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The scarcity of high-quality forage has a significant influence on the productivity and profitability of livestock. Addressing this concern, an investigation was undertaken to assess the effects of distinct Italian ryegrass genotypes, namely, Punjab ryegrass-1, Kashmir collection, and Makhan grass, in conjunction with varying seeding ratios of Italian ryegrass to Egyptian clover. The seeding ratios considered were 100:0 (Italian ryegrass to Egyptian clover), 75:25, 50:50, and 25:75. All possible combinations of Italian ryegrass and Egyptian clover with seeding ratios were set up in a randomized complete block design and replicated thrice. Co-cultivating Italian ryegrass and Egyptian clover at a 75:25 seeding ratio yields the best yield benefit, as determined by the land equivalent ratio. It is noteworthy that in this configuration, real yield loss is higher for Egyptian clover and for Italian ryegrass when the seeding ratio is 25:75. The higher competitiveness of Italian ryegrass in comparison to Egyptian clover is highlighted by the competitive ratio. Notably, the nutritive parameter, crude protein yield, was significantly higher in the Makhan grass-based 50:50 and 75:25 seeding ratio. Results of the study ascertained the compatibility of grass-legume co-cultivation with significantly higher quantity and quality forage harvested under mixed cropping systems whereas Makhan grass as the superior and dominant genotype in comparison to Kashmir collection. The outcomes of this study revealed that the 100:0 seeding ratio, coupled with the Makhan grass genotype, exhibited superior performance in terms of cumulative forage harvest, dry matter accumulation, net returns, and benefit–cost ratio.

The present work focuses on the synthesis of hybrid La2CoCrO6/Co3O4/rGO composite via solvothermal technique for supercapacitor application. X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), and Barrett-Joyner-Halenda analyses are employed to assess phase structure, morphology, chemical state, surface area, and porosity of synthesized materials, respectively. The formation of mesoporous spheres is confirmed through FESEM and BET analysis. The inclusion of redox additive KMnO4 in KOH electrolyte enhances the accessibility of electrochemical sites in the mesoporous spheres of the La2CoCrO6/Co3O4/rGO electrode, resulting in excellent charge storage. Electrochemical analysis of the La2CoCrO6/Co3O4 exhibits specific capacitance of 633.2 F/g at 2 A/g in a redox electrolyte (6 M KOH + 0.05 M KMnO4) with capacitive retention of approximately 81 % over 5000 cycles. Furthermore, the addition of rGO improves the overall performance of La2CoCrO6/Co3O4/rGO composite (763.9 F/g at 2 A/g with capacitive retention of approximately 86 %). The electrochemical analysis of hybrid La2CoCrO6/Co3O4/rGO composite showed improved performance, owing to the synergy of double perovskite (La2CoCrO6), cobalt oxide (Co3O4), and reduced graphene oxide (rGO). These findings suggest promising applications for the material in advanced energy storage devices.

This research article investigates the drivers of logistics management for Last-Mile Delivery (LMD) in a contemporary business situation. It refers to the 21st century's innovative and revolutionary changes in the logistics sector. It explains advanced technology and the digital revolution as driving forces in the modern logistics industry. This study adopts a qualitative approach and presents a conceptual model developed through expert discussion and Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM), for formulating the proposed model of modern logistics in the era of Industry 4.0 (I4.0). According to ISM and MICMAC analysis, cost-effectiveness and green technology efforts are independent driving variables for efficient and green logistics management. It offers a road map for organizing the drivers in the logistics 4.0 conceptual framework. The scope of work is restricted to only operational logistics management aspects for smooth LMD. This study is confined to only LMD operations and technological advancements in logistics. The research provides valid factors for increasing the LMD efficiency of logistics networks. The importance and relationships between the various drivers are discussed and analyzed to increase the supply chain's sustainability and efficiency.

The present work has been designed to study the evolutionary perspectives of two important holandric genes, namely, testis-specific protein, Y-encoded (TSPY), and sex determining region, Y-encoded (SRY) in Nili Ravi buffalo. These Y-chromosomal genes are responsible for male sex development. The evolutionary aspects of these genes have not been studied in the Nili Ravi buffaloes from India. A study was carried out on the peripheral blood samples of three adult Nili Ravi bulls belonging to university farm. DNA was extracted using the phenol-chloroform isoamyl alcohol (PCI) technique and reported primer sequences were used to amplify the genes (partially) using a thermocycler. Three biological samples were analyzed using Sanger sequencing and were aligned using Clustal Omega. Separate phylogenetic trees for the genes were constructed using MEGA7 software. The selection pressure analysis and evolutionary divergence were individually studied for each of the genes. The current study reports the partial TSPY and SRY gene sequences of Indian Nili Ravi buffalo. Besides, the molecular evolution analysis indicates that the genes have experienced some purifying selection during the evolutionary process. Molecular characterization of these holandric genes (TSPY and SRY) in Nili Ravi will find applications in sex determination in Nili Ravi and other buffaloes.

