while the lowest level was 693 µS/cm during (August- September) at the same station. The results of DO showed that the highest level was 11.51 ppm during (December-January) at Sharq- Dijla station, while the lowest level was 4.25 ppm during (August- September) at AL- Karamah station.The BOD results recorded the highest level of BOD5 was 4.49 ppm during (August- September), and the lowest level was 0.67 ppm during (December-January) both results at Sharq-Dijla station. Total hardness showed that the highest level was about 404 ppm during (December-January) at AL-Karamah station, and the lowest level 162 ppm during (August- September) at the same station. Free chlorine measurements found with Iraqi limits and WHO for these two stations. The highest value of Iron concentration was 3.30ppm in (December-January) at Al-Karamah station, while the lowest value was1.63ppm in (August- September) at Sharq–Dijla station.

Analysis of the Environmental Factors Affecting the Growth Traits of Iran-Black Sheep

Reza Tohidi, Yunes Ismailjami, Arash Javanmard

A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of non-genetic factors on the growth behavior of Iran-Black sheep. The data of growth performances, birth weight (BW), weaning weight (W3), weight at 6, 9and 12 months of age (W6, W9 and W12, respectively), were taken from 1522 lambs belonging to data bank from Abbas Abad Sheep Breeding Station located at the North-east of Iran during a period of five years. Statistical analyses were performed using a general linear model including non-genetic factors: lamb sex, birth year and litter size as main effects, the lamb’s age when weighed as covariate, and the interactions between these factors. Results showed that all traits were significantly (P

Geochemical Processes and Assessment of Water Quality for Irrigation of Al-Shagaya Field-C, Kuwait

Al-Ruwaih F.M., Shafiullah G.

Al-Shagaya Field-C is located southwest of Kuwait City, where the brackish groundwater is produced from the Dammam aquifer. The main objectives are to recognize the major geochemical processes operating in the aquifer and controlling its quality; in addition, to evaluate the groundwater quality criteria for drinking and irrigation. The investigation was carried out by estimating pH, EC, TDS, TH, SAR, %Na, RSC, RSBC, potential salinity, magnesium ratio, chloro-alkaline index, Kelly’s ratio, Permeability index, and salinity hazard respectively. The TDS ranges between 2474 and 3232 mg/l, with an average value of 2753mg/l and the water is exceeding very hard. Groundwater shows Ca-Cl and Ca-Mg-Cl genetic water types. Results revealed that the groundwater is oversaturated with respect to dolomite and calcite and under-saturated with respect to gypsum and anhydrite. The main geochemical processes controlling groundwater chemistry in the study area are due to dissolution/ precipitation process along the path flow. The major ions composition in groundwater of the study area indicated that the water is not suitable for drinking. However, the irrigation parameters revealed that the groundwater is suitable for irrigation purposes.

The Suitability of Groundwater for Domestic and Irrigation Purposes: A Case Study of Ikere-Ekiti, SW-Nigeria

Talabi A.O.

Shallow groundwater in Ikere-Ekiti was assessed for potability and irrigation employing chemical and bacterial analyses. Twenty two groundwater samples were collected and analyzed using Atomic absorption spectrometer for cations and ion chromatographic method for anions determinations (˚C), pH and electrical conductivity (EC) (µS/cm) were measured in the field using pH Testr meter. The bacteriological analysis was carried out using nutrient agar medium to obtain plate count of living bacteria. Results of the analysis revealed that all EC values were less than 1000µS/cm indicating fresh water. The pH with average values of 9.48, 7.82 and 7.44 in migmatite, granite and charnockitic terrains respectively exceeded the approved standard (6.5 – 8.5) for drinking water in two samples from migmatite, one sample from granitic terrain and none from the charnockites. Sodium was the dominant cation with average concentrations (mg/L) of 95.65, 38.33 and 6.61 in migmatite, granite and charnockite respectively while K+ ions in the same order of rock units have average concentrations (mg/L) of 60.49, 32.33 and 15.77. The average concentrations (mg/L) of Ca2+ ions in groundwater located on migmatite, granite and charnockitic terrains were 36.67, 24.63 and 10.98 respectively while those for Mg2+ were 9.94, 7.48 and 4.57. The order of cation abundance was Na+> K+ > Ca2+> Mg2+. In respect of the major anions, Cl- was dominant with average concentrations (mg/L) in charnockites (187.20) within approved standard of 250mg/L while the average values (mg/L) in migmatite (475.2) and granite (340.62) exceeded the standard value. Following the same sequence of rock units, HCO3- average concentrations (mg/L) were 34.6mg/L, 27.07mg/L and 25.7. Sulphate and nitrate were less dominant ions and the order of anions abundance in the groundwater was Cl- > HCO3-> SO42-> NO3-. Bacteria evaluation revealed that all sampled groundwater tested positive to bacteria with TBC values (CFU/100ml) ranging from 1.76X108 to 1.78X109 in migmatite, 5.3x105 to 8.9x108 in granite and 2.55x107 to 8.2x108 in charnockite. Gibb’s diagram revealed that chemical weathering of rock-forming minerals has contributed to solute source in the groundwater of the area. Water type on migmatite was mainly NaCl while granite and charnockite had NaCl and CaCl types revealing lithologic effects. Irrigation water quality assessment employing Sodium absorption ratio (SAR), Soluble sodium percent (SSP), Residual sodium bicarbonate (RSBC) and Permeability index (PI) revealed that the groundwater is suitable for irrigation purpose. Groundwater in the study area is low mineralized, chemically potable, suitable for irrigation but infected by bacteria pollutants. Differences in rock types affected the chemistry of the groundwater as reflected in their physico-chemical compositions, water facies and irrigation quality.

Study the concentrations of Ni, Zn, Cd and Pb in the Tigris River in the city of Baghdad

Khalid A. Rasheed, Hussain A. Flayyh, AbdulSalam T. Dawood

Four heavy metals were selected to estimate their concentrations on the Tigris River in the Baghdad area, the water samples collected from three stations on the river represented the northern, central and southern Baghdad, using apolyethylene bottles of 2-liter for the period from March 2010 until February 2011 and then on a monthly basis. It observed from the results, that all of the concentrations of heavy metals under the study, were within the permissible limits for the three stations depending on the values of Iraqi Rivers Maintenance Regulation No. 25 of 1967.In many of the recoding data it was within intangible readings because of the low concentration of the heavy metals in the sample.

Morphological and physiological variation of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri isolates causing wilt disease in chickpea

N. Nath, A. U. Ahmed, F. M. Aminuzzaman

Nine isolates of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri infecting chickpea were collected from major chickpea growing areas of Bangladesh and their cultural, morphological, physiological and pathogenic characteristics were described. The isolates varied significantly in their cultural, morphological and physiological traits, i.e. colony color, shape, margin and texture; mycelial radial growth and spore production. Laboratory studies were conducted to study the effect of different culture media, pH and temperature levels on mycelial growth and sporulation of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri. Mycelial radial growth and sporulation of F. oxysporum was maximum for all the isolates at 25°C after seven days of inoculation, which was reduced drastically below 15°C and above 35°C. No growth and sporulation was observed at 5 °C temperature for all the isolates. The most suitable pH level for growth and sporulation of the fungus was at pH 6.0. The fungus grew well on oat meal agar medium among seven culture media tested. No sporulation was observed on WA medium. The highest number of macro spores (3.27 x 105 ml-1) and micro spores (4.06 x 105 ml-1) were produced on PDA. Among the nine tested isolates, only one isolate (FOC-1) found to be highly virulent (HV) type on reaction on chickpea variety BARI Chola –1.

