Plant Science Today
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST
<p><strong>Editor-in-Chief</strong>: K K Sabu<br /><strong>Publishing model</strong>: Fully Open Access<br />Days to First Editorial Decision: <strong>48 days</strong><br />Submission to acceptance: <strong>136 days</strong><br />Acceptance rate: <strong>36%<br /></strong>Impact Factor (2022): <strong>0.9</strong><br />Scopus CiteScore: <strong>1.4</strong><br />NAAS score (2024): <strong>6.9</strong><br />Google Scholar h-index: <strong>27</strong></p> <p>Plant Science Today (PST; eISSN: 2348-1900) is a fully open access peer reviewed international journal devoted to publish scientific articles from all areas of plant science to share advances to a wider audience. PST, published by Horizon e-Publishing Group, is covered by Scopus, Web of Science, BIOSIS Previews, Clarivate Analytics, NAAS, UGC CARE (Group II) and many other indexing/abstracting services. Four issues (c. 1100 pp) are published each year.</p>Horizon e-Publishing Groupen-USPlant Science Today2348-1900<div id="copyright"> <h2>Copyright and Licence details of published articles</h2> <p>Authors who publish with this journal agree to the following terms:</p> <ol> <li>Authors retain copyright and grant the journal right of first publication with the work simultaneously licensed under a <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/" target="_new">Creative Commons Attribution License</a> that allows others to share the work with an acknowledgement of the work's authorship and initial publication in this journal.</li> <li>Authors are able to enter into separate, additional contractual arrangements for the non-exclusive distribution of the journal's published version of the work (e.g., post it to an institutional repository or publish it in a book), with an acknowledgement of its initial publication in this journal.</li> </ol> <div id="openaccess"> <h2>Open Access Policy</h2> <p>Plant Science Today is an open access journal. There is no registration required to read any article. All published articles are distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC Attribution 4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited (<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/" target="_new">https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/</a>). Authors are permitted and encouraged to post their work online (e.g., in institutional repositories or on their website) prior to and during the submission process, as it can lead to productive exchanges, as well as earlier and greater citation of published work (See <a href="http://opcit.eprints.org/oacitation-biblio.html" target="_new">The Effect of Open Access</a>).</p> </div> </div>Enhancing rooting efficiency and nutrient uptake in Rosa damascena Mill. cuttings: insights into auxin and cutting type optimization
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2585
<p>Auxin application plays a crucial role in successfully propagating and cultivating Rosa damascena Mill., a valuable plant species with cultural and economic significance. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of auxin dose and leaf presence on rooting success and nutrient uptake efficiency in Rosa damascena cuttings. Our results demonstrated that applying IBA significantly improved rooting success and nutrient absorption capacity, with a concentration of 1000 ppm being the most effective, resulting in a remarkable rooting percentage (48 ? 6%), increased root length (2.52 ? 0.25 cm) and improving leaf area (70.18 ? 5.10 cm2). The inclusion of leaves on cuttings has greatly magnified root success (90 ? 10%), leaf area (98.86 ? 17.86 cm2) and nutrient absorption efficiency, highlighting the vital role of leaves in early root development. Our findings provide valuable insights into the development of sustainable and productive cultivation methods for this significant plant species. Furthermore, our investigation emphasized the importance of optimizing auxin application, with leafy cuttings treated with 1000 ppm of auxin showing the most promising results regarding growth attributes, nutrient assimilation and survival rate.</p>Soumia El Malahi Noureddine SbahJamaa ZimMounia EnnamiBahija Zakri Wafaa MokhtariHouda TaimouryaMimoun MokhtariLalla Mina Idrissi Hassani
Copyright (c) 2022 Soumia El Malahi , Noureddine Sbah, Jamaa Zim, Mounia Ennami, Bahija Zakri , Wafaa Mokhtari, Houda Taimourya, Mimoun Mokhtari, Lalla Mina Idrissi Hassani
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2024-01-012024-01-0111111913110.14719/pst.2585Linear mathematical models for yield estimation of baby corn (Zea mays L.)
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2618
<p>Linear mathematical models have been developed for predicting baby corn yield in terms of cob volume for two cycles of maize (Zea mays L.). Cob volume is directly proportional to morphological parameters such as length, weight, and girth; hence, linear mathematical models have been developed. Primary data for a random selection of 60 cobs for each cycle were collected, and lab work was carried out to measure the corn ears and cob growth parameters. An irregular distribution was observed among all six growth parameters examined in the study. Descriptive statistical measures were employed to facilitate the description of growth parameters. The final volume of the baby corn cob was used for crop yield estimation. The water displacement method was employed to measure the actual volume of cobs, which was then compared with the volumes estimated using the developed mathematical models. For both cycles, similar trends were observed in both estimated and actual volumes of cobs, providing numerical confirmation for the validity of the developed mathematical models. The theoretical validity of these models was also established using statistical measures such as R2, adjusted R2, F-test, P-value, and correlation coefficient. Any deviations between estimated and actual volumes would indicate changes in the dependent variables of the model, attributed to the effects of climate change, as other internal and external factors are held constant. These models offer a critical predictive tool for stakeholders, enabling improved yield predictions and optimized resource allocation. As a result, they facilitate strategic planning for increased profitability.</p>Neetu RaniJitender Singh BamelSavita GargAbhinav ShuklaSumit Kumar PathakRishta Nandini SinghNandini SinghSara GahlotKiran Bamel
Copyright (c) 2022 Neetu Rani, Jitender Singh Bamel, Savita Garg, Abhinav Shukla, Sumit Kumar Pathak, Rishta Nandini Singh, Nandini Singh, Sara Gahlot, Kiran Bamel
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2024-01-012024-01-0111116617510.14719/pst.2618Evaluation of zinc application methods and integrated nutrient management on variation in growth, yield and yield contributing factors in wheat
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2957
<p>Zinc is an important micro nutrient and plays an important role in improving the crop growth and productivity. Intensive agricultural practices due to rise in population have accelerated the use of chemical fertilizers which resulted in depletion of soil fertility. In this regard, a 2 year field experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Farm of Lovely Professional University during rabi season in 2021-2022 and 2022-23 to examine the effect of different zinc application methods and integrated nutrient management on growth, yield and yield contributing factors on wheat. Three types of zinc application methods along with various levels of integrated nutrient management approaches were used for the study. The results revealed that a significant interaction between zinc application methods and integrated nutrient management practices was observed with dry matter accumulation (g/m2), Leaf area index, spikes/m2, spike length (cm), number of grains per spike and grain yield of wheat crop. Maximum improvement in grain yield (5.5 t/ha) was obtained when soil+foliar application of zinc was combined with 75% recommended dose of fertilizer + 2.5 t/ha farm yard manure + Zinc solubilizing bacteria. Additionally, these studies need to be repeated at many locations with various agro-climatic circumstances.</p>Sreethu SGurleen KaurVandna Chhabra
Copyright (c) 2022 Sreethu S, Gurleen Kaur, Vandna Chhabra
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2024-01-142024-01-1411147347910.14719/pst.2957Effects of plant growth regulators on callogenesis and embryogenesis in sarnav and desiree potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) varieties
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2428
<p>Somatic embryos play a pivotal role in the production of high-quality potatoes and seed breeding. This study focused on determining the concentrations of 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and 6-benzyl amino purine (BAP) in the formation of callus tissue and callus induction. Our goal was to assess the efficiency of potato explants with the highest potential for somatic embryo production. To achieve this, we cultivated Sarnav and Desiree potato varieties under <em>in vitro</em> tissue culture conditions, utilizing the obtained tissue cultures for subsequent experiments. The MS nutrient media were enriched with NAA and BAP at ratios of 1.5: 1, 1: 1.5, and 1: 1 mg/L, along with NAA concentrations of 1.5, 1, or 2 mg/L. Somatic embryogenesis experiments were conducted using various MS nutrient media, enriched with BAP and GA<sub>3</sub> at concentrations of 1: 0.5, 0.4: 0.1, 0.5: 0.2, and 0.1: 0.1 mg/L of plant growth regulators. During the course of the study, diverse callus formations were observed in both leaf and internodal stem explants. Among the nutrient media, the M2 medium enriched with 1: 1.5 mg/L of NAA and BAP yielded the highest callus formation rates: 92% for the Desiree variety and 100% for the Sarnav variety, specifically in internodal stem explants. Notably, the index of embryo formation in leaf explants selected for somatic embryogenesis within the SE4 medium was 70% for the Sarnav variety and 65% for the Desiree variety. The inclusion of BAP and GA<sub>3</sub> at a ratio of 0.1: 0.1 mg/l in the SE4 nutrient medium resulted in somatic embryogenesis in 80% of calli for the Sarnav variety and 78% for the Desiree variety. These findings underscore the potential for regenerating plants through somatic embryogenesis in the Sarnav potato variety, a significant development with implications for genetic transformation studies involving this particular variety.</p>Feruza I. BabadjanovaKhurshida A. UbaydullaevaAkmal M. AsrorovBakhtiyor K. RakhmanovAdkham N. AbdullaevAbduvakhid A. BolkievSadulla A. AbdullaevJakhongir B. EshmurzaevZabardast T. Buriev
Copyright (c) 2022 Feruza I. Babadjanova, Khurshida A. Ubaydullaeva, Akmal M. Asrorov, Bakhtiyor K. Rakhmanov, Adkham N. Abdullaev, Abduvakhid A. Bolkiev, Sadulla A. Abdullaev, Jakhongir B. Eshmurzaev, Zabardast T. Buriev
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2024-01-022024-01-0211121522210.14719/pst.2428In silico screening of phytoconstituents of Cissus quadrangularis and Chromolaena odorata against proteins of antimicrobial resistance and wound healing
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/3016
<p class="western" lang="en-GB" align="justify">In silico screening is a methodological approach, which is invaluable for rational drug design and the identification of potential therapeutic agents. In the context of antibiotic-resistant infectious wounds, molecular docking can provide a deeper understanding of how phytocompounds might interfere with bacterial virulence and antibiotic resistance. In this study, proteins involved in antimicrobial resistance and wound healing were docked against major phytoconstituents of ethyl acetate extract of Cissus quadrangularis (EACQ) and ethanol extract of Chromolaena odorata (EECO), two medicinal plants that have been traditionally used. Receptor structures for interleukin 6 (PDB id: 1n26) IL6, of human and mice, IL6 (Uniprot id p 20607) of rat, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGFR, PDB id: 2ctw) for human, mice, rat and penicillin binding protein 2a (PBP2a, PDB id: 1vqq) of S. aureus were downloaded from the database of the RCSB protein data bank. The ligand structures were downloaded from PubChem compound database in structure data file (.SDF) format. The docking studies were conducted using Autodock4. and the results of the docking analysis were visualised using Discovery Studio Visualizer. The docking log (dlg) file, featuring an RMSD table, provides binding energy values in Kcal/mol for each molecule at its optimal docked postures, offering insights into structural accuracy and ligand-receptor interaction strength in molecular docking simulations. In silico analysis of ligands showed that squalene of EACQ and epilupeol of EECO had the least binding energy towards proteins of antimicrobial resistance and wound healing. Thus, these compounds could emerge as promising lead molecules against infectious wounds.</p> S. Sivapria AparnaJohn Kariyil Bibu Menon K PriyankaSankar V J Hari
Copyright (c) 2022 Aparna S. Sivapria, Bibu John Kariyil, Priyanka Menon K., Hari Sankar V J
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2024-01-232024-01-2311153154310.14719/pst.3016Seed Vigor of Soybean Treated by Corona Discharge Plasma
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2288
<p>There is a huge gap between the output and demand of soybean in China. How to improve the seed vigor of soybean has always been a research focus. Low temperature plasma (LTP) is a new green technology, which is widely used in crop seed treatment. Corona plasma is a typical discharge mode of plasma, which can affect the vigor of seeds. The effect of different discharge power on the soybean seed vigor by plasma treatment was experimentally investigated. Plasma discharge characteristic wavelength and spatial distribution were analysed. It shows that the corona discharge spectrum mainly exhibits the strong ultraviolet radiation and 90% of the spectral intensity focused in the center of discharge region. Water absorption and germination index of seeds and the fresh weight of seedlings were used to characterize the specific effects caused by different plasma powers. The results show that plasma treatment has a significant effect on the early stage of germination and can significantly affect the soybean seed vigor and growth. Overdose treatment will cause inhibiting effect. This study provides an experimental basis for the practical agriculture application of corona plasma seed treatment.</p>Lianfeng LinRuning LiangXin LiuDan ZhangMingzhe WangWenhao ZhaoXiaojiang TangBaoxia LiGuannan ShiWenzhuo ChenJunwei GuoEric RobertFeng Huang
Copyright (c) 2022 Lianfeng Lin, Runing Liang, Xin Liu, Dan Zhang, Mingzhe Wang, Wenhao Zhao, Xiaojiang Tang, Baoxia Li, Guannan Shi, Wenzhuo Chen, Junwei Guo, Eric Robert, Feng Huang
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2024-01-052024-01-0511126627310.14719/pst.2288Evaluating the production potential of six Combretum species in the biomimetic synthesis of silver nanoparticles
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2489
<p>Existing research has shown that plants are best suited for the ecofriendly green synthesis of nanoparticles. This study reported novel findings on the biomimetic synthesis of silver nanoparticles using the aqueous leaf extract of six medicinal plant species in the genus, <em>Combretum</em> (<em>C. paniculatum, C. dolichopetalum, C. platypterum, C racemosum, C. bauchiense, </em>and<em> C. demeusei</em>). It was concerned with the characterization, phytochemical screening, antimicrobial and cytological evaluation of the synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The novelty of this study lies in the creation of a nanoparticle production index (NPPI) of the species based on their crystalline sizes (in nm) and yield (in mg/l) of AgNPs. This NPPI can be defined as a measure of the quantity of particles produced with respect to the experimental species. The study also investigated whether these species would produce similar results since they belong to the same genus. It was observed that the smaller the size of the nanoparticles, the higher the production index. The highest production index was observed in <em>C. paniculatum </em>(18.75 nm, 144. 6 mg/l), and the least in <em>C. demeusei</em> (0 nm, 6.3 mg/l). The AgNPs were characterized using various standard analytical techniques. The X-ray diffraction analysis indicated that the species showed 2 theta values in the 40° range, all corresponding to miller indices of (200). The synthesized AgNPs showed varying but significant antimicrobial activities. Also, majority of the species showed a high NPPI. The study heralds a system, “phytonanotaxonomy”, the classification of plants of the same taxa based on their NPPI.</p>Sheily Nneka EgonuUche Cyprian OkaforChinyere Chioma IsuosuoObiora Emmanuel UdohChukwuma Kenechukwu ChukwuemekaEmmanuel Gabriel NjokuObi Sergius Udengwu
Copyright (c) 2022 Sheily Nneka Egonu, Uche Cyprian Okafor, Chinyere Chioma Isuosuo, Obiora Emmanuel Udoh, Chukwuma Kenechukwu Chukwuemeka, Emmanuel Gabriel Njoku, Obi Sergius Udengwu
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2024-01-232024-01-2311157559210.14719/pst.2489GC-MS analysis and cytotoxic activity of the n-hexane fraction from Curcuma sahuynhensis Škornick. & N.S.Lý leaves collected in Vietnam
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2881
<p><em>Curcuma sahuynhensis</em> Škornick. & N.S.Lý is an endemic plant in Vietnam that has been used by the Sa Huynh people as a spice and medicine to cure illnesses linked to digestive disorders. Very little information is available so far about the chemical composition and biological effects of <em>C. sahuynhensis</em>. To find new pharmaceutical ingredients, the <em>in vitro</em> cytotoxic effect and the chemical profile of <em>C. sahuynhensis</em> leaf extract were investigated. In this study, the percolation method and liquid-liquid dispersion technique were used to extract dry sample powder. The chemical composition was detected by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The Sulforhodamine B and MTT methods were used to determine the cytotoxic activity. The chemical composition analysis showed that the leaf extract contained 14 components. The major components in the <em>n</em>-hexane extract were 6,10,14-trimethylpentadecan-2-one, phytol, 1-ethylbutyl hydroperoxide, isoborneol, 1-methylpentyl hydroperoxide, and neophytadiene. On human cancer cell lines, namely MFC-7, SK-LU-1, Hela, MKN-7, and HL-60, the leaf extract showed dose-dependent cytotoxic activity, with IC<sub>50 </sub>values ranging from 221.70±10.24 to 369.42±10.60 ?g/mL. The present study provides significant information on the chemical components and cytotoxic effects of the <em>n</em>-hexane extract from <em>C. sahuynhensis</em> leaves. The findings will continue to be crucial in future research on the evaluation of secondary metabolite compound analysis for cancer therapeutic effects.</p>Van Chen TranMinh-Nhut TruongThi Thuy Quynh TranThanh To Nhi NguyenHoang Khanh Linh Nguyen
Copyright (c) 2022 Van Chen Tran, Minh-Nhut Truong, Thi Thuy Quynh Tran, Thanh To Nhi Nguyen, Hoang Khanh Linh Nguyen
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2024-01-052024-01-0511130831510.14719/pst.2881Phytocoenotic Distribution of Hulthemia persica (Michaut ex Juss.) Bornm. (Rosaceae) under Different Ecological Conditions in Uzbekistan
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2533
<p>The paper presents some of the results of the 2020–2022 studies of 7 communities with the participation of a poorly studied forage and melliferous species, Hulthemia persica, in the Republic of Uzbekistan. The research goal is to identify the phytocenotic confinement of the poorly studied forage and melliferous species H. persica in various environmental conditions in the Republic of Uzbekistan. Phytocoenotic studies in 7 communities have shown that the population numbers of H. persica in the Tashkent Region (Parkentsay) are satisfactory. However, in recent years the strong impact of anthropogenic factors, primarily livestock grazing under natural growing conditions, has affected this species’ abundance, which has gradually disappeared. Large-scale exploration and prospecting, with the development of the oil and gas industry and other technogenic factors, has harmed the state of H. persica; therefore, populations lack young individuals and the cover provided by this species is relatively low. Therefore, it is crucial to strengthen protection measures, which the authors also recommend using for degraded pastures in the desert and foothill regions of the Republic of Uzbekistan. A detailed survey of natural populations and monitoring their condition should be carried out. In particular, H. persica is a promising plant adapted to various environmental conditions and can be used in degraded pastures in desert and foothill regions of the Republic of Uzbekistan.</p>T Rakhimova TashkhanimK Rakhimova NodiraK Sharipova VasilaK Rakhimova Nargiza E Temirov Eldor
Copyright (c) 2022 T Rakhimova Tashkhanim, K Rakhimova Nodira, K Sharipova Vasila, K Rakhimova Nargiza, E Temirov Eldor
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2024-01-252024-01-2511162663310.14719/pst.2533Evaluation of antidiabetic potential of Syzygium kanarense (Talbot) Raizada in streptozotocin- nicotinamide induced diabetic rats.