The world has undergone a remarkable transformation from the era of famines to an age of global food production that caters to an exponentially growing population. This transformation has been made possible by significant agricultural revolutions, marked by the intensification of agriculture through the infusion of mechanical, industrial, and economic inputs. However, this rapid advancement in agriculture has also brought about the proliferation of agricultural inputs such as pesticides, fertilizers, and irrigation, which have given rise to long-term environmental crises. Over the past two decades, we have witnessed a concerning plateau in crop production, the loss of arable land, and dramatic shifts in climatic conditions. These challenges have underscored the urgent need to protect our global commons, particularly the environment, through a participatory approach that involves countries worldwide, regardless of their developmental status. To achieve the goal of sustainability in agriculture, it is imperative to adopt multidisciplinary approaches that integrate fields such as biology, engineering, chemistry, economics, and community development. One noteworthy initiative in this regard is Zero Budget Natural Farming, which highlights the significance of leveraging the synergistic effects of both plant and animal products to enhance crop establishment, build soil fertility, and promote the proliferation of beneficial microorganisms. The ultimate aim is to create self-sustainable agro-ecosystems. This review advocates for the incorporation of biotechnological tools in natural farming to expedite the dynamism of such systems in an eco-friendly manner. By harnessing the power of biotechnology, we can increase the productivity of agro-ecology and generate abundant supplies of food, feed, fiber, and nutraceuticals to meet the needs of our ever-expanding global population.

The choice of variety, sowing time and optimum nutrition are important management options to optimise the seed yield. Accordingly, an experiment comprising of 18 treatments was conducted during the winter 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 in a factorial randomized block design, replicated three times to assess the response of pea genotypes (DPP-SP-6, Him Palam Matar-1 and Pb-89) to the seeding time (26th October and 10th November) and nutrient levels (0, 100 and 125% of the recommended NPK). The individual treatment effects revealed that early sowing, application of 125% NPK and DPP-SP-6 were significantly superior for the seed yield and related traits. The interaction effects indicated a significant response of the 125% NPK on the early sown crop for the seed yield, harvest index and NPK uptake. Significantly highest soil available NPK were obtained at 125% NPK with a respective increase of 41.54, 5.90 and 30.82 kg/ha, respectively, over the initial status. Early sowing of DPP-SP-6 with an application of 125% NPK is a better preposition for enhancing the productivity of peas.

Abstract Disseminated histoplasmosis is a rare complication of infection due to Histoplasma capsulatum. Typically, histoplasmosis is self‐limiting and asymptomatic in infected individuals with immunocompetence. Disseminated disease, however, can arise in high‐risk populations with primary or acquired cellular immunodeficiency including HIV/AIDS, transplant recipients, and those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy. Here we describe a unique case of extrapulmonary gastrointestinal histoplasmosis by infiltrative Peyer's patch disease with bone marrow involvement in a transgender HIV‐infected woman.

Micronutrient deficiency also known as “hidden hunger” refers to a condition that occurs when the body lacks essential vitamins and minerals that are required in small amounts for proper growth, development and overall health. These deficiencies are particularly common in developing countries, where a lack of access to a varied and nutritious diet makes it difficult for people to get the micronutrients they need. Micronutrient supplementation has been a topic of interest, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, due to its potential role in supporting immune function and overall health. Iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), iodine (I), and selenium (Se) deficiency in humans are significant food-related issues worldwide. Biofortification is a sustainable strategy that has been developed to address micronutrient deficiencies by increasing the levels of essential vitamins and minerals in staple crops that are widely consumed by people in affected communities. There are a number of agricultural techniques for biofortification, including selective breeding of crops to have higher levels of specific nutrients, agronomic approach using fertilizers and other inputs to increase nutrient uptake by crops and transgenic approach. The agronomic approach offers a temporary but speedy solution while the genetic approach (breeding and transgenic) is the long-term solution but requires time to develop a nutrient-rich variety.