Forms and Distribution of Potassium along a Toposequence on Basaltic Soils of Vom, Jos Plateau State of Nigeria

M. A. Tijjani, A. A. David

The study was conducted in Vom, Jos Plateau state in the Southern Guinea Savanna zone of Nigeria to accentuate the forms of potassium distribution associated with topographic positions. The study area lies between longitudes 080 45’ 01” and 80 47’ 56’’ E, latitudes 90 43’ 17’’ and 90 45’ 15’’ N, with an elevation of about 1270m above sea level. A stratified purposive sampling procedure was adapted, where four landscape positions were identified using Global Positioning System (GPS). The crest, upper slope, middle, and lower slope positions were identified, each representing changes in geomorphology. Two pedons were georeferenced at each topographic position, where they were sunk and described. Result show that the forms of K varied with topographic positions. Potassium distribution varied from surface to subsurface in different topographic positions. Water soluble K was higher at crest surface (0.0569 cmolkg-1) and decreased with soil profile depth. Exchangeable K has highest value of 0.1317 and 0.1308 cmol/kg-1 at both lower slope positions in general. Non exchangeable K values where higher at all surfaces than the subsurfaces of topographic positions. HCl soluble K values were higher at lower and upper slopes surface, moderately at middle and least at crest slope positions. Total K values were higher at upper slope subsurface, middle, and lower slope surface with low variations at the crest positions. However, the distribution of the K forms did not shown a well – defined trend with respect to topographic positions.

Development of Smart Automated Irrigation System

Sirisha Adamala, Krishna Reddy YV

This study is designed to develop an automatic irrigation system that switches (ON/OFF) a pump motor by sensing the moisture content of the soil using wireless technology. Through GSM Modem, the sensed moisture content data will be sent as an SMS to the user. The project uses 8051 series microcontroller, which is programmed to receive the input signal of varying moistures of the soil through sensors. This is achieved by using an op-amp as comparator which acts as interface between the sensing device and the microcontroller. Once the controller receives the signal, it generates an output that drives a relay for operating the water pump. It also sends an SMS to the concerned number using GSM modem. An LCD display is also interfaced to the microcontroller to display the status of the soil and water pump ON/Off condition. The sensing arrangement is made using two stiff metallic rods inserted to the agricultural field required to be in control. Connections from the metallic rods are interfaced to the control unit. This concept can also be enhanced by integrating XBEE/Bluetooth technology, such that whenever the water pump switches ON/OFF, the information is sent to a smart mobile phone or XBEE transceiver module regarding the status of the pump.

Analysis and Determinants of Profit Efficiency of Cassava Farmers in Cross River State, Nigeria

Ettah O. I., Kuye O.O.

A study on the analysis and determinants of profit efficiency of cassava farmers in Cross River State, Nigeria was carried out using the stochastic frontier profit function of Cobb-Douglas functional form. Data for the study were collected from primary sources with the aid of a set of structured and pre-tested questionnaires. For the determinants of profit efficiency, the minimum and maximum profit efficiency was 0.14 and 0.91 respectively with mean profit efficiency of 0.65. The mean profit efficiency implies that farmers were able to obtain 65% of their potential profit from a unit mix of inputs. In other words, about 35% of the profit is lost to inefficiency of management. Thus in the short run, there is a scope for increasing profit from cassava production by 35%. Age (0.37), education (0.67) and household size (0.58) had positive impact on profit inefficiency. The analysis of profit inefficiency effect showed a significant gamma (γ = 0.86). This implies that 86% deviation from maximum profit obtainable was as a result of inefficiency of the farmers rather than random error or variability. The signs and significance of the estimated coefficients in the inefficiency model have important implication on profit efficiency of the farmers. It is recommended that farmers should be encouraged to invest in cassava production for its profitability and economic value, inputs should be made available and at affordable prices especially improved varieties of cassava cuttings and cassava farmers should be encouraged to receive training on proper agronomic practices and usage of inputs to enhance profit efficiency of input use.

Farmers' Knowledge of Cassava Streak Virus Disease in Selected Districts of Central Uganda

B. Bua

Cassava brown streak disease is one of the latest outbreaks of diseases threatening cassava production in Uganda. Although, previously reported in some parts of east African coast, CBSD was not a common problem in Uganda until over a decade ago. Since, its first reported outbreak in mid 2000s, CBSD has continued to spread in many cassava growing districts of Uganda. Cassava brown streak disease manifests as a syndrome characterised by leaf chlorosis, stem and root necrosis. The infected root tubers are unfit for human consumption. Therefore, the study was conducted to assess farmers’ knowledge of CBSD in the selected districts in central Uganda. Semi-structure questionnaires were used to gather information from 180 respondents from the districts of Mukono, Masaka and Wakiso on the knowledge and perception of CBSD. The findings revealed that cassava was widely grown in the three districts. However, a number of constraints including pests and diseases were reported to be affecting cassava growing. Of the diseases, CBSD was ranked as the most widespread and devastating. In fact, 75% of the respondents had good knowledge of CBSD and perceive it as responsible for the declining cassava production in the districts. The most common symptoms associated with CBSD leaf chlorosis, rotting and necrosis of the root tubers. Both the old and newly introduced cassava varieties were susceptible to CBSD. Accordingly, CBSD was thought of as responsible for food insecurity, livelihoods and the loss of cassava biodiversity among others.

Study of two fungal species of Tulostoma genus encountered for the first time in Morocco: Tulostoma melanocyclum Bres. and Tulostoma kotlabae Pouzar

In Morocco, the works on mushrooms are rare and no complete list that lists the species in a given region is not yet available. Surveys in the mobile dunes of Mehdia (North West) and Tifnit (South West Morocco) have allowed us to determine for the first time in Morocco two species of the genus Tulostoma, Tulostoma melanocyclum Bres., (1904) and Tulostoma kotlabae Pouzar (1958). This study is part of the contribution to the determination of the fungal diversity in Morocco that it remains incomplete.

Effects of Climate Change on Vegetation in Mediterranean Forests: A review

A.D. Solomou, N.D. Proutsos, G. Karetsos, K. Tsagari

A systematic literature review was undertaken to analyze the effects of climate change concerning the forests in the Mediterranean region as it is a climate and a global hot spot of biological diversity and the richest biodiversity region in Europe. Climate change threatens several eco-systems (e.g. forests) with ecological and socioeconomic importance. It is noteworthy that all warming scenarios in the Mediterranean predict an increase of drought and heat events, and a reduction in precipitation within the next hundred years in the Mediterranean basin with im-portant consequences in local vegetation communities. Forests can therefore be used as a tool in developing so-lutions to the problem of climate change. Nowadays, is considered necessary firstly to continue monitoring and research concerning climate change patterns and impacts on regional scales and secondly to implement manage-ment strategies in order to preserve Mediterranean habi-tats.