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2680
<p>Worldwide diabetes is the major killer disease and the antidiabetic drugs which are in use cause many side effects. Traditionally, some of the <em>Syzygium</em> spp. are in use for treating diabetes, and many species are being assessed for their antidiabetic property. This study is to assess the antidiabetic effectiveness of the bark of <em>Syzygium kanarense </em>(Talbot) Raizada. The antidiabetic efficacy of methanol and water extracts of the leaf (SKLM, SKLW) and the bark (SKBM, SKBW) were evaluated <em>in vitro</em> by the alpha-glucosidase- and alpha-amylase-inhibitory assays. The <em>in vivo</em> antidiabetic activity of the bark was assessed by oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and streptozotocin- nicotinamide (STZ-NA)-induced non-obese type 2 diabetic rat model. The serum biochemical parameters and histopathology of the pancreas, liver and kidney were evaluated after 21 days of treatment. The total phenolics and flavonoids were quantified in all the extracts. The antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH assay. Administration of SKBM and SKBW to STZ-NA-induced diabetic rats at 300 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg orally for 21 days exhibited statistically significant (<em>P</em> < 0.001) and dose-related drop in blood sugar levels, serum lipid and hepatorenal parameters. The extract-treated rats showed rejuvenated islets and increased beta-cell density in the pancreas, improved liver architecture and glomerular regeneration without fat deposition. Bark extracts showed the strongest alpha –glucosidase- and alpha –amylase-inhibitory activity in contrast to the leaf extracts. Antioxidants, phytoconstituents and antidiabetic action, as well as protection against free radical damage, were proved to be significantly correlated.</p>Sushmitha C HKrishnakumar G
Copyright (c) 2022 Sushmitha C H, Krishnakumar G
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2024-01-012024-01-01111546310.14719/pst.2680Biochar-based organic amendments on soil health, nutrient status and quality of potato (Solanum tuberosum)
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2706
<p>Cultivation of quality potatoes ensures a good earning compared to low quality, especially in terms of tuber weight and starch content. Therefore, an experiment was laid out to find out the impact of an organic amendment based on the combinations of biochar, vermicompost, poultry manure, and bone meal for the enrichment of soil health and quality of potato crops at the research farm of Lovely Professional University, Punjab. The parameters of pH, EC, organic carbon, soil microbial biomass, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, labile carbon, and particulate organic carbon (POC) were used to understand the soil health improvement, while starch content and grading systems ranging from A to C were used for the quality of the potato. Among the treatments, most of the parameters were recorded as statistically significant at p>0.05. The highest improvement in terms of pH, EC, organic carbon, soil microbial biomass, nitrogen content, labile carbon, and particulate organic carbon (POC) was recorded in T3 (7.58, 0.39 dSm-1, 0.53 %, 333.3 µg g-1, 198.3 kg ha-1, 3.71 and 7.0 g kg-1 of soil) compared to T0 (7.38, 0.32 dSm-1, 0.44 %, 325.33 µg g-1, 171.5 kg ha-1, 2.33 and 3.0 g kg-1 g kg-1), while the phosphorus and potassium contents were estimated highest in T2 (17.4 and 255 kg ha-1). The quality parameters like starch content and grading quality of potato tubers were also influenced positively and estimated significantly highest in T3 (53.60 % and 153.7 q ha-1 of A grade potato). This study has shown the potential to improve the quality of potato tuber by providing a desirable soil environment to coordinate with potato plants.</p>Jagmohan SinghPrasann KumarAnaytullah Siddique
Copyright (c) 2022 Jagmohan Singh, Prasann Kumar, Anaytullah Siddique
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2024-01-012024-01-0111110210810.14719/pst.2706Influence of Farmyard Manure and NPS Fertilizer on Hot Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) Growth and Yield Variables at Western Ethiopia
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2445
<p>Hot peppers are important vegetable crops widely grown in Ethiopia. Investigation into the economic, nutritive and therapeutic purposes of the pepper plant is extremely limited. Thus, a field trial was piloted to assess the influence of NPS (compound fertilizer containing three important plant nutrients of nitrogen, phosphate, and sulphur with the ratio of 19% N, 38% P2O5, and 7% S) and farmyard manure (FYM) fertilizer on hot pepper at the Dambi Dollo University research field for two consecutive years (2020 and 2021) under rain fed. The finding was systematized in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three repetitions and variety of Marako Fana hot pepper was assessed. NPS fertilizer at four level (0, 100, 200, 300 kg N ha-1) and four FYM levels (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10 t ha-1) were owed to the study area and a total of 20 treatments. The research results revealed that FYM and NPS mineral fertilizer interacts to affect positively (P<0.05) maximum parameters without unmarketable harvest, which was influenced through the single effect of NPS and FYM. The highest marketable pod yield (2.28 t ha-1) and total pod harvest (2.72 t ha-1) was recorded through NPS rates of 100 kg ha-1 applied with 5 t ha-1 of farmyard manure. Consequently, it is likely to determine that hot pepper farmers can use NPS mineral fertilizer rate of 100 kg ha-1 with 5 t ha-1 of FYM that would expand yield of the hot peppers in the study area with similar agro-ecological conditions.</p>Chala KitilaGemechisa Olana
Copyright (c) 2022 Chala Kitila, Gemechisa Olana
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2024-01-142024-01-1411139740410.14719/pst.2445Evaluation of the Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Activity of Cultivated Valeriana officinalis
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2593
<p>Drug resistance refers to the reduction in the effectiveness of a drug in treating a disease or improving the stability of symptoms. It can occur in various types of pathogens, including bacteria, parasites, viruses, fungi, and cancer cells. This experimental study was conducted between 2018 and 2019 in an area with an annual mean rainfall of 130mm. The sowing date was September 10th, and 2-3 seeds were planted per cell. MTT assays (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide) were used to determine the percentage of viability in adenocarcinomic human alveolar basal epithelial cells (A549) and Medical Research Council cell strain 5 (MRC5) cell lines incubated with methanolic extract and valerenic acid for 48 hr. The methanol extract was prepared by adding 1000 mg of rhizomes to 100 mL of methanol, followed by sonication for 30 minutes, stirring, and centrifugation at 4000 rpm for 10 minutes. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and agar gel diffusion were used to assess the antimicrobial activity of the methanol extract of valerian against two important pathogenic microorganisms, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. However, valerenic acid did not reveal antimicrobial activity at doses of 200, 100, 50, 25, 12.5, and 6.25 µg/mL. The methanolic extract of V. officinalis contains high quantities of sesquiterpenes, specifically valerenic acid, which did not show cytotoxic effects on A549 and MRC5 cell lines as assessed by the MTT assay. In vivo evaluation of the extract in mice and guinea pigs did not reveal any toxic effects based on histopathological and clinical symptom assessments. Our study confirms that Valeriana officinalis has dose-dependent potential to improve existing treatment approaches for Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans infections.</p>Zinat MohammadiLeila PishkarZohre EftekhariGiti BarzinLaleh Babaeekhou
Copyright (c) 2022 Zinat Mohammadi, Leila Pishkar, Zohre Eftekhari, Giti Barzin, Laleh Babaeekhou
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2024-01-012024-01-0111114515510.14719/pst.2593Effect of salinity on DNA methylation and antioxidant phenolic compounds of wild watercress (Rorippa nasturtium aquaticum)
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2577
<p>Epigenetic changes are involved in plant responses to stress. Cytosine methylation is one of the most important epigenetic changes, regulating gene expression. In this paper, the MSAP (methylation-sensitive amplification polymorphism) method was used to find out how the watercress (Rorippa nasturtium aquaticum) genome changed in response to 0, 60, 80, and 100 mM NaCl and how that affected phenylalanine ammonium lyase (PAL) activity, phenolic content, and antioxidant capacity. The results showed an inverse correlation between methylation levels and PAL activity and the contents of total phenolics and flavonoids, indicating salt stress-induced reprogramming of the methylation pattern of watercress, which has a negative effect on the synthesis of phenolics. The results revealed a significant decrease in phenolic contents and antioxidant activity under low and moderate salinity compared to control and an increase under strong salinity compared to moderate salinity. The findings of this study contribute to our understanding of the reprogramming of DNA methylation under salinity and its effect on watercress phenolic metabolism.</p>Marcela Verónica Gutiérrez-VelázquezNorma Almaraz-AbarcaJosé Antonio Ávila-ReyesEli Amanda Delgado-AlvaradoLaura Silvia González-ValdezRene Torres-RicarioHugo Manuel Monreal-GarcíaDante Yamid Rojas-BarbozaAndrés Vasavilbazo-Saucedo
Copyright (c) 2022 Marcela Verónica Gutiérrez-Velázquez, Norma Almaraz-Abarca, José Antonio Ávila-Reyes, Eli Amanda Delgado-Alvarado, Laura Silvia González-Valdez, Rene Torres-Ricario, Hugo Manuel Monreal-García, Dante Yamid Rojas-Barboza, Andrés Vasavilbazo-Saucedo
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2024-01-022024-01-0211119620510.14719/pst.2577Phytochemicals Analysis and Antioxidant Potential of Hydroalcoholic Extracts of Fresh Fruits of Pistacia atlantica and Pistacia khinjuk
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2853
<p>Medicinal plants are known for containing potent antioxidants, primarily due to the presence of phytochemical components with diverse biological properties. In this study, we assessed the chemical constituents and antioxidant potential of Pistacia atlantica and P. khinjuk. The essential oils from P. atlantica and P. khinjuk oleoresin were obtained through hydrodistillation, and their chemical constituents were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Additionally, we evaluated the total phenolic and flavonoid contents, total antioxidant activity, and free radical quenching potentials of hydroalcoholic extracts from P. atlantica and P. khinjuk. These assessments were performed using the Folin-Ciocalteu method, aluminum chloride method, phosphomolybdate test, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) inhibition assay (Half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50 value)), respectively. The results revealed that the major phytochemical components in P. atlantica essential oil were ?-pinene, camphene, ?-pinene, D-limonene, cyclohexene, and careen. Additionally, P. khinjuk essential oil contained ?-pinene, ?-Pinene, trans-verbnol, bicyclo(3.1.1.)heptan, verbenene, camphene, D-limonene, and ?-campholenal. Furthermore, the total phenols and flavonoids content of P. atlantica were higher than those of P. khinjuk. However, the total antioxidant capacity was significantly greater in P. khinjuk than in P. atlantica. The IC50 value (DPPH assay) was also significantly higher in P. khinjuk compared to P. atlantica. Although the essential oils of both plants exhibited antioxidant effects, P. atlantica essential oils demonstrated superior antioxidant effects compared to P. khinjuk. In conclusion, the presence of abundant phytochemical components, such as monoterpenes, was observed in both the plants. These findings suggest that P. atlantica and P. khinjuk generally possess considerable antioxidant activity.</p>Hamid DalvandSeyed Mohammad Mahdi HamdiFatemeh Nori kotanaeeHassan Ahmadvand
Copyright (c) 2022 Hamid Dalvand, Seyed Mohammad Mahdi Hamdi, Fatemeh Nori kotanaee, Hassan Ahmadvand
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2024-01-232024-01-2311151352010.14719/pst.2853Effect of salicylic acid on cowpea seedlings under saline stress
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2237
<p>The aim of this work was applying salicylic acid (SA) in cowpea seedlings under saline stress. The experiment took place in the seed laboratory of the Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia with a completely randomized experimental design in a 2 x 2 x 3 factorial scheme, with two bean cultivars (Canapu and Pingo-de-ouro), two levels of salicylic acid (0, and 0.50 mM) and three salt stress levels (0, 25, 50 mM). The seeds were previously soaked in salicylic acid (0 and 0.50 mM) for a period of 12 hours and then placed in germitest paper rolls for treatments with NaCl (0, 25, 50 mM) for a period of 12 days at room temperature constant 27 °C. There was a significant effect of cultivars, AS dose and NaCl concentrations and their interactions on most of the analyzed variables. Root and leaf proline concentrations were higher in pingo-de-ouro cultivar, Canapu cultivar had better performance in biomass accumulation. Salicylic acid reduced proteins in the leaves by 13.33%, while in the root there was an increase of 12.61%, ammonium concentrations reduced in the roots by 11.9%. When applied to salinity (25 and 50 mM) there was an increase of proteins in the leaves 40.83% and 27.48% respectively, and a reduction of amino acids of 30.24 and 25.24% in NaCl dosages (25 and 50 mM) respectively. Salinity reduced biomass accumulation and interfered with cellular solute production. However, the application of salicylic acid promoted salt stress tolerance in Canapu cultivar.</p>Diana Jhulia Palheta de SousaTamirys Marcelina da SilvaMarcio Augusto Costa Carmona JuniorGlauco André dos Santos NogueiraAna Ecídia de Araújo BritoLuma Castro de SouzaCândido Ferreira de Oliveira NetoGerson Diego Pamplona Albuquerque