Abstract Powdery mildew is one of the serious diseases of garden pea which causes a large number of yield losses. Genetic resistance is quite effective, being cost-effective and environment friendly than fungicide applications. In the present studies an initial attempt has been made to identify resistant genotypes against powdery mildew disease developed from hybridization followed by validation of the disease. The experimental material comprised of 48 genotypes that includes 44 advanced breeding lines was evaluated for powdery mildew incidence in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications at two locations under field conditions [Palampur (winter 2017–18 and 2018–19) and Kukumseri (summer 2018)] and in vitro at Palampur [detached leaf method and polyhouse conditions]. Ten lines viz., SP7, SN-1, SN-6-1, SN-7-1, SN-2, SN-5-2, SN-6-2, SN-10, SN-21 and SP-281 showed resistant reaction along with check Palam Sumool while 27 lines were identified as moderately resistant in comparison to susceptible check Azad P-1. Besides, six lines namely, SP-2, SP-5, SP-10, SP-24, SA-4 and SP-12-1 gave moderately susceptible reaction along with checks Pb-89 and Palam Priya. Only, SP-19 was categorized as susceptible. The high yielding lines SP-3, SP-6 and SP-22 showed moderately resistant reaction in both natural and artificial conditions. Validation of resistance using molecular markers revealed that neither the parental genotypes nor the progenies possess the er1 gene of JI1559. The er2 linked marker ScOPX-171700 was polymorphic between Palam Sumool and Palam Priya but the marker didn’t show polymorphism between er2 harboring line (JI2480). These results suggested that the lines showing resistance under field conditions may have some other genes or alleles for resistance and further confirmation is needed by developing mapping populations with specific gene or gene combinations.

Increasing greenhouse gases & air pollution are a global threat. Global forums are aggressively emphasizing on reducing the dependence on non-renewable resources. Battery Electric vehicle are among the initial initiative to reduce dependency on fossil fuels, and this demands more research to understand the energy requirements of a vehicle under different driving conditions. The performance of an Electric Vehicle depends on varying drive conditions and the Power Electronic Controller is primarily responsible for its sustainable operation. In this paper, a novel mathematical model is proposed to analyze the performance of an electric vehicle under different driving conditions. The model is simulated at different driving speeds keeping other longitudinal, lateral, and vertical parameters fixed. Rolling resistance forces, aerodynamic drag force, gradient force, total driving force, driving torque, and power requirements at different speeds have been calculated under standard driving conditions. The rolling resistance increases by 2.16 times with a change in the vehicle speed from 40 kmph to 120 kmph. The aerodynamic drag force increases ten times with a 10-degree gradient. The battery operating temperature is critical in vehicular performance, a hybrid Pneumatic-Liquid Thermal Management System is proposed to maintain battery operating temperature. Performance of the proposed model is simulated and found to be in line with the existing standards. This study concludes that road conditions, tyre pressure, velocity of travel, wind velocity, and temperature significantly influence the performance of an electric vehicle.

IntroductionIndia’s north-eastern hill region (NEH) is one of the biodiversity hotspots, inhabited by several tribal communities still maintaining their traditional food habits. Much of their food resources are drawn from wild sources.Materials and methodsFourteen species of wild edible plants of high ethnic importance were collected from remote localities of Nagaland and Meghalaya states of the NEH region of India for nutritional profiling. Nutritional profiling of leaves of six species comprising Gynura cusimbua, Garcinia cowa, Herpetospermum operculatum, Plukenetia corniculata, Trichodesma khasianum, and Elatostemma sessile is conducted first time under present study. Samples were analyzed as per the Official Method of Analysis (AOAC) and standard methods.Results and discussionThe range of variation in proximate composition was observed for moisture (72–92%), protein (1.71–6.66%), fat (0.22–1.36%), dietary fibre (5.16–14.58%), sugar (0.30–3.41%), and starch (0.07–2.14%). The highest protein content (6.66%) was recorded in Herpetospermum operculatum, followed by Trichodesma khasianum (5.89%) and Plukenetia corniculata (5.27%). Incidentally, two of these also have high iron (>7.0 mg/100 g) and high zinc (>2.0 mg/100 g) contents, except Trichodesma khasianum, which has low zinc content. High antioxidant activities in terms of gallic acid equivalent (GAE) by the cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) method ranged from 1.10 to 8.40 mg/100 g, and by the Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) method ranged from 0.10 to 1.9 mg/100 g, while phenol content ranged between 0.30 and 6.00 mg/100 g. These wild vegetables have high potential because of their nutritional properties and are fully capable of enhancing sustainability and improving ecosystem services. Efforts were also initiated to mainstream these resources, mainly for widening the food basket of native peoples.

Genetic diversity is the prerequisite for the success of crop improvement programmes. Keeping in view, the current investigation was undertaken to assess the agro-morphological and molecular diversity involving 36 diverse mid-late and late cauliflower genotypes following α-RBD design during winter season 2021-22. Six morphological descriptors predicted as polymorphic using Shannon diversity index with maximum for leaf margin (0.94). The genotypes grouped into nine clusters based on D2 analysis with four as monogenotypic and gross plant weight (32.38%) revealed maximum contribution towards the genetic diversity. Molecular diversity analysis revealed 2-7 alleles among 36 polymorphic simple sequence repeats (SSR) with average of 4.22. Primer BoESSR492 (0.77) showed maximum polymorphic information content (PIC) with mean of 0.58. SSR analysis revealed two clusters each with two subclusters with a composite pattern of genotype distribution. STRUCTURE analysis showed homogenous mixture with least amount of gene pool introgression within the genotypes. Thus, based on morphological and molecular studies, the diverse genotypes namely, DPCaCMS-1, DPCaf-W4, DPCaf-US, DPCaf-W131W, DPCaf-S121, DPCaf-18, DPCaf-13, DPCaf-29 and DPCaf-CMS5 can be utilized in hybridization to isolate potential transgressive segregants to broaden the genetic base of cauliflower or involve them to exploit heterosis.