Effects of Pruning on Diameter and Height Growth of Pinus nigra Arnold subsp. pallasina Plantations in Turkey

Fatih Tonguc, Sinan Guner

Pruning is a costly silvicultural operation and allows the production of high value timber. Effect of pruning on black pine and especially on Anatolian black pine (Pinus nigra Arnold subsp. pallasina) is not well known. The objective of the study was to evaluate pruning effects on diameter and height growth of Anatolian black pine. Pruned and the control treatments were carried out using 20 year old black pine plantation in Çorum providence of Turkey. Three pruning treatments were applied in 2004, 2009 and 2016 and diameter and height growths of trees were measured. Each pruning was done from the bottom to include one third of the crown. At the beginning of the study (first pruning) and after 5 years of the first pruning no difference was observed for DBH and height growth. However, diameter and height growth became important after 12 years of pruning between pruned and control stands. Results show that pruning could increase diameter growth and height of Anatolian black pine stands. To better understand, further detailed studies must be carried out investigating site effects, plant density and environmental variations.

Quantitative structure activity relationship studies of anti-proliferative activity of some indole derivatives combining DFT calculations and statistical results

Many studies have focused on indole derivatives mainly their antiproliferative effect. The therapeutic effect of this group of molecule is very important. Quantitative structure–activity relationships (QSAR) have been applied for development relationships between physicochemical properties and their biological activities. A series of 30 molecules derived from indole is based on the quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR). This study was carried out using the principal component analysis (PCA) method, the multiple linear regression method (MLR), non-linear regression (RNLM), the artificial neural network (ANN) and it was validated using cross validation analysis (CV). We accordingly propose a quantitative model and we try to interpret the activity of the compounds relying on the multivariate statistical analyses. A theoretical study of series was studied using density functional theory (DFT) calculations at B3LYP/6-31G(d) level of theory for employing to calculate electronic descriptors when, the topological descriptors were computed with ACD/ChemSketch and ChemDraw 8.0 programs. The best QSAR model was found in agreement with the experimental by ANN (R = 0,99).

Biodiversity of Medicinal Plants in Thudaripettai Village, Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu, India

Kathirvel Murugan A., T. Vaithiyanathan, P. Sundaramoorthy

The medicinal plants have received more attention among researchers to treat various diseases and disorders. This study was aimed to record the various medicinal plants present in Thudaripettai Village situated in Tharangambadi Taluk, Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu. A total of 60 plant species belonging to 35 families were reported with their medicinal values. These results will provide information about medicinal plants and methods of utilization of these plants to cure various diseases of mankind. Survey of the information of medicinal plants used by the villagers were collected and arranged alphabetically followed by common name, vernacular name, family name, parts of use, methods of uses, medicinal uses and their habit. The information is very much useful for further research which will lead to the discovery of new bioactive compounds from the above medicinal plants.

Effect of ethanolic extract of the leaves of plant Annona squamosa on hematological and biochemical parameters in normal rats

Preeti Singh, Veena Batra Kushwaha

The present study was designed to elucidate the effects of ethanolic extract of leaves of Annona squamosa L. (Annonaceae) on hematological and biochemical indices in normal rat. The male rats were gavaged ethanolic extract of Annona squamosa leaves at the dose level of 200 and 300 mg/Kg body weight/rat/day for 28 days. A significant decrease in hematological indices like hemoglobin, RBC count and increase in WBC count, serum parameter like serum cholesterol, serum GPT and GOT was observed.

Physiochemical Characterization of the Brewersâ€™ Spent Grain from a Brewery Located in the Southwestern Region of Parana - Brazil

Sideney Becker Onofre, Ivan Carlos Bertoldo, Dirceu Abatti, Douglas Refosco

Brewers' spent grain is a by-product generated in the production process of breweries formed by the solid part obtained from the wort filtration before boiling. It is mainly comprised of pulp and husk residues of the malt, but it also contains grains of the adjuncts, such as rice, maize and wheat. Quantitatively, brewers' spent grain is the main byproduct of the brewing process and currently it is used as animal feed. The objective of this study was to determine the physiochemical composition of the brewers' spent grain and its potential use in human food. To this end, brewers' spent grain samples were collected from a craft beer brewery located in the southwestern region of the state of Paraná, determining such parameters as moisture, ash, total proteins, lipids, crude fiber, carbohydrates and energy. The results revealed that the moisture and ash levels were 78.23 ± 1.45 and 3.76± 1.23g.100g-1, respectively. The figures for carbohydrates, total proteins, total fats and crude fibers were 1.89±1.21; 4.89 ± 0.29; 2.67 ± 0.68 and 4.19 ± 0.56, represented in g.100g-1 respectively. The energy values obtained were 109.23± 4.23 kcal.100g-1. As such, the conclusion can be drawn that brewers' spent grain can be used in both animal and human food.

In Vitro screening of larvicidal and insecticidal activity of methanolic extracts of Artocarpus heterophyllus, Artocarpus altilis and Piper betle

Sindhu S Nair, Vaibhavi Kavrekar

The aim of this work was to evaluate the larvicidal and insecticidal activity of the selected plants namelyArtocarpus altilis, Piper betle and Artocarpus heterophyllus. The leaves of Artocarpus altilis and Artocarpus heterophyllus and roots of Piper betle were subjected to methanolic solvent extraction for the isolation of various bioactive constituents. The evaluation of larvicidal activity was carried out using late third instar larvae of Drosophila melanogaster. The insecticidal activity of extracts was studied against adult Bruchus pisorum, Tribolium castaneum, Sitophilus oryzae and was evaluated by direct contact application method .Nucleic acids and protein contents are regarded as important biomarkers of the metabolic potential of cells, as these play the main role in regulating the different activities of cells. Piper betle and Artocarpus heterophyllusextractshad a reducing effect on the nucleic acid and protein content in the larvae in a dose dependent manner whereas Artocarpus altilis extract did not exhibit any significant larvicidal activity. Piper betle and Artocarpus heterophyllusextractsshowed good insecticidal activity whereas A.altilis extract showed poor insecticidal activity. The results of the present study clearly indicate that Piper betle and Artocarpus heterophyllus extracts can be developed as ecofriendly larvicides and were also quite effective as insecticides for providing a better and excellent alternate for the control of insects.

Vulnerability of the Livestock Sector in Changing Climate Conditions: A Case from India

Nirma Bora

In India, livestock sector plays an important role in socio-economic development of rural households. Over 70 percent of the country’s rural households own livestock and a majority of livestock owning households are small, marginal, and landless farmers. The reality of climate change and the fact that life in the poorest and vulnerable economies will be worst affected is set to have far-reaching consequence on the animal and its owners. At the same time, livestock have always shouldered a portion of the blame for rising greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, recent extensive scientific evidence and report by FAO and universities in the US has brought to light the fact that the large GHG emission figure of livestock emission was big data hype. The developed countries play clever by shifting blame for anthropogenic GHG emission away from the fossil fuel based power generation, transportation, industries and lifestyle of the global North to activities in developing countries such as paddy cultivation and animal husbandry.

Effect of Mining Activities on Vegetation Composition and nutrient status of Forest Soil in Benue Cement Company, Benue State, Nigeria

Unanaonwi O E, Amonum J I

Mining is essential in the economic development plan of any country endowed with mineral resources. This is due to both internal and external economic benefits that are made available to countries that are involved in the extraction of mineral resources. Internally, there is creation of employment and revenue generation among others while externally; a substantial foreign exchange is available to such countries. However, looking at the socio-economic importance of the industry, most countries lose sight of the ensuing effect that might accrue to an area as a result of mining activities. This study sought to provide an empirical data to ascertain whether or not mining activities has affected tree diversity of the area in general and on vegetation and soil nutrients in particular. In the study diversity indices (Shannon, margalef and Pielou’s evenness) all indicated higher values for adjacent site 5 km away from the factory. Soil health indicators investigated revealed significant differences except Potassium, with adjacent site having higher mean values. This study has indicated that tree diversity was higher in the adjacent site and also that soil 5 km away from the factory was healthier than soil within factory site. Construction of shield over factory site is suggested.