Copyright (c) 2022 Diana Jhulia Palheta de Sousa, Tamirys Marcelina da Silva, Marcio Augusto Costa Carmona Junior, Glauco André dos Santos Nogueira, Ana Ecídia de Araújo Brito, Luma Castro de Souza, Cândido Ferreira de Oliveira Neto, Gerson Diego Pamplona Albuquerque
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2024-01-052024-01-0511128829510.14719/pst.2237Toxicity of Ocimum basilicum L. leaf extract against Spodoptera exigua Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/3099
<p>The beet armyworm <em>Spodoptera exigua</em> Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is one of the most significant shallot pests worldwide, which affects agricultural production by approximately 100% in Indonesia. The growing awareness of sustainable agriculture encourages the search for natural alternatives to synthetic pesticides that promote resistance and contaminate the environment. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the efficacy of basil (<em>Ocimum basilicum</em> L) leaf extract against the 2<sup>nd</sup> and 3<sup>rd</sup> instar larvae of <em>S. exigua</em><em>. </em>The extracts were prepared using maceration and hydrodistillation and the pathogenicity was carried out against the 2<sup>nd</sup> and 3<sup>rd</sup> instar of<em> S. exigua </em>using three replicates with several doses of extract ranging from 0- 2.0%. The extracts were applied to the larvae using contact and topical methods. The results showed that maceration extraction yields a greater extract with different types compared to those of the hydrodistillation method. Maceration extract of basil leaves with the contact application method to 2<sup>nd</sup> instar showed better results than the topical application with the highest mortality rate of 75% (F=24.464; P< 0.001) and LC<sub>50</sub> of 0.007%. This indicated that basil leaf extract with the contact application method has great potential to be developed as a botanical insecticide to control <em>S. exigua</em> in the field as part of Integrated Pest Management (IPM).</p>Nadya Sofia Siti Sa'adahSukirno SukirnoTri Rini NuringtyasLaurentius Hartanto Nugroho
Copyright (c) 2022 Nadya Sofia Siti Sa'adah, Sukirno Sukirno, Tri Rini Nuringtyas, Laurentius Hartanto Nugroho
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2024-01-232024-01-2311160661510.14719/pst.3099Dehydrocostus lactone from the root of Ajuga integrifolia (Buch.-Ham. Ex D. Don): Quantitative determination and in- silico study for anti-breast cancer activity
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2344
<p>Many biological activities were reported for the Ajuga species, specifically for <em>Ajuga integrifolia</em> and its synonyms. These include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antibacterial, blood purifier effects, and anticancer activity. This study quantitatively determines dehydrocostus lactone (DHCL) from the root of <em>Ajuga integrifolia</em> and its in silico study for anti-breast cancer activity. Camag HPTLC was used for TLC – densitometric estimation of dehydrocostus lactone. Estrogen receptor alpha (ER?) protein (PDB ID: 3ERT) was selected for its involvement in cell proliferation within the breast cancer cell. Tamoxifen is a reference drug commonly used in hormonal therapy, and DHCL was used as a ligand. Molecular docking was performed using AutoDock Vina in PyRx v.0.8 to get the best<br />conformational pose for forming the expected receptor-ligand complex. The docking result visualization was performed using LigPlot v.1.4.5 software for 2D, and the interactive visualization in 3D was done using Biovia Discovery Studio software. The presence of DHCL in the root of <em>A. integrifolia</em> was not reported so far. DHCL content in the root of <em>A. integrifolia</em> was estimated to be 16.5 ± 0.25 mg/g of crude extract using the TLC- densitometric method. From the molecular docking study, DHCL was found to be a promising inhibitor for estrogen receptor interaction in the breast cell and can be selected for further in vivo research to develop an anti-breast cancer drug.</p>Fekade Beshah Tessema Yilma Hunde GonfaTilahun Belayneh AsfawMesfin Getachew TadesseArchana Joshi BachhetiAbdel Nasser SingabRakesh Kumar Bachheti
Copyright (c) 2022 Fekade Beshah Tessema , Yilma Hunde Gonfa, Tilahun Belayneh Asfaw, Mesfin Getachew Tadesse, Archana Joshi Bachheti, Abdel Nasser Singab, Rakesh Kumar Bachheti
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2024-01-012024-01-01111344410.14719/pst.2344Phytochemical analysis, and antioxidant and antibacterial activities of Alstonia scholaris from Mizoram, India
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2826
<p class="Abstract">The Devil’s tree (Alstonia scholaris (L.) R.Br.), a member of the Apocynaceae family, is recognised in various traditional systems for its efficacy in treating several diseases. In the Mizo traditional medicines of India, the bark extract is utilised as a remedy for bacterial and parasitic infections, among other ailments. To validate the therapeutic claim of the Mizo people, a methanolic extract of the bark was prepared and its chemical composition was analysed. The extract was found to contain alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, glycosides, phytosterols, saponins, tannins, and reducing sugars. The antioxidant components of the extract were quantified, revealing a phenolic content of 13.563±0.09 mg/g quercetin equivalent, a flavonoid content of 31.64±2.50 mg/g gallic acid equivalent, and a total antioxidant of 10.48±0.84 mg/g ascorbic equivalent. These findings underscore the plant’s cellular protective capacity. Furthermore, the antioxidant activities were assessed using 2,2-diphenyl-1-1-picryldrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. The plant extract exhibited significant antioxidant properties, with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 11.01 against free radicals generated from the DPPH reaction. Notably, the extract demonstrated broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria, including Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi, as well as Gram-positive species such as Bacillus cereus, Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus. This study establishes A. scholaris as a medicinal plant with promising antimicrobial and pharmacological properties, containing chemical components that can be harnessed for therapeutic purposes.</p>LalngaihmanawmiPawi Bawitlung LalthanpuiiLalbiakngheti TlauLucy LalawmpuiiLalnundangaKholhring Lalchhandama
Copyright (c) 2022 Lalngaihmanawmi, Pawi Bawitlung Lalthanpuii, Lalbiakngheti Tlau, Lucy Lalawmpuii, Lalnundanga, Kholhring Lalchhandama
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2024-01-132024-01-1311133733410.14719/pst.2826Optimization of sowing dates in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) to combat yield losses caused by high temperature at reproductive stage
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2605
<p>A field experiment was undertaken during the Rabi seasons of 2019-20 and 2021-22 at organic farm of Amity Institute of Organic Agriculture, Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India, for the optimization of the sowing time period to reduce the effect of heat stress on Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) for increasing productivity. 32 Indian mustard germplasms were sown at three different time periods viz., the last week of September, the last fortnight of October, and the second week of November. Our results revealed that the mustard crop showed a substantial increase in yield supporting characters such as the number of siliqua and seeds per siliqua when sown at last week of September as compared to the second week of October, whereas the late sown crop resulted in less yield due to the heat stress faced by crop during the anthesis stage as compared to early and optimum sowing. The mean seed yield per plant showed a positive correlation with mean test weight. We established the positive effect of early sowing over optimal and late sowing in Indian mustard; further, we found a few mustard accessions were able to resist different climatic conditions. The mustard germplasm accessions IC296688, IC296703, IC296732, IC305130, IC401575, IC426385, and IC589669 were high yielding among all the accessions and can be considered as heat stress tolerant.</p>Bharati PandeyRashmi YadavNaleeni RamawatHarinder VishwakarmaSangeeta Pandey
Copyright (c) 2022 Bharati Pandey, Rashmi Yadav, Naleeni Ramawat, Harinder Vishwakarma, Sangeeta Pandey
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2024-01-012024-01-01111819210.14719/pst.2605Floral biology and phenological studies of Datura metel L. in Tripura, Northeast India, with special reference to floral morphotypes
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2517
<p>Datura metel L. is an important medicinal plants of Tripura. There are four floral morpho-types found throughout India. The floral biology of four morpho-types of D. metel L. collected from different places of Tripura state have been investigated based on their morphological and palynological study. Initiation of the floral bud, anthesis, pollen viability, pollen germination, and pollen production are the topics covered in the present study. The present study includes photographic representations and UPGMA dendrogram for quick identification, as well as a detailed explanation of four morpho-types of the species. </p>Aparajita DasSomnath KarPanchatapa BhattacharyaSani DasDixit BoraBadal Kumar Datta
Copyright (c) 2022 Aparajita Das, Somnath Kar, Panchatapa Bhattacharya, Sani Das, Dixit Bora, Badal Kumar Datta
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2024-01-012024-01-0111113213810.14719/pst.2517Antioxidant and lipid peroxidation inhibitory potentials of the unripe and ripe of Citrus mitis Blanco pulps and peels from south Thailand
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2693
<p>Citrus mitis Blanco fruit contains high levels of vitamin C, phenolics, and flavonoids, which exhibit a wide range of beneficial biological effects. The current research aimed to evaluate the levels of vitamin C, flavonoid, total phenolic contents, and antioxidant properties, as well as the inhibitory effects on lipid peroxidation, in both unripe and ripe fruit tissues (pulps and peels) of C. mitis Blanco. The fruit tissues were obtained from the Hat Som Paen subdistrict in Ranong province, located in the southern region of Thailand. Fruit tissues were extracted using maceration with 80% ethanol and water solvents. Vitamin C quantification was achieved using the 2,6-dichloroindophenol titrimetric method. Total flavonoid content was determined using the aluminium chloride colorimetric method, while total phenolic content was assessed using the Folin-Ciocalteu procedure. Additionally, ABTS and DPPH assays were used to assess the antioxidant properties. The measurement of lipid peroxidation inhibitory activity was carried out using the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assay. The findings indicated that the water extract exhibited higher levels of vitamin C compared to the 80% ethanolic extract. In contrast, the 80% ethanolic extract revealed greater amounts of total phenolic and flavonoid contents than the water extract. The water extract of unripe pulp exhibited the highest vitamin C content among all the extracts, reaching 36.74 mg/100 g fresh weight (FW). The 80% ethanolic extract of unripe peel demonstrated the highest level of total phenolic content (35.67 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g extract), while ripe peel exhibited the highest total flavonoid content (16.88 mg catechin equivalent (CE)/g extract). Both unripe and ripe fruit extracts exhibited antioxidant and lipid peroxidation inhibitory activities. The 80% ethanolic extract from unripe peel demonstrated the most significant antioxidant activities against DPPH (6.31 mg trolox equivalent (TE)/g extract) and ABTS (7.69 mg TE/g extract). Moreover, the 80% ethanolic extract of unripe peel showed the highest level of inhibitory activity against lipid peroxidation, with a value of 74.62%. These results underscore the potential bioactivities of unripe and ripe C. mitis Blanco fruit tissues, which can offer nutritional and health benefits. These properties make them particularly valuable in the food industry due to their excellent antioxidant and lipid peroxidation inhibitory characteristics.</p>Chanate WannaNarumon BoonmanSirirat Phakpaknam
Copyright (c) 2022 Chanate Wanna, Narumon Boonman, Sirirat Phakpaknam
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2024-01-022024-01-0211117618510.14719/pst.2693Optimization of a soil type prediction method based on the deep learning model and vegetation characteristics
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2926
<p>The structure and composition of forest vegetation plays an important role in different ecosystem functions and services. This study aimed to identifying soil types based on vegetation characteristics using a deep learning model in the High Conservation Value (HCV) area of Central Kalimantan, spanning 632.04 hectares. The data on vegetation were collected using a combination method between line transect and quadratic plots were placed. The development of a deep learning model was based on the results of a vegetation survey and the processing of aerial photos using the Feature Classifier method. The results of applying a deep learning model could provide a relatively accurate and consistent prediction in identifying soil types (Entisols 62%, Spodosols 90%, Ultisols 90% accuracy). The composition of vegetation community in Ultisols was dominated of seedling and tree (closed canopy), meanwhile in Entisols and Spodosols was dominated of seedling and sapling (dominantly open canopy). Ultisols exhibited the highest species richness (57 species), followed by Spodosols (31 species) and Entisols (14 species). Ultisols, Entisols, and Spodosols displayed even species distribution(J' close to 1) without dominance of certain species(D < 0.5). The species diversity index was at a low to moderate level(H' < 3), while the species richness index remained at a very low level(D_mg > 3.5).</p>SuwardiLilik SutiarsoHerry WirianataAndri Prima NugrohoSukarmanSepta PrimanandaMoch. DasrialBadi Hariadi
Copyright (c) 2022 Suwardi, Lilik Sutiarso, Herry Wirianata, Andri Prima Nugroho, Sukarman, Septa Primananda, Moch. Dasrial, Badi Hariadi
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2024-01-142024-01-1411148049910.14719/pst.2926Seasonal diversity & spaciotemporal distribution of fungal endophytes associated with the medicinal plant Coleus forskohlii Briq.
