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The present experiment was conducted during 2020–21 and 2021–22 at ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi to study the impact of open-, self-, and cross-pollination on metaxenic traits (berries) and the incidence of cleistogamy in grapes (Vitis vinifera L.). Seven different cross-combinations were used on the grape variety Pusa Navrang, which were planted at 3 m × 3 m spacing and trained on the Y-trellis training system. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with four replications. The incidence of cleistogamy, berry set, retention percentage, and the metaxenia effect of pollen grains in different grapevine varieties, namely, Pusa Navrang (PN), Black Muscat (BM), Pusa Swarnika (PS), Beauty Seedless (BS), Perlette (PER), Male Hybrid (MH), were studied. Also, pollen quantity and viability were determined for the different grapevine varieties under study. Depending on the genotypes and whether the fruit set is obtained inside the covered flowers, cleistogamy was confirmed. A significantly higher berry set (40–85%) and retention (32–77%) were recorded in open- and self-pollinated flowers. The total number of pollens/anther in six grape genotypes ranged from 7916.62–23832.02, whereas the maximum active pollen rates were noted in the Male Hybrid (70.01%) and Black Muscat (66.80%). The pollens from the Beauty Seedless genotype exhibited significant enhancement of metaxenic traits such as berry set, retention, and size in Pusa Navrang. Therefore, utilizing Beauty Seedless as a pollen parent in grape breeding programmes holds promise for enhancing berry set and overall berry quality, thus enhancing the hybridization efficiency.

The study assessed the efficacy of phytofabricated zinc oxide nanoparticles (CF-ZnONPs) and L-ascorbic acid in alleviating pre-slaughter transport induced stress in birds of Sonali breed (Cross bred of Rhode Island Red cocks and Fayoumi hens). A total of 120 birds were divided into four groups: negative control (T1) which were loaded in vehicle but not transported, Positive control (T2) birds were transported without any prior supplementation, T3 and T4 birds were transported with prior supplementation (a day before transportation) of CF-ZnONPs @100 µg/ml and L-ascorbic acid @82 µg/ml in drinking water. Results obtained observed significant reduction in live weight, meat colour and pH but increased drip loss percentage in T2 group. Significantly elevated H/L ratio was recorded in all transported groups. Increased cortisol and TSH levels and decreased thyroid hormones, Triiodothyronine and thyroxin (T3 and T4) levels were recorded in T2 group. However, supplementation with CF-ZnONPs and L-ascorbic acid notably reversed these adverse effects, restoring meat quality and other metabolic profiles. Notably, ascorbic acid exhibited greater efficacy, suggesting its superior role in mitigating transportation-induced stress. Overall, these findings highlight the importance of antioxidant supplementation in alleviating transport induced stress in birds.

Our accustomed agricultural practices of tilling the soil continuously and excessive fertilizer applications caused not only a decrease in organic carbon content and soil degradation but also disturbed environmental harmony. With this backdrop, current study was carried out during rainy (kharif) seasons of 2018 and 2019 at the research farm of Trihut College of Agriculture, Dholi, Pusa, Bihar to evaluate the effect of different tillage and nutrient management practices on maize (Zea mays L.). The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with tillage as the main plot and nutrient management as the sub-plot. The results showed significantly superior maize grain yield in PB (6.1, 6.2 mg/ ha) and 60% RDN+GSGN (6.0, 5.9 mg/ha) over CT (4.9, 5.0 mg/ha) and RDF (5.1, 5.4 mg/ha) during 2018 and 2019. Similar trend was followed in stover yield, net returns and B:C ratio. Among path analysis, harvest index and no of grains/cob observed largest direct path coefficient of yield attributes to determine the maize grain yield and stover yield respectively. The results suggest that the adoption of conservation tillage and precise nutrient management practices will help in the realization of better yield with maximum profit by way of reducing the input capital apart from improving soil health thereby sustaining natural resources for future generations.

The present study is the analysis of large scale data (31949 ha area and 79873 farmers) generated through the CFLD on pulses across the major pulses growing states under the ICAR-ATARIs of Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh), Jodhpur (Rajasthan), Pune (Maharashtra), Patna (Bihar), Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh), Kolkata (West Bengal), Guwahati (Assam), Shillong (Meghalaya), Hyderabad (Andhra Pradesh), Bengaluru (Karnataka) and Patna (Bihar). The pulse crops included in this analysis were from all three growing seasons: kharif (pigeonpea-5556 ha, blackgram-6067 ha, and greengram-2689 ha), rabi (chickpea-8376 ha, lentil-3747 ha and field pea-1890 ha), and summer (greengram-3624 ha). The average performance data of CFLD were obtained for the above states for all the crops representing all three growing seasons during the cropping seasons of 2016–17 and 2017–18. Thus, CFLD data were analyzed from across minimum of 21 states (greengram) and maximum of 24 states (blackgram). The major variables analyzed were average yield obtained from the check plots and demonstrations plots. These yields were computed for yield advantages and also compared with the reported district level, state level, national level yields and the potential yields of the respective crops in the given states (data procured from secondary sources for the year 2017–18). Accordingly, the yield advantages (absolute as well as per cent) at various level were analyzed and their degree of variation was computed for all the crops across the seasons. The paper brings out the results of above analyses in objective manner.

Forty mungbean genotypes were evaluated for fourteen quantitative traits, planted in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Mahalanobis' generalised distance D2 was used to assess the character data and Principal Component Analysis for estimating genetic diversity and identification of superior mungbean genotypes. Following Tocher's technique, the 40 genotypes were divided into 7 clusters in accordance with their genetic distance. Among them four clusters were polygenotypic and three were monogenotypic. The genotypes of cluster IV and VII showed highest (40.51) inter cluster distance followed by cluster III and VII (39.04). Cluster V has been discovered to have the largest intra-cluster distance. In order to increase the genetic diversity of Vigna radiata, genotypes from these clusters may be crossed. Based on Principal Component Analysis results, 5 PCs explained 75.87% of the variation among the 14 parameters and had eigen values greater than unit. Only six genotypes—TJM-37, TJM-134, TJM-140, TJM-235, Shikha, and PM-1632—contained with favourable yield and quality associated PCs, and had outstanding remark for yield traits—out of all genotypes contributing their existence in more than one PC with high PC score. These lines may be used in hybridization programmes to transmit desirable features, such as high yield and high quality, to recipient mungbean genotypes, resulting in the creation of promising cultivars.