Lime Pretreatment Associated Compositional and Ultrastructural Changes in Selected Root and Vegetable Processing Residues

Mithra. M. G, Padmaja. G

The study aimed at exploring the suitability of processing residues from selected root and vegetables for bioethanol production, which are otherwise environmental pollutants. The effect of lime pretreatment at high (HT), low (LT) or room (RT) temperatures on compositional and ultrastructural changes in peels of root crops (sweet potato, elephant foot yam and tannia) and vegetable processing residues (peels from ash gourd and mixed vegetable waste) was studied. Pretreatment resulted in the removal of very little polysaccharides, including starch from these biomasses. Hemicellulose was removed to a higher extent in 24 h RT pretreatment (11.6-12.3%) compared to 7.3-8.5% removal in HT pretreatment. Maximum lignin removal (ca. 33-38%) occurred in RT pretreated (24 h) samples. Approximately 22-25.7% lignin was removed during HT pretreatment (121 °C) for 30 min. which increased to 28-31% when prolonged to 60 min. Pretreatment Efficiency (PE) was low (4.2-14.7%) in HT pretreatment, while 5.7-13.5% and 5.2-14.2% PE was observed in LT and RT pretreatments respectively. Scanning electron micrographs of lime pretreated biomass indicated that starch being a major ingredient of the biomass under study, preferential saccharification of starch by amylases might be necessary to expose the cellulose and hemicellulose for their subsequent saccharification to release fermentable sugars.

Performance evaluation and characterization of wetted soil parameters of improvised medi-emitters installed in a drip irrigation tomato field

Awe G.O., Abegunrin T.P., Ojediran J.O., Oyetoro O.O.

Field study was conducted to evaluate the emission uniformity (EU), global coefficient of variation (CGv), emitter flow variation (Qvar) and distribution uniformity (DU), and determine the wetted radius (rw) on soil surface of improvised medi-emitters installed in a tomato field. Soil water content (SWC) at four layers was determined after different periods of irrigation. Radius of wetted soil surface was determined and predicted. Irrigation frequency had no significant effect on the average discharge rate of the medi-emitters throughout the growing cycle. Average Qvar and CGv were significantly (P=0.05) influenced by the frequency of application while the EU and DU did not significantly (P=0.05) differ among the treatments. There were significant differences in the average values of SWC in different soil layers under the different periods of irrigation. Both the observed and calculated rw on the soil surface were fitted with fourth order polynomial. The model performance parameters of MAE and RMSE between the calculated and observed radii were low, indicating good prediction. Medical infusion set can successfully replace the more expensive conventional emitters for drip irrigation system.

Evaluation of Water Resources in Wadi El Natrun, Western Desert, Egypt

Mohamed kamel Fattah

Groundwater of the Pliocene aquifer in Wadi El Natrun area represents the primary source of reliable water for drinking and agriculture uses. This research focuses on the study of the different sources of water in the study area and determines the origin and quality of this waterand also is interested in studying hydrogeochemical processes that affect them and the movement of water through the analysis and determine the activity of different elements, and also to changes in hypothetical salts with the direction of water flow in three sectors of the region and the statement of the most important geochemical processes that occur. Finally it is evaluated the suitability of the water for different purposes. The results show that, there is a zonation of chemical composition; this zonation is characterized by a change of cation species from dominantly Ca and Mg near the east to Na-dominated waters in the west. Mirroring this, anions change from HCO3 type to Cl and SO4 type.The ions displays two grades of metasomatism along flow path, first the stage of mineralization(HCO3>Cl>So4) at the east then the advanced stage of mineralization (Cl>SO4 >HCO3) at the west. According to the(W.H.O.2005), 45 % of tested groundwater samples are permissible for drinking. Most groundwater samples of the Pliocene according to SAR andRSC are suitable for irrigation purposes under normal condition, but all surface water samples (lakes) are saline water,so it is not valid for drinking or irrigation purposes.

Economy of Production and Labor Requirement in Major Field Crops of Kavre, Nepal

Bibek Dhital

Economic analysis is found as the major aspect of measurement of efficiency of a farm. In most cases, this part is lagging in Nepalese farmers. With the objective to find benefit cost ratio of growing different crops, identify profitable crops and estimate labor requirement for cultivation, this case study was performed. The scope of this case study isit helps farmers in selecting the crop comparing the profit and labor available. This study was done as a case study in Kavre district, Nepal. From this research, potato (B: C=2.44) and onion (B: C=1.95) were found the most profitable crops and wheat and maize the least. Labor requirement for onion was highest 643 men/ha and wheat was the lowest i.e. 142 men/ha.

Evaluation of the euglycemic effect of oral administration of S. rebaudiana B. cultivated in Mexico in normoglycemic and induced-diabetic rats

Stevia rebaudiana is a plant widely used as sweetener and food supplement. There are some reports of the euglycemic effect of S. rebaudiana extracts, which has been attributed mainly to stevioside for the results obtained by other authors. However, studies with extracts lack the precise quantification of glycosides and it is known that several agricultural and environmental factors affect the steviol glycosides content. The aim of this study was to evaluate the euglycemic effect of oral administration of extracts of S. rebaudiana varieties cultivated in Mexico in normoglycemic and induced-diabetic Wistar rats and quantify their glycosides content. Aqueous leaves extracts of Criolla and Morita II varieties of S. rebaudiana were used to quantify glycosides by a validated HPLC method or lyophilized for in vivo experiments. Hypoglycaemic effect was evaluated in normoglycemic fasting rats, subjected to intragastric administration of Criolla or Morita II (100 or 200 mg/kg) and glucose measured at time 0, 1, 3, 5 and 7 hours. The antihyperglycemic effect was first evaluated with Streptozotocin / Nicotinamide-induced diabetic rats following the methodology previously described, and further evaluated with glucose load in normoglycemic rats. Control groups were distilled water and glibenclamide (5 mg/kg). Stevioside content was 2.08 ± 0.11 and 5.22 ± 0.23 (g/100 g of dry leaves) in the Morita II and Criolla variety, respectively. Acute administration of both varieties of S. rebaudiana had no euglycemic effect in normoglycemic or induced-diabetic rats (p> 0.05) at any of the doses tested.

Insecticidal effects of eudesmanes from Pluchea sagittalis (Asteraceae) on Spodoptera frugiperda and Ceratitis capitata

A. Sosa, M. Costa, A. Salvatore, A. Bardon, S. Borkosky, N. Vera

Eudesmanoids play an important role in the protection of plants against herbivores. Pluchea sagittalis (Lamarck) Cabrera (Asteraceae) is widespread in tropical South America and contains compounds that provide protection against phytophagous insects. In the present work we isolated seven sesquiterpenoids with eudesmane skeletons that were evaluated for their insecticidal activities against Spodoptera frugiperda and Ceratitis capitata, pests that cause serious damage to crops in the Argentine northwest. The Eudesmanes were incorporated at different concentrations to the diet of Spodoptera frugiperda. In the choice test, larval feeding behavior was altered. The eudesmanes 1, 5 and 7 showed the highest activity with feeding election indexes (FEI) of 50, 50, and 72 %, respectively at 200 µg/g of diet. When tested for insecticidal activity using neonate larvae with the no-choice artificial diet bioassays, eudesmane 1 was the most toxic in the larval stage (LD50 177.80 mg/g of diet). Compounds 5 lowered the percentage of adult emergence and produced the most malformations (72%) compared with control. Drastic effects were observed in the oviposition deterrence activity against C. capitata. The maximum oviposition deterrence (87 %) was recorded with eudesmane 5 at dose 30 µg/cm2 of artificial fruit. Finally, eudesmanes 6 and 7 showed significant larval and pupal mortality against the first generation larvae of viable eggs oviposited by females fed with the treated diet (100 µg / g artificial diet).