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2729
<p>Fungi that colonize the healthy tissues of the plants without showing any disease symptoms in the host plants are termed as fungal endophytes. The presence of fungal endophytes provides a positive effect on the host’s growth & development and also triggers the production of some essential bioactive compounds in the host. This study was undertaken to isolate, identify and understand the spaciotemporal distribution and seasonal diversity of fungal endophytes associated with the leaf, stem & root of <em>Coleus forskohlii, </em>an important and endangered medicinal plant. Sampling was done for a period of 12 months between May 2020–April 2021. A total of 950 fungal endophytes were isolated from a total of 1680 tissues of the leaf, stem & root of <em>C. forskohlii. </em>The fungi were identified based on their morphological features and some of them were identified by molecular identification by 18S rRNA sequencing. The endophytic isolates belonged to 10 different orders belonging to 3 different classes-Sordariomycetes (Hypocreales, Xylariales, Microascales, Trichosphaeriales, Glomerellales & Sordariales), Dothiomycetes (Pleosporales, Capnodiales, Botryosphaeriales) & Eurotiomyctes (Eurotiales). About 81.26% of the isolates belonged to Ascomycota & 2.63% of the isolates belonged to Mucoromycota. <em>Chaetomium globosum, Collariella bostrychodes, C. robusta, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Fusarium chlamydosporum, Sterile hyaline mycelia, Aspergillus niger, Xylaria curta, X. grammica, Mucor circinelloides & Trichoderma harizianum </em>were the frequently isolated species of fungi.<em> C. globosum, C. bostrychodes</em>, <em>C. gloeosporioides, </em>sterile hyaline mycelia<em> & X. curta</em> were found distributed in all the tissues of the plant<em>. C. forskohlii </em>has thus revealed a rich diversity of fungal endophytes that could be isolated & cultured to yield some pharmacologically important bioactive compounds.</p>Grace Leena CrastaRaveesha Koteshwar Anandrao
Copyright (c) 2022 Grace Leena Crasta, Raveesha Koteshwar Anandrao
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2024-01-022024-01-0211122323310.14719/pst.2729Diachronic study of the floristic diversity of the Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania, Algeria
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2819
<p>This study aimed to provide knowledge on the mural flora of the Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania. Through floristic surveys, we complied a catalog listing168 vascular plants belonging to 141 genera and 58 families. Asteraceae and Poaceae were the most dominant families, constituting 24.81% of the species. Dominant characteristics of this flora included therophytes (41.07%) and Mediterranean floristic elements (67.26%). To update the floristic list of the Mausoleum, we compared our data with 3 old lists from 1867, 1928 and 1985. The diachronic analysis reveals the persistance of 35 taxa representing 16.27% of 215 taxa listed since the first inventory, and the emergence of 30 new taxa (13.95%). The diversity of this wall flora is associated with changes in the landscape around the Mausoleum as well as its conservation status.</p>Badia Siab-FarsiYamina KadidChafika Bouzahar
Copyright (c) 2022 Badia Siab-Farsi, Yamina Kadid, Chafika Bouzahar
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2024-01-232024-01-2311154455210.14719/pst.2819Efficiency of some local isolates of arbuscular mycorrhizae in the growth and productivity of potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) in plastic pots
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2923
<p>The present study was conducted using plastic pots to investigate the efficiency of 15 local isolates of mycorrhizal fungi in enhancing the growth and productivity of Arizona variety potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.). These isolates were obtained from various wild plants, including the Sweet rush plant, Sudan grass, and Millet, collected from different districts in Diyala Governorate. The isolates were obtained through the single spore cultivation technique in the Department of Agricultural Research in Al-Zafaraniya. The results demonstrated that all 15 fungal isolates had the ability to infect the roots of potato plants. Notably, M11 showed a significant superiority in infection severity (98.3%), the number of spores was 67.67 spores/gm of soil, and the infection rate was 90.0%. The results also highlighted the impact of these isolates on various parameters related to vegetative and root growth as well as yield. Specifically, isolates M1 and M12 were found to be superior in promoting plant height and increasing leaf area, which reached 218.3 cm2. Isolate M4 was superior in increasing the chlorophyll content of leaves, reaching a level of 47.4 spad. In the context of vegetative growth, isolate M3 produced a notable fresh weight of 8.236 g, while isolate M8 yielded a dry vegetative weight of 7.533 g. Regarding the root system, isolate M11 displayed superiority in root length, reaching 45.20 cm. Isolate M8 showed a higher number of tubers, amounting to 11.33 g, whereas isolate M7 produced tubers with a weight of 178.5 g.</p>Nour Sabah NajiNaeem Saeed Dhiyab Rabab Majead Abed
Copyright (c) 2022 Nour Sabah Naji, Naeem Saeed Dhiyab , Rabab Majead Abed
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2024-01-052024-01-0511127428010.14719/pst.2923Influence of some chemicals and solvents on the lytic activity and the adsorption of bacteriophages on Pectobacterium carotovoroum Subsp. carotovorum
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2998
<p>Recently, bacteriophages have been used to control hazardous bacterial soft rot disease on crops. However, agricultural plants are frequently treated with different chemicals (fertilizers, pesticides and solvents), so we assessed the effect of some commonly used chemicals and solvents on the lytic activity of tested bacteriophages and their adsorption potential. This study reports the isolation of three specific phages against the Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum DSM 30170 strain, designated as ?PC1, ?PC2 and ?PC3, then partially characterized using electron microscopy and genome size. The 3 isolated phages belong to the Myoviridae family. The results obtained were based on the plaque-forming unit observed after incubation. By increasing the chemical concentrations (from 0.1 to 0.5 mM), calcium chloride (CaCl2) and potassium chloride (KCl) showed a significant increase in the lytic activity of the phages. Copper sulphate (CuSO4) and copper chloride (CuCl2) showed a substantial decrease in the activity of ?PC3; however, such a decrease was insignificant for ?PC1 and ?PC2. By increasing the solvent concentrations (from 30 % v/v to 70 % v/v), propanol, ethanol and methanol showed a significant decrease in the count of the three isolated phages, ?PC1, ?PC2 and ?PC3, compared to the control. Chloroform was the only solvent that did not reduce the phage titer. Our findings offer significant information for developing a strategy to combat the P. carotovorum subsp. carotovorum caused bacterial soft rot disease. avoiding copper compounds and alcoholic solvents such as propanol, ethanol and methanol in plots where phages are applied seems advisable.</p>Mohammed H Abdel-AalYasmeen A HasanienNahed A YounisGamal El DidamonyAhmed AskoraNaglaa M BalabelKhaled Abdelaal
Copyright (c) 2022 Mohammed H Abdel-Aal, Yasmeen A Hasanien, Nahed A Younis, Gamal El Didamony, Ahmed Askora, Naglaa M Balabel, Khaled Abdelaal
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2024-01-232024-01-2311159360110.14719/pst.2998Advanced Mutant Line Developed from Fatemadhan Shows Salinity Tolerance at both Seedling and Reproductive Stages
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2917
<p>The generation of high-yielding rice mutants and their assessment under salt stress offers a great possibility to isolate salt tolerant line(s) with desired trait of interest. Two separate experiments were conducted at the seedling and reproductive stages of rice to assess the level of salinity tolerance of few advanced high-yielding rice mutants. In the first experiment, rice seedlings were grown under hydroponic conditions and 14-day-old seedlings were subjected to salt stress (EC=10 dS/m; 7 days). Salt stress caused significant reduction in root and shoot length and biomass and leaf chlorophyll content; however, a little reduction was found in the mutant Line-1. In contrast, a sharp increase in shoot Na<sup>+</sup>/K<sup>+</sup> ratio was found in all the genotypes except, Binadhan-10, FL-478 and the mutant Line-1, which exhibited little increased ratio. The second experiment involved exposure of plant to salt stress (EC=10 dS/m) for three weeks at the late booting stage in a sizable plastic tub filled with field soil. Salt stress resulted in a significant decrease in yield and yield attributing traits in all the genotypes except Binadhan-10. Grain yield per panicle was found significantly positive correlation with panicle length, the number of filled grains per panicle, and 100-seed weight under both control and salt stress conditions. Based on the studied traits and stress tolerance indices, Binadhan-10 and mutant Line-1 categorized as salt tolerant and rest of the genotypes were categorized as susceptible, which is also evident from the biplot of principal component analysis. Considering the results from both of the experiments, mutant Line-1 was found tolerant genotype at both seedling and reproductive stage. However, further studies are required to determine the genetic issues controlling the salinity tolerance in mutant Line-1 and the high-yield potential of mutant Line-65 under control condition in a way to develop salt tolerant and high-yielding rice varieties, respectively.</p>Tasnia KhatunSheikh Mahfuja KhatunMumtarin Haque MimJannatul NaimSopnil Ahmed JahinMohammad Rashed HossainMohamed A. El-EsawiMohammad Anwar Hossain
Copyright (c) 2022 Tasnia Khatun, Sheikh Mahfuja Khatun, Mumtarin Haque Mim, Jannatul Naim, Sopnil Ahmed Jahin, Mohammad Rashed Hossain, Mohamed A. El-Esawi, Mohammad Anwar Hossain
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2024-01-052024-01-0511131632810.14719/pst.2917Evaluation of antibacterial and antifungal activities of Pistacia atlantica and Pistacia khinjuk
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2855
<p>Medicinal plants are renowned for their various therapeutic properties, including antibacterial and antifungal activities. This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial and antifungal activities of <em>P. atlantica</em> and <em>P. khinjuk</em>. Hydroalcoholic extracts of <em>P. atlantica</em> and <em>P. khinjuk</em> were prepared to assess their antibacterial and antifungal activities. Standard strains of <em>Bacillus cereus</em>, <em>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</em>, <em>Escherichia coli</em>, <em>Staphylococcus aureus</em>, <em>Klebsiella pneumonia</em>, <em>Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans</em>, <em>Porphyromonas gingivalis</em>, and <em>Aspergillus flavus</em> were utilized for the evaluation of antibacterial and antifungal activities. The inhibitory effects of the extracts on the growth of bacterial and fungal strains were evaluated using minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) through a 96-well microplate analysis following CLSI guidelines. Our findings revealed that the MICs and MBCs of <em>P. atlantica</em> and <em>P. khinjuk</em> for bacterial strains ranged from 0 to 64 mg/mL. Additionally, the MIC and MFC values for fungal strains ranged from 16 to 64 mg/mL. The results indicated that <em>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</em> and <em>Klebsiella pneumonia</em> were the most sensitive bacterial strains to <em>P. atlantica</em>. Furthermore, <em>Aspergillus flavus</em> was identified as the most sensitive fungal strain to <em>P. atlantica</em>. In conclusion, these findings suggest that <em>P. atlantica</em> and <em>P. khinjuk</em> possess antibacterial and antifungal effects. The paper argues that these plant extracts could be used as a supplementary treatment alongside conventional antibacterial and antifungal drugs.</p>Hamid DalvandSeyed Mohammad Mahdi HamdiFatemeh Nori kotanaeeHassan Ahmadvand
Copyright (c) 2022 Hamid Dalvand, Seyed Mohammad Mahdi Hamdi, Fatemeh Nori kotanaee, Hassan Ahmadvand
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2024-01-252024-01-2511163464010.14719/pst.2855Multivariate analysis in rice (Oryza sativa L.) germplasms for yield attributing traits
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2231
<p>A study was conducted to evaluate the genetic diversity and relationships among sixty rice genotypes by assessing eleven morphological yield traits using principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis at ANDUAT, Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh), India. The results found significant variation among the genotypes, with some exhibiting higher values for certain traits which confirm genetic diversity. Cluster analysis revealed that Cluster V had the highest number of genotypes, while Cluster IV had the highest intra-cluster distance, suggesting that these genotypes would be useful for rice improvement. Principal component analysis revealed that the first two principal components, along with three other components, accounted for 75.11 percent of the total variability. Days to 50% flowering (DFF) in days was identified as the most accurate predictor of variability, followed by days to maturity (DM) in days, 1000 seed weight (TSW) in gm, and panicle length (PL) in cm. The principal component to be first (PC1) was linked with plant height (PH) and harvest index (HI) in gm, the second principal component (PC2) was linked with DFF and DM, the third (PC3) was linked with TSW and grains/panicle (GP) in number, the fourth (PC4) with panicles bearing per plant (PBP) in number and biological yield per plant (BY) in gramme, and the fifth principal component (PC5) is linked with PL and BY. The study identified several promising genotypes for various traits, including G.35, G.17, G.30, G.45, and G.46 for short plant height and G.60, G.40, G.54, G.55, and G.41 for high yield.</p>Satya PrakashS Sumanth ReddySandeep Chaudhary SC VimalAdesh Kumar
Copyright (c) 2022 Satya Prakash, S Sumanth Reddy, Sandeep Chaudhary, SC Vimal, Adesh Kumar
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2024-01-012024-01-01111647510.14719/pst.2231Survey of the Beneficial Flowers Available in Coimbatore District, Tamil Nadu, India
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/3068
<p>The flora of an area is considered a vital part of the environment, regulating the prosperity of the biosphere and people's health. It is highly suggested that the proper utilization of plant resources in each part of a country has been useful in conserving the availability and productivity of the flora. The present investigation aimed to evaluate the survey of the beneficial flowers available in Coimbatore District, Tamil Nadu, India, from December 2019 to February 2020. The survey studies were divided into four different zones in Coimbatore District: Perur, Ganapathy, Thudiyalur, and Periyanaickenpalayam, respectively. The survey resulted in the collection of 40 plant species belonging to 38 genera, dispersed over 25 families of flowering plants / angiosperms. The dominant families were Apocynaceae and Oleaceae when compared to other families. This study reveals that species such as Calotropis gigantean, Chrysanthemum morifolium, Couroupita guianensis, Nerium oleander, Nyctanthes arbortristis, Nelumbo nucifera, and Tabernaemontana divaricata were used as ritual flowers. The beneficial flowers showed a maximum for ornamental flowers (43 percent), followed by ritual flowers (35 percent), medicinal flowers (15 percent), and cooking flowers (7 percent), respectively. The highest blooming of the flowers (14.89 percent) occurred in March, and the lowest in November and December. Flowers were documented as having economic value, with the highest rate in Rosa sp., and Jasminum sp., which were used as ornamental, medicinal, and cosmetic preparations as valuable resources. Scientific key information on taxonomy and technical approaches to beneficial flowers was analyzed. Flowers play a vital role in human life from birth to death and are used in all auspicious events in India, especially in daily prayers in temples and Indian households.</p>M MuthukumaranM ParveenS Vetri Velavan
Copyright (c) 2022 M Muthukumaran, M Parveen, S Vetri Velavan
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2024-01-132024-01-1311136637610.14719/pst.3068Assessment of variability parameters and diversity of panicle architectural traits associated with yield in rice (Oryza sativa L.)
