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Pearl millet stands as an important staple food and feed for arid and semi-arid regions of India and South Africa. It is also a quick supplier of important micronutrients like Fe and Zn via grain to combat micronutrient deficiencies among people in developing countries. India has notably spearheaded advancements in pearl millet production and productivity through the All India Coordinated Pearl Millet Improvement Project. There were 21 hybrids evaluated over arid and semi-arid ecologies of the western and southern regions of India. AMMI and GGE biplot models were adopted to recommend a specific hybrid for the particular locality. A joint analysis of variation indicated a significant genotype–environment interaction for most of the agronomical and grain micronutrient parameters. Pearson's correlation values dissected the significant and positive correlation among agronomic traits and the negative correlation with grain micronutrient traits. GGE biplot analysis recommended the SHT 106 as a dual-purpose hybrid and SHT 115 as a biofortified hybrid for the grain's Fe and Zn content. SHT 110 and SHT 108 were selected as stable and high grain yield-producing hybrids across all environments and specifically for E1, E2, and E4 as per the Which-Won-Where and What biplot. SHT 109 and SHT 103 hybrids were stable and high dry fodder yield-producing hybrids across all environments. In this study, the Multi-Trait Stability Index (MTSI) was employed to select the most stable and high-performing hybrids for all traits. It selected SHT 120, SHT 106, and SHT 104 for stability and great performance across all environments. These findings underscored the significance of tailored hybrid recommendations and the potential of pearl millet in addressing both food security and malnutrition challenges in various agro-ecological regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The production of pulses recorded a negative growth rate due to stagnation in expansion of pulse growing area and very slow progress in the improvement of productivity of important pulses. Therefore, there is urgent need to increase the area under pulse crops by promoting them into new areas and seasons. Blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper] is third most important pulse crop both in acreage and production in India and hence, identification of high yielding dual season (kharif and summer) stable blackgram genotypes is very crucial for horizontal expansion of crop, which in turn leading to increased production. The present study was thus envisaged to identify stable, high yielding dual season (kharif and summer) genotypes. Methods: Twenty-five blackgram genotypes were evaluated at three different locations during kharif and summer seasons to identify high yielding, stable and suitable for dual season. The data obtained from six environments was subjected to stability analysis as per Eberhart and Russell (1966). Result: Analysis of variance for stability revealed that variance due to genotypes, environment and environment + (genotype × environment) were highly significant for all the characters. The genotypes viz., TRCRU-136, BDU-20, BDU-18, AKU-15 and TRCRU-22 were found early maturing with wider adaptability to unfavourable environments. While, BDU-18 and LBG-465 were found stable in expression with high mean performance across the six environments for 100-seed weight. From the present study, six promising stable genotypes viz., BDU-17, TRCRU-22, BDU-18, TRCRU-339, TRCRU-18 and IC 436778 were identified for cultivation during kharif as well as summer seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pigeonpea is second most important pulse crop of India after chickpea and it is necessary to identify its high yielding and stable genotypes to feed the increasing population of country. Methods: The present study was laid down in a randomized block design with three replications during kharif season of 2016-2019 at GBPUAT, Pantnagar using twenty genotypes of pigeonpea with an aim to identify the high yielding and stable genotypes. The hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) based on mean seed yield and Average of Sum of Ranks (ASR) of all measures (Parametric and nonparametric) was used in present study. Result: The pooled ANOVA revealed the presence of significant differences among genotypes, environments and G x E interaction effects. The results of hierarchical cluster analysis indicated the genotypes PA 622 (yield=1774.85 kg/ha, ASR=2.00), PA 620 (yield= 1579.92 kg/ha, ASR=2.18), UPAS 120 (yield=1268.57 kg/ha, ASR=2.87), PA 626 (yield=1571.40 kg/ha, ASR=5.56), PUSA 992 (yield= 1331.17 kg/ha, ASR=5.68) and PA 628 (yield= 1271.50 kg/ha, ASR=7.06) as most stable and high yielding and hence these genotypes can be recommended for pigeonpea improvement programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 50 genotypes were evaluated during Kharif 2022 in three different locations in Tamilnadu, India. The data on seed yield per plant was subjected to AMMI and GGE biplot analysis for stability study. The IPCA values explained 100% and 98.8% variation in AMMI and GGE biplot respectively. Results from both analyses inferred that the genotypes viz., Mash 114, Mash 1008, VBN (Bg) 4 and VBN 10 were stable across the environments with high mean seed yield per plant. Hence these varieties can be utilized for cultivation in varied environments of Tamilnadu. Besides, the genotypes; MASH 1008, MASH 114, VBN (Bg) 4, VBN 8, VBN 10 and VBN 11 were found to be resistant to MYMV based on the field screening at National Pulses Research Centre, Vamban, Pudukkottai. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Slope instability problems due to widening of roads are very common in mountainous terrains particularly in Indian Himalayan region. Slope instability may occur due to action of different natural as well as anthropogenic activities or through combined action of both. The present paper deals with the slope stability assessment of natural and cut slopes along the Imphal–Moreh section of NH-39 in Manipur state, India. The factor of safety (FoS) for pre- and post-excavations is evaluated, and the FoS with the mitigation measures is examined using limit equilibrium and finite element method. Construction sequences are modeled, and the stability and deformation patterns are evaluated for each construction stage. It is found that about 78% of the slopes is having an angle more than 45° after cutting. The present study suggests that a FoS greater than 1.25 can be achieved by installing a 5.5 m anchor at 18° with the horizontal at a spacing of 1 m. Confirmatory field tests on the anchor are also conducted to ensure the accuracy of the adopted design parameters. This study provides useful informations to researchers and practitioner about the stability assessment of slopes and potential mitigative measures. Similar schemes of mitigative measures are effective for the same/similar geologic conditions in the Indian Himalayan terrain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The current study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the retention protocol followed by orthodontists in India. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional web-based questionnaire survey was carried out to evaluate the retention protocol. To determine the sample size, a pilot study was carried out, and the final sample arrived was 250 subjects. The current study's inclusion criteria took into account those who had finished their BDS&MDS (Orthodontist). Results: The data were statistically examined when the surveys were received and completed. The choice for fixed retainers was 67.4%. Retainer wear time preferences ranged widely, with 60% preferring 12-18 hours. The initial post-retention check appointment was planned by the majority of orthodontists (47.6%) within the next three months. Recall appointments for retention checks were only planned by the majority of orthodontists (56.3%) once every three months. Regular involvement by patients at their retention check appointments was (38%). Conclusion: The most commonly used and preferred type of retainer is fixed retainer, and dentist preferences range around 12-18 hours of wear time. Furthermore, the duration of the retainer wear preferred by most orthodontists/dentists is 10 months to 2 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 32 sweet potato genotypes were evaluated to assess the genetic diversity based on quantitative traits and molecular markers, as well as stability for yield and related traits. Wider variability was observed for the traits like vine length (181.2–501.3 cm), number of leaves/plant (103.0–414.0 cm), internodal length (3.20–14.80 cm), petiole length (6.5–21.3 cm), leaf length (8.50–14.5 cm), leaf breadth (8.20–15.30 cm), leaf area (42.50–115.62 cm2), tuber length (7.77–18.07 cm), tuber diameter (2.67–6.90 cm), tuber weight (65.60–192.09 g), tuber yield (7.77–28.87 t ha−1), dry matter (27.34–36.41%), total sugar (4.50–5.70%) and starch (18.50–29.92%) content. Desirable traits such as tuber yield, dry matter and starch content have shown high heritability (>60%) with moderate to high genetic advance. Under molecular analysis, a