Molecular variations due to phylogeographic factors in Channa punctatus found in different regions of India

Shobhna, Seema Jain, Hridaya Shanker Singh, Manu varma

Channa punctatus is a freshwater fish belonging to family Ophiocephalidae. This fish is available in almost all over the country. In present communication molecular study of COI region of mitochondrial gene was done to find out intraspecific differences in genome of Channa punctatus habitating in different states of India having variable environmental conditions. Result showed minor variations in mitochondrial genome of Channa punctatus and utility of molecular markers to show intraspecific variations.

Stimulatory Effect of the Magnetic Treatment on the Germination of Cereal Seeds

E. Martinez, M. Florez, M.V. Carbonell

The main objective of this study is to determine the effects of 125 mT magnetic treatment on the germination of different cereals seeds. This objective has a practical application in agriculture science: early growth of seeds. Germination tests were carried out under laboratory conditions by exposing seeds to magnetic field for different times. For each treatment the number of germinated seeds was counted to determine the time necessary to achieve the final maximum percentage of germinated seeds; rate of germination was assessed by determining the mean germination time (MGT) and parameters T1, T10, T25, T50, T75, T90, time required to germinate 1 - 90 percent of seeds. An increase in the percentage and rate of germination of seeds as positive response to magnetic field treatment in rice, wheat, maize and barley seeds have been found for all treatments applied. The mean germination time and parameters were reduced for all the magnetic treatments applied. Most significant differences were obtained for time of exposure of chronically exposure and 24 hours. External magnetic fields enhance seed vigor by influencing the biochemical processes by stimulating activity of proteins and enzymes. Numerous studies suggested that magnetic field increases ions uptake and consequently improves nutrition value.

Protease activity of extracellular enzyme produced by B. subtilis isolated from soil

Background: Proteases produced by enzymatic method are more environments friendly than chemical process, and they have tremendous potential in the leather industry and in other several industries. In this study extracellular protease producing non pathogenic Bacillus subtilis was isolated from soil sample and relationship between sporulation and extracellular protease synthesis in large scale cultivation was studied. The enzyme was further characterized, purified, and tested for potential application. Result: The molecular weight of the protease was found to be ~30 KDa. Enzyme activity was checked on the presence of different metal ions and effectors. The enzyme was slightly modulated by MG++ ion, and significantly by Hg++ ion, while Zn++ ion slightly decrease the proteolytic activity. Sulfahydryl reagents, DTT slightly and β-ME significantly inhibit the enzyme. EDTA showed no effect on the enzyme suggesting that the enzyme might not be metalloprotease. PMSF, a known serine protease inhibitor was seen to totally inhibit the enzyme which indicates that the enzyme is a serine protease. The optimum enzyme activity was observed after 22 hours of incubation of B. subtilis at 37o C. Conclusions: Crude enzyme contains 285 units of enzyme which have direct dehairing activity. The enzyme was also seen to be able to remove blood and curry stain from clothes; making it a very promising candidate to be used in a leather and detergent industry. Apart from protease the bacterium was also seen to have lipase and collagenase activity. So, the bacteria are potentially good candidate for industrial application.

Formulation, Acceptability and Storage Stability of Appetized Ginger Plum Leather

Manisha Kaushal, Aarti Dhiman, Anil Gupta, Devina Vaidya

Appetized ginger plum leather was prepared by using different combinations of ginger and plum pulp with varying concentrations of appetizing mixture. The TSS of ginger and plum pulp were raised to 25oB by adding sugar and 1.0 to 2.5% appetizing mixture, followed by drying thin layers in dehydrator (55±2oC) to 12-14% moisture content. The standardization of most palatable recipe was done by evaluating sensory properties and highest score was obtained by ginger: plum (50:50) and 1.5% appetizing mixture. The appetized leather contained comparatively higher amount of ascorbic acid (13.16mg/100g), total phenols (55.89mg/100g) and antioxidant activity (72.94%). The leather was found most stable when packaged in laminated aluminium pouches during storage. The leather did not exhibit appreciable changes in titratable acidity, ascorbic acid, total sugars, phenols and antioxidant activity after 6 months. Thus the appetized ginger plum leather can be stored under ambient storage after packing in aluminium laminated pouches.

Postharvest Management and Value Addition of Ginger (Zingiber Officinale Roscoe): A Review

Manisha Kaushal, Anil Gupta, Devina Vaidya, Meenu Gupta

Ginger is an important spice crop and India is one of the leading producer and exporter of ginger in the world. Ginger is widely used around the world in food as a spice both in fresh and dried form which adds flavour to the meal by creating spicy pungent taste. The chemical components of the ginger rhizome vary considerably depending on the location of cultivation and postharvest treatments. Ginger contains polyphenol compounds such as gingerol and its derivatives like zingiberone, bisabolene, camphene, geranial, linalool, borneol and oleoresin (combination of volatile oils and resin) that accounts for its characteristic aroma and therapeutic properties. Fresh ginger are perishable in nature and are spoiled due to improper handling, growth of spoilage microorganisms, susceptibility to rhizome rot, wilting and sprouting, action of naturally occurring enzymes, chemical reactions and structural changes during storage. Keeping in mind the low shelf-life of fresh ginger and inadequate facility for their modern storage leading to distress sale, value addition could be a viable alternative which will fetch remunerative price to the growers. The present scenario, nutritional importance, postharvest management, value added products of ginger have been discussed in detail in the review.

First Record of Emys orbicularis (Boulenger, 1882), (Reptilia, Testudinati) in the â€œCastel di Guidoâ€ Natural Park (Northern Latium, Italy): a Case of Interest for Species Conservation

Antonio Pizzuti Piccoli, Ignazio Scalas, Luigi Di Stano

The finding of five specimens of Emys orbicularis (Linnaeus, 1758), (Reptilia, Testudinati) in the “Castel di Guido” Natural Park (Northern Latium, Italy), is reported. This is the first record for the species in the area, regularly monitored since 2006. It is assumed that the species has recently colonized the site through highly populated and degraded territory; the data is of conservation interest, proving the capacity of the species to cross polluted environments.