This study assessed the climate vulnerability of the agriculture, horticulture, and livestock sectors at the block scale in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. This region exhibits the most conspicuous manifestations of climate change. The study sites were selected to represent different elevation zones. A total of 108 indicators for the sectors were chosen to assess climate vulnerability as a methodological framework suitable for a mountain perspective. The net climate vulnerability in the agriculture sector was lowest in blocks that had greater accessibility to the road network, were nearer to markets, had high literacy and more institutions, and were shifting to enterprises other than agriculture. The net vulnerability index (VI) for horticulture revealed that vulnerability was reduced by a shift toward off-season vegetable cultivation, productive soils for crops, and the establishment of new orchards. The net VI of the livestock sector was lower if there were fewer diseases and pests and they were quickly managed, if there was good access to veterinary facilities, if slopes were less steep, and if improved grassland was available. The composite net VI of all blocks in different sectors of this farming system revealed that the Naggar block, followed by Kullu and Nirmand, was the least vulnerable.

Effect of climatic factors on population build-up of aphid complex of rapeseed-mustard viz. mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kaltenbach), cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae (Linnaeus), and green peach aphid, Myzus persicae (Sulzer) and associated natural enemies (coccinellids, syrphids and a parasitoid, Diaeretiella rapae M’Intosh) was studied at Experimental Farm of CSK HPKV Palampur over a period of three years. Correlation coefficients indicated that the temperature favoured build-up of aphid population and their natural enemies while rainfall exerted negative impact. The population of coccinellids was negatively correlated with the population of L. erysimi and M. persicae while, positive correlation with B. brassicae was observed. On the other hand, population of syrphids was found to be positively correlated with aphid population. Predictive model using stepup regression analysis revealed that a weak relation in aphid population was attributed by weather parameters particularly minimum, maximum temperature and bright sunshine hours. Regression analysis revealed that 89 per cent variation in parasitization by D. rapae was attributed by minimum and maximum temperature, rainfall, relative humidity and bright sunshine hours.

Abstract We present a method for studying the detection of jets in high energy hadronic collisions using multiplicity detectors at forward rapidity. Such a study enhances the physics scope of multiplicity detectors at forward rapidities in LHC. At LHC energies the jets may be produced with significant cross section at forward rapidities. A multi-resolution wavelet analysis technique can locate the spatial position of jets due to its feature of space-scale locality. The discrete wavelet proves to be very effective in probing physics simultaneously at different locations in phase space and at different scales to identify jet-like events. The key feature this analysis exploits is the difference in particle density in localized regions of the detector due to jet-like and underlying events. We find that this method has a significant sensitivity towards detecting jet position and its size. The jets can be found with the efficiency and purity of the order of 46% with a cut of three times the root mean square of the typical wavelet coefficients distribution in minimum bias events.

Abstract Single junction binary all‐small‐molecule (ASM) organic solar cells (OSCs) with power conversion efficiency (PCE) beyond 14% are achieved by using non‐fullerene acceptor Y6 as the electron acceptor, but still lag behind that of polymer OSCs. Herein, an asymmetric Y6‐like acceptor, BTP‐FCl‐FCl, is designed and synthesized to match the recently reported high performance small molecule donor BTR‐Cl, and a record efficiency of 15.3% for single‐junction binary ASM OSCs is achieved. BTP‐FCl‐FCl features a F,Cl disubstitution on the same end group affording locally asymmetric structures, and so has a lower total dipole moment, larger average electronic static potential, and lower distribution disorder than those of the globally asymmetric isomer BTP‐2F‐2Cl, resulting in improved charge generation and extraction. In addition, BTP‐FCl‐FCl based active layer presents more favorable domain size and finer phase separation contributing to the faster charge extraction, longer charge carrier lifetime, and much lower recombination rate. Therefore, compared with BTP‐2F‐2Cl, BTP‐FCl‐FCl based devices provide better performance with FF enhanced from 71.41% to 75.36% and Jsc increased from 22.35 to 24.58 mA cm−2, leading to a higher PCE of 15.3%. The locally asymmetric F, Cl disubstitution on the same end group is a new strategy to achieve high performance ASM OSCs.