total of 232 alleles were observed from all 32 microsatellite markers, which ranged from 4 to 14 with an average of 7.77 alleles per locus. In the population, the average observed heterozygosity (0.51) was higher than the expected heterozygosity (0.49). The contribution of genotype, genotype by environment interaction to the total variations was found to be significant. Based on the multi-trait stability index (tuber length, tuber diameter, tuber weight and tuber yield), genotypes X-24, MLSPC-3, MLSPC-5, ARSPC-1 and TSP-12-12 were found to be most stable. Among them, the high-yielding and stable genotypes TSP-12-10 (26.0 t ha−1) and MLSPC-3 (23.9 t ha−1) can be promoted for commercial production or used as parental material in future crop improvement programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Horizontal convective rolls (HCR) are sub-mesoscale motions that influence the transport of heat, momentum, and pollutants within the boundary layer. In this work, a high-resolution (0.666 km) Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model is employed to simulate the structure of the HCRs over Kalpakkam along the southeast coast of India. The sensitivity of HCR simulation to model land surface physics is studied with two land surface models (LSM), (i) Noah and (ii) Noah multi-parameterization (NMP), for three selected days (15 April 2013, 07 May 2015, 28 March 2018) during summer synoptic conditions. On all three selected days, the boundary layer rolls formed over a period of about 2–3 h in the morning under moderate winds (4–5.0 m/s), moderate vertical wind shear (2.4–3.5 m/s) in the lower atmosphere, and slightly unstable conditions [gradient Richardson number (RiG) −4.5 to −5.0] in both simulations and observations, indicating that thermal instability is the chief mechanism in their development. Simulated mean surface meteorological parameters by NMP were found to be in better agreement with observations than Noah. Results suggest that the LSMs mainly affected the simulated turbulent roll structure in terms of updraft cores and their horizontal and vertical extent by variation in simulated surface energy fluxes, boundary layer structure, wind shear, and stability. The structure of simulated HCRs is better represented by NMP due to the improvements in the flux distribution and surface properties. Simulations using the FLEXPART dispersion model for a hypothetical case of tracer release indicated an uneven spatial concentration pattern due to upward and downward motions in the region of HCRs. The stronger winds and stronger flow convergence in Noah and higher heat flux and more unstable conditions in NMP led to differences in the simulated tracer concentrations in the two cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was undertaken to estimate the G x E interaction and to identify stable genotypes for seed yield and its component traits in chickpea under timely and late sown conditions. Forty five chickpea genotypes were evaluated during Rabi season for two consecutive years (2017-18 and 2018-19). Each genotype was sown in Randomized Block Design with three replications at the research farm of Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, C.C.S. University, Meerut (U.P.), India. The pooled analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences among the genotypes for all the characters whereas environment and environment (linear) showed adequate variability among the environments. Genotype x Environment (GxE) and pooled deviation were found to be significant for all the studied characters except protein content and GxE (linear) revealed significant variation for all the studied characters except harvest index. Stability analysis revealed that the six genotypes viz. P-6225, BKG-21204, ICC-1608, BGG-21168, BG-547and PDG-84-10 has a high mean value (x), regression coefficient (bi) in unity and non-significant deviation from regression (S2d) were found more stable for seed yield across the environments over the years. Therefore, the above-mentioned genotypes can be incorporated as breeding stocks in any future breeding programs aiming to produce high yielding lines of chickpea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In India, Gossypium barbadense is cultivated in niche areas in the south and central regions of the country, especially for its quality fibre. Initially, 50 barbadense accessions were screened for their stability across 2 years from the germplasm maintained at ICAR, CICR, RS germplasm, and stable diverse genotypes were selected for further breeding. The results indicated that ICB 262, ICB 174 and ICB 73 were early maturing. ICB 264, CCB 26 and ICB 73 showed tolerance to sucking pests due to their higher trichome density (TD), gossypol glands and epicuticular wax (ECW). G × E interactions were analysed for the 2019–2020 and 2020–2021showed that traits like number of bolls, single plant yield and fibre strength could express better during 2019–2020, single boll weight and micronaire were dominant in season 2. Traits like ginning percentage and fibre length were stable across environments indicating that their expression is genetically controlled. PCA results indicated that about 91.45% of total variability was explained by PCA1, 2 and 3. Diversity analysis grouped the accessions into four major clusters with two sub-clusters in groups 2, 3 and 4, hence forming seven groups. The minimum distance was observed between ICB 176 and CCB 11 (0.56) and the maximum distance was observed between ICB 174 and ICB 1 (3.11). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chickpea is an important nutrient rich food legume cultivated mainly as rainfed crop in arid and semiarid regions of India. Due to changed climatic conditions incidence of frequent drought stress events are causing significant yield losses. Methods: In order to identify superior and locally adaptable genotypes under rainfed conditions multi-environment chickpea evaluation trial was conducted in five environments with 50 genotypes during Rabi, 2021-2022 stability analysis for grain yield was performed by deploying the AMMI (Additive Main Effects and Multiplicative Interaction) model and GGE (Genotype and Genotype by Environment) biplot method with an aim to identify the high yielding stable chickpea genotypes. Result: The AMMI analysis of variance for grain yield (kg ha-1) of 50 chickpea genotypes revealed significant genotype, environment and G x E interaction indicating the presence of variability among the genotypes and environments. The mean grain yield of 50 genotypes over environments ranged from 1296 kg/ha (G39) to 2222 kg/ha (G8). The genotype G24 exhibited high grain yield than mean yield with specific adaptability for the environment E2 (Palem). The results indicated that, environment E5 (Warangal) was identified as the best suited for potential expression of grain yield. Results of stability analysis revealed that genotype G17 exhibited high grain yield along with high stability across the locations with desirable mean performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cavity due to underground old mine workings is one of the major threats to the coal mines and the overlying subsurface and surface properties, which need to be protected. The detection of old mine workings and stability assessment of overlying strata are common problems in most of the Indian coalfields. Several coal mines in India are loss‐making, mainly due to different types of mine hazards. Khandra mine is one such mine at Raniganj Coalfield, Eastern Coalfields Ltd., a subsidiary of Coal India Limited. In the present study, 2‐dimensional and 3‐dimensional electrical resistivity tomography were carried out for detailed subsurface characterization. It supports delineating underground workings, including the nature of voids/cavities (air or water‐filled). Excessive distortions were reported in electrical resistivity tomography application, especially at the near‐surface, owing to large resistivity variations. Refinement of the model by half‐unit electrode spacing was attempted here to reduce the distortions with minimum possible absolute errors. 