Susceptibility of Eucalyptus Species and Clones to Red Gum Lerp Psyllid, Glycaspis brimblecombei, (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) in Mbizi Forest Plantation, Tanzania

Revocatus Petro, Aloyce Mpiri, Ally Mkude

Glycaspis brimblecombei is a sap-sucking insect that feeds on Eucalypts. The pest is native to Australia. The nymph feeds on eucalypt leaves and secretes honeydew with which they construct a waxy cover (called a lerp) around themselves. This cover is whitish and conical in shape and shelters the insects until the adult stage. The insect is considered a serious pest that causes leaf discoloration, severe leaf drop, twig dieback and some tree mortality on some Eucalyptus species. In October 2016, the red gum lerp psyllid was recorded for the first time in Mbizi forest plantation in Tanzania infesting Eucalyptus camaldulensis and different Eucalyptus clones. A study was conducted to determine the susceptibility of Eucalypt germplasm to the insect pest. Results showed that E. camaldulensis was more infested followed by GC 514, GC 167, GC 584, GC 15, GC 785 clones while GC 940 was the least infested. Eucalyptus grandis was not infested. Stakeholders can be able to use the susceptibility grouping of the Eucalyptus germplasm to determine what to plant in areas of red gum lerp psyllid infestation. Similar research work should be carried in all major host tree growing areas to determine susceptibility groups for the areas.

Preparation and Foliar Application of Oligochitosan - Nanosilica on the Enhancement of Soybean Seed Yield

Dang Van Phu, Bui Duy Du, Le Nghiem Anh Tuan, Hoang Van Tam, Nguyen Quoc Hien

Oligochitosan with weight average molecu-lar weight (Mw) of 5000 g/mol was prepared by gamma Co-60 radiation degradation of 4% chitosan solution containing 0.5% H2O2 at 21 kGy. Nanosilica with size of 10 – 30 nm was synthesized by calcination of acid treated rice husk at 700o C for 2 h. The mixture of 2% oligo-chitosan-2% nanosilica was prepared by dispersion of nanosilica in oligochitosan solution. Oligochitosan, nanosilica and their mixture were characterized by gel permeation chromatography (GPC), transmission electr-on microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), and Furrier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Effect of foliar application of oli-gochitosan and oligochitosan-nanosilica on soybean seed yield was conducted in experimental field. Results indi-cated that soybean seed yield increased 10.5 and 17.0% for oligochitosan and oligochitosan-nanosilica, respect-tively for the control. Radiation degraded oligo-chitosan and its mixture with nanosilica can be potentially used for cultivation of soybean with enhanced seed yield.

Haematological and Serum Biochemical Parameters of Mature Harco Cocks Treated with Human Menopausal Gonadotrophin (Diclair) For Spermatogenesis

Egu U.N.

Twenty sexually matured (24 weeks old) healthy Harco cocks were used to determine the effect of Gonadotrophin (Diclair®) on haematology and serum biochemistry. The cocks were divided into 4 treatment groups of 5 cocks per group identified as T1 (control) administered with 1ml physiological saline, T2, administered with 6.75i.u Diclair® and T4, administered with 20.25i.u Diclair®, with one cock per replicate in a completely Randomized Design (CRD). The injections were dividedinto three doses each and administered intramuscularly in the thigh for three consecutive days. One week after Diclair® treatments, five birds from each group were bled from the wing veins for haematology and serum biochemistry. Results of this study showed significant differences (P0.05) among the treatment groups. Basophils were not detected among the treatment groups. The results further showed significant differences (P0.05) among the treatment groups. However, the values were within the normal ranges, indicating that Diclair® had no deleterious effect on these parameters.

Kidney Function Test, Weight Gain and Serum Protein Values of Mature Male Turkeys Treated with Gonadotrophin (Diclair) For Sperm Production

Egu U. N.

Sixteen sexually matured (12 months old) healthy male turkeys were used to determine the effect of Gonadotrophin (Diclair®) on kidney function, weight gain and serum protein values. The turkeys were divided into 4 treatment groups, identified as T1 (control) administered with 1.00ml physiological saline (0.00 i.u Diclair®), T2 , administered with 13.50 i.u Diclair®, T3,administered with 27.00i.u Dicliar®T4, administered with 40.50 i.u Dicliar(R), with one turkey per replicate in a completely Randomized Design (CRD). The injections were divided into 3 doses each and administered intramuscularly in the thigh for three consecutive days. Blood was collected one week after Diclair® administration. Four turkeys were randomly selected fro-m each treatment groupand bled to collect blood for blood chemistry analysis. The turkey were weighed every week for five weeks and their weight recorded. The result showed that there were significant differences (P< 0.05) among the treatment groups in all parameters for kidney function test: chronicle, potassium, sodium, bicarbonate expect creatinine which was similar (p > 0.05) among the treatment groups. The results further showed that there were no significant differences (p > 0.05) among the treatment groups in initial body weight. However, there were significant differences (P< 0.05) among the treatment groups in final body weight and weight gain. Similarly there were significant differences (P< 0.05) among the treatment groups in all the serum protein values measure: albumin, globulin, serum total protein as well as albumin/globulin ratio. The results of the study showed that Diclair enhanced kidney function and weight gain without any deleterious effects on serum protein values of the male turkeys.

Production of Biodiesel using waste temple oil from Shani Shingnapur temple (Dist. Ahmednagar), Maharashtra, India using chemical and biological methods

In India, due to various mythological and religious reasons hundreds of devotees pour oil over the idols in Hanuman or Maruti and Shani temples. The oil once poured cannot be reutilized and was ultimately wasted. These waste temple oil from Shani Shingnapurwas used to produce biodiesel. Immobilized Pseudomonas aeruginosa was used to catalyze transesterification of waste temple oil. The cells of P.aeruginosa were immobilized within the sodium alginate. Biodiesel production and its applications were gaining popularity in recent years due to decreased petroleum based reserves. Biodiesel cost formed from waste temple oil was higher than that of fossil fuel, because of high raw material cost.To decrease the cost of biofuel, waste temple oil was used as alternative as feedstock. It has lower emission of pollutants; it is biodegradable and enhances engine lubricity. Waste temple oil contains triglycerides that were used for biodiesel production by chemical and biological method.Transesterification reaction of oil produces methyl esters that are substitutes for fatty acid alkyl biodiesel fuel. Characteristics of oil were studied such as specific gravity, viscosity, acid number, saponification number.Parameters such as temperature,oil: methanol ratio were studied and 88%, 96% of biodiesel yield was obtained with effect of temperature and oil: methanol ratio on transesterification reaction. Withaddition ofNaOH or KOH to fatty acids which formed salt known as soap,which is excellent emulsifying and cleaning agents.

Effects of Fungicides for Non Target Fungi Alternaria cassiae

The fungicides are used to control of pathogenic fungi in several tilth but they can affect negatively the microorganisms diversity of soil. The aim of this research was to evaluate the toxicity and environmental risk of tebuconazoles: captan, tebuconazole and the mixture chlorothalonil + propamocarb hidrochloride for fungi Alternaria cassiae. Each fungicide were performed three experiments in completely randomized design with three repetitions and the growth was evaluated daily. Inhibition concentration (IC50;7d) of tebuconazole was 3.49 mg L-1, the captan was 47.36 mg L-1 and of mixture chlorothalonil + propamocarb hidrochloride, 64.04 mg L-1. Tebuconazole is classified as moderately toxic and sensitivity, captan, low toxicity and sensitivity and the mixture, non toxic and insensitive but only captan showed possibility of adverse effect for A. cassiae.