The aim of this review is to highlight the significance of goat milk along with potential and prospects of dairy goat development in the country. India occupies the first position in goat milk production in the world. In the last few years, commercial dairy goat production in India gained momentum due to spread of knowledge about therapeutic, nutraceutical and medicinal benefits of goat milk and its product, and their export potential. India possesses vast caprine resources with 37 goat breeds distributed in different bio-climates with varied nutritive value, however, some goat breeds native to north and north-western region namely Beetal, Jamunapari, Jakhrana, Surti and Zalawadi are considered as Indian dairy breed with 150 to 500 litre milk yields. The reported milk yield of Indian dairy goat is far below their potential, since they are primarily raised for mutton and also due to energy-deficient diet. Attempts so far made were scarce and limited for milk improvement of dairy goats and in creating infrastructure for goat milk processing and marketing. Use of potential sire/semen and infrastructural support for a secured market for goat milk and products is necessary to enhance dairy goat productivity and profitability. To cater the demand for goat milk in southern, eastern and hilly regions, suitable dairy breeds need to be developed along with increasing the genetic potential of existing breeds. Development of the goat dairy sector will require focused efforts to encourage entrepreneurship to set as many as possible commercial dairy farms by involving private sector through appropriate policy support and incentives.

Introduction: Hypertrophic scars (HS) remain the main cosmetic concern after complete healing of burns for both patients and treating burn surgeons. HS are managed conservatively using compression therapy, but in our study, we attempt fat grafting with compression therapy to identify which treatment modality leads to better outcomes in patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 84 patients (42 in each arm) in this prospective single-blind randomized controlled study had undergone fat transfer with compression therapy and compression therapy alone at a tertiary care burn center for treatment of HS from July 2015 to June 2017. Results: Out of the total of 84 patients, 54 were male and 30 were female with the mean age being 26.19 and 37.93 years in the case (test) and control group, respectively. Among them, 54 were flame burns and 20 were electrical burns. Mean total body surface area of 23.67% and 44.36% in the case and control, respectively, represents the extent of burns in majority of patients. Assessment of scars was done using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale which was found statistically significant (

A solar dryer was developed using an evacuated tube solar thermal collector and solar photovoltaic (SPV) panel to supply the electrical energy. Paraffin wax was packed in a well-sealed aluminum package and stored in the bottom of the drying chamber near the entrance of hot air enabling recharge and store thermal energy. A DC fan was used to supply hot air to the drying chamber. The chamber was made of locally available material with glass wool as insulation. The overall dimensions were 0.6 m × 0.55 m × 1.05 m with 7.0 trays having 0.25 m2 per tray. The capacity of the dryer is 5.0 kg. The maximum temperature that could attain inside the drying chamber during clear sunny days was 45 to 60ºC. The efficiency of the dryer is 27%.

Farmer' Participatory On Farm Trials (FP-OFT) were conducted at 10 different locations in Chandauli district of Uttar Pradesh during rabi 2016-17 in medium black soils to study the influence of soil test crop response (STCR) approach vis-a-vis farmers' practice on productivity and economics of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Result revealed that targeted seed yield of chickpea (16 q/ha) was achieved by adoption of STCR approach. The mean grain and stover yields of chickpea under STCR were increased by 37.1% and 41.2%, respectively over the farmers' practice (FP). The plant height, number of root nodules, pods/plant and test weight of seed were also increased by 11.6, 29.3, 11.6 and 26.0% respectively, over the FP. There was much larger negative balance in available nitrogen and available potassium status under farmers' practice compared to STCR based nutrient management approach. The gross return, net returns and benefit-cost ratio (BCR) under the STCR approach were between ` 70200-77450/ha, ` 48019-55176/ ha and 2.16-2.48 which were higher as compared to farmers' practice across the different locations. STCR based nutrient management approach should be adopted by the farmers for getting higher crop productivity and profitability and improving soil fertility status.

Out of 340 genotypes/varieties screened against black rot disease in rapeseed-Indian mustard under field conditions, 15 genotypes found resistant, viz. RTM 1624, RTM 1626, TM EPAU, DRMRAB-7-116, NPJ-177, LES-55, DRMRIJ 16-1, RH 1514, BASANTI, NDRS 1-2, TMR 14-1, TMR- 14-4, TMR 14-5, TMR 14-3, T 27, can be utilized as a donor for the development of black rot disease resistant varieties in crucifer crops. All genotypes of Eruca sativa were found resistant against black rot disease. Under in vitro conditions, streptocycline @200 ppm had maximum inhibition zone 3.8 cm diameter with 73.48% inhibition over control. In vivo, minimum disease severity 13.29% and 14.29%, lowest AUDPC 185.8% and 201.4% and highest yield 16.45 q/ha and 16.62 q/ha was recorded in the treatment T1, Streptocycline @200 ppm on rapeseed-mustard var. NDR 8501 (Narendra Rai) in 2017–18 and 2018–19 respectively.

Context: The risk of cerebral venous thrombosis at particular locations and its association with high altitude is yet to be established completely. The relation between high altitude and venous thromboembolic events has been debated for many years. Cerebral venous thrombosis presenting with nonspecific symptoms like headache can be a tough challenge for primary care physicians deployed at high altitudes. Materials and Methods: Combatants going to wide areas of mountainous territories at varying altitudes presenting with persistent severe headache associated with nausea and vomiting were subjected into the study after evaluation at zonal and tertiary care hospital. Results: Over a period of 18 months from October 2018 to March 2020, 75 cases of headache were screened and evaluated. Eighteen of these patients were diagnosed to have cerebral venous thrombosis. Conclusion: The occurrence of chronic venous thrombosis in combatants who enter and remain at high altitude for the prolonged duration is very common and the gold standard for diagnosis is a clinical evaluation with radio imaging.

Evidence for extra-hypothalamic expression of kisspeptinergic system is emerging. The present study documents the imuunolocalization of the kisspeptin and its receptor in the placentome of buffalo. Gravid uterus was collected from the abattoir and gestational age was estimated by crown-rump length of the fetus. A section of placentome containing the caruncle and cotyledon was used for immunohistochemistry. The expression of Kp and its receptor was evident in the feto-maternal junctions with prominent localization in the mononucleate and binucleate cells. In conclusion, the present study supports possible role of placental kisspeptin during pregnancy in the ruminants

Background: Limbs are most commonly involved in combat trauma. There is insufficient data on limb injuries sustained in the combat zone of Indian Armed Forces. This study aims to analyze limb injuries in 166 cases at a tertiary care center in counter insurgency operational area. Materials and Methods: All casualties with limb injuries who presented to the center from January 2014 to December 2019 were included in the study. Data were obtained from admission and discharge registers, central registry, and operation theater registers. Casualties who were killed in action were excluded from the study. The extremity involved, wounding agent, type of injury, length of hospital stay (LOHS), number of surgical interventions, and type of reconstruction undertaken were recorded. Results: Limb injuries accounted for 61% of all casualties, with a mean age of 30.45% ± 6.72 years. Nearly 67% of all injuries were caused by fragmentation device, 61% were of soft-tissue (ST) type, and 39% were of ST injuries with fractures (STFs). The LOHS and number of surgical interventions for STFs were statistically significantly higher (P < 0.001). There was a moderate correlation between the grades of injuries, LOHS, and number of surgeries. The most common reconstruction undertaken was split skin graft in 32% cases. Conclusion: This study for the first time evaluates limb injuries in combat-related trauma in Indian Armed Forces. It also analyzes the LOHS, and number of surgeries with the type of injuries and their correlation.