3‐Dimensional resistivity volumetric model was also developed with the help of five electrical resistivity tomography parallel profiles for better apprehension of the subsurface. Analysis provided important inputs for stability analysis using 3‐dimensional numerical modelling. The physico‐mechanical properties of the overlying strata, pre‐excavation in situ stresses, boundary conditions and the mine geometry simulation were incorporated for understanding the stability analysis. Stability analysis was carried out using the finite difference technique. The analysis of 3‐dimensional numerical modelling indicated that two distinct layers comprising (i) laterite/part of the course to medium‐grained sandstone and (ii) developed galleries of R‐IX seam exhibited a very low safety factor below 1.0, indicating potholing/subsidence susceptibility. The other three layers comprising parts of fine‐grained sandstone exhibited a relatively higher safety factor of around 2.0, indicating moderately stable zones, but not on a long‐term basis. Parts of Siduli stream embankments need suitable retaining walls to avoid water inundation for the stability of the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron and zinc malnutrition is a global humanitarian concern that mostly affects newborns, children, and women in low- and middle-income countries where plant-based diets are regularly consumed. This kind of malnutrition has the potential to result in a number of immediate and long-term implications, including stunted growth, an elevated risk of infectious diseases, and poor development, all of which may ultimately cause children to not develop to the fullest extent possible. A determination of the contributions from genotype, environment, and genotype by environment interactions is necessary for the production of nutrient-dense lentil varieties that offer greater availability of iron and zinc with a high level of trait stability. Understanding the genotype and environmental parameters that affect G x E (Genotype x Environment) interactions is essential for plant breeding. We used GGE(Genotype, Genotype x Environment interactions) and AMMI (Additive Main effects and Multiplicative Interaction) models to study genetic stability and GE(Genotype x Environment interactions) for grain Fe, Zn, Al, and anti-nutritional factors like phytic acid content in sixteen commercially produced lentil cultivars over several different six geographical locations across India. Significant genetic variability was evident in the Fe and Zn levels of different genotypes of lentils. The amounts of grain iron, zinc, and phytic acid varied from 114.10 to 49.90 mg/kg, 74.62 to 21.90 mg/kg, and 0.76 to 2.84 g/100g (dw) respectively. The environment and GE (Genotype x Environment interactions) had an impact on the concentration of grain Fe, Zn, and phytic acid (PA). Heritability estimations ranged from low to high (53.18% to 99.48%). The study indicated strong correlation between the contents of Fe and Zn, a strategy for simultaneously increasing Fe and Zn in lentils may be recommended. In addition, our research revealed that the stable and ideal lentil varieties L4076 (Pusa Shivalik) for Fe concentration and L4717 (Pusa Ageti) for Zn content, which have lower phytic acid contents, will not only play an essential role as stable donors in the lentil bio-fortification but will also enable the expansion of the growing area of bio-fortified crops for the security of health and nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper, we have provided a five-compartmental epidemic model in an interval environment to analyze the spread of COVID-19 infection in India. The proposed model divides the entire population of India into five classes. They are susceptible, exposed, asymptomatic, symptomatic, and recovered classes. Under some suppositions, the crisp model is constructed and converted to an imprecise model by the interval number. We introduced a parametric functional form of an interval number to study the imprecise epidemiological model. The main objective of this study is to develop an epidemiological model in an imprecise environment and to try to understand the dynamics of the epidemic model of COVID-19 infection spread in India. We also presented the COVID-19 model with two controls to effectively control COVID-19 disease in India. Finally, a numerical simulation is carried out considering that the model parameters are imprecise. The numerical results show that our proposed imprecise model is reliable from a practical point of view. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The broad mite, Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Banks), is a cosmopolitan pest that attacks a wide range of economically important crops like hot and sweet peppers, mulberry, jute, tea and several ornamentals. This study was undertaken to monitor the development of acaricide resistance, if any, in five representative field-collected populations of Karnataka, India. Bioassays were carried out against five acaricide chemistries, and resistance ratios were calculated by comparing the LC50 values of field populations with the susceptible laboratory population (Pa-Lab). The resistance ratios varied from 26.03 to 81.16-fold for diafenthiuron, 27.35 to 83.47-fold for dicofol, 9.72 to 45.42-fold for fenazaquin, 8.77 to 16.84-fold for propargite and 48.37 to 163.39-fold for spiromesifen. Resistance to the acaricides was unstable in P. latus as a decline in resistance (14.11-102.53-fold) was observed over generations in the absence of selection pressure. The results suggest that acaricides should be sprayed at economic threshold levels or on a rotation basis for one or more seasons for better management of P. latus by delaying the development of resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The second wave of COVID-19 is an unprecedented condition in India and began in mid February 2021. Individuals who were already suffering from other comorbidities were found with lung infection, and hence, the number of disease induced deaths were rising faster during the second wave in relation to the first wave. This paper has proposed a mathematical model with fractional order derivatives by correlating the model based number of infectives with the real number of infectives in India. For the system of fractional differential equations, a disease-free state has been computed and proved to be locally asymptotically stable with certain restrictions. The mathematical model has been numerically simulated using the predictor-corrector method to highlight the role played by fractional order in controlling the disease spread. Numerical simulations signify the fact that a vital role has been played by fractional order model over integer order model in determining the transmission of COVID-19. It can be visualized that the increment rate in the infectives is lower by taking into consideration the memory effect due to a previous exposure to COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eight varieties of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) were evaluated under field trial for their stability of yield, yield attributes and essential oil content under the organic production system in six consecutive years from 2016 to 2021. Mean square due to environment + (variety × environment) was significant for all the traits studied indicating the existence of variety × environment interaction. Based on the mean performance, regression coefficient and deviation from regression values, it was found that stability of yield and yield components are imparted in the varieties, GF-12 and AF-1 across the years through the stable performance of characters and like numbers of primary and secondary branches, number of umbels and umbellate and seed yield. However, variety RF-101 for essential oil content can be considered as most suitable, stable and adopted to organic production system compared to other varieties. Correlation analysis revealed highly positive relationship in plant height, number of primary branches, number of umbels and umbellate per plant and seed yield. Based on the findings, fennel growers are apprised to select stable high-yielding fennel varieties for the organic production systems in semi-arid regions of India. Along with their use in hybridization programmes to converge the stability characteristics of seed yield for the development of a stable variety adapted to a wider range of environments under organic production systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we have proposed an SVEIQR compartmental model modifying the classical SEIR model with inclusion of vaccinated and quarantined classes to explain the COVID-19 outbreak mathematically. We have calibrated our model with the daily COVID-19 data reported by the WHO coronavirus dashboard. To observe the disease dynamics of COVID-19, a detailed stability analysis of the proposed SVEIQR model is carried out. Our results show that the disease free equilibrium (DFE) is stable if the basic reproduction number is less than unity and unstable otherwise. Moreover, endemic equilibrium (EE) is found to be stable when certain restrictions hold. The expression for effective reproduction number has been derived analytically and its value is calculated based on the reported cases. Sensitivity analysis of effective reproduction number is performed employing PRCCs and Latin hypercube scheme. We have compared short-term and long-term transmission dynamics of COVID-19 for India with different levels of vaccination and without control strategies. The impact of different degrees of control interventions is ascertained with the numerical simulation of the model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kaempferia galanga is an endangered plant whose recognition as a flavoring agent and perfumery ingredient has increased its demand greatly. Therefore, the present investigation aimed at the identification of high-rhizome-yielding varieties of K. galanga. A total of forty-nine germplasms were collected from different parts of India and planted at CSIR-NEIST, Jorhat experimental farm, during 2013. The two-year evaluation of essential morphological and chemical data was recorded for the selection of superior rhizomes with a high rhizome yield during 2014 and 2015. Subsequently, multi-location field trials were conducted with the selected elite