A Review Study on Fluoride Toxicity in Water and Fishes: Current Status, Toxicology and Remedial Measures

Rajinder Kaur, Amita Saxena, Munish Batra

Fluoride is widely distributed in nature in many forms and its associated compounds have been used extensively but its limit in water is exceeding the permissible level. Excess of fluoride (>1.5 mg/l) in drinking water is harmful to the health. Fluoride toxicity is increasingly becoming a matter of great concern as many countries in the world have been declared as endemic for fluoride. This makes it imperative for scientists to focus on the precise toxic effects of fluoride on various soft tissues. Fluoride is toxic to all the system and causes oxidative stress in various tissues. When fluoride is ingested, approximately 93% is absorbed into the bloodstream. Contamination of drinking water due to fluoride is a severe health hazard problem. A good part of the material is excreted but the rest is deposited in the bones and teeth and is capable of causing a crippling skeletal fluorosis, non-skeletal fluorosis and dental fluorosis. There are various treatment technologies for removing fluoride from groundwater but these methods are very expensive. Besides using the water treatment techniques, various plants are having therapeutic properties to reduce the fluoride toxicity which is a cost effective to cure the fluoride induced toxicity.

Resource Use Conflicts and Biodiversity Conservation in Jozani Ecosystem, Zanziba

Zella Adili Y., Juma Said M., Kalumanga Venance E

Resource Conflicts are the major challenge to the responsible Institutions in the management and conservation of biodiversity in Zanzibar due to the existence of multiple and interactive reasons that lead to conflicts. This paper intends to reveal the less known current status of resource conflicts in the management of biodiversity in Jozani ecosystem, Zanzibar. The study employed descriptive survey research design of the causal comparative research design to collect data from 280 respondents which constitute the study population. Descriptive statistics such as percentages, mean, frequency, standard deviation and Pearson correlation were used for data analysis. The outcome of the study showed that there is significant relationship existed between resource conflicts and the management of biodiversity conservation in Jozani ecosystem. The study has implications for environmental policy makers. The study concludes by asserting that unemployment, poverty and scarcity of environmental resources are the major causes of conflict, therefore the call is directed to policy makers to strengthen efforts on resolving conflicts by establishing overall strategies such as establishment of participatory community-based approaches to natural resource management, conflict resolution capacity building measures among the stakeholders, amendment of Laws and expansion of employment to reduce direct relying on using natural resource assets for livelihood.

Assessment of the Effectiveness of Chilling Method in Mitigating Human-Elephant Conflicts in Western Serengeti, Tanzania

Mdee Norah .V, Zella Adili .Y

This paper reveals the less known effectiveness of Chilling method in mitigating human elephant conflicts carried out in Western Serengeti, Tanzania. Two villages were involved namely Nyamburi and Bonchugu. Data were collected by using household questionnaire, focus group discussion and archive information. Data were analyzed by use of SPSS (Version 18) software.Field results indicates that; Chilling method is effective (83%)in mitigating human elephant conflicts. However, statistics for crop damaged by elephants before and after introduction of the method shows that the crops damage decreased by 25%. The most observable strengths of the method were; it control HEC without harm people and elephants, it is easy to apply (55%), it does not consume time and use appropriate technology. Despite the effectiveness of the method, major weaknesses observed to face the method were; insufficient used oil and pepper (61%), elephants observed to be a clever animal as sometimes they inter into the farms backwards and also during rain seasons, chill method observed to be ineffective as it can be washed/removed easily. However, the respondents recommended that; the challenges can be solved by local community to cultivate pepper and other stakeholders such as district, different NGO and companies to support farmers the provision of used oil, chill should be applied regularly once washed out by rain and for the effectiveness of the method community should be more trained on how to use the method.

Germination and Seedling Growth of a Set of Rapeseed (Brassica napus) Varieties under Drought Stress Conditions

Drought stress is one of the major abiotic factors affecting seed germination and plant growth especially in arid and semi-arid regions. In this study, we investigated the effects of drought stress on seed germination and seedling growth of five varieties of rapeseed. Seven drought stress levels of zero (control), -3, -5, -7, -9, -11 and -13 bars were performed using polyethylene glycol-6000 (PEG-6000). A completely randomized design with three replications was used for this experiment. Germination percentage (GP), germination rate (GR), mean germination time (MGT), root length (RL) and shoot length (SL) were measured to evaluate the varieties response to PEG-induced drought stress. Drought stress, variety and the interaction drought × variety had a significant effect on all studied parameters. GP and GR decreased with the increase in stress level, while MGT increased. There were no seeds germinated for all varieties at -11 bars and -13 bars. Shoot length decreased with increasing drought stress but different varieties show different performance under stress environment. Root length decreased with increasing level of severe drought stress. However, the presence of moderate drought stress could even improve the root growth of the investigated varieties. The varieties ‘INRA-CZH2’ and ‘INRA-CZH3’ exhibited the highest germination percentage and the best early seedling growth. Thus, they could be recommended for environments with early cropping cycle drought.

Seeds Potentialities of Medicks in Sub-Humid Area to be used in Steppe Zone

Alane F, R.Chabaca, Abdelguerfi-Laouar.M, Abdelguerfi A

New pulse crops varieties more productive as medics should be made available to breeders located in semi-arid region of Algeria. So, and through two years of testing, pods yield and seeds production of twenty populations belonging to species M.intertexta , M.ciliaris, M.polymorpha , M.Truncatula and an introduced population M.muricoleptis is an Australian cultivar (Jemalong) are appreciated.Pods’ yields of year 2013 vary between 78,66g/m² with poly27 and 3637,33g/m² with I107. Values of the second essay (2015) are different, they vary between 40,89g /m² with Poly236 and 464,36 g/m² with I11.The cultivar Jemalong offers a yield of 172,4 g/m². The corresponding seed yields also show a low production in year 2015. The ratio leaf / stem varies between 1,03 and 5. The average of yields in dry matter of 27 populations in 2013 was of 457,79g/m2 against 127,41 g/m² in 18 populations in 2015. Jemalong cultivar records a yield of 12,8g/m². For the same dose of seed, number of plants by square meter varies between 44 and 112. Number of stems by square meter varies between 136 in C204 and 420 in I52..The average width of population’s ramifications varies between 13cm in Tr334 and 44 cm in I52, The Jemalong cultivar offers an average of 17cm. So, production results of medicks depend of weather conditions in littoral zone of lower altitude than 600-700m. In steppe zones, we recommend to make tests in situ with these same populations.

Assessment of Drumstick Tree (M. deifera) Accessions for Genetic Diversity in the Southern guinea Region of Nigeria

Vange T., Jibung G.G., N.I.Odiaka

An experiment was conducted to analyze the genetic diversity among 9 drumstick tree (Moringaoleifera) accessions in the Teaching and Research Farm of the University of Agriculture Makurdi. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) replicated three times. Data were recorded on growth and yield characteristics before and after pruning. The result obtained showed that at 18 weeks after transplanting, accession UAM-NI had the tallest plants (3.63m) while UAM-BE had the shortest mean plant height (2.84m) under no pruning. Other parameters that showed significant differences were number of leaves per tree and stem diameter. Although accession UAM-OY recorded highest fresh (220.22g), dry (113.42g) and leaf powder (82.60g) weights, it was not significantly different from other accessions. However, at 18 weeks after pruning, there was a significant difference among the accessions with regard to leaf length. Although accession UAM-NA recorded highest fresh leaf weight (286.60g), dry leaf weight (90.67g) and leaf powder weight (85.60g), it was not statistically different from other accessions. For the pruned accessions, significant differences were recorded in leaf length, number of flowers/tree, days to podding and fifty percent podding, pod length, pod girth, pod weight, number of seeds/pod, number of seeds/tree and 100seed weight. The result also indicated that the pruned accessions recorded higher leaf yield than the unpruned. The result of the cluster analysis grouped the accessions into two clusters and an outlier both for the pruned and unpruned accessions irrespective of area of collection.