Introduction: Type-1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) which is also known as insulin-dependent diabetes is diagnosed mainly during childhood and accounts for approximately 5%–10% of all cases of DM. In India, early onset diabetes (

It has become mandatory for all the domestic producers of urea to produce Neem Coated Urea (NCU) since 2015 to reduce overall input cost in farming and to ensure environmental sustainability through enhanced nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). The present study was carried out during 2017–19 with the aim to find out the awareness level of farmers about NCU and its impact on crop productivity. A total of 12,604 farmers across the country were interviewed by 458 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs). The results of the study showed that 76% farmers were aware about NCU and its effectiveness in increasing crop yield. Farmers of Delhi NCR, Haryana and Rajasthan were found to have the highest awareness while those of Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Jammu & Kashmir had the lowest level of awareness. Overall, 79% farmers were satisfied with its use. Use of N fertilizers decreased significantly in 2018 compared to 2017 in both the seasons (kharif and rabi), however, the existing rate of application was still significantly higher than recommended doses. The average yield enhancement due to use of NCU was 8.25%. The highest yield increase due to use of NCU was observed in Goa, Madhya Pradesh, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Results of the study implied that more emphasis is needed for dissemination of information about NCU through awareness, training and capacity building programmes for farmers and grassroots level extension functionaries.

Goat farming is a suitable option for revenue generation for small-scale farmers and tribal people as it requires meager investment. Goats can efficiently survive and sustain on sparse vegetation and extreme climatic conditions. Hence, a study was undertaken in the tribaldominated Banswara district of Rajasthan state to identify problems perceived by youths in goat rearing. A total of 73 tribal youth responded to the study. RBQ technique was employed to identify the problems in goat farming. Predators attack was identified as a major problem (87.67%), followed by lack of funding and unavailability of improved goat breeds (87.24%). So, this study recommended that to prevent goats from predators, proper housing is necessary. So, KVK should maintain follow-ups with participants and provide financial help to initiate venture after skill development. Therefore, youths’ migration from rural to urban area could be optimized intribal areas. In addition to the ARYA project, the integration of various government schemes would benefit scaling up this profitable venture for tribal youths.

A benchmark survey was conducted to collect the baseline information from the Pantja goat rearers regarding various breeding management practices with special reference to Pantja goats under field condition of Udham Singh Nagar and Nainital districts of Tarai region of the Uttarakhand during a period of two year (April 2015 to March 2017). Majority (90.39%) of goat rearers belonged to Hindu religion, 55.97% of respondents lived in nuclear family with 53.64% having a family size of more than 5 members. Overall literacy rate was 64.96%. Majority of the farmers rearing Pantja goats were from Scheduled castes (43.88%) and 82.95% belonged to the middle age group. Majority of the goat keepers (47.91%) followed animal husbandry as a primary profession and 73.80% were landless. Among the total livestock maintained by the goat keepers’, maximum (81.69%) were goats, 10.84% cattle and 7.47% were buffaloes. The majority of households (71.97%) earned a total income of more than `50,000 followed by 26.36% households with total income between `20,001–50,000, 1.55% with a total income between `10,000–20,000 and only 0.16% with less than `10,000 per annum.

Two varieties, the Swarana Suraksha and Swarana Gaurav of faba bean (Vicia faba L.), developed at ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna; were evaluated against check variety Vikrant, for its suitability under different agro-ecological conditions of Eastern region of India. Performance evaluations were done at multilocation in eastern Indo Gangetic plains of Bihar; semiarid saline condition of Uttar Pradesh and in the acidic condition of hills and plateau region of Jharkhand. The multiplication testing was conducted during 2013-14 to 2015-16. Significantly higher yields of 3.03 t/ha and 4.32 t/ha were recorded with Swarana Suraksha while 2.31 t/ha and 4.91 t/ha for Swarana Gaurav under rainfed and irrigated conditions, respectively. Location wise significantly maximum seed yield of 3.61 t/ha was recorded at IARI, Pusa and the corresponding minimum of 2.33 t/ha was recorded at ICAR Ranchi centre. Individually, under irrigated condition, Swarana Gaurav produced significantly higher yield of 5.57 t/ha at IARI, Pusa. Swarana Suraksha was found suitable for both, rainfed and irrigated conditions; whereas Swarana Gaurav was suitable for irrigated condition. These two varieties are already been notified by the Cenral Varietal Release Committee for its cultivation in Bihar; but both the varieties could be recommended for its cultivation in Eastern states. Currently, both the developed varieties are under multiplication at ICAR Research complex for Eastern Region, Patna, right from 2015-16 onwards to introduce in seed chain by 2020-21.

A total of 20 diverse guava genotypes, including the newly bred hybrids were characterized using the morphological, physio-biochemical parameters and microsatellite markers at ICAR-IARI, New Delhi during 2018-19. Most of the qualitative morphological and physio-biochemical parameters had a coefficient of variation value >20%, which indicated substantial diversity. The longest leaves (14.87 cm) were recorded in Lalit, which was statistically at par with Pant Prabhat (14.67 cm), while amongst the hybrids, it is in GH 2018-10 (13.93 cm). The maximum leaf area was recorded in Pant Prabhat (60.33 cm2) while amongst hybrids it was in GH 2018-2 (53.40 cm2). The highest stomatal conductance and net photosynthetic rate was recorded in guava genotype Shweta (9.63 μmol/m2/s) (0.25 mol/m2/sec) while amongst the hybrids it was in GH 2018-8 (8.73μmol/m2/s) (0.26 mol/m2/sec), respectively. The mean genetic diversity indices, viz. major allelic frequency, number of alleles, gene diversity, heterozygosity and polymorphic information content of eight SSRs were 0.497, 3.75, 0.599, 0.071 and 0.542, respectively among the guava genotypes. Furthermore, the eight SSRs based Neighbour-joining (N-J) tree separated the newly bred guava hybrids into different clusters, clades and out-groups.