germplasm along with controls using a randomized complete block design, and relevant morphological traits as well as essential oil quality data were recorded for all the lines for three consecutive years during 2016, 2017 and 2018. The essential oil quality was analyzed by using GC/MS. The data obtained were statistically analyzed for stability based on rhizome yield, essential oil yield and days to maturity. A high-rhizome-yielding variety of K. galanga was identified and named Bharamputra-1.Itwas found to be stable in multi-locational trials conducted in Northeast India. The variety showed a mean rhizome yield of 10.01 tones/ha. Stability parameters, namely, βi = 1.13 and σ2di = −0.07 were recorded and found to be superior to those of the other examined varieties. The chemical profiling of the rhizome essential oil of the selected germplasm was also performed using GC/MS, which revealed ethyl p-methoxycinnamate (37.25%), trans-ethyl cinnamate (28.35%), endo-borneol (8.91%), eucalyptol (6.83%), (-)-camphor (3.98%) and 3-carene (3.77%) as the main components. The cultivation of this identified variety could help in the successful commercial cultivation of the crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fractional derivative is an advanced category of mathematics for real-life problems. This work focus on the investigation of 2nd wave of the Corona virus in India. We develop a time-fractional order COVID-19 model with effects of the disease which consist of a system of fractional differential equations. The fractional-order COVID-19 model is investigated with Atangana-Baleanu-Caputo fractional derivative. Also, the deterministic mathematical model for the Omicron effect is investigated with different fractional parameters. The fractional-order system is analyzed qualitatively as well as verified sensitivity analysis. Fixed point theory is used to prove the existence and uniqueness of the fractional-order model. Analyzed the model locally as well as globally using Lyapunov first and second derivative. Boundedness and positive unique solutions are verified for the fractional-order model of infection of disease. The concept of fixed point theory is used to interrogate the problem and confine the solution. Solutions are derived to investigate the influence of fractional operator which shows the impact of the disease on society. Simulation has been made to understand the behavior of the virus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adequate and consistent monsoonal rainfall is essential for the economic and societal well-being of India. Although many past studies analysed trends in Indian summer monsoon rainfall (ISMR) to capture any changes, the nature and consistency (stability) of those trends remained unexplored. Therefore, this study investigates the monotonic, non-monotonic, and trendless nature as well as the stability of ISMR trends from 1897 to 2016 using both graphical and statistical approaches for different meteorological sub-divisions of India. Also, the trend stability is examined considering high, medium, and low clusters of ISMR. Results show a predominance of monotonic trends in the long-term series, and maximum eastern sub-divisions exhibit a decreasing trend and vice versa. However, further analysis revealed instabilities in the ISMR trend and its respective clusters. The possible mechanisms behind ISMR instabilities and the spatio-temporal changes are discussed, along with certain methodological challenges, which might aid in formulating climate action plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding of genotypic interactions is highly instrumental in urdbean towards identification of suitable genotypes with wider adaptability. Therefore, present experiment with 20 diverse urdbean genotypes was executed over three environments in northern hilly terrain under rainfed conditions. AMMI analysis revealed that environments (E), genotypes (G) and G  E interaction effects were found significant for grain yield (GY). The environment, genotypes and their interactions accounted 46.29%, 25.9% and 22.23% of the total variation. The interaction principal components Axis 1(IPCA 1) and IPCA 2 of AMMI were founds significant (P<0.01) for GY based on Gallob’s test. The IPCA1 accounted more than 89% of the G  E interactions effects for the GY. In GGE biplot PC1 and PC2 captured 99.3% of the total variations. Based on GGE and AMMI biplots the genotypes with wider adaptability were VBG 12-034(G7), IPU 13-3(G16) and COBG 13-04(G13). These genotypes are suitable for hilly terrains of northern India and can be further utilized as donor in future urdbean improvement programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At this moment in time, an outbreak of COVID-19 is transmitting from human to human. Different parts have different quality of life (e.g., India compared to Russia), which implies the impact varies in each part of the world. Although clinical vaccines are available to cure, the question is how to minimize the spread without considering the vaccine. In this paper, via a mathematical model, the transmission dynamics of novel coronavirus with quarantine and isolation facilities have been proposed. The examination of the proposed model is set in motion with the boundedness and positivity of the solution, sole disease-free equilibrium, and local stability. Then, the condition for the existence of sole endemic equilibrium and its local stability has established. In addition, the global stability of the endemic equilibrium for a special case has been investigated. Further, it has shown that the system undergoes a transcritical bifurcation. A threshold analysis has also performed to examine the effect of quarantine on transmission dynamics. Lastly, numerical simulations are giving support to theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Yield is polygenically inherited and highly influenced by G x E interaction higher magnitude of G x E interaction among genotypes invalidates the fitness of genotypes across the environments. Hence, quantification G x E interaction and identification of stable genotypes across environments will enhance production and productivity of pigeonpea. Methods: The stable performance of the thirty three advanced medium duration lines of pigeonpea along with six check varieties across the seasons were examined during kharif-2017, 2018 and 2019 at Zonal Agricultural Research Station, (ZARS) Kalaburagi, Karnataka, India. The advanced medium duration genotypes was contributed by six research stations belongs six states in India. Result: Considering all stability parameters the genotype ICPL 20108 found stable, high yielding and had desirable agronomic traits. The genotype GRG 177 though ranked first for mean yield, it exhibited nonlinear regression indicating highly sensitiveness to different environments. The genotype GRG 152 had second highest mean yield with bi<1 (bi= regression) and non significant deviation from regression co-efficient indicating its specific suitability to unfavorable/poor/low input environments. The genotypes BDN-2014-1, ICPL 20098 and AGL-1603-4 had average yield above population mean and exhibited stable performance across environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Winged bean [Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L.) DC] is a protein rich, underexploited leguminous vegetable of the tropics. It grows abundantly in hot and humid environments. The present investigation applied AMMI and GGE biplot techniques to study the patterns of GEI in 05 winged bean genotypes, to find high yielding and most stable genotype(s) suited to Chhattisgarh state of India. Methods: An experiment was carried out to ascertain the gene × environment interaction (GEI), yield stability and adaptability of 05 winged bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus L.) genotypes in Chhattisgarh India by using AMMI and GGE biplot models. Result: First and second component of AMMI model explained more than 84.10% of GEI variation. Genotype 'AKWB-1' exhibited maximum trait value with specific adaptation while genotypes 'RMDWB-1' and 'Ambika 11-3' showed general adoptability. GGE biplot model explained that genotypes 'RMDWB-1' and 'AKWB-1' were the best performers in all the environments excluding E4, while 'Ambika 11-3' was the best performer at location E4 regarding the graphical analysis models of AMMI and GGE biplot. Winged bean genotype 'AKWB-1' was the most stable genotype in all the test environment in terms of mean yield and it would be recommended for commercial cultivation in Chhattisgarh state. Other high yielding and stable genotypes i.e., RMDWB-1 and Ambika 11-3 can also be used as parents in winged bean improvement programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was carried out under three seasons with 15 genotypes at Agricultural Research Station, Kunaram, Telangana state, India during rabi season (December to April) 2014-15 (E1), kharif season (July to November) 2015 (E2) and rabi season (December to April) 2015-16 (E3). The objective of the study was to assess the stability and adaptability of 15 rice genotypes of the various maturity groups over three seasons. The GGE biplot tool of these 15 rice genotypes of various