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2658
<p>The rice panicle, a pivotal reproductive structure, signifies the transition from vegetative to reproductive growth in plants. Comprising components such as the rachis, primary and secondary branches, seed quantities and branch lengths, panicle architecture profoundly influences grain production. This study delves into the diversity of panicle architecture traits and scrutinizes variability parameters across 69 distinct rice genotypes. Our findings underscore substantial variations in panicle architecture traits among genotypes. Particularly noteworthy are traits with the highest coefficient of variation (CV%), encompassing the count of secondary branches, single plant yield, productive tillers per plant, seeds per secondary branch and panicle weight. Correlation analysis reveals robust positive connections between panicle weight, the number of filled grains per panicle, 1000-grain weight and single plant yield. The number of secondary branches exhibits the most substantial phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV%) at 47.14%, accompanied by a genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV%) of 43.57%. Traits such as days to 50% flowering, plant height and number of filled grains per panicle manifest high heritability (97.04%, 91.24% and 76.22% respectively) and notable genetic advancement (23.11%, 39.62% and 47.49%). The principal component analysis identifies the primary component (PC1) as the principal contributor to variance. Biplot analysis accentuates positive correlations between attributes like the number of filled grains per panicle, panicle length, plant height, primary branch count, panicle weight, seeds per primary branch and the number of secondary branches with single plant yield. By employing Mahalanobis D2 statistics, the classification of genotypes into 6 distinct clusters reveals clusters III and IV as distinguished by their significant inter-cluster and intra-cluster distances. This comprehensive analysis unveils the potential for harnessing panicle architecture traits to enhance grain production and advances our comprehension of intricate relationships within diverse rice genotypes.</p>Jasmin S AgalyaPrasanth P HariSelvaraj RamchanderKumar P` DineshN DevesenaR NaveenkumarThankappan SugithaKingsly N. B. John
Copyright (c) 2022 Agalya Jasmin S, Hari Prasanth P, Ramchander S, Dinesh Kumar P, Devesena N, Naveenkumar R, Sugitha Thankappan, John Kingsly N. B
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2024-01-012024-01-0111110911810.14719/pst.2658Enhancing the Sustainability of Oil Palm Plantations Through the Application of Principles and Adaptive Management of High Conservation Value Areas in Central Kalimantan
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2925
<p>The rapid development of oil palm plantations raises environmental issues related to biodiversity and conservation. Thus, a holistic and integrated approach is needed to manage high conservation values (HCV). This holistic and integrated approach involves various stakeholders in implementing sustainability principles. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of applying the principles and evaluating the adaptive management practices of HCV areas applied to oil palm plantations. The research was conducted on an oil palm plantation in Seruyan District, Central Kalimantan Province, Indonesia, with HCV 1 – 5 criteria covering an area of 5379 ha. Employing an observational method, the data were collected via field observations and interviews with relevant stakeholders, including oil palm plantation management, environmental organizations and local communities. The findings show that by protecting HCV, oil palm plantations can operate sustainably and reduce environmental negative impacts. The application of the principles of HCV areas in the company involves identifying, assessing and protecting areas with high ecological, social, and cultural values. These are then used as the basis for recommendations for adaptive management in oil palm plantations. Through adaptive management, oil palm plantations can adapt their practices to local conditions, reduce negative impacts, assess impacts, and take appropriate steps according to the conditions. The success of adaptive management carried out by the company can be seen based on data on the decline in HCV openings and the maintenance of HCV 1 - 5 areas. Thus, by applying adaptive principles and management, oil palm plantations in Central Kalimantan can increase sustainability, protect the environment, and provide sustainable social and economic benefits. Having important implications for the palm oil industry, this research can be used as a guide in policy-making that supports the development of environmentally responsible oil palm plantations.</p>Erwin Dafis NasutionAkhmad R SaidyBambang J PriatmadiHafizianorSuwardiSukarmanMoch DasrialHimmatul Ulya AlfianaRahman Jailani
Copyright (c) 2022 Erwin Dafis Nasution, Akhmad R Saidy, Bambang J Priatmadi, Hafizianor, Suwardi, Sukarman, Moch Dasrial, Himmatul Ulya Alfiana, Rahman Jailani
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2024-01-142024-01-1411140541710.14719/pst.2925Research on chemical constituents, anti-bacterial and anti-cancer effects of components isolated from Zingiber officinale Roscoe from Vietnam
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2410
<p>Ginger, a commonly used spice and medicinal herb, is an abundant source of bioactive compounds. However, the utilization of ginger in the pharmaceutical industry is still moderate and not commensurate with the potential of the Vietnamese horticulture industry, mainly due to a lack of information about the quality of input materials. In this study, we compared the volatile compounds of gingers collected from 13 provinces of Vietnam using GC/MS and GC-FID analysis to provide a basis for selecting and standardizing input materials. Furthermore, ginger essential oil from Ben Tre province of Vietnam exhibited significant antibacterial activity particularly in inhibiting Gram-positive bacteria, including S. aureus and S. epidermidis, with inhibition zones of 30.00 ± 1.41 and 24.67 ± 3.30 mm, respectively. However, no significant inhibition was observed against Gram-negative bacteria P. aeruginosa and E. coli. We also isolated 5 non-volatile compounds from ginger extract, namely 6-shogaol (1), quercetin (2), rutin (3), beta-sitosterol (4) and beta-sitosterol-3-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (5). Among them, compounds 1–3 displayed cytotoxicity against Hep3B, SK-LU-1, MCF-7, SK-LU-1, SW480 and HepG2 tumour cell lines, with an IC50 values ranging between 62.7 ± 2.1 and 97.6 ± 1.1 µM, using Ellipticine as a positive control. Compounds 4 and 5 showed cytotoxicity against Hep3B and HepG2 tumor cells, with the IC50 values ranging between 21.5 ± 5.1 and 46.9 ± 3.7 µM but did not exhibit any significant cytotoxicity against SW480 and SK-LU-1 cells. Compound 4 also demonstrated middling cytotoxicity against the MCF7 cell line, with an IC50 value of 43.6 ± 5.1 µM. These findings suggest further applications of Vietnamese ginger for the treatment of infectious and cancer-related diseases.</p>Thi-Ngan NguyenKim- Anh Thi NguyenTuong-Vi Nguyen LeCuu-Khoa NguyenNu-Trinh Thi NguyenPing-Chung KuoGia-Buu TranNgoc-Anh LeThanh-Luu TranNgoc-Tuan Nguyen
Copyright (c) 2022 Thi-Ngan Nguyen, Kim- Anh Thi Nguyen, Tuong-Vi Nguyen Le, Cuu-Khoa Nguyen, Nu-Trinh Thi Nguyen, Ping-Chung Kuo, Gia-Buu Tran, Ngoc-Anh Le, Thanh-Luu Tran, Ngoc-Tuan Nguyen
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2024-01-012024-01-0111115616510.14719/pst.2410Fungal endophytic species Fusariumannulatum and Fusariumsolani: identification, molecular characterization, and study of plant growth promotion properties
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2688
<p>Research on endophytic fungi has gained significant interest due to their potential to enhance plant growth directly by producingphytohormones, solubilizing macronutrients, fixing nitrogen, or indirectly inhibiting phytopathogens growth by producing ammonia, siderophore, hydrogen cyanide, or extracellular enzymes, thereby acting as biocontrol agents. The present study aimed to isolate fungal endophytes from Alternantheraphiloxeroidesand evaluate their plant growth promotion and antimicrobial activity. In total, nine fungal endophytic strains were isolated from different parts of A. philoxeroides such as leaves, roots, and stems. The results demonstrate that the strains MEFAphS1 and MEFAphR3 exhibited positive plant growth promotion properties,including phosphate solubilization, and IAA (Indoleacetic acid) production, and ammonia production. The IAA production was highest for MEFAphS1, with a concentration of 46.635±1.04 µg/mL, while MEFAphR3 displayed the highest ammonia production (0.903±0.01 µg/mL). The phosphate solubilization index (PSI) is the maximum for MEFAphS1 (1.5±0.10). MEFAphS1 also exhibited antibacterial activity against Vibrio vulnificus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and V.parahaemolyticus,with the most substantial inhibition zone observed against V.vulnificus(28±1 mm). In contrast, MEFAphR3 showed an inhibition zone of 8±1.53 mm against V. parahaemolyticus. Molecular identification revealed the identity of the isolates MEFAphS1 and MEFAphR3 as Fusariumsolaniand F.annulatum. These results thus confirm the possible applications of the fungal endophytes as plant biofertilizers and bio-enhancers to increase crop productivity.</p>Soma BiswasSuma Sarojini
Copyright (c) 2022 Soma Biswas, Suma Sarojini
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2024-01-142024-01-1411146647210.14719/pst.2688Extract and fraction of cashew nut testa ameliorate the hyperglycemic mice induced by Streptozotocin and high-fat diet
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2697
<p>Drug strategy is a standard method for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), a non-communicable disease with increasing prevalence, which may cause side effects. Therefore, natural compounds with limited adverse effects have come back into vogue for treating T2D. This study aims to evaluate the effects on rehabilitating hyperglycemic mice of cashew nut testa (husk) extract and fraction known as potential bio-substances for improvement in T2D. First, the hyperglycemic mice were induced with a high-fat diet (HFD) for 4 weeks and then were injected with streptozotocin (STZ, dozen for injection was 40 mg/kg/week) for 2 weeks. Next, the confirmed hyperglycemic mice were treated with pioglitazone (HG+PG group), total extract (HG+TE group), and saponin-rich fraction (HG+SRF group) for 3 weeks. Then, the evaluation was based on body mass; blood glucose (BG) level; BG tolerance, lipid profile, pancreatic histology and the expression IRS-1 in the pancreas. The results showed that body mass and BG level significantly increased in hyperglycemic mice. After substance treatment, there was no change in body mass in TE and SRF groups. However, BG level of HG+TE group mice significantly decreased compared to hyperglycemic mice and only BG tolerance of HG+SRF group was improved. Besides, HG+TE and HG+SRF groups modulated the triglyceride, HDL and LDL close to those expressed in normal mice. In addition, histological images of the pancreas revealed the restoration in both HG+TE and HG+SRF groups. Simultaneously, the IRS-1 expression in HG+TE group pancreas was restored to its expression in normal mice. These results demonstrate that the TE and SRF of cashew nut testa could ameliorate BG, lipid profile and pancreatic IRS-1 expression and restore the damaged pancreas and islets in hyperglycemic mice.</p>Huy Duc VanLy Thi Thao NguyenNhan Lu Chinh PhanThuy Thi Thanh DaoLong Thanh LeNhu Thi Ngoc NguyenHuynh Ton Ngoc NguyenLoan Thi Tung Dang
Copyright (c) 2022 Huy Duc Van, Ly Thi Thao Nguyen, Nhan Lu Chinh Phan, Thuy Thi Thanh Dao, Long Thanh Le, Nhu Thi Ngoc Nguyen, Huynh Ton Ngoc Nguyen, Loan Thi Tung Dang
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2024-01-022024-01-0211120621410.14719/pst.2697Evaluation of the suitability of three weed species as alternative cover crops in smallholder oil palm plantations through plant spacing management
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2754
<p>Smallholder oil palm plantations in Indonesia have reached 8.9 million ha, but their role is still not optimal due to low productivity caused by the lack of knowledge of smallholders regarding sustainable oil palm technical culture, such as the use of cover crops. However, it requires appropriate spacing for different species. This study aims to obtain the optimum spacing of 3 weed species planted as cover crops in smallholder oil palm plantations. The research was carried out in 2022 at the smallholder oil palm plantation Naga Rejo village, Galang, Sumatera Utara, Indonesia. The experimental treatments included weed species (Asystasia gangetica, Paspalum conjugatum and Nephrolepis biserrata) as the main plot and spacing (10, 20 and 30 cm) as subplots arranged in a separate plot design with 3 replications. The results showed that the % of 100% land coverage was obtained in plantings of N. biserrata and A. gangetica in 4 WAPs and 10 cm spacing in 3 WAPs independently. The highest leaf area of N. biserrata, P. conjugatum and A. gangetica was obtained at a spacing of 30 cm. The highest dry weight, growth rate and nutrient uptake N and K N. biserrata and P. conjugatum were obtained at a spacing of 10 cm, while A. gangetica at a spacing of 30 cm. This shows that the optimum spacing depends on the weed species. The optimum spacing for A. gangetica (broad leaf) is 30 cm, while for P. conjugatum (grasses) and N. biserrata (ferns) is 10 cm.</p>Yenni AsburYayuk PurwaningrumHalus SatriawanMurni Sari RahayuNurhayatiMira Ariyanti
Copyright (c) 2022 Yenni Asbur, Yayuk Purwaningrum, Halus Satriawan, Murni Sari Rahayu, Nurhayati, Mira Ariyanti
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2024-01-232024-01-2311152153010.14719/pst.2754Research on the structuring of water clusters in Chlorella vulgaris water suspension
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2493
<p>Many bioactive compounds of natural origin have beneficial effects on human health and are used to treat different diseases. Chlorella is a genus of green algae with a high potential for producing biologically active substances. Exposure to extreme conditions can enhance its antioxidant activity and the production of concrete metabolites. C. vulgaris is cultivated in plantations. It is accessible in pharmacies and drugstores. The Health Act of 2005 in Bulgaria allows the therapeutic and prophylactic use of herbs, both independently by patients and as prescribed by a doctor. This study performed comparative spectral analyses of C. vulgaris using a 1% suspension of C. vulgaris in deionized water (v/v) by the methods of Non-equilibrium energy spectrum (NES) and Differential non-equilibrium energy spectrum (DNES). The research was performed in order to make indirect studies of the biological effects of C. vulgaris, which are connected with calcium conductivity and anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects. The effects of structuring of water clusters by C. vulgaris were examined. The data from spectral analyses, connected with a peak at (E =-0.1312 eV)(?=9.45 ?m) (?=1058 cm-1), revealed anti-inflammatory effects. The anti-oxidant and anti-tumor effects of C. vulgaris were shown at (E=-0.1387 eV)(?=8.95 ?m)(?=1117 cm-1). The results showed effects of improvement of calcium conductivity and anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antitumor effects of C. vulgaris on human health.</p>Christos DrossinakisSadek BaitiStoil D. KaradzhovNedyalka ValchevaIvan AngushevMariana Angelcheva Fabio HuetherIrina GotovaZhechko DimitrovAlexander I. IgnatovIgnat IgnatovMila D. KalevaToshka E. PetrovaMario T. IlievNikolai NeshevRalitsa BankovaVeronika DelevaTanya Toshkova-YotovaTeodora P. Popova
Copyright (c) 2022 Ignat Ignatov, Teodora P. Popova, Tanya Toshkova-Yotova, Veronika Deleva, Ralitsa Bankova, Nikolai Neshev, Mario T. Iliev, Toshka E. Petrova, Mila D. Kaleva, Christos Drossinakis, Alexander I. Ignatov, Zhechko Dimitrov, Irina Gotova, Fabio Huether, Mariana Angelcheva , Ivan Angushev, Nedyalka Valcheva, Stoil D. Karadzhov, Sadek Baiti
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2024-01-052024-01-0511125826510.14719/pst.2493Analysis of Vegetation and Plant Diversity in High Conservation Value Areas in Oil Palm Plantations
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2924