Enhanced efficiency of extension efforts targeted towards facilitating uptake of newer agricultural technologies byfarmers is much sought after by extension systems all over the world. Experimentation with several methodologieshas been done world over to achieve the said objective. Farmer-to-Farmer Extension (F2FE) approach is a farmer ledapproach that leverages the informal channels of technology penetration in form of existing social networks for diffusionof well proven agricultural technologies in the farming community. The approach emphasizes on experimentationwith newer technology by progressive farmers, followed by sharing of learning gained with other members in thecommunity. The basic strength of this model is the high credibility assigned by the farming community on localinformation source. The approach has well practiced in different forms in developing countries in Asia, Africa andLatin America. The article reflects on experiences gained from experimenting with F2FE approach in different formsand its institutionalization by extension systems across the globe.

An agricultural spraying system for UAV platform was developed at the Department of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana during 2019 to spray pesticides in cotton, rice and moong crops for the control of pests. The developed aerial spraying system was operated at three flying speeds, i.e. S1 (2.0 m/s), S2 (3.0 m/s) and S3 (4.0 m/s) and at three flying heights, i.e. H1 (0.50 m), H2 (0.75 m) and H3 (1.0 m). Whitefly and brown plant hopper (BPH) were the targeted pest and its bio-efficacy data were collected after spray application. Results indicated that flying height and forward speed had significant effect on bio-efficacy in all the three crops. In cotton, whitefly populations varied between 19.00-21.40 per three leaves. The maximum percent, i.e. 84.85% reduction in white fly population was observed at 7 DAS in H1S1 treatment. In rice, BPH population was varied between 6.60-9.47 per hill followed by control 17.20 per hill. Maximum percent reduction in BPH population was observed 67.42% at 7 DAS in H3S1 treatment. In moong, reduction in whitefly population was varied between 4.87-5.80 per plant followed by control (7.00 per plant). After three days of spray, combination of flying heights (H1, H2 and H3) and forward speeds (S1, S2 and S3) were found to be significantly effective in dropping whitefly and BPH population. Increase in flying height and forward speed reduced percentage reduction of pests. Combination of flying heights H1 and H2 and forward speeds S1 and S2 treatments were found significantly effective in controlling pests in all three crops.

Barbari is most preferred goat breed of commercial farmers in India and information on its first parity growth, reproduction and production traits are valuable for making present and future genetic progress of flock. Data for present study pertains to 2,554 kids, progeny of 227 sires and 1645 dam born during 2001 to 2019 at Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. The least squares means of body weight of kids at birth, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months of age were 1.69±0.02, 7.48±0.13, 11.45±0.21, 16.08±0.28 and 20.21±0.33 kg, respectively. Period, sex, type of birth, and weight of dam at kidding were significant sources of non-genetic variation affecting body weights. The least squares mean of weight at first conception, weight at first kidding, age at first conception, age at first kidding and first gestation period were 18.04±0.07 kg, 21.79±0.09 kg, 381.65±2.51 days, 523.23±2.52 days and 143.33±0.21 days, respectively. Period of birth was major source of variation though these traits were also significantly affected by season and type of birth. The least squares means of first lactation 90-days milk yield, 140-days milk yield, total Lactation period milk yield, first lactation Length, milk yield per day of first lactation length and milk yield per day of first kidding interval were 50.22±0.41 litre, 69.94±1.05 litre, 57.32±0.53 litre, 123.01±0.53 days, 48.91±0.35 litre and 19.39±0.22 litres, respectively. Period, season, type of kidding, age and weight of dam at kidding were significant sources of non-genetic variation affecting above lactation traits. The h2 for growth and production traits were moderate whereas low to moderate for reproductive traits except weight at first conception and kidding which have moderate h2 estimates. The genetic and phenotypic correlations among the growth traits at different ages were moderate to high (0.3 to 0.8), however decrease with distant ages. Very high genetic and phenotypic correlation estimates were obtained among lactation traits suggesting that judicious selection of animals' for any lactation traits would yield consistent genetic improvement in the other milk production traits in the flock. The economic traits which were significantly influenced by non-genetic factors with high magnitude need attention for strategic management interventions such as planned breeding of females to avoid kidding in adverse weather conditions, better attention in suckling of milk for kids born with low birth weight, hygiene of shed, adequate supplementation of concentrate ration to those kids which have less pre-weaning growth regardless of type of birth, better nutrition level to maiden goats before and after mating and extension of weaning age for triplets by 10-15 days to obtain higher post weaning weight gains, optimization of breeding weight at first mating and strategic supplementary concentrate feeding as per milk yield.

Five-year-old grapevines of Beauty Seedless spaced at 3 m × 3 m distance and trained on the 'Bower' system were sprayed with different plant bioregulators, namely, abscisic acid (ABA: 200 and 400 ppm), ethephon (200 and 400 ppm), benzothiadiazole (BTH: 0.3 and 0.6 mM), prohexadione-calcium (Pro-Ca: 200 and 400 ppm) and control (water spray) at the veraison stage during 2019-20 with the aim of studying their influence on berry physical and biochemical characteristics. The experiment was conducted in the randomised block design with three replications for each treatment. Different berry physical characteristics like weight, length, diameter and firmness were positively influenced with the different treatments except for ethephon (400 ppm) and ABA (400 ppm) treatments, which reduced the berry firmness significantly. Berry biochemical parameters were positively improved by almost all the plant bioregulators, they were most pronounced with ethephon (400 ppm) and ABA (400 ppm). The most prominent effects of ABA and ethephon treatments were noted on the total anthocyanins biosynthesis in the berries, which is major bottleneck under the warm subtropical conditions in different coloured grape genotypes. Hence, application of new generation plant bioregulators such as BTH, Pro-Ca, ABA and ethephon resulted in improvement in berry quality parameters of cv. Beauty Seedless.

An attempt was made to substantiate the optimum sucrose level and light conditions for biosynthesis of betalain pigments (betaxanthins and betacyaninins) from callus cultures of bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.). A sucrose concentration of 50 g/l in MS medium resulted in maximum response coefficient with earliest pigment initiation and intensification. Sucrose at 50 g/l resulted in significant increase in production of betacyanin and betaxanthin as compared to control. Under high sucrose concentration callus growth was significantly decreased. Continuous blue light was most effective in enhancing the betacyanin and betaxanthin content in the callus cultures. Under complete darkness there was significant decrease in pigment content but the callus growth was increased.