maturity durations expressed a significant genotype, environment and G×E interaction for yield and days to 50% flowering. Genotype and environment interaction effect was responsible for the greatest part of the variation, followed by genotypes and environment effects for grain yield. Days to 50% flowering of genotypes was highly affected by environments followed by genotypes, and genotype and environment interaction. It also detected that rabi season 2014-15 (E1) was identified as the best suited season for the potential expression of the grain yield, while kharif season 2015 (E2) was the right season for the expression of reduced days to 50% flowering. Further, the what-won-where model indicated that short duration rice genotype G14 (KNM 1690) and medium duration genotype G9 (KNM 1632) in the environments rabi season 2014-15 (E1) and kharif season 2015 (E2), respectively and the early line G11 (KNM 1684) in the environment rabi season 2015-16 (E3) were the winning genotypes and suitable for their respective environments for grain yield. G7 (KNM 1616) was the vertex early genotype and closer to the ideal genotype expressed high yield and stability for all the environments. G13 (KNM 1689) and G14 (KNM 1690) were found to be stable for earliness across all the seasons and could be utilized for the development of early duration varieties. The rice genotype, G15 (BPT 5204) was found to be stable for lateness for all the seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zingiber zerumbet of the Zingiberaceae family is known as wild edible ginger having various medicinal properties. The present study was aimed at identification of high essential oil yielding genotypes tested through stability parameters at multilocation trials. During the year 2017, a total of 47 genotypes of Z. zerumbet was collected and planted at experimental farm of CSIR-NEIST, Jorhat, Assam India. A selection trial was conducted for two years viz., 2017 and 2018 for all the collected germplasm which led to the identification of a genotype with high fresh rhizome and essential oil yielding traits. The identified genotype "RRLJ ZB-103" was rich in fresh rhizome yield of 24.86 t/ha and essential oil of 0.75 % (FWB). The selected genotype was subjected to stability analysis along with two check varieties at five multilocation trials for two years. The assessment of stable performance was evaluated using Eberhart and Russell model. Variable environments were found to be present in the study as revealed by the significant variance due to environment and environment (linear). The genotype × environment interaction of the selected genotype also showed significant variance for all the traits revealing the good interaction of the genotype with all the environmental conditions. On comparative assessment, the selected genotype "RRLJ ZB-103" later named "Jor Lab ZB- 103" was found to be highly stable with high adaptability to varying environments for all the traits under study. While both the check varieties revealed low adaptability to varying environments for the higher-yielding traits. The GC/MS analysis of the essential oil of "Jor Lab ZB-103" revealed zerumbone (32.79 %) as the major compound followed by camphene (19.41 %) and eucalyptol (6.80 %). The other compounds were present as minor and trace compounds. The identified high yielding genotype "Jor Lab ZB-103" was found to be a highly stable genotype that could be made available in the public domain for commercial cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The incidence of hypervirulent (hv) carbapenem-resistant (CR) Klebsiella pneumoniae (Kp) is increasing globally among various clones and is also responsible for nosocomial infections. The CR-hvKp is formed by the uptake of a virulence plasmid by endemic high-risk clones or by the uptake of plasmids carrying antimicrobial resistance genes by the virulent clones. Here, we describe CR-hvKp from India belonging to high-risk clones that have acquired a virulence plasmid and are phenotypically unidentified due to lack of hypermucoviscosity. Methods: Twenty-seven CRKp isolates were identified to possess rmpA2 by whole-genome sequencing; and resistance and virulence determinants were characterized. By in silico protein modeling (and validation), protein backbone stability analysis, and coarse dynamics study, the fitness of RmpA, RmpA2, and aerobactin-associated proteins-IucA and IutA, were determined to establish a reliable marker for clinical identification of CR-hvKp. Results: The CR-hvKp belonged to multidrug-resistant (MDR) high-risk clones such as CG11, CG43, ST15, and ST231 and carried OXA-232 as the predominant carbapenemase followed by NDM. The virulence plasmid belonged to IncHI1B replicon type and carried frameshifted and truncated rmpA and rmpA2. This resulted in a lack of hypermucoviscous phenotype. However, functional aerobactin was expressed in all high-risk clones. In silico analysis portrayed that IucA and IutA were more stable than classical RmpA. Furthermore, IucA and IutA had lower conformational fluctuations in the functional domains than the non-functional RmpA2, which increases the fitness cost of the latter for its maintenance and expression among CR-hvKp. Hence, RmpA and RmpA2 are likely to be lost among CR-hvKp owing to the increased fitness cost while coding for essential antimicrobial resistance and virulence factors. Conclusion: Increasing incidence of convergence of AMR and virulence is observed among K. pneumoniae globally, which warrants the need for reliable markers for identifying CR-hvKp. The presence of non-functional RmpA2 among high-risk clones highlights the significance of molecular identification of CR-hvKp. The negative string test due to non-functional RmpA2 among CR-hvKp isolates challenges phenotypic screening and faster identification of this pathotype. This can potentially be counteracted by projecting aerobactin as a stable, constitutively expressed, and functional marker for rapidly evolving CR-hvKp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article critically analyzes the role of confidence-building measures (CBMs) in the evolution of relations between Pakistan and India. Relations between these two nuclear-armed states remain in turmoil even after 73 years of independence. The study begins with an overview of the relations/conflicts and a brief history of diplomatic engagements between the two countries since independence from British rule in 1947. We explain the theoretical framework of CBMs by analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of the CBMs approach. Subsequently, we analyze several significant confidence-building initiatives between the two countries in various domains of bilateral relations and identify the spoilers affecting relations between the two countries. Research suggests that Pakistan and India require a comprehensive and integrated approach for CBMs in political, military, economic, environmental, and social domains to foster an environment of mutual trust and peaceful coexistence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In agricultural experimentation, a large number of genotypes are normally evaluated over a wide range of environments for delineating stable genotypes. In this study, fifteen dwarf field pea genotypes were evaluated at six diverse locations under three Agro-climatic zones viz., Central zone, North West peninsular zone and North east peninsular zone for the purpose of identifying stable genotypes through deploying the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) model. The uniqueness of AMMI biplot is to provide comprehensive solution regarding multi-environment evaluation of genotype. In addition to identification of stable genotypes, this approach facilitates effective selection of test environment and allows optimum resource allocation in future testing programme. In the present study from the AMMI biplot and the ASV AMMI stability value (ASV), it was detected that genotypes 6 (Pant-P-345), 12 (KPF-14-50) and 4 (KPMR-940) were the stable genotypes amid the tested genotypes. These identified genotypes with wide adaptation would be valuable treasure troves for the breeder for utilizing as a parent in field pea breeding programme of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design and tuning of controllers for the industrial process is an art, which plays a vital role in many of the process control industries. The industries such as sugar, chemical, paper and other process control-based industries hold the nature of non-linearity due to their uneven distribution of load influence with disturbances. This paper highlights the study and investigation of different controlling parameters associated with the sugar industry which is located in the southern region of Tamil Nadu, India. After the analysis of various processes, the impact of controlling strategy needs to be implemented in an advanced way to minimize the resource utilization with high productivity. The behaviour of various process parameters, such as flow, temperature, level, pressure, is studied and one of these has been discussed in detail along with the controller design. The controller, such as proportional, integral, derivative, has been modified with advanced control phenomena and