<p>The expansion of oil palm plantations is often rumored to impact the destruction of forests and other ecosystems with high conservation value (HCV). This study aimed to analyze the vegetation and plant diversity in the HCV area of oil palm plantations. The research was conducted on an oil palm plantation in Seruyan District, Central Kalimantan Province, Indonesia with an HCV area of 5379 ha. The research was carried out using the grid transect method on various types of vegetation, divided into four plots: seedlings, saplings, poles and trees. Parameters observed included the number of species, the number of individuals and the level of plant diversity. The results showed that the research location had good vegetation and plant diversity in the HCV area. There were 25 plant species from 17 families with a total of 355 plants. The number of species found in the seedling plots was 11 species (6 families) with a total of 38 plants; in the sapling plots was 16 species (12 families) with a total of 159 plants; in the pole plots was 14 species (11 families) with a total of 43 plants, and in the tree plots was 13 species (10 families) 115 plants. There was variation in the number of species and families in each plot. The overall plant diversity index was low. The diversity index of plants in the plots of seedlings, saplings, poles and trees (and the average) was in the low category.</p>Erwin Dafis NasutionAkhmad R SaidyBambang J PriatmadiHafizianorSuwardiSukarmanMoch. DasrialHimmatul Ulya AlfianaRahman Jailani
Copyright (c) 2022 Erwin Dafis Nasution, Akhmad R Saidy, Bambang J Priatmadi, Hafizianor, Suwardi, Sukarman, Moch. Dasrial, Himmatul Ulya Alfiana, Rahman Jailani
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2024-01-052024-01-0511129630710.14719/pst.2924Citrus for wellness: Exploring the bioactive properties of Citrus medica fruit peel with emphasis on its anticancer, antioxidant, antimicrobial and anthelmintic properties
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2612
<p><span class="fontstyle0">Citrus medica </span><span class="fontstyle0">(Citron) is an underutilised plant consisting of various bioactive elements with numerous medicinal benefits. The present study aimed to evaluate the bioactive properties, including anthelmintic, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anticancer activities, of chloroform extract obtained from the of fruit peel of </span><span class="fontstyle0">C</span><span class="fontstyle0">. </span><span class="fontstyle0">medica</span><span class="fontstyle0">. The different types of phytochemicals present in the chloroform extract were analysed using GC-MS. The major components detected included n-hexadecanoic acid, octadecanoic acid, t-tetradecenal, 1-nonadecene etc. Anthelmintic study was conducted using </span><span class="fontstyle0">Eisenia fetida </span><span class="fontstyle0">as a test organism, revealing a significant anthelmintic effect in the </span><span class="fontstyle0">C. medica </span><span class="fontstyle0">fruit peel extract compared to the standard drug. Antimicrobial properties were assessed against five test bacterial and fungal strains. Antibacterial tests showed zones of inhibition ranging from 8 to 11 mm, while no prominent zones of inhibition were observed in antifungal tests. The DPPH assay demonstrated significant antioxidant properties of Citron fruit peel extract compared to the standard ascorbic acid. The Chloroform extract of citron fruit peel exhibited significant cytotoxic properties against FaDu (human hypopharyngeal tumour) cell line. The present study indicates the potential of the chloroform extract of </span><span class="fontstyle0">C</span><span class="fontstyle0">. </span><span class="fontstyle0">medica </span><span class="fontstyle0">fruit peel to be employed as an anthelmintic, antibacterial, antioxidant and anticancer agent. Hence, it emphasises the prominence that can be given to the dietary consumption of citrus fruit peel in various forms, such as dried peel, powder etc.</span> </p>Saranya JayaramSuma SarojiniSriganesh Bangalore AnandAnto Akil Irudaya RajAnju ParakadanIndhu PhilipSoma Biswas
Copyright (c) 2022 Saranya Jayaram, Suma Sarojini, Sriganesh Bangalore Anand, Anto Akil Irudaya Raj, Anju Parakadan, Indhu Philip, Soma Biswas
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2024-01-252024-01-2511161662510.14719/pst.2612Chemical and functional properties of nutrient-dense beverages developed from underutilised crops
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2606
<p>Beverages are typically seen as wholesome snacks that can be included in a daily diet. Despite being part of the regular diet, the majority of these beverages are low in nutrients and high in calories. Worldwide, a variety of industrial processes, raw ingredients and microorganisms are used to manufacture fermented food. Many indigenous or traditional fermented foods and beverages are still prepared today as a form of domestic art. They are created in small businesses, communities and homes. Among the fermented foods that are important to people's diets worldwide are beverages that might have a non-dairy origin. In this study, <em>Moringa oleifera </em>Leaf Powder (MoLP) was used to fortify two beverages, including <em>Amasi</em> (Bambara groundnut) and <em>Mageu</em> (sorghum), at 0% (control), 1% and 5%. After fortifying the fermented and unfermented variations, the beverages' biochemical, chemical and functional properties were analysed. The effects of MoLP (1% and 5%) on the stress, viscosity and torque characteristics of <em>Amasi</em> were significant (p ?0.05). For all of the samples, <em>Amasi</em> and <em>Mageu's </em>values for protein, ash and moisture increased significantly (p ?0.05) due to the inclusion of MoLP. These findings indicate that MoLP-fortified beverages can act as a source of nutrients to address micronutrient deficiencies in children and adults.</p> <p> </p>Abiodun FamakinwaAyakha NgcokoEmma NicholasOlakunbi OlubiOluwafemi Omoniyi OguntibejuJessy Van WykAnthony Obilana
Copyright (c) 2022 Abiodun Famakinwa, Ayakha Ngcoko, Emma Nicholas, Olakunbi Olubi, Oluwafemi Omoniyi Oguntibeju, Jessy Van Wyk, Anthony Obilana
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2024-01-012024-01-01111455310.14719/pst.2606A modern purification by accelerated solvent extraction and centrifugal partition chromatography and biological evaluation of capsaicin from Capsicum chinense
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2684
<p>A special alkaloid compound known as capsaicin, which can only be found in the fruit of the Capsicum plant, was isolated and tested for its anti-inflammatory activity. The purpose of this work is to establish a simple and quick approach for capsaicin purification utilizing centrifugal partition chromatography (CPC) as well as an effective method - accelerated solvent extraction (ASE), for extracting capsaicin from Capsicum chinense. After purification, capsaicin was validated by HPLC-DAD at 281 nm to be > 90% purity. The in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of the isolated capsaicin was also investigated, and the IC50 value of the capsaicin was determined to be 57.61 µg/mL. The current work emphasizes how an ASE and CPC system may combine to extract high-purity capsaicin from Capsicum chinense, which have the anti-inflammatory activity, as we evaluated in the experiment.</p>Hoang Thanh DuongDo Thi Thuy LinhLe Xuan DuyTran Thanh HaNguyen Cao CuongPhung Van TrungNguyen Minh KhoiLe Quang ThaoDo Huu NghiNguyen Tuan Hiep
Copyright (c) 2022 Hoang Thanh Duong, Do Thi Thuy Linh, Le Xuan Duy, Tran Thanh Ha, Nguyen Cao Cuong, Phung Van Trung, Nguyen Minh Khoi, Le Quang Thao, Do Huu Nghi, Nguyen Tuan Hiep
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2024-01-132024-01-1311134535210.14719/pst.2684Response of tomato to fertilizer nutrients integration and herbicides spray: Evaluating growth, yield, fruit quality and herbicides residue
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2857
<p>The interaction between fertilizer nutrients and pesticides and their impact on tomato production and quality has been insufficiently studied in tropical agricultural conditions. This research investigated four fertilizer nutrient management (FNM) approaches: major nutrients (NPK), micronutrients, farmyard manure (FYM) and traditional farmer practices (FP), alongside three herbicides—glyphosate, pendimethalin and metribuzin applied using seven methods. Results highlighted the substantial influence of FNM strategies and herbicide applications on tomato growth and yield parameters such as plant height, cluster count, fruits per plant, fruit number and yield per plant. Notably, the NPK+FYM strategy consistently yielded superior results across herbicides and application methods. Individually applied herbicides, particularly glyphosate, exhibited detrimental effects on growth and yield parameters, and the negative impact was conspicuously higher with glyphosate > metribuzin > pendimethalin than with their sequential or combined application. While herbicides decreased tomato yield across FNM practices, the reduction ranged from 1.90–10.95%, 1.79–6.75%, 1.62–6.49% and 1.40–9.10% in NPK, NPK+MN, NPK+FYM and FP treatments, respectively. Fruit quality remained unaffected by FNM practices and herbicides, except for elevated ascorbic acid content and shelf life under NPK+FYM. Herbicide residues in tomato fruits were within permissible limits (below 0.1 mg/kg for glyphosate and 0.05 mg/kg for pendimethalin and metribuzin) across treatments. This study showed that the NPK+FYM practice is the best strategy for increasing the tomato yield and quality parameters besides reducing the herbicide’s toxicity effect on tomato growth at an early stage.</p>Yerra PavaniPonnusamy JanakiRamasamy Jagadeeswaran Arjunan Sankari Alaguthevar Ramalakshmi Palanisamy Murali Arthanari
Copyright (c) 2022 Yerra Pavani, Ponnusamy Janaki, Ramasamy Jagadeeswaran , Arjunan Sankari , Alaguthevar Ramalakshmi , Palanisamy Murali Arthanari
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2024-01-012024-01-011119310110.14719/pst.2857Actinomycete inoculant improves the growth and yield of rainfed lowland and upland rice under field conditions
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2353
<p>This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of actinomycete inoculant in enhancing the growth and yield of rainfed lowland and upland rice across wet and dry seasons in real field conditions. This field assessment took place at four sites, comprising two rainfed lowland and two rainfed upland ecosystems, over two cropping seasons (dry and wet seasons). The experiments involved testing both soil-based and carbonized rice hull (CRH) inoculants. Actinomycetes were found to be effectively carried by CRH and soil, and evidence from field studies in rainfed lowland and upland conditions showed that the actinomycete inoculant significantly improved rice production even under stressful environmental conditions. Regarding plant height, root depth, and tiller number, the inoculated treatments outperformed both the control and the full fertilization rates. Rice yield significantly increased with the application of actinomycete inoculum in both lowland and upland experiments. Inoculation alone led to substantial improvements, with yield increases of up to 48% in Lowland Site 1, 50% in Lowland Site 2, 78% in Upland Site 1, and 43% in Upland Site 2. Similarly, growth was enhanced by inoculation alone, reaching up to 50% in Lowland Site 1, 75% in Lowland Site 2, 24% in Upland Site 1, and 26% in Upland Site 2. When added to the full rate of fertilization, the inoculant significantly boosted yield by up to 16% in Lowland Site 1, 82% in Upland Site 1, and 40% in Upland Site 2. Additionally, growth substantially improved with inoculation in conjunction with the full rate of fertilization, reaching as much as 50% in lowland site 1, and 24% in upland site 1. Actinomycete inoculant proves to be a valuable alternative and addition to agricultural fertilizer management, as it was found to significantly increase growth and yield even in adverse weather conditions.</p>Lanie A. AlejoJayvee A. Cruz
Copyright (c) 2022 Lanie A. Alejo, Jayvee A. Cruz
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2024-01-142024-01-1411138839610.14719/pst.2353Lemon basil (Ocimum africanum Lour.) a new distribution record from North East India with notes on its identity
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2762
<p>The odoriferous Citronbasilika, also known as lemon basil, possesses a distinctive lemony sweetness amidst all the Ocimum L. members. While native to India, it has not been formally recognized in India's North Eastern (N.E) region until now. This investigation marks the first documented occurrence of lemon basil specifically O. africanum Lour., in N.E India. This new record has been established through meticulous investigation, comparison, diagnosis, verification using herbarium specimens, and a thorough review of existing literature. The report includes a morphological description, careful scrutiny, identification keys, taxonomic notes, and photographic images of the species. The previously existing confusion regarding its identification alongside O. americanum L. and O. basilicum L. has been clarified. This study aims to facilities the accurate identification of these three Ocimum L. species.</p>Mamita KalitaNilakshee Devi
Copyright (c) 2022 Mamita Kalita, Nilakshee Devi
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2024-01-012024-01-0111113914410.14719/pst.2762Comparative spore morphology of ten species of the genus Ophioglossum L. from Kerala, India
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2497
<p>The eusporangiate fern Ophioglossum brings some uncertainty among taxonomists while identifying the species. Therefore, a combined approach by considering the spore morphology and other morphological characters is more authentic for delimiting species of this genus. This study documented and compared the spore morphology of O. costatum, O. gramineum, O. lusitanicum, O. lusoafricanum, O. parvifolium, O. pendulum, O. petiolatum, O. raphaelianum, O. reticulatum and O. rubellum collected from Kerala, India by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis. SEM images of the spores for each species were provided, the P/E ratio was calculated, and the size classes of the spores were determined here. The occurance of O. lusitanicum in India was confirmed and O. madhusoodhananii was synonymised under O. costatum.</p>Afsana KhanAnto P.VIgnatius Antony
Copyright (c) 2022 Afsana Khan, Anto P.V, Ignatius Antony
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2024-01-022024-01-0211118619510.14719/pst.2497Effects of hydrophilic and lipophilic emulsifier concentrations on the characteristics of Germander essential oil nanoemulsions prepared using the nanoprecipitation technique
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2421
<p>The Germanders (Teucrium polium L.) essential oil exhibits antioxidant and bactericidal activities against a wide range of microorganisms; however, its water insolubility, susceptibility to environmental stresses, and intense flavors limit its uses in food formulations. As a solution, in the present study, nanoemulsions of Germanders (Mentha pulegium) essential oil were prepared using a bottom-up nanoprecipitation technique. A central composite design based on the response surface methodology was implemented to investigate the effects of selected lipophilic and hydrophilic emulsifier concentrations. The proposed second-order polynomial models, with relatively high coefficients of determination, could efficiently predict alterations in response parameters due to emulsifier concentrations. The results revealed that both lipophilic and hydrophilic emulsifiers had significantly affected all characteristics of the synthesized essential oil nanoemulsions. Multi-goal optimization analysis suggested that 7.8% and 4.8% concentrations of Span 80 and Tween 80, respectively, could yield the most desirable Germanders essential oil nanoemulsions, with a mean particle size of 78.56 nm, PDI of 0.1722, DPPH radical scavenging of 83.69%, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella enterica growth inhibition zones of 10.5 mm and 12.7 mm, respectively. The validity of the models was confirmed by the absence of substantial variations between experimental data and modeling results. While the prepared Germander essential oil nanoemulsions demonstrated acceptable physical properties, they exhibited relatively limited chemical stability during storage at 5°C for 30 days.</p>Marjan AsemaniPaniz ZinsazNavideh AnarjanElham TaghaviMohd Nizam Lani
Copyright (c) 2022 Marjan Asemani, Paniz Zinsaz, Navideh Anarjan, Elham Taghavi, Mohd Nizam Lani
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2024-01-142024-01-1411150051210.14719/pst.2421Field-level rice yield estimations under different farm practices using the crop simulation model for better yield
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2690