Surface irrigation methods in puddle transplanted rice (PTR) requires a huge amount of irrigation water and leads to decline in water table in rice (Oryza sativa L.) growing areas of Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP) of India. Mini sprinkler irrigation system with high water application efficiency in direct seeded rice (DSR) can save substantial amount of irrigation water. With this hypothesis, a four-year field experiment was conducted at ICAR-Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Karnal to assess the feasibility of mini-sprinkler irrigation system for growing rice crop under conservation agriculture. Total 4 treatments, viz. mini-sprinkler irrigation system in direct seeded rice (SPRL-DSR), mini-sprinkler irrigation system in direct seeded rice with 1/3rd wheat residue (SPRL-DSR+R), surface irrigation in direct seeded rice (SUR-DSR), and surface irrigation in puddle transplanted rice (SUR-TPR), were laid out. Significantly higher grain yield, grains/panicle, and 1000-grain weight were recorded under SUR-TPR, while higher number of effective tillers/m.r.l. was recorded in SUR-DSR. The yield penalty in SPRL-DSR (6.84 t/ha) was 8.3% as compared to SUR-TPR. The saving in irrigation water and nitrogen was found to be 52.8 and 26.7%, respectively in SPRL-DSR as compared to SUR-TPR. SPRL-DSR also recorded 1.6-2.6 times higher grain water productivity (GWP) in comparison of SUR-TPR. Higher water and nitrogen use efficiency suggest that mini-sprinkler irrigation system is a viable option for DSR cultivation in groundwater depleting Indo-Gangetic plains of India.

In a study carried out at Mushroom Research and Training Center, SKUAST-J during 2015-16, mushroom spawn prepared on different substrates and supplements was observed for incidence of contamination by fungal and bacterial contaminants. Contamination in spawn ranged from 12.66% (sorghum based spawn) to 20.66% (bajra based spawn). Four major types of contaminants including three fungal, viz. Aspergillus spp., Penicillium spp., Trichoderma spp. and one bacterial contaminant, viz. Bacillus spp. were observed. These contaminants were found individually as well as in combination in all the grain substrates. Management of contaminants using multiple strategies was also studied in the present research. The treatment comprising three boiling treatment showed maximum efficiency in management of fungal and bacterial contaminants that reduced the fungal contamination up to 78.33%. However, up to 98.66% reduction in fungal as well as bacterial contamination of spawn was obtained with three autoclavings of the spawn. Among the antibiotics, application of tetracycline (50 μg/kg) resulted in the reduction of 98.33% of bacterial contamination in the spawn.

The study was undertaken to estimate genetic characterization, character association direct and indirect effects by path analysis for pod yield per plant and its components by using 15 groundnut genotypes. Dry pod yield per plant shown to have maximum genotypic coefficient of variation followed by kernel per plant suggesting substantial amount of genetic variability. Dry pod yield per plant, kernel yield per plant, 100- kernel weight, days to maturity was observed high heritability and high genetic advance these traits were controlled by additive genes and can easily be transferred to succeeding generations. Dry pods per plant registered positive and significant genotypic and phenotypic correlations with kernel yield per plant and 100- kernel weight. It indicated that the selection for increased dry pods per plant may give higher kernel yield per plant and 100- kernel weight and thus, may contribute in increasing the dry pods per plant. The path coefficient analysis revealed that the kernel yield per plant, oil content and shelling percentage exhibited high and positive direct effect on dry pod yield per plant. Thus, these characters turned out to be the major components of pod yield and direct selection for these traits may be rewarding for yield improvement.

Abstract Thick‐film all‐small‐molecule (ASM) organic solar cells (OSCs) are preferred for large‐scale fabrication with printing techniques due to the distinct advantages of monodispersion, easy purification, and negligible batch‐to‐batch variation. However, ASM OSCs are typically constrained by the morphology aspect to achieve high efficiency and maintain thick film simultaneously. Specifically, synchronously manipulating crystallinity, domain size, and phase segregation to a suitable level are extremely challenging. Herein, a derivative of benzodithiophene terthiophene rhodanine (BTR) (a successful small molecule donor for thick‐film OSCs), namely, BTR‐OH, is synthesized with similar chemical structure and absorption but less crystallinity relative to BTR, and is employed as a third component to construct BTR:BTR‐OH:PC71BM ternary devices. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 10.14% and fill factor (FF) of 74.2% are successfully obtained in ≈300 nm OSC, which outperforms BTR:PC71BM (9.05% and 69.6%) and BTR‐OH:PC71BM (8.00% and 65.3%) counterparts, and stands among the top values for thick‐film ASM OSCs. The performance enhancement results from the enhanced absorption, suppressed bimolecular/trap–assisted recombination, improved charge extraction, optimized domain size, and suitable crystallinity. These findings demonstrate that the donor derivative featuring similar chemical structure but different crystallinity provides a promising third component guideline for high‐performance ternary ASM OSCs.