applied to process model with the presence of delay time provides the excellent tracking of operating point to bring the stability of a certain process in a tremendous manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A SIR model is formulated for COVID-19 with initial and secondary states. Existence and uniqueness of solutions, stability of the model and basic reproduction number were derived. In this article, the vulnerability of COVID-19 in Tirupathur district, Tamilnadu, India is discussed to exhibit the flow of variables of the model using numerical simulations. Also, analysis of recovered is explored for Siddha and allopathy treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A non-linear SEIR mathematical model for coronavirus disease in India has been proposed, by incorporating the saturated incidence rate on the occurrence of new infections. In the model, the threshold quantity known as the reproduction number is evaluated which determines the stability of disease-free equilibrium and the endemic equilibrium points. The disease-free equilibrium point becomes globally asymptotically stable when the corresponding reproduction number is less than unity, whereas, if it is greater than unity then the endemic equilibrium point comes into existence, which is locally asymptotically stable under certain restrictions on the parameters value in the model. The impact of various parameters on the threshold quantity is signified by the sensitivity analysis. Numerical results imply that by implementing and strictly following the prevention measures a rapid reduction in the reproduction number for COVID-19 can be observed, through which the coronavirus disease can be controlled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper brings out the interconnection of flash rate density (FRD) with convection and stability parameters over Andhra Pradesh (AP), India. The convection parameters include rainfall, relative humidity, specific humidity, surface air temperature (SAT) and air temperature (at 850 mb). The stability parameters include convective available potential energy (CAPE), lifted index, K-index, total totals index (TTI), humidity index and total precipitable water. Both convective and stability parameters indicate good correlation with lightning activity. SAT and AT 850 mb have shown good correlations with lightning, which is a clear indication of interaction between warm air and dry air. CAPE and TTI have shown strong positive correlation with lightning activity. The correlation coefficient between FRD and CAPE is 0.81. We have also studied the influence of convective and stability parameters during lightning and no lightning activity. Later, we also attempted the estimation of lightning activity by using artificial neural network model. By using convection and stability parameters, six learning algorithms were used for training the artificial neural network. Scaled conjugate gradient backpropagation training algorithm has given the better estimation, whereas resilient backpropagation training algorithm has shown the poor estimation of FRD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the effects of the 9-min pan-India voluntary lights-off policy that was planned and executed by the Government of India in April 2020 on the National Grid and the steps that were taken to maintain grid stability during the event. The policy was a symbolic gesture of public solidarity with frontline healthcare and emergency workers in the nation's war against the COVID-19 pandemic. The event entailed nationwide switching-off of electric lights and lighting of earthen lamps or switching-on of torch lights. This 9-min event posed a significant challenge to the country's power systems engineers in managing grid stability during the large-scale load reduction, and meticulous planning and implementation of protective measures were carried out. In this article, the strategy implemented by the Indian power sector to manage the grid during the nine-minute event is described. The variations of grid parameters such as frequency, voltage, and load at all dispatch centers before, during, and after the nine-minutes are analyzed, and the generation schedule that was followed is also presented, along with real-time results. This case study provides an overview of power systems management that involves strategic scheduling of generators throughout the country to tackle sudden and mass-reductions of load on the power system. • Covid-19 and its impact on the world • History of blackouts and brownouts brownouts in a power system. • Overview of the India power system and national power grid development. • Pan India lights off policy on 5th April 2020 • Power system operation and control during an emergency [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is devoted to theoretical and methodological problems of bank unrecovered loan in Ukraine and India. The purpose of this article is to identify the key sensitive indicators of unrecovered loan in Ukraine and Indian banking system. The article solves the following research tasks: a descriptive statistical analysis of bank unrecovered loan to the total loans, bank cash reserves to the ratio of bank assets, inflation, consumer prices, interest rates on loans, GDP; data on bank bad loans to the total amount of total loans, bank cash reserves, the ratio of bank assets, inflation, consumer prices, interest rates on loans, GDP are standardized; a regression model of the dependence of non-performing bank loans on the total loan on the factors of the ratio of bank cash reserves to bank assets, inflation, consumer prices, interest rates on loans and GDP was built; analysis of the remains of the regression model. According to the results of the study, the main factors that affect bank unrecovered loan for the total amount of loans are: for Ukraine - the ratio of cash reserves to bank assets and GDP; for India - consumer price inflation and GDP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to design and analyze a nonlinear mechanistic model for chikungunya (CHIKV) and dengue (DENV) co-endemicity. The model can assess the epidemiological consequences of the spread of each disease on the co-infection transmission dynamics. Although the two diseases are different, they exhibit similar dynamical features which show that to combat/control CHIKV virus (or co-infection with DENV virus) we can employ DENV control strategies and vice versa. Our analytical results show that each sub-model and the full model have two disease-free equilibria (i.e., trivial disease-free equilibrium (TDFE) and non-trivial disease-free equilibrium (NTDFE)). Further, qualitative analyses reveal that each of the sub-models exhibits the phenomenon of backward bifurcation (where a stable NTDFE co-exits with a stable endemic equilibrium (EE)). Epidemiologically, this implies that, in each case (CHIKV or DENV), the basic requirement of making the associated reproduction number to be less-than unity is no longer sufficient for the disease eradication. We further highlight that the full model, consisting of twenty-six (26) mutually exclusive compartments representing the human and mosquito dynamics, also exhibits the phenomenon of backward bifurcation. We fit the full model and its sub-models using realistic data from India. Sensitivity analysis using the partial rank correlation coefficient (PRCC) is used for ranking the importance of each parameter-output. The results suggested that the mosquito removal rates, the transmission rates, and the mosquito maturation rate are the top control parameters for combating CHIKV, DENV and CHIKV-DENV co-infection outbreaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India is frequently exposed to convective systems (CS) during the hot period of pre-monsoon season. Huge thunderstorms are more often over India in the recent years. To analyze these systems, the stability parameters considered as good precursors for understanding the physics of the convective systems in prior to their occurrence. The present study is concerned about the analysis of stability parameters such as K Index (KI), Lifted Index (LI), Total Totals Index (TTI), Humidity Index (HI), Convective available potential energy (CAPE), Convective Inhibition (CIN), Lifting Condensation Level (LCL) and Level of free Convection (LFC) associated with severe convective systems over India and Srilanka during April, 2015. First, INSAT-3D satellite based brightness temperature (BT) product was used for analyzing the initial, mature and dissipation stages of the convective system at every 30 min interval. The data products from MODIS Terra satellite, MODIS Aqua satellite, Era-Interim ECMWF reanalysis satellite data and IASI satellite were used for understanding the thermodynamics related to the occurrence of these convective systems. The results of stability parameters that were derived from MODIS Terra and Aqua satellite's data products indicated the favorable threshold values for the occurrence of convective systems. Results from Era-Interim ECMWF reanalysis satellite data also helps us to understand the dynamics involved behind the convective system. The results from IASI satellite also helped us to understand the severity of convective systems during cloudy