<p>Crop yield estimation is essential for decision-making systems and insurance policy makers. Numerous methodologies for yield estimation have been developed, encompassing crop models, remote sensing techniques, and empirical equations. Each approach holds unique limitations and advantages. The primary aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of the DSSAT (Decision Support System for Agro Technology Transfer) model in predicting rice yields and LAI (Leaf Area Index) across various management methods. Additionally, the study sought to identify the optimal management practice for attaining higher yields. Crop models facilitate the expeditious evaluation of management strategies aimed at improving crop yield and analyzing the balance between production, resource efficiency, and environmental impacts. The study region selected for analysis is Karimnagar district of Telangana state. DSSAT has been chosen as the preferred tool due to its high efficiency in evaluating crop yield. The model's simulated yield was compared to the observed yield obtained from crop-cutting experiments. The results indicate a correlation of 0.81 and 0.85 between observed and simulated yields, as well as between model LAI and yield. An observation was made regarding a discrepancy between predicted and actual yields, which can be attributed to biotic stress. However, it should be noted that the current model does not account for this factor. The observed average yield was 5200 kg ha-1, whereas the projected yield was 5400 kg ha-1. The findings indicate that the model's performance is influenced by both the timing of sowing and the amount of nitrogen applied. The findings indicate that the DSSAT model has demonstrated a high level of accuracy in predicting both yields and leaf area index (LAI) across various management strategies. This study showcases the potential use of crop simulation models as a technology-driven tool to identify the most effective management strategies for rice production.</p>Roja MandapatiMurali Krishna GummaDevender Reddy MetukuSagar Maitra
Copyright (c) 2022 Roja Mandapati, Murali Krishna Gumma, Devender Reddy Metuku, Sagar Maitra
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2024-01-042024-01-0411123424010.14719/pst.2690The population structure of Nepeta pamirensis at different altitudes in the Pamirs (Tajikistan)
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2630
<p>The structure of alpine plant populations is one of the main criteria for assessing the current state of alpine flora. Species of the genus <em>Nepeta</em>, most of which belong to alpine plants, can be universal objects for assessing changes in environmental conditions, including the impact of anthropogenic pressure. The article discusses the ontogenetic structure and population size in connection with the change in the life form of <em>Nepeta pamirensis</em> at different heights of the Pamirs (3060-4250 m a.s.l.). Our research showed that the ontogenetic spectra of different populations are different. These differences are linked to changes in the life form, the length of ontogenesis and how well seeds reproduce. Populations were studied using transects. The individual seed was taken as the counting unit. In total, 3 populations were studied and more than 750 individuals of different ontogenetic states were included in the analysis. The ontogenetic structure of populations was characterized using basic demographic indicators: the recovery index, ageing index, generative index and the ecological density index. Depending on the altitude gradient, the species was characterized by different efficiencies of seed reproduction, which determined the different densities of individuals in plant communities of distribution. In general, with an increase in the height of distribution of a species, the structure of the population became more stable.</p>Alexey Yurievich AstashenkovVera Alexeevna CheryomushkinaMaryio Tilloevich Boboev
Copyright (c) 2022 Alexey Yurievich Astashenkov, Vera Alexeevna Cheryomushkina, Maryio Tilloevich Boboev
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2024-01-052024-01-0511128128710.14719/pst.2630Physiological responses of the leaves of a high-altitude plant Picrorhiza kurroa to cold stress
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2861
<p class="Keywords" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 115%; margin: 5.65pt 0in 5.65pt 0in;">Plants growing at high elevations experience different environmental stresses, such as drought, salt, and cold. Among them, cold stress is the most prevalent one that affects the plants differently. Plants undergo biochemical, metabolic, molecular, and physiological changes under cold stress; hence, they adopt various mechanisms to tolerate it. The antioxidant defence system, osmotic regulators, and photosynthetic pigments in the plant provide them with stress tolerance. The present study is conducted on a high-altitude plant, Picrorhiza kurroa, which grows in such environmental conditions, to study the physiological parameters that provide a coping mechanism against cold stress. For this study, the leaves were collected from Pothivasa (2200 m.a.s.l) and Tungnath (3600 m.a.s.l) in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, India. The photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids), lipid peroxidation, antioxidant enzymes, namely, superoxide dismutase, catalase, guaiacol peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and osmoprotectants (protein, soluble sugar, and proline) present in the leaves were determined to visualize the impact of cold stress. It was revealed that the concentration of photosynthetic pigments increased with elevation. The activity of enzymes was analyzed, and they were observed to decrease with altitude. The malondialdehyde concentration, an indicator of lipid peroxidation, is higher in Pothivasa and lower in Tungnath. There is a significant increase in the osmoprotectants’ content along the altitudinal gradient. Therefore, the leaves from both sampling locations revealed the physiological changes that occurred in them to adapt to the cold stress conditions.</p>Shreya AgrawalPooja Saklani
Copyright (c) 2022 Shreya Agrawal, Pooja Saklani
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2024-01-132024-01-1311132933610.14719/pst.2861A new distributional report of Cremanthodium nepalense (Asteraceae) in India: a vulnerable and endemic species of the Himalayas
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2427
<p>Cremanthodium nepalense Kitam. (Asteraceae) is reported for the first time from India. It is endemic to the Himalayas and has only been reported from Nepal and China. It was found growing in alpine meadows near river bank in North Sikkim at an elevation of ca 4370 m. In the present report, the diagnostic features, morphological variations and coloured photo-plate are provided. Besides conservation, status ‘Vulnerable’ has also been evaluated using IUCN Red listing guidelines.</p>Rahul KumarVikas Kumar
Copyright (c) 2022 Rahul Kumar, Vikas Kumar
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2024-01-012024-01-01111768010.14719/pst.2427A Systematic Review and Comparative Meta-analysis of Non-destructive Fruit Maturity Detection Techniques
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2844
<p class="Abstract" style="text-align: justify; line-height: normal; margin: 5.65pt -.3pt 5.65pt 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The global fruit industry is growing rapidly due to increased awareness of the health benefits associated with fruit consumption. Fruit maturity detection plays a crucial role in fruit logistics and maintenance, enabling farmers and fruit industries to grade fruits and develop sustainable policies for enhanced profitability and service quality. Non-destructive fruit maturity detection methods have gained significant attention, especially with advancements in machine vision and spectroscopic techniques. This systematic review provides a concise overview of the techniques and algorithms used in fruit quality grading by farmers and industries. The study reviewed 63 full-text articles published between 2012 and 2023 along with their bibliometric analysis. Qualitative analysis revealed that researchers from various disciplines contributed to this field, with techniques falling into 3 categories: machine vision (mathematical modelling or deep learning), spectroscopy and other miscellaneous approaches. There was a high level of diversity among these categories, as indicated by an I-square value of 88.37% in the heterogeneity analysis. Meta-analysis, using odds ratios as the effect measure, established the relationship between techniques and their accuracy. Machine vision showed a positive correlation with accuracy across different categories. Additionally, Egger's and Begg's tests were used to assess publication bias and no strong evidence of its occurrence was found. This study offers valuable insights into the advantages and limitations of various fruit maturity detection techniques. For employing statistical and meta-analytical methods, key factors such as accuracy and sample size have been considered. These findings will aid in the development of effective strategies for fruit quality assessment.</span></p>Neetu RaniSavita GargKiran BamelVaibhav BhattSourabh SharmaShashvat Kumar MishraNitesh SainiSaloni Parmar
Copyright (c) 2022 Neetu Rani, Savita Garg, Kiran Bamel, Vaibhav Bhatt, Sourabh Sharma, Shashvat Kumar Mishra, Nitesh Saini, Saloni Parmar
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2024-01-142024-01-1411141843210.14719/pst.2844Enhancing resilience to climate change through prospective strategies for climate-resilient agriculture to improve crop yield and food security
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2140
<p>It is important to highlight that agriculture is one of the sectors that will be directly affected by climate change scenarios in recent years. There are a number of processes such as drought, floods, temperature, salinity etc along with other forms of biotic factors posing significant impacts on crop yields of various crops due to their fluctuating scenario in the environment. Espousal of smart technologies and practices like smart crop and variety selection, efficient climate-based cropping system, agricultural water management (AWM), balanced fertilization, contingency planning, recarbonization of soils, no-till system, integrated farming system, site specific nutrient management etc are being advised to exercise in many regions for climate-resistant agriculture. These approaches minimize soil disruption and energy usages, enhance soil health and alleviate greenhouse gas discharges, minimize unproductive losses and improve efficiency of land and water use result in greater crop production with reduced fertilizer usage. As a part of this strategy, weather stations and mini-weather lookouts are set up at the village stage to register relevant weather observations like temperature, rainfall, wind speed and relative humidity etc to furnish customized agro-advisories to farmers, which reduce detrimental consequences attributed to the climate. A climate smart approach integrates farmer’s practices with related technologies, plans, institutes, policies and financial packages. So, initiating the choice of site-specific crops, development of customized technologies and tools, diversification of crops, improvement of climate-resistant crop varieties, syndication of forecasting tools and proper management of resources at the community level can effectively enhance climate resilience in agriculture.</p>Vasavirama KarriNirmala Nalluri
Copyright (c) 2022 Vasavirama Karri, Nirmala Nalluri
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2024-01-012024-01-01111213310.14719/pst.2140Advanced strategies for optimization of primary nutrients requirement in rice-A review
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2682
<p>The Green Revolution led to India's food independence mostly through the inclusion of supply-driven technologies, such as the introduction of high-yielding cultivars, improved access to water, agrochemicals, and mechanization. The present and future needs target agricultural sustainability without endangering the ecosystem. In this regard, the adoption of precision agriculture is required to meet this expected objective. In developed nations, precision farming has already experienced tremendous growth. However, precision farming methods have taken a while for emerging nations in Asia to comprehend, create, and embrace. Moreover, precision farming is frequently misunderstood as a sophisticated technological intervention intended for extensive agricultural fields. However, it is essentially a science that involves using the "right input" in the "right quantity," at the "right time," and in the "right place," to improve input use efficiency. In the case of primary nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, so-called recommendations for nutrient management based on soil tests have improved food grain output which increased the nutrient use efficiency up to a certain extent. Moreover, the recommendations are made for a given agroclimatic region and crops irrespective of site-specific soil fertility, cultivars, and agronomic management levels resulting in excess or scanty use to crop needs. At this juncture, assessing the nutritional requirements of plants proves to be a superior method, as it takes into account the cumulative impact of nutrient availability from various sources on plant growth at any specific stage, making it a reliable indicator of nutrient accessibility. Rice, the most important food crop, is grown in diverse agroclimatic regions at different management levels. Hence, there is an urgent need to adopt a precision nutrient management strategy to optimize the yield output. The article offers an overview of several precision instruments available for managing nutrients at specific sites and aids in choosing the most appropriate one for each circumstance.</p>Sagar LalichettiSagar MaitraSultan SinghSai Ram Masina
Copyright (c) 2022 Sagar Lalichetti, Sagar Maitra, Sultan Singh, Masina Sairam
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2024-01-132024-01-1311135336510.14719/pst.2682Potential role of herbal plants and beta sitosterol as a bioactive constituent in circumventing Alzheimer’s Disease
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2420
<p>Alzheimer's Disease (AD), a neurological ailment, mostly affects the older population all around the world. The rational therapies show limited efficacy, adverse effects, and poor patient compliance; therefore, herbal drugs are considered a suitable supplement to the drug therapy for the treatment of AD. According to research, herbal drugs reduce symptoms of AD and also improve brain functioning through the inhibition of beta amyloid, gamma-secretase, and acetylcholine, along with the regulation of antioxidants and the activation of alpha-secretase. Various herbal plants like <em>Salvia officinalis </em>L.,<em> Bertholletia excelsa </em>L., <em>Withania somnifera </em>L., and<em> Urtica dioica </em>L. help slow down the progression of AD by scavenging free radicals, inhibiting lipid peroxidation, beta amyloid and tau phosphorylation. Beta sitosterol, a phytosterol found abundantly in plants, has the ability to cross the Blood Brain Barrier and thus acts as a bioactive constituent in circumventing various neurological disorders. Numerous <em>in vitro</em> and <em>in vivo</em> investigations indicate that beta sitosterol shows immunomodulatory, lipid-lowering, as well as antioxidant properties. The plant sterol, beta sitosterol, has the capacity to decrease beta-amyloid platelet synthesis, indicating that it might be helpful in the treatment and prevention of AD. Treatment with beta-sitosterol can lessen plaque burden and also enhance spatial learning and recognition abilities in patients suffering from AD.</p>Apoorva MishraSaumya DasSoni Kumari
Copyright (c) 2022 Apoorva Mishra, Saumya Das; Soni Kumari
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2024-01-142024-01-1411145446510.14719/pst.2420Drought stress tolerance in rice: a critical insight
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2613
<p>Drought is currently a serious threat for farming especially in rice cultivation, due to its substantial water requirements throughout its lifecycle. Drought is one of the major environmental constraints disrupting the growth and yield of rice plants, affecting them at physiological, morphological, biochemical and molecular levels. Global climate change exacerbates this issue, leading to substantial economic losses. As rice is a major food crop worldwide, the demand for rice production is increasing in tandem with the expanding human population. Consequently, it has become imperative to utilize drought-prone areas for agriculture and develop drought-tolerant rice genotypes. In addition to conventional breeding methods, the application of multi-omics approaches proves most effective in meeting the need to enhance drought tolerance in rice plants. Protective mechanisms, such as morphological adaptation, physiological acclimatization, cellular adjustments and antioxidant defense, play pivotal roles in helping plants overcome drought stress. Plant-microbial interactions are important for plants to overcome drought-induced adversities. Furthermore, applications of conventional approaches, omics approaches and nanotechnology are very promising for generating climate smart agriculture. Our aim in this review is to focus on drought stress tolerance in rice including drought-tolerant rice genotypes, their adaptation mechanisms, the unveiling the genes, transcription factors, microRNAs (miRNA) involved, microbial assistance and exploring approaches to mitigate drought stress in rice plants. The present review might throw some light on understanding the mechanism of drought stress tolerance in rice, including its molecular crosstalk and biochemical dynamics, for future researchers.</p>Debapriya ChoudhuryChandrama MukherjeeShinjan Dey Sikha Dutta