Pyometra, either open or closed cervix, inevitably progresses to systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), if ovariohysterectomy is not done timely. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of pyometra led SIRS on certain serum biochemical and prostaglandin metabolite, 13,14-dihydro-15-keto PGF2 alpha (PGFM) and oxidative stress indices in the canine. The pyometra positive bitches were categorized as SIRS+ (n=29) and SIRS- (n =16) based on temperature (102.5°F), respiration rate (>20/min), heart rate (>102/min), and total leukocytes count (16×103 per μL). The SIRS+ bitches showed hypoalbuminemia, hyperglobulinemia, elevated blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, decreased super oxide dismutase (SOD) activity with moderate increase in the lipid peroxidation. Further, the SIRS+ bitches had significantly higher serum PGFM concentration (6.83±0.7 vs. 4.12±0.4 ng/mL) than SIRS- and the level was influenced by cervical patency. It was concluded that elevated serum PGFM along with hyperglobunemia, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine would be useful in diagnosis and monitoring of pyometra led SIRS in bitch.

Wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cumini), Alternaria blight (Alternaria brunsii) and aphids (Myzus persicae) were recorded as major pests in cumin. A. alternata, A. brunsii and Cladosporium cladosporioides were isolated from cumin leaves and stems, Fusarium equiseti, F. oxysporum and Macrophomina phaseolina were isolated from cumin roots. Pathogenicity tests validated the disease causal organisms and molecular characterization yielded novel gene sequences and have been assigned GenBank accession numbers and released in public domain. Whereas, powdery mildew, caused by Erysiphe polygoni was also observed causing minor aerial blight. Hitherto unknown aerial blight caused by C. cladosporioides in cumin was observed for the first time. The highest seed yield with the maximum reduction of diseases and aphid population was recorded in both the varieties RZ-19 and RZ-223 from bio-intensive IPM module comprising of soil amended with neem cake and vermicompost, seeds treatment with Trichoderma viride followed by one spray of Dithane M-45 mixed with Dinocap at 45 days, one spray of Imidachloprid at 55 days and two sprays of neem oil (2%) at 50 and 60 days after sowing in prophylactic mode eventually culminated in the maximum net benefit in both the varieties RZ-19 and RZ-223 of `₹ 13722 and 11787, respectively.

Background: Pregnancies achieved through in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) are associated with adverse first trimester outcomes in comparison to spontaneously achieved pregnancies. In view of this, it is imperative to predict the success as well as prognosticate the pregnancy outcome of an IVF cycle not only for the clinicians but also the couples undergoing IVF. Serum beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) value has, thus, been used as a biomarker for pregnancy outcome after IVF and also an aid in counselling and management of the patient. Aim: The main objective of this study was to compare the predictive value of the first serum β-hCG value and the pregnancy outcome after an IVF cycle (whether fresh or frozen embryo transfer) in the two subgroups of patients. Settings and Design: The study was conducted at Assisted Reproductive Technology Centre of a tertiary care hospital, and it was a retrospective cohort study. Methods and Materials: A retrospective study was performed for post-IVF pregnancies at a single IVF centre from March 2014 to February 2015 with serum β-hCG values less than or equal to 1000 mIU/ml. The initial serum values of β-hCG on the day 16 of embryo transfer were correlated with first trimester pregnancy outcome and ongoing pregnancy rate (>12 weeks gestation). Results: Of the 208 post-IVF pregnancies included in the study, the group with β-hCG more than 500 mIU/ml had statistically significant higher ongoing pregnancy rates and a lesser poor pregnancy outcome. Conclusion: The study concluded that an early serum β-hCG value can be used as a predictor of a successful or an adverse first trimester pregnancy outcome helping in better counselling and monitoring of the high-risk precious IVF pregnancies.

Sports and endocrinology are complex interrelated disciplines. Sports and exercise modulate endocrine and metabolic health, and are used to prevent and manage disease. Endocrine and metabolic function influence participation and performance in sports activity. The Bhubaneswar Declaration, released on the occasion of the Endocrine Society of India Conference, resolves to promote the science of sports endocrinology. The authors commit to optimize endocrine health in sports persons, encourage safe use of sports to promote health, and prevent misuse of endocrine interventions in sports.

Summary: Background: The burden of dengue virus (DENV) infection across geographical regions of India is poorly quantified. We estimated the age-specific seroprevalence, force of infection, and number of infections in India. Methods: We did a community-based survey in 240 clusters (118 rural, 122 urban), selected from 60 districts of 15 Indian states from five geographical regions. We enumerated each cluster, randomly selected (with an Andriod application developed specifically for the survey) 25 individuals from age groups of 5–8 years, 9–17 years, and 18–45 years, and sampled a minimum of 11 individuals from each age group (all the 25 randomly selected individuals in each age group were visited in their houses and individuals who consented for the survey were included in the study). Age was the only inclusion criterion; for the purpose of enumeration, individuals residing in the household for more than 6 months were included. Sera were tested centrally by a laboratory team of scientific and technical staff for IgG antibodies against the DENV with the use of indirect ELISA. We calculated age group specific seroprevalence and constructed catalytic models to estimate force of infection. Findings: From June 19, 2017, to April 12, 2018, we randomly selected 17 930 individuals from three age groups. Of these, blood samples were collected and tested for 12 300 individuals (5–8 years, n=4059; 9–17 years, n=4265; 18–45 years, n=3976). The overall seroprevalence of DENV infection in India was 48·7% (95% CI 43·5–54·0), increasing from 28·3% (21·5–36·2) among children aged 5–8 years to 41·0% (32·4–50·1) among children aged 9–17 years and 56·2% (49·0–63·1) among individuals aged between 18–45 years. The seroprevalence was high in the southern (76·9% [69·1–83·2]), western (62·3% [55·3–68·8]), and northern (60·3% [49·3–70·5]) regions. The estimated number of primary DENV infections with the constant force of infection model was 12 991 357 (12 825 128–13 130 258) and for the age-dependent force of infection model was 8 655 425 (7 243 630–9 545 052) among individuals aged 5–45 years from 30 Indian states in 2017. Interpretation: The burden of dengue infection in India was heterogeneous, with evidence of high transmission in northern, western, and southern regions. The survey findings will be useful in making informed decisions about introduction of upcoming dengue vaccines in India. Funding: Indian Council of Medical Research.