situations. The results of this study impulse the need of satellites for analyzing the convective systems prior to their occurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important cereal crops of India in terms of production and consumption. Maize is called as Queen of cereal crops. Currently, it is produced in all the agro-ecological zones of the country. In India, Genotype by Environment interactions (GxE) effects on maize grain yield is usually significant due to the diverse environmental conditions at growing sites. A proper understanding of the effects of GxE on variety evaluation and cultivar recommendations is vital. The study was conducted in 2019 at four locations in India to (i) determine the presence of G x E of 106single cross maize genotypes and (ii) To use the GGE biplot methodology to determine grain yield performance and stability of the genotypes evaluated across four environments. The effects of genotype and environment were significant (P < 0.01) for grain yield. Also, GxE was significant for the same trait. G44, G105, G86, G97, G65 and G76 were identified as high yielding and most stable hybrids. Therefore, these hybrids have the potential for production across the test locations. On the contrary, G26, G10, G81, G102, G96 and G22 were not only low yielding but also among the least stable genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to increase in the growth of industrial sectors the power requirement of the country is rapidly increasing. India depends on Thermal Power as its main source, thus there is increase in power requirement every year. Present scenario of our country shows 75 % of country's total installed power generation is thermal of which coal-based generation is 90%. The coal reserves of the country are predominately of lower grades (average of 35% ash content), non-cooking and as a result more than 110 million MT coal ash is being generated every year. Ash generation may likely reach to 170 million MT by 2012. Use of coal brings huge amount of ash every year. Research related to new and innovative use of waste materials is being undertaken worldwide. Properties of materials include strength, hardness, density, resistance to corrosion, etc. Materials in industrial wastage has properties like unit weight, specific gravity, shrinkage, absorption, resistance to freezing, etc. The industrial waste material is a bye-product of construction industries and other industries and their wastes are fly ash, pond ash, marble dust, store dust, slag and many more. In this research study modifications in normal concrete materials such as cement aggregate and sand were carried out. Properties of concrete were replaced by fly ash and pond ash. The construction waste material which gives better performance in special concrete was identified. Fly ash and pond ash materials were selected which simultaneously replaces the cement and sand of the special concrete and better results were obtained related to the properties of concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present investigation with 24 lentil genotypes, first two Principal components revealed more than 90 per cent of the variability for the yield which indicates that G and GE together accounted for more than 10 per cent of total variability. Based on the present analysis of using GGE biplot models, considering simultaneous mean yield and stability, the genotypes G4, G12, G6, G13 and G2 were relatively stable in all the environments. The environment E1(Berthin) was discriminative (informative). This environment contributed most to the variability in grain yield. Hence, GGE biplot method is suitable to discriminate the genotypes based on their stable and instability nature across the environments.The AMMI analysis revealed that G13, G14, G12, G2, G23, G16 and G9 had wide adaptation and not be affected by the Genotype x environment interaction (GxE); hence mayyieldedgood across the environments. E2 and E3 could be considered as good selection sites for identifying broad based and most adaptable lentil genotypes. This study has clearly and by far aided in identification of stable and superior genotypes in graphical representation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fifty wheat genotypes were evaluated at nine diverse locations in India to identify high-yielding and stable genotypes. The analysis of variance based on additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) indicated significant genotype, environment and genotype - environment (GE) interactions, with a total variation of 5.99, 20.23 and 73.77%, respectively. A biplot-AMMI analysis and yield stability index incorporating the AMMI stability value and yield in a single non-parametric index were used to discriminate the genotypes with highest and stable yield; the genotypes G135, G125, G104, G112 and G144 were found to be promising. Two mega environments (ME) were identified based on GGE (genotype and GE interaction) biplot analysis and the genotypes G119 and G120 and G107, G148 and G146 performed best in the mega-environments ME I and ME II, respectively. Both approaches allowed the identification of stable genotypes (G112 and G135), which can be included in the national testing program, with a view to release a new variety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In spite of green revolution and rapid economic growth, India's vast population still suffers from hunger and poverty, especially in the rural areas. Moreover, drought adversely affects India's economy by declining agricultural production and purchasing power. It also escalates rural unemployment which ultimately affects household food security. Our study investigated the food security of drought prone rural households in a broader context by linking the dimensions of food security with dimensions of climate change vulnerability. We used the primary data of 157 drought prone rural households of Odisha state in India for analysis. This study employed polychoric principal component analysis to construct an aggregate food security index. An ordered probit model was used to estimate the determinants of food security. The FSI showed that three-fourth of the respondents were facing food security issues with varying degrees. The estimates of ordered probit model indicated that joint family, education, migration and health insurance are key variables that determine food security, whereas drought adversely affected food security of rural households. Overarching strategies are required to effectively address food security issues in the wake of increased drought risk. This study provides an insight for policy makers in India and in similar south Asian countries who must consider food security in the light of drought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Environments had significant influence on seed yield of jute varieties. • Mean seed yield of 7.40 q ha−1 was recorded over a period of five years. • High performance-years were suitable for S-19, JRO- 8432, JRO-524 and JRC-517. • The varieties JBO-2003H, JRC-698, JRO-204, JRO-8432 and S-19 were highly stable. • The varieties S-19 and JRO-8432 were the most responsive genotypes. Abstract Seed is a critical input for jute crop as it is not feasible to get both the seed and fibre from the same crop. Seed scarcity is a major problem for jute growers as bast fibres are the economic product. Organized jute seed production is lacking in the lower Gangetic plains zone of India, although being a major fibre growing region. Therefore, seed production potential of jute was tested under this agro-climatic zone. Ten jute varieties representing two cultivated species viz., C. capsularis and C. olitorius were evaluated for five years. This paper compares the traditional models i.e., Linear regression model with the latest GGE Biplot methodology, displaying both Genotype (G) and Genotype × Environment (GE), which are the two sources of variation that are relevant to varietal evaluation. Pooled analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed significant environmental effect. General mean seed yield of 7.40 qha−1 was recorded. Two environments and five varieties recorded positive index. Four varieties S–19, JRO–8432, JRO–524 and JRC–517 were grouped as adapted to high performance environments. Five varieties namely JBO–2003H, JRC–698, JRO–204, JRO–8432 and S–19 were grouped as highly-stable. The variety JRO–524 was grouped as least-stable for seed yield. The varieties S- 19 and JRO- 8432 were suitable over all environments and hence, can be recommended for - for seed production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn. subsp. coracana) is an important food-grain in semi-arid, hilly tribal areas of India and Africa for subsistence farming. GGE biplot techniques were applied for the assessment of stability and patterns of Genotype by Environment Interaction (GEI) in elite finger millet genotypes grown in four different locations. The combined ANOVA for grain yield of thirteen finger millet cultivars at four environments showed that Environments (E), Genotypes (G) and GEI were highly significant. The partitioning of GEI sum of squares showed that first and second IPCA axis accounted for 64.1% and 28.1% of the interaction sum of squares for GGE