Evaluation of Returns and Risks in the Forms of Garlic Market: Seed Versus in Natura

The garlic plant hortense Liliaceae, very used as spice, giving flavor to food and can be used in medicinal treatment. Its cultivation is an annual crop with all its processes since the preparation of the earth to their harvest. The context of this work was to evaluate their production, their use, their risks and seed and its consumption in natura. Their samplings were selected in Três Barras Town, Santa Catarina in 2014 harvest period. Among the seed (bulb) and in natura even with the risk of losses with fungal or bacterial their culture is considered a good harvest, because the climate is very favorable to its cultivation, detailing its costs of production and the difference between the crop seed and in natura. This study has used the Multi-index methodology to the analyzes and calculations for the comprehensive, such as: analysis of the 8.25% ROIA for garlic in natura and 7.44% in garlic seed on the initial investment. The cash flow based on monthly statements, involving expenditure on machinery, preparation of the land, among others. An initial investment of R$ 39.756,64 for both harvests. Getting a VPL R$63.188,55 for garlic in natura and R$54.303,99 for garlic seed, its IBC considering the values of 2.59% for garlic in natura and 2.37 for garlic seed. The information about TMA/TRI were well satisfactory for the return of the harvest, as all cultures have risks, this harvest is approximately 50% for both types being in the seed and in natura. The data was passed by the Crystal Ball for attesting and validation of calculations where is approved investment in agribusiness.

Mapping of Planning Land Use Based GIS in Sub-District Kintamani, Bali

Made Sri Sumarniasih

Research land use plans implemented in Kintamani Sub-district, Bangli Regency, Provence of Bali. The Soil samples were collected by overlaying maps of soil types, land use maps, maps of slope, so we get a map of the land unit with 48 sample points. . The scoring method used to analyze slope, soil type and rainfall. The results of the analysis are used to plan the direction of land use in the Kintamani district. Land use is as a buffer zone and protected areas, land outside the forest area. The existing condition of the land is owned by farmers, the use of land in the buffer zone, with intercropping and organic matter or mulching, while in protected areas which are land use under the conditions then existing rules soil and water conservation.

Photocatalytic Degradation of Azo Dye (Methyl Red) In Water under Visible Light Using Ag-Ni/TiO2 Sythesized by /- - Irradiation Method

Vo Thi Thu Nhu, Do QuangMinh, Nguyen Ngoc Duy, Nguyen QuocHien

Commercial TiO2 (P25) co-doped with bimetallic silver and nickel nanoparticles (Ag-Ni/TiO2) was prepared by g-irradiation method. The properties of Ag-Ni/TiO2 were characterized by X-Ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy techniques (EDX) and surface area measurement by Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) method. The size of silver and nickel nanoparticles was determined by TEM to be of 1-2 nm.The photo-catalytic degradation of azo dye methyl red in the aqueous suspensions of TiO2 and Ag-Ni/TiO2 under visible light was carried out to evaluate the photo-catalytic activity. Results showed that Ag-Ni/TiO2 was found to enhance photo-degradation efficiency of azo dye metyl red compared to commercial TiO2. The results showed that Ag 3% (w/w) and Ni 1.5% (w/w) co-doped TiO2 had the highest photoactivity among all studied samples under visible light. Thus, g-irradiation method can be suitably applied to prepare photo-catalyst of Ag-Ni/TiO2with highly photocatalytic activity.

An Assessment of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) in Metal industries of Delhi

Malvika Khullar, Dr. Puja Gupta

With growing realization and concern for our health, the focus on Indoor Air Quality has increased. Exposure to indoor air pollution is responsible for nearly 2 million excess deaths in developing countries and for some 4% of the global burden of disease. Today it is critical that the industry be familiar with the environmental hazards that employees are subjected to in the workplace. Iron & steel and other manufacturing industries, foundries and forges produce a lot of pollutants in the indoor environment. Exposures to mineral dusts, metal fumes, products of combustion, resin bonding systems, physical noise and heat and vibration hazards may seriously impact the health of workers in foundries. The study aimed at assessing Indoor Air Quality in Metal industries of Delhi in Mayapuri industrial area. The study was carried out in 3 phases. In the first phase, the study collated awareness about Indoor Air Quality and related health effects amongst the owners and employees working in the enterprises. In the second phase, the study involved monitoring of the randomly selected enterprises in terms of CO2, PM2.5, PM10 and presence of dampness and molds in the enterprises. The third phase involved spreading awareness regarding Indoor Air Quality amongst the sample. Highlights of the study are: Majority of the owners were aware about the concept of Indoor Air Quality and its relationship with productivity and health of a person. They could also cite some of the health impacts caused due to poor Indoor Air Quality. In spite of their wisdom on Indoor Air Quality, there were no monitoring and maintenance provisions in their enterprises. Also, none of the owners provided their employees personal protective equipment (PPE) and any information or training regarding Indoor Air Quality and its health hazards. Majority of the employees were unaware of the concept of Indoor Air Quality. The employees could neither relate health with Indoor Air Quality nor showed any interest in improving the same. It was seen that there was a moderately high level of CO2 concentrations in the enterprises, mainly due to insufficient ventilation in the enterprises. PM2.5 concentrations were found to be poor and were almost double than its acceptable limits. While it was seen that PM10 concentrations were within their acceptable limits. It was observed that in majority enterprises presence of molds and dampness was observed. It was observed on walls and ceilings. The areas near the walls and places with molds were surrounded by a bad odor. This study has been helpful in providing clear direction towards the Indoor Air Quality in Metal industries operating in Mayapuri. It also highlights the awareness regarding Indoor Air Quality amongst the sample. The study concludes that there is a sense of knowledge regarding Indoor Air Quality amongst the owners/managers of the enterprises but a huge scope in monitoring and maintenance provisions. The need for spreading awareness about IAQ and its related health effects were highlighted which would improve Indoor Air Quality in industries. The study showcased a clear scope for awareness generation and training amongst the owners and employees of the enterprises regarding Indoor Air Quality. The study suggests surveying of health status in metal industries and similar research in other industries. The findings were also shared with competent authorities to sensitize them towards poor Indoor Air Quality in the metal industries.

Environmental Impact Evaluation of the Industry of Panela by Life Cycle Analysis

The objective of the study is to evaluate the environmental impacts generated by the industry of the panela in Ecuador, using the Life Cycle Analysis methodology. The in situ information gathered allowed the identification of the sensitive environmental factors that are affected in all the operations that are carried out in the agroindustry of panela. The results show that the craft activities prevail rather than the industrial activities, due to the low industrial development, application and control of regulations, rudimentary manufacturing practices, among others; which have led to insufficient productivity, competitiveness, quality and safety of their products. The results of the Environmental Impact Assessment, using the Eco-Indicator 99 method, according to the Life Cycle Analysis technique, show that the industrial stage has the greatest contribution to the impact, being more representative the impact to the effects by respiration of inorganic compounds, acidification / eutrophication, climate change and land use. The impact level of this type of industry according to Ecuador's environmental legislation, places it as an industry that generates moderate environmental impacts, it does not require intensive protective or corrective practices. However, it requires environmental executive actions oriented to the control and prevention to mitigate these impacts.