A eld experiment was conducted during rabi seasons of 2015-16 and 2016-17 to study the accumulated growing degree days (GDD), helio-thermal unit (HTU), photo-thermal unit (PTU), heat use efciencies (HUE) at different phenological stages and performance of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) varieties grown under different sowing dates. Results of present study revealed that the crop sown on 20th October required maximum calendar days, growing degree days, photo-thermal unit and helio-thermal unit for tillering, owering, earing and maturity which was signicantly reduced with subsequent delay in sowing time. The grain yield recorded in 20th November (4065 kgha-1) was statistically at par with 5th November yield (3863 kgha-1). The signicant reduction in grain yield on varieties was recorded when sowing was delayed beyond 20th November. Among the varieties 'VL-907' produced highest grain yield (3771 kgha-1) which was statistically on par with 'VL-829' (3726 kgha-1). The early and timely sown wheat variety like VL-829 and VL-907 took highest calendar days, GDD, HTU and PTU for earing and maturity. The variety 'VL-907' recorded the highest grain yield (4196 and 4168 kgha-1) at 5th and 20th November sowing as compared to all other sowing dates.

Blood samples from suspected crossbred cows (327) were examined microscopically as well as confirmed by in-house standardized duplex PCR assay. Out of 327 samples, 107 (32.72%) and 17 (5.19%) samples were positive for T. annulata and B. bigemina respectively by microscopy. When the samples were screened by duplex PCR, 130 (39.75%) and 27 (8.25%) animals had single infection with T. annulata (Group I) and B. bigemina (Group II), respectively. Duplex PCR was able to detect 11% of mixed infections (Group III) compared to 2.75% by microscopy. Haemato-biochemical profile of infected animals (30 for each group) were studied and compared with each other and normal healthy group (Group IV, n=10). The infected group showed significantly decreased levels of TEC, Hb and PCV, red blood cell indices than healthy control animals indicating microcytic hypochromic anaemia. Marked thrombocytopenia was also observed in affected animals. Serum biochemistry of infected cows revealed significantly higher values of AST and low levels of blood glucose, calcium, total protein, albumin as compared to healthy animals. Group I and Group II were further sub-divided into three sub-groups based on severity of infection as latent, subclinical and clinical. No significant difference among biochemical parameters was observed between subgroups of diseased animals but there was significant decline in hematological parameters, viz. haemaoglobin, PCV and TEC. Haemato-biochemical changes were more severe in B. bigemina infected group in contrast to other groups and anaemia is becoming more severe as the disease progress due to extensive intravascular haemolysis.

The present investigation was designed to develop a novel, rapid and cost effective direct PCR-RFLP assay, as a specific diagnostic tool for detection and differentiation of two Anaplasma species (A. ovis and A. marginale). Blood samples were collected randomly from 83 goats. A direct blood polymerase chain reaction (DT-PCR) for amplifying a fragment of the major surface protein 5 (msp5) gene of A. ovis/A. marginale from whole blood was developed and standardized. Blood smear examination revealed 24 samples (28.91%) positive for Anaplasma inclusion bodies. While, 39 (47%) samples were positive by DT-PCR. The results revealed that DT- PCR was 100% sensitive and 74.57% specific compared to microscopy based detection (k =0.62). Additionally DT-PCR showed 94.44% sensitivity and 100% specificity compared to conventional PCR results with suspected blood samples (k=0.94). All DT-PCR positive samples were confirmed to be A. ovis by restriction fragments length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis. The phylogenetic tree and sequence analysis revealed msp5 gene of Anaplasma species Indian isolate had maximum distance from A. phagocytophilum followed by A. centrale and A. marginale and 100% sequence identity with A. ovis isolates of Chinese origin which further confirmed the sequence identified in native goats to be of A. ovis. The simplified DT-PCR assay as a viable alternative to conventional PCR could be helpful for fast and accurate diagnosis of Anaplasma species and suitable for screening a large number of samples. Furthermore, results revealed that DT-PCR-RFLP of the msp5 gene might be a useful method for simultaneous detection and differentiation of A. ovis and A. marginale in goats.

Flexible manufacturing system (FMS) promises a wide range of manufacturing benefits in terms of flexibility and productivity. These benefits are targeted by efficient production planning. Part type selection, machine grouping, deciding production ratio, resource allocation and machine loading are five identified production planning problems. Machine loading is the most identified complex problem solved with aid of computers. System up gradation and newer technology adoption are the primary needs of efficient FMS generating new scopes of research in the field. The literature review is carried and the critical analysis is being executed in the present work. This paper presents the outcomes of the mathematical modelling techniques for loading of machines in FMS’s. It was also analysed that the mathematical modelling is necessary for accurate and reliable analysis for practical applications. However, excessive computations need to be avoided and heuristics have to be used for real-world problems. This paper presents the heuristics-mathematical modelling of loading problem with machine processing time as primary input. The aim of the present work is to solve a real-world machine loading problem with an objective of balancing the workload of the FMS with decreased computational time. A Matlab code is developed for the solution and the results are found most accurate and reliable as presented in the paper.