The genetic diversity and population structure studies on 32 wild Malus species were conducted using the nine inter simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers. The average value of diversity indices, viz. resolving power (Rp), polymorphic information content (PIC), effective multiplex ratio (EMR) and marker index (MI) of ISSR markers were 2.389, 0.388, 16.429 and 6.228, respectively, while the Jaccard’s similarity coefficient ranged from 0.46 to 0.97. The cluster analysis divided the selected Malus species into two major clusters and principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) further reconfirmed the result of the cluster analysis. The first three axes of PCoA explained 43.49% variation and analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) explained 16% variation between the indigenous and exotic Malus populations. The studied Malus species were genetically differentiated into four distinct populations which were revealed through the model based population structure analysis. Thus, the present investigation revealed substantial genetic diversity among the studied wild Malus species and existing genetic diversity could be valuable genetic resources for future apple improvement programme.

The study deals the development and evaluation of a multi-nozzle backpack type power sprayer, which can be used to spray at all stages of cotton crop by using the boom both in horizontal (during early stages of crop) and in vertical (during maturity stage) position. Three types of nozzles N1, N2 and N3 were evaluated in the laboratory at three pressures P1 (3.0 kg/cm2), P2 (4.5 kg/cm2) and P3 (6.0 kg/cm2) and at three target distances D1 (540 mm), D2 (340 mm) and D3 (250 mm). Based on laboratory results, rate of discharge, angle of spray and swath width were found non-significant for nozzle N1 and N3. Therefore, nozzle N1 and nozzle N2 were selected for spraying on cotton crops at different stages of growth (60, 75, 90 and 105 days after sowing).Water sensitive paper was fixed on the plant at three locations of canopy (up and down of leaf). Uniformity coefficient and droplet density varied from 1.19 to 2.91 and 34.33 to 76.67. However, at a particular stage of crop the uniformity index and droplet density for some combination of locations was found non-significant. Field capacity of Nozzle N1 and N2 decreased from 0.34 ha/h to 0.09 ha/h and 0.28 ha/h to 0.09 ha/h when the position of boom was changed from the horizontal to vertical positions. Fuel consumption for spraying with nozzle N1 and nozzle N2 increased from 0.42 l/h to 0.60 l/h and 0.37 l/h to 0.50 l/h when the position of boom was changed from horizontal to vertical positions.

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic progressive inflammatory condition with high cost of management and significant impact on the patient and healthcare system. Hence, there is a need to estimate and analyze the economic impact of RA. Materials and Methods: It was a cross-sectional prospective follow-up single-center study at a tertiary care hospital conducted over a period of 02 years and 06 months from September 2019 to February 2022 after ethical committee clearance. Results: A total of 189 RA patients were included after excluding 15 patients. The male-to-female ratio was 0.687. The mean age of the study population was 44.74 ± 5.2 years. The mean yearly average cost of management of RA was Rs 29155.1 ± 18234.1, of which 49.6% was direct medical, 19.4% was direct non-medical, and 31% was indirect costs. Of average direct medical costs, cost toward non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) was 3.1%; conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) was 36.3%; and laboratory, radiology investigations, and consultations was 6.4%, 1.48%, and 12.3%, respectively. Factors, such as longer duration of treatment, use of biologic DMARDs, loss of productive workdays, extraarticular manifestations, and management of complications, were associated with higher cost of treatment of RA. Conclusions: This study quantifies the economic burden of the RA by measuring costs incurred toward all aspects of the patient’s life including the indirect costs due to loss of workdays. The knowledge of cost will help in financial management by patients and healthcare providers.

Context: Hypothyroidism affects cognitive functions especially memory. However, most of the previous studies have generally evaluated older hypothyroid patients and sample size of these studies varied in terms of age range. Aims: To see whether hypothyroidism affects memory in young patients. Settings and Design: The sample consisted of 11 hypothyroid patients with an age of 18–49 and 8 healthy controls matched on age and education. Subjects and Methods: Verbal episodic memory was assessed using Hindi adaptation of Rey-Auditory Verbal Learning Test. Statistical Analysis Used: An independent t-test was used to see the difference between mean performance of the patient group and healthy control on memory measures. Results: Results indicated nonsignificant difference between verbal episodic memory of patient group and healthy controls. Conclusions: On the basis of these findings, it was concluded that hypothyroidism may not affect younger patients in terms of episodic verbal memory the same way as it does in the older patients.

A tractor operated semi-automatic two row vegetable transplanter using plug type nursery was developed. This machine makes ridges with provisions to vary row and plant spacing. Machine released the seedlings close to the ground in near vertical position without any damage. Machine was evaluated in the field for transplanting tomato, brinjal, and chilli nursery at forward speeds of 1.00, 1.25, and 1.50 km/h. Plug type nursery was used which was grown in trays having truncated pyramid shape cells of volume 16.28 cm3 using soil-less media developed by Punjab Agricultural University. Plant missing, plant doubling, and quality of feed index was adversely affected at higher forward speeds for tomato and brinjal. Quality of feed index was 100 % for chilli up to highest forward speed of 1.5km/h. The machine can transplant tomato, brinjal and chilli at forward speed of 1.00 km/h, 1.25 km/h, and 1.50 km/h respectively with plant missing of less than 4% at these recommended speeds. The machine could transplant the seedlings with inclinations less than 30°, which is considered erect. No plant mortality was observed after 20 days for all the crops studied. Field capacity of the machine for transplanting tomato, brinjal and chilli was 0.103 ha/h, 0.126ha/h, and 0.152 ha/h, respectively as recommended for these cops. Saving in labour with the use of the machine over manual method for transplanting tomato, brinjal and chilli was 84.86%, 85.58%, and 88.41%, respectively, whereas saving in cost was 24.80%, 28.03% and 42.42%, respectively.

Introduction: Diffuse Parenchymal Lung Disease (DPLD) is known to be a common sequela of various lung insults. DPLD is diagnosed by various modalities such as clinical, radiological, lung function and histopathological techniques. There is a limited understanding on the potential clinical application of the non-invasive lung function tests in the evaluation of DPLD. Aim: To study the role of Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) in the assessment of lung impairment in DPLD patients and its association with clinicoradiological and histopathological profiles. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted with 50 DPLD patients who were selected as per the study criteria over a period of 30 months at our tertiary care respiratory centre. Clinicoradiological evaluation and PFTs were carried out for all of the patients. Histopathological examination was done for patients with inconclusive diagnosis. Lung impairment was assessed and its association with clinicoradiologic and histopathologic profile was analysed. Results: Of the 50 selected patients, diagnosis of a specific subset of DPLD was possible in 33 through the clinicoradiological findings while in 17 through histopathological findings. Overall, idiopathic interstitial pneumonia was found to be common in 31 (62%) followed by sarcoidosis in 14 (28%). Patients showed restrictive and mixed spirometry pattern in 35 (70%), decreased lung volumes in 30 (60%) and some form of diffusion impairment in 42 (84%) while 17 (34%) patients had showed reduced 6-minute walk distance (6MWD). Significant association was noted between: (i) severe diffusion impairment and crackles (p=0.011); (ii) severe diffusion impairment and honeycombing pattern (p