analysis. The biplot analysis grouped the four environments into two mega environments with VL 368 and VR 988 as winning genotypes. The genotype VL 368 was found to be an ideal genotype in terms of high yield and stability followed by KOPN 942, PPR 2773, TNAU 1214, VR 988 and VL 369 as desirable genotype. Among environments, E1 and E3 were the most interactive environments while, E2 and E4 showed little variation in genotypes relative ranking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Thirty genotypes of Asiatic radish evaluated for 4 traits in 6 environments (sowing date). • Six sowing dates were E1 (15 March), E2 (15 April), E3 (15 May), E4 (15 June), E5 (15 July) and E6 (15 August). • G × E interaction was significant and residual variance was non-significant for all traits. • IPCA 1 and IPCA 2 jointly contributed 79.9 to 96.4% of variance for all traits. • Genotypes for rich and poor environments and stable across environments were identified. Thirty genotypes of Asiatic radish including nine released varieties were evaluated for four traits in six environments (sowing dates) during summer 2021 at Punjab Agricultural University, Regional Research Station, Bathinda, India. All the six sowing dates fall in summer to expose plants to varied degree of high temperature stress and included E1 (15 March), E2 (15 April), E3 (15 May), E4 (15 June), E5 (15 July) and E6 (15 August). The data were subjected to statistical analysis using Additive Main effects and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) and Multi-trait stability index (MTSI) models. The genotype (G) and environment (E) variances were significant for all traits. The contribution of environment to total variance was the highest for root weight (60.2%), plant weight (59.6%) and shoot weight (43.6%) whereas for shoot weight the contribution of genotype was the highest (45.0%). The G × E interaction (GEI) was significant for all traits and it was partitioned into two interaction principal components (IPCA 1 and IPCA 2). Both IPCA 1 and IPCA 2 were significant for three traits and their cumulative contribution to GEI variance was 79.9% for shoot weight, 83.4% for plant weight and 96.4% for marketable yield. However, for root weight only IPCA 1 was significant and explained 66.0% of the interaction variance. The residual variance was non-significant for all traits. The values of environmental means for various traits resulted in the identification of E1 and E6 as rich and others as poor environments. Three genotypes viz., G3 (Palak Mooli), G9 (RL-19–1) and G11 (RL-2210) were identified for poor environments based on marketable yield. One genotype viz., G9 was suitable for rich environment based on plant weight, root weight and shoot weight. Four genotypes viz., G5 (RL-9–1), G9, G17 (LSR-1–1-HP) and G3 were selected as stable due to their lower MTSI values. Six elite genotypes viz., G11, G3, G9, G2 (PMMS-1), G5 and G17 yielded 73.0 to 134.0% higher than standard check i.e. 'Pusa Chetki' (93.8 q/ha) and are recommended for further evaluation at multi-locations before being considered for commercial release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a major food grain in India next to rice. Therefore, improving yield and yield stability is the primary objective of wheat breeding programmes in this country. The eleven wheat genotypes were evaluated under eight locations representing typical rainfed conditions of the North Hill Zone. The study based on AMMI and GGE biplot analysis methods to highlight the G×E interaction in multi-location trials and stratification of genotypes as per their adaptability for rainfed conditions of the northern hill zone. Combined ANOVA analysis showed highly significant differences (p<0.001) of 11 genotypes under rainfed conditions of North Hill Zone. Highly significant environments, genotypes and G×E interaction explained 81.4%, 2.3% and 15.7% of the total sum of squares, respectively (Table 2). The significant GE interaction sum of squares is further portioned into seven significant Interaction Principal Components Axes (IPCAs) and a residual term. The first four interaction principal component analysis (IPCA1, IPCA2, IPCA3 and IPCA4) explained 33.6%, 28.1%, 19.5% and 10.0% of the G×E interaction variation, respectively. Accordingly AMMI analysis for stability, genotypes G15, G3, G8, and G1 were shown to have a higher stability for yield than other genotypes. The GGE biplot analysis shown that the genotypes G10, G5, G7 and G1 were corner genotypes and suited to particular environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mathematical analysis has been carried out for the flow of agricultural population to non-agricultural sector. A time-dependent model involving first-order autonomous differential equations has been derived to evaluate the rate of change of population in both agricultural and non-agricultural sectors at any time. After confirming the existence and uniqueness of solution of the obtained system, model has been used to determine equilibrium points of the populations under consideration. Stability of these equilibrium points has also been discussed analytically. To check the validity of the model obtained, the model has been applied on the population of India. Per cent variations in all population groups have been shown graphically to show the annual growth in the respective groups. The ratio of agricultural population to non-agricultural population has also been plotted graphically to show the direction of migration of population from one sector to other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The trial comprising of 32 sunflower germplasm accessions including three checks were evaluated at three semi-arid dryland locations of Telangana and Maharashtra states. In Telangana the location was Indian Institute of Oilseeds Research (IIOR), Hyderabad, and two locations at Maharashtra i.e. Zonal Agriculture Research Station (ZARS), Solapur and Agricultural Research Station (ARS), Savalvihir, MPKV, Rahuri. The objective of the study is to study the genetic variation among the germplasm and to identify the better performing accessions across the locations. The environment at IIOR, Hyderabad can be considered to be the most stable environment for seed yield and ZARS Solapur can be considered to be the most stable environment for maturity days because closer to the center of the site regression biplot. Based on site regression (SREG) model analysis and per se performance genotype GP2-1217 for seed yield and maturity is an ideal genotype across environments. The magnitude of phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) values for all the traits were higher than the corresponding genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) values indicating that all seven traits are under the influence of environmental effect. High heritability associated with high genetic advance as percent of mean were recorded for plant height, indicating less environmental influence on plant height and role of additive gene action. Two major clusters were identified based on heat map diversity approach. The high yielding and medium duration check genotypes DRSF-113 grouped under Ist cluster whereas check Morden which is dwarf and early duration genotype grouped under IInd cluster. The yield traits like 50% flowering and maturity days falls under one group and showed more or less similar type of pattern in the expression of traits. Based on diversity analysis genotypes identified into two major clusters that can be utilised for the development of high yielding and medium duration diverse gene pool in sunflower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Storage of serum and other blood products is often necessary in laboratories because of technical issues or to preserve samples for subsequent research purposes. The aim of this study was to determine whether the stability of biochemical analytes is affected by storage conditions. Materials and Methods: A total of 17 biochemical analytes in the sera of ten patients were examined following storage. Subsequent to determining the baseline measurements, the serum of each patient was aliquoted and stored at -20°C for 7, 15, and 30 days and then analyzed for stability. The results were compared with the initial analysis measurements obtained from fresh samples. Mean changes compared to baseline (T0) concentrations were evaluated both statistically and clinically. Results: Our results show that sodium, potassium, urea, creatinine, uric acid, total calcium, phosphorus, direct bilirubin, total bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total protein, albumin, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels were stable under all conditions. Serum amylase was the only analyte demonstrating instability following prolonged storage; amylase levels changed significantly (both statistically and clinically) at 7, 15, and 30 days (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Most common biochemical analytes, except for amylase, showed adequate stability in serum following 30 days of storage at -20°C. Serum amylase analysis should be conducted on the same day that the sample is received in the laboratory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]