The botanical study of a germplasm, looking similar to Curcuma species and originally collected from the wild in Kolasib District of Mizoram, at the field genebank of ICAR-NBPGR Regional Station, Shillong, led to its confirmation and authentication as Stahlianthus involucratus (King ex Baker) Craib ex Loes. Earlier, this taxon had been reported from the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland and West Bengal (Darjeeling) in India; this report indicates its distribution in Mizoram also. Its description, phenology, habitat and other field notes, and usefulness have been highlighted here.

Isabgol (Plantago ovata Forsk.) is an important medicinal plant having high pharmacological activity in its seed husk, which is substantially used in the food, beverages and packaging industries. Nevertheless, isabgol lags behind in research, particularly for genomic resources, like molecular markers, genetic maps, etc. Presently, molecular markers can be easily developed through next generation sequencing technologies, more efficiently, cost effectively and in less time than ever before. This study was framed keeping in view the need to develop molecular markers for this economically important crop by employing a microsatellite enrichment protocol using a next generation sequencing platform (ion torrent PGM™) to obtain simple sequence repeats (SSRs) for Plantago ovata for the very first time. A total of 3447 contigs were assembled, which contained 249 SSRs. Thirty seven loci were randomly selected for primer development; of which, 30 loci were successfully amplified. The developed microsatellite markers showed the amplification of the expected size and cross-amplification in another six species of Plantago. The SSR markers were unable to show polymorphism within P. ovata, suggesting that low variability exists within genotypes of P. ovata. This study suggests that PGM™ sequencing is a rapid and cost-effective tool for developing SSR markers for non-model species, and the markers so-observed could be useful in the molecular breeding of P. ovata.

Trace elements, though required in minute quantities (less than 100 mg/kg dry matter), are essential for maintaining health andimmunity. They are involved in growth, production and reproduction. Trace elements act as cofactors of enzymes which areimportant to the immunity of animal. Superoxide dismutase , glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, thioredoxinreductase, ceruloplasmin and catalase are important enzymes that have trace elements as cofactors. These enzymes act asantioxidants and prevent oxidative stress by neutralizing oxidants produced under different stresses. Besides, trace elementscontribute to general health of animal thereby enhancing disease resistance. Trace elements are important for properfunctioning of a number of enzymes and proteins which are involved in many physiological, biochemical and metabolicprocesses that contribute to growth and production. Overall, trace elements improve immune competence and productiveperformance.

ABSTRACT Considering that education has become the engine room for modern economies and the backbone for prosperity of any nation, there is a massive drive on a global scale to upgrade the quality of education a nation provides to its citizens. The top performing education systems have demonstrated that the quality of teacher training and raising the social status of teachers is a pre-requisite to improve the quality of education the citizens of a nation receive. This paper focuses on (a) the attributes of quality teacher training and quality teachers, (b) discussion of Australian and Singaporean approach to teacher training, and (c) need for Indonesian teacher training institutes to upgrade their strategies to provide quality training. Since teachers are the most valuable to schools investment in teacher professionalism is vital to ensure that they are equipped with an evidence-based repertoire of pedagogical skills that are demonstrably effective in meeting the developmental and learning needs of all students. Keywords: teacher professionalism, education system, teacher training

This study focused on congruency of culture of home and school of children from Chinese- Australian families as a major factor in their academic success. Qualitative approach was used for uncovering three key things, namely, 1) conditions and interactions at home; 2) children’s behavior and interaction in classroom; 3) children’ activities after school hours and at weekends. The approach considered to be appropriate to capture what teachers, parents and children say and do as a product of how they interpret the complexity of their world. Data collected by using ethnographic techniques, mainly participant observation and conversational interviews. There were seven children from five Chinese-Australian families residing in Perth metropolitan area involved in the study. The families immigrated from Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Analysis indicated that Chinese-Australian parents pushed their children far beyond their limits in their drive for academic excellence. They made their home suitable for studying and ensured continuity between homes and school. Impulse control, deferment of short term gratification, effort/hard work, and scholastic achievement were Chinese cultural values implanted by the parents. Chinese- Australian children met most of their teachers’ demands. Consequently, their interactions with their teachers were in more positive ways. Key words: Chinese-Australian families, impressive performance students