Study of physiological response of different papaya (Carica papaya L.) genotypes to low temperature stress is of paramount importance owing to its higher susceptibility.The present study was conducted under controlled conditions of National Phytotron Facility, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi to investigate the effect of different low temperature regimes on growth, nutrient acquisition and other physiological parameters in five papaya genotypes and one distant relative, i.e. genus Vasconcellea cundinamarcensis known for cold tolerance. Results revealed that there was higher reduction in photosynthesis rate, stomatal conductance and transpiration rate under all the low temperature regimes, which leads to reduction of plant growth related parameters. Temperature treated plants showed 57.96% reduction in photosynthetic rate as compared to the control. Amongst the five genotypes, the lowest stomatal conductance was exhibited by V. cundinamarcensis (0.026 mol/m2/s) followed by P-9-5 (0.055 mol/m2/s). The lowest transpiration rate was also exhibited by V. cundinamarcensis (0.39 mol/m2/s) followed by P-7-9 (0.73 mol/m2/s). The highest per cent increase in the leaf potassium (K) was observed in genotype V. cundinamarcensis (49.15%), followed by P-7-9 (13.29%) while for roots, it was in P-7-9 (128.81%). The genotype V. cundinamarcensis also showed the highest mean calcium (Ca) accumulation in both leaf (3.58%) and root (3.67%). Low temperature treatment, in most of the cases, significantly affected the leaf and root nutrient contents, although the level of change was nutrient and genotype specific.

16 month old child was brought to the hospital with loose motions, vomiting and a history of failure to gain weight. Examination revealed hepatomegaly. Investigations revealed a space occupying lesion in the right lobe of the liver. She was diagnosed as a case of hepatoblastoma and was given 7 cycles of chemotherapy following which she was taken up for Right hepatectomy. Hepatic malignancies being rare in this age group and the surgery planned being extensive, the anaesthetic management was challenging. The child was taken up as a high risk case and successfully managed with the use of balanced anaesthesia in conjunction with epidural analgesia and invasive pressure monitoring.

This communication is the first of a series on South Asian fasts, festivals, and diabetes, designed to spread awareness and stimulate research on this aspect of diabetes and metabolic care. It describes the various fasts observed as part of Hindu religion and offers a classification scheme for them, labeling them as infrequent and frequent. The infrequent fasts are further sub-classified as brief and prolonged, to facilitate a scientific approach to glycemic management during these fasts. Pre-fast counseling, non-pharmacological therapy, pharmacological modification, and post-fast debriefing are discussed in detail. All available drug classes and molecules are covered in this article, which provides guidance about necessary changes in dosage and timing of administration. While in no way exhaustive, the brief review offers a basic framework which diabetes care professionals can use to counsel and manage persons in their care who wish to observe various Hindu fasts.

Background: Prevalence of diabetes is on an increase in India, currently there is limited nation-wide data regarding the prevalence of chronic complications in diabetic patients at diagnosis. This information will help health-care professionals approach management more aggressively to prevent complications. Objective: To determine the prevalence of chronic complications in newly-diagnosed Type 2 diabetic (T2D) patients in India. Design and Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey of T2D patients, diagnosed within 3 months of their first visit to the centers doing the survey. Each patient was screened for diabetic complications, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and body mass index. Family history was recorded. Standard protocols were used to make the diagnosis of retinopathy, neuropathy and nephropathy. Data analysis was carried out using the standard statistical techniques. Results: Of the total 4,600 (males 67%, females 33%) newly diagnosed patients with T2D, majority were from the age group 41-50 years (40%). 13.15% of newly detected India T2D had neuropathy 6.1% had retinopathy and 1.06% had nephropathy. Risk factors of macro vascular complication such as hypertension, obesity, and dyslipidemia were observed in 23.3%, 26%, and 27% of patients respectively. Ischemic heart disease was noticed in 6%. Conclusion: High prevalence of micro vascular complications was present at diagnosis along with association of CV cardiovascular risk factors among Indian T2D. In view of this, screening must be instituted for all diabetics for complications at the time of diagnosis itself.

Background: Polymorphic light eruption (PLE) has been found to be associated with thyroid function abnormalities. Aim: To study clinicoepidemiological features of PLE and to study and compare thyroid function tests (TFTs) in cases of PLE. Materials and Methods: The study included 100 cases of PLE and age- and sex-matched controls attending a skin outpatient department. The clinical and epidemiological features were recorded. Both cases and controls were tested for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). In case of abnormality in TSH, triiodothyronine (T3) and tetraiodothyronine (T4) levels were estimated. Results: TFT was abnormal in 25 cases and 7 controls. TSH was elevated in 24 cases and 6 controls and decreased in 1 case and 1 control. T3 and T4 were decreased in 18 cases and 6 controls and elevated in 1 each in case and control. Hypothyroidism was significantly high among cases than controls. Discussion: TFT abnormality was significantly higher among cases than controls. Hypothyroidism has a significant association with PLE. Genetic basis or immune dysfunction may be the cause of both the diseases. PLE may be considered as a clinical presentation of thyroid function disorder and vice versa. Conclusion: Cases of PLE should be examined clinically for thyroid disorder and also tested for TSH or TFT to find any association and prevent serious consequences.

The pattern of lung injuries has gradually changed globally in last two decades from penetrating chest injuries to blast lung injury. This has mainly occurred due to trauma setting in the global war on terror and accidental explosions in confined space in military service conditions. Blast Lung Injury (BLI) presents unique triage, diagnostic and management challenges. A high index of suspicion and timely intervention in these cases is the key to improved outcomes.

Aims: In urothelial tumors of the urinary bladder, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2)/neu expression has been reported over 10 years, but there is no clear correlation between prognosis and recurrence rate. The present study evaluates prognostic implication of HER-2/neu expression. Subjects and Methods: In this study, 100 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded specimens of primary transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder were processed. HER-2/neu monoclonal antibody immunohistochemistry staining procedure used for the study. Results: A total of 70 (70%) patients were positive for overexpression of HER-2/neu. HER-2/neu was positive in patients with 42 (70%) superficial tumor, 28 (70%) muscle invasive tumor, 41 (75.9%) high-grade tumor, 29 (63%) low grade tumor, 31 (68.9%) recurrent tumor, and 6 (66.6%) had positive lymph nodes. Conclusions: Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2/neu over expression was not correlated with the tumor stage, lymphnode metastasis or recurrence of the disease. HER-2/neu overexpression was statistically insignificantly correlated with the differentiation grade (P < 0.161) as compared to previous studies. Future studies on HER-2 expression with chemo-sensitivity and efficacy of HER-2-targeted therapies in urothelial carcinomas is needed.