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.], one of the commercial crops grown under rainfed conditions in Himachal Pradesh produced low yields due to uneven weather conditions. This study presents outcome of a simulation study to evaluate the impact of projected climate change on yields of soybean and simulated adaptations in the face of climate change. During past three decades the region has experienced increase in temperature and decrease in rainfall. The validated InfoCrop model runs for 20 years (1989-2008) to assess impacts of the projected climate change on soybean production. The Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) values were 8.8 days and 190.4 kg/ha for days to maturity and crop yield between simulated and observed yields of five years (2004-08) under two sowing environments. The elevated levels of 50 and 100 parts per million (ppm) carbon dioxide (CO2) increased soybean yield by 5.0 to 10.2%. The projected yield losses due to elevated levels of temperature by 1 and 2oC alone ranged between 1.3 to 3.5 and 4.5 to 6.0 percent respectively, for all planting windows. The elevated temperature of 1oC coupled with 50 ppm elevated level of carbon dioxide (420ppm) showed increase in yield up to 4.9 percent with shortened average growing period up to 2 days. The further rise of temperature to 2oC with 50 ppm elevated level of carbon dioxide caused increase in simulated yield up to 2.3 percent in simulations of 1989-2008 compared to control conditions. Similarly, 100 ppm elevated level of carbon dioxide with 1oC rise in temperature caused increase in yield between 8.8 to 10.2 percent in all planting windows whereas it was 3.1 to 3.9 percent lesser in 2oC rise in temperature with 100 ppm elevated level of carbon dioxide with compared to 1oC rise in temperature. The climatic grid of 10 percent reduction in rainfall from recent decade 1998-2008 showed small decrease in yield but yield increase of 5.2 to 8.5 percent was observed when coupled with 50 ppm elevated carbon dioxide and 1oC rise in temperature. Hence rise of temperature with elevated carbon dioxide in general increase the yield in region.

The effect of dhaincha (Sesbania aculeata) as first crop on physico-chemical dynamics and productivity of “B” class sodic soils was assessed on farmer’s field under rice-wheat cropping system to generate the knowledge of sodic soil management for increasing the soil and crop productivity for sustainable crop production in sodic soil environment. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design at ten sites having six treatment combinations of different doses of gypsum and green manuring with sesbania under two cropping sequences, i e sesbania-rice (Oryza sativa L.) -wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and rice-wheat. Cultivation of sesbania with gypsum significantly decreased the surface soil pH from 9.3 to 8.6 and increased the hydraulic conductivity from 0.3 × 10-3 to 3.7 × 10-3 cm/hr and buildup of soil organic matter by increasing organic carbon content from 0.20 % to 0.22 % through growing of sesbania. Sesbania green manure also increased the available water content in the soil system, which enhanced soil moisture availability for longer period. As a result, rice crop yield increased by 16.2 % in sesbania-rice- wheat cropping system in comparison to rice–wheat cropping sequence because of synergistic effect of sesbania with gypsum. Consequently, residual effect of sesbania green manuring alone and in combination with gypsum significantly enhanced the wheat grain yield by 42.5 % and 72.5 % and 80% in T4, T5 and T6 treatments respectively during first year in sesbania–rice-wheat cropping sequence as compared to control. In consecutive second year, rice and wheat grain yields further enhanced by 8.1 % and 2.71% respectively, under sesbania –rice -wheat than that of rice –wheat cropping sequence. Under sesbania- rice- wheat and rice-wheat-sesbania cropping sequence, rice and wheat grain yield were similar. Hence, inclusion of Sesbania aculeata as green manure either before or after rice-wheat cropping sequence is equally better to improve the soil physical dynamics and crop productivity of ‘B’ class sodic soils in Indo-Gangetic region of Uttar Pradesh.

We review a subset of experimental results from the heavy-ion collisions at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) facility at CERN. Excellent consistency is observed across all the experiments at the LHC (at center of mass energy sNN=2.76 TeV) for the measurements such as charged particle multiplicity density, azimuthal anisotropy coefficients, and nuclear modification factor of charged hadrons. Comparison to similar measurements from the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC) at lower energy (sNN=200 GeV) suggests that the system formed at LHC has a higher energy density and larger system size and lives for a longer time. These measurements are compared to model calculations to obtain physical insights on the properties of matter created at the RHIC and LHC.

The study indicates warming signals in all the study sites except Shimla during 1969 to 87. The study indicated of higher than average signals of warming in Himachal Pradesh upland than lowland regions viz. Fatehpur and Palam Valley in recent decades. The data analyzed in terms of day and night temperature indicated that the warming was predominantly due to an increase in maximum temperature. The annual rainfall in all the regions experienced decreasing trends. The rainfall during rabi season found to be increased by 1.0 to 7.44 mm y-1in the regions receiving snowfall during winter months.. The Palam and Kullu valley experienced decreasing trends in evaporation whereas relative humidity showed increasing trends at all elevations.

By inclusion of a semi-dielectric layer, a novel MOSFET Structure, the T-MOSFET, and its integrated circuit version are presented. Both for the enhancement mode and the depletion mode, equivalent circuit models are developed. Also, the high frequency behaviour is explained by a model and the behaviour of a T-MOSFET under different conditions is given.