Spinal myoclonus occurring after spinal anaesthesia is very rare and characterised by sudden involuntary jerks of the back and limbs. A 34 year old male without any comorbidities underwent a subarachnoid block with bupivacaine heavy for laminectomy of L4-L5. Within minutes he developed pain and severe myoclonic jerks of lower back radiating to lower and upper limbs which lasted for 48 hours. Another 65 year old obese lady, known diabetic and hypertensive who presented for a percutaneous nephrolithotomy underwent an epidural catheter placement at L2-L3 and a subarachnoid block with bupivacaine heavy at L3-L4. Within minutes she developed severe myoclonic jerks of the lower limbs and back radiating to upper limbs which again lasted for 48 hours. Both cases ofprolonged acute propriospinal myoclonus following subarachnoid block occurred within a period of six months at a tertiary care centre and were managed with sedation, muscle relaxation, mechanical ventilation and anti epileptics.

Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea sp) is recognized as a high value landscape plant. It is usually propagated by hardwood cuttings, but in certain varieties, rooting per cent is very low, ultimately the rate of multiplication is less. Therefore, the present investigation was carried with an objective to standardize the protocol for quick, easy and mass multiplication of two difficult-to-root cultivars Mahatma Gandhi and Refulgens, using in vitro techniques. Nodal sections with axillary buds were excised, surface-sterilized and cultured on MS medium supplemented with plant growth regulators. Pre-treatment agitation of explants in carbendazim (0.1%) + Metalaxyl (0.1%) + 8-HQC (200 mg/l) for 3 hr followed by quick dip in ethyl alcohol (70%; v/v) for 30 sec and surface sterilization in HgCl2 (0.1%) for 5 min was used for reducing contamination. MS medium with BAP (5 mg/l) was found to be the best with highest percentage of culture establishment (81.13) and the fastest bud sprout (8.18 days). MS medium supplemented with BAP (4.0 mg/l) and kinetin (0.5 mg/l) resulted in highest shoot proliferation in both the cultivars. The best treatment for micro-shoot elongation was the one where MS medium was supplemented with 0.5 mg/l GA3 giving the highest elongation (3.89 cm). In vitro rooting of micro-shoots was done in half-strength MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/l IBA. Hardening was done in glass jar with polypropylene cap.

In the present investigation, seroprevalence and host related epidemiological factors of equine trypanosomosis were assessed using Ab-ELISA. Serum samples (515) of equines (horse–227, mule–249 and donkey–39) suspected for trypanosomosis (surra) were collected during April 2014 to March 2015, from 7 districts of semi-arid zones of northern plains of India. Overall seroprevelence of 22.33% was recorded indicating endemicity of surra in equines of the region. Maximum prevalence was recorded in district Mathura (24.81%) followed by Bharatpur (23.26%) and the lowest prevalence was recorded in Hathras (16.23%) district. Trypanosomosis was prevalent throughout the year in the region and higher prevalence was observed in monsoon and post monsoon months followed by winter and least in the summer. Prevalence of trypanosomosis in equines does not vary with the host related factors, viz. sex, age, species, pregnancy status and months of pregnancy in the region.

This study was conducted to induce novelty in marigold cultivar Pusa Narangi Gainda through gamma irradiation via in vivo and in vitro approaches. The seedlings grown under in vivo and the proliferated cultures under in vitro, were exposed to different doses of 60Co gamma rays (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 Gy). 20 Gy and 15 Gy dose was identified as LD50 value for in vivo and in vitro conditions (53.24 % and 52.55 % plant survival), respectively. There were morphological variations in between irradiated and non irradiated plants. Treatment with 20 Gy induced early flower bud (49, 18 days) compared to control (55.56 days) under in vivo study. Under in vitro condition, the flower color changed to yellow (yellow 10 YR) compared to the control (orange 5 YR) at 15 Gy. In M1 generation, two mutants in flower form (m1 and m3), one in colour (m4) and another one in flower earliness (m2) were isolated under in vivo mutation, whereas, five mutants in flower colour (nm1, nm2, nm5, nm6 and nm7) and two in flower form (nm3 and nm4) were isolated in irradiated plants which were quite distinct compared to non-irradiated. Variability caused by induced mutations need not to be essentially different from variability caused by spontaneous mutation during evolution, therefore, it is necessary to carry on the M2 generation. The mutants which were selected from the M1 generation were selfed to raise the M2 generation. The study revealed six putative mutants (pm1, pm2, pm3, pm4, pm5 and pm6), which could successfully maintain their distinct traits. Among them, pm3 produced early flowering in 47.89 days and pm4 gave light orange coloured flower (orange 10 YR).

An experiment on Jamunapari goat kids (24), 90-day-old was carried out to assess the effect of straw type (arhar, Cajnus cajan or gram, Cicer arietinum) and form of diet (mash or pellet) on growth, feed efficiency and slaughtering performance. Slaughtering performance was assessed at 9 and 12 months age on 3 animals from each group. Two types of complete feed mixtures were prepared using straw and concentrate in 60:40 ratio. One part of each complete feed mixture was converted to pellet form of diet while another part remained as mash. These were randomly allocated to four groups of kids, six in each and fed ad lib. The kids under present feeding and management protocol attained live weight 18 to 19 kg at 6 month, 24 to 28 kg at 9 month and 31 to 34 kg at 12 month of age, with average daily gain (ADG) 71 to 84 g during entire growth period. The feed efficiency (kg feed / kg gain) ranged from 14.5 to 21.1 kg. The carcass weight at 9 month was 11.4 to 12.2 kg, whereas at 12 month varied from 15.0 to 16.3 kg and the dressing percent ranged from 54 to 57. Growth, feed efficiency, carcass weight and dressing percent were similar among 4 kid groups and were not different between the 2 straws and diet forms. Study revealed that goats in general and Jamunapari breed in particular could be maintained under stall feeding with diets containing high proportion of crop residues (gram or arhar straw). The diets with roughage to concentrate ration 60:40 provided daily gain up to 84 g, with FCR 14 kg and live weight 34 kg at 12 months of age. Appropriate age of slaughter in Jamunapari kids was observed as 9 month because kids at this age have the greater FCR with low cost of feeding. Pellet diet has better economics for commercial kid production. Therefore, it is suggested that Jamunapari goat kids can be maintained under stall feeding conditions on crop residues based feeding systems suitable for rural as well as goat entrepreneur development under urban locations.