Copyright (c) 2022 Debapriya Choudhury, Chandrama Mukherjee, Shinjan Dey , Sikha Dutta
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2024-01-052024-01-0511124125710.14719/pst.2613Natural pesticides for pest control in agricultural crops: an alternative and eco-friendly method
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2547
<p>Biological pesticides are pesticides derived from natural materials such as bacteria, plants, and minerals that are applied to crops to kill pests. Biopesticides are targeted, inexpensive, eco-friendly, sustainable, leave no trace, and are not associated with the production of greenhouse gases. It contributes significantly to the agricultural bio-economy's sustainability. The advantages to the ecosystem provided by many significant biological resources justify the incorporation of biopesticides in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs. Through advancements in research and development, the use of biopesticides has significantly reduced environmental contamination. The development of biopesticides promotes agricultural modernization and will surely result in a gradual phase-out of chemical pesticides. Although synthetic pesticides have positive effects on crop yield and productivity, they also have some negative impacts on soil biodiversity, animals, aquatic life, and humans. In general, synthetic pesticides make the soil brittle, decrease soil respiration, and reduce the activity of some soil microorganisms, such as earthworms. Pesticide buildup in bodies of water can spread from aquatic life to animals including people, as their biomagnification can cause fatal diseases like cancer, kidney disease, rashes on the skin, diabetes, etc. Biopesticides, on the other hand, have surfaced and have proven to be quite beneficial in the management of pests and are safe for the environment and hence have emerged as very useful in the control of pests with a lot of merits. The present review provides a broad perspective on the different kinds of pesticides. We analyzed suitable and environmentally friendly ways to improve the acceptance and industrial application of microbial herbicides, phytopesticides, and nano biopesticides for plant nutrition, crop protection/yield, animal/human health promotion, as well as their potential integration into the integrated pest management system.</p>Chowdhury SwapanBanerjee MainakBasnett Deewa Mazumdar Tanmoy
Copyright (c) 2022 Chowdhury Swapan, Banerjee Mainak, Basnett Deewa , Mazumdar Tanmoy
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2024-01-142024-01-1411143345010.14719/pst.2547Integrated Pest Management Strategies Using Endophytic Entomopathogenic Fungi
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2740
<p>Insect pests harm crops severely and disperse a wide range of diseases that are transmitted by insects. Chemical pesticides are frequently used to manage them. Due to their constant usage over many years, insect pests have become increasingly resistant to practically all kinds of chemical pesticides, which has increased the demand for alternatives. For effective and environmentally safe insect pest control, insect pathogenic fungi are seen to be a viable alternative to practically all kinds of conventional pesticides. However, the viability of this strategy is being constrained by the sluggish death rate and necessity of large conidial concentrations. The ability of these fungi to regulate insects has previously been examined, but more recent research has focused on their potential to operate as plant endophytes to protect plants from phytopathogens and enhance other elements of agricultural output. The significance of these entomopathogenic fungi as endophytes in the context of biological control is discussed in this article. Finding local strains of entomopathogenic fungi that can colonise endophytes and their possible utility in the management of disease-causing pests are the main goals of our research for this review.</p>S Sumaiya ParveenP S Rashtrapal
Copyright (c) 2022 Sumaiya Parveen, P S Rashtrapal
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2024-01-232024-01-2311156857410.14719/pst.2740Seed priming: An overview of techniques, mechanisms, and applications
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2828
<p class="Keywords" style="text-align: justify; line-height: normal; margin: 5.65pt 0cm 5.65pt 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Seed priming is a pre-sowing seed treatment method that has gained significant attention in recent years due to its potential to improve seed germination and early seedling growth. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of seed priming techniques, their underlying mechanisms, and diverse applications in crop production during the recent years. The article introduces the concept of seed priming and its importance in optimizing seed performance, discussing various seed priming techniques including osmotic priming, hydro-priming, hormonal priming, and microbial priming. Each technique is described in detail, outlining the specific procedures and conditions involved, and their advantages and limitations are discussed. The underlying mechanisms of seed priming are explored, elucidating the biochemical, physiological, and molecular changes that occur during seed priming, and the interactions between priming substances and seeds. The article also provides an in-depth analysis of the applications of seed priming, discussing its positive effects on seed germination, seedling vigour, stress tolerance, and its potential for sustainable agriculture. This review article serves as a valuable resource for researchers, scientists and faculties working in the field of seed technological research and progressive farmers who can adopt this technology for enhancing crop yield. This article provides insights into the techniques, mechanisms, and applications of seed priming for optimizing seed performance and enhancing crop productivity in diverse agricultural systems.</span></p>Mohammad AmirDurga PrasadFarooq Ahmad KhanAnam KhanBelal AhmadAstha
Copyright (c) 2022 Mohammad Amir Khan, Durga Prasad Durga, Farooq Ahmad Khan, Anam Khan, Belal Ahmad Belal, Astha Astha
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2024-01-232024-01-2311155356310.14719/pst.2828Biology of the medicinal plant Arum korolkowii Regel (Arum)
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/3137
<p>More than five thousand plant species thrive in various zones across Kazakhstan, representing a rich botanical diversity. Unfortunately, numerous plant species are becoming increasingly rare, and some are even threatened with extinction. The significance of utilizing medicinal plants has increased immeasurably in recent decades. The rational combination of medicinal plants holds the potential to expand therapeutic possibilities. However, the future use of medicinal plants may face significant limitations due to the overarching issue of diminishing biodiversity. While efforts to address biodiversity conservation predominantly focus on safeguarding species richness, the intraspecific variability of plants, crucial for population-level adaptation in transforming environments, remains inadequately explored. Particularly, the use of informative methods to study this variability has not received sufficient attention. Theoretical exploration of the population approach to conserving medicinal plant resources is lacking, exacerbated by a scarcity of experimental data in this domain, underscoring the relevance of this research. In light of the aforementioned challenges, it becomes evident that studying red-listed plants is pertinent not only in the context of Kazakhstan but also on a global scale. In this context, our research allowed investigate Arum Korolkov (Arum korolkowii Regel), a red-listed medicinal plant species found in the territories of Kazakhstan.</p>Aigerim YeginbayShakhnoza AripovaAzhar AbubakirovaMamura MutalovaRaikhan AitkulovaBoburbek J. AkhmadalievAltunbek BurabaevAssilbek BurabaevAbdujalil A. Narimanov
Copyright (c) 2022 Aigerim Yeginbay, Shakhnoza Aripova, Azhar Abubakirova, Mamura Mutalova, Raikhan Aitkulova, Boburbek J. Akhmadaliev, Altunbek Burabaev, Assilbek Burabaev, Abdujalil A. Narimanov
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2024-01-232024-01-2311160260510.14719/pst.3137Superior effect of nature based solutions in soil and water management for sustainable agriculture
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2159
<p>The world's natural resources are under extreme pressure as a result of the planet's rising population and irregular climate. The two most important natural resources for agriculture are soil and water and yet another crucial factor for environmental and economic sustainability of all kinds of forestry and agriculture systems is the preservation of water and soil resources. So, there is a need to address the present global issues like water and food insecurity, biodiversity loss and livelihood risks meanwhile taking human safety and functions of the ecosystem into account. Ecosystem integrity and function are threatened globally by soil loss, where supply of important food and resources to human societies can be severely affected. Freshwater is a valuable resource and a vital media for many different economic domains and residential purposes; however its usage is often at the cost of natural habitats. Therefore, for agricultural sustainability as well as the preservation of the natural ecosystem, integrative management of soil and water resources is essential. To prevent soil and water deterioration, it is imperative to develop and adopt new technologies, use natural resources sensitively and implement appropriate management techniques. Nature-based solutions, sustainable soil and water management and ecosystem based acclimation are some of the extensively used approaches that address some of the challenges in a target aimed approach. Nature-based solutions are low price initiatives that could promote resilience in agricultural produce while reducing climatic effects and improving the environment. This review highlights various soil and water conservative strategies for agricultural sustainability.</p>Nirmala NalluriVasavi Rama Karri
Copyright (c) 2022 Nirmala Nalluri, Vasavi Rama Karri
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2024-01-012024-01-01111062010.14719/pst.2159A comprehensive review on mutation breeding milestones in cereals: Conventional to advanced molecular approaches to achieve sustainable goals in trait improvement
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/3015
<p>The grass family includes the annual common grasses known as cereals. The 5 main types of cereals are rice, wheat, barley, rye and oats. As a result of their high vitamin (20-80%) and fiber content (90%), these grains can help treat conditions like type II diabetes, complex metabolic syndrome, obesity, gastrointestinal disorders, and high cholesterol. Cereals have inspired a long history of research into their genetics, development, and evolution due to their significance in both economic and scientific terms. They need to be improved because they play a big part in global food production and crop quality is declining. The crop improvement can be done by incorporating desired features from non-adapted landraces/wild resources. That induced mutagenesis has made a significant contribution to crop improvement initiatives by producing mutant varieties with better and desired genetic modifications in the crop plants mainly in agronomically significant features. The mutants produced by the induction of physical and chemical mutagens were highly useful. The notable traits obtained by the induced mutations are semidwarfness and early maturity in rice varieties, disease resistance in barley, salinity, and drought tolerance in wheat, and lodging and disease resistance in oat and rye. In this review, we focused on identifying and developing elite mutants, their genetic function, and their utilization in future breeding programs for various traits in cereal crops.</p>Agalya JasminNilavuAnjana JayakumarIndira PetchiammalLydia Pramitha Devesena Neethu FrancisArumugam Pillai MadhavanRamchander Selvaraj
Copyright (c) 2022 Agalya Jasmin, Nilavu, Anjana Jayakumar, Indira Petchiammal, Lydia Pramitha , Devesena , Neethu Francis, Arumugam Pillai Madhavan, Ramchander Selvaraj
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2024-01-252024-01-2511164165310.14719/pst.3015Plant Extracts: Potential Alternative Treatment for Bovine Mastitis Causing Pathogen Staphylococcus aureus
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2674
<p>Bovine mastitis is a significant disease affecting dairy herds worldwide. Mastitis can be characterized by physical, chemical, and bacteriological changes in milk and various pathological changes in the glandular tissues. This disease can invariably affect the health status of cattle and eventually have a direct economic impact on the dairy industry. Mastitis can be caused by the interaction of pathogens and their environment, and one of the disease-causing pathogens, <em>Staphylococcus aureus</em>, remains the leading cause of mastitis. Treatment is directed towards the use of broad-spectrum antimicrobials. However, with the threat of antibiotic-resistant pathogens, alternative treatments are being explored. The use of plants with ethnoveterinary origins can be promising in the search for novel therapeutic regimens. This review focuses on various studies using plant extracts as a possible alternative treatment for this specific bovine-causing pathogen, <em>Staphylococcus aureus.</em> Several studies that were conducted will serve as preliminary data in the development of alternative treatments for bovine mastitis.</p>April Corazon G. AbonClaro N. Mingala
Copyright (c) 2022 April Corazon G. Abon, Claro N. Mingala
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2024-01-132024-01-1311137738010.14719/pst.2674Cheirostylis Blume (Orchidaceae): a new generic addition to the orchid flora of Manipur state, Northeast India
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2609
<p>The genus <em>Cheirostylis,</em> belonging to the Orchidaceae family, is represented by numerous species distributed worldwide. In India, the genus is represented by 10 species, with two species reported from Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats, and the remaining eight species from the Northwestern Himalayas and Northeastern regions. This study reports the occurrence of <em>Cheirostylis griffithii</em> Lindl. in Manipur, Northeast India, which is a new generic record for the state. The taxon was discovered in Pudunamei village and identified based on herbarium specimens and available literature. Detailed morphological descriptions and measurements were made using living plant specimens. The taxonomic treatment includes information on plant characteristics, distribution, and a comprehensive list of Indian <em>Cheirostylis</em> species. The species is a terrestrial orchid with fleshy stems, lanceolate bracts, pubescent flowers, connate sepals forming a tube, and a 3-lobed lip with deeply laciniate lobes. The occurrence of <em>Cheirostylis</em> in Manipur expands its distributional range within India. The study contributes to the documentation of the orchid flora of Manipur, which encompasses a diverse range of orchid taxa.</p>Kazhuhrii Eshuo
Copyright (c) 2022 Kazhuhrii Eshuo Eshuo K
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2024-01-232024-01-2311156456710.14719/pst.2609Traditional remedies for diabetes used by the Ao (Naga) tribe in Mokokchung district, Nagaland, India
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2602
<p>Diabetes, a metabolic disorder, poses a significant global health challenge and is recognized as a major non-communicable disease. This widespread issue not only impacts the well-being of individuals but also poses economic burdens, particularly on developing nations. Consequently, there is a pressing need for appropriate solutions and effective medicines, making it a focal point of research globally. Despite remarkable progress in modern allopathic medicine, there exists no definitive cure for diabetes within this system. Additionally, allopathic drugs, while beneficial, often come with severe side effects that can lead to various physiological disorders. In the light of these challenges, ethnobotanical exploration emerges as a viable alternative, providing an avenue to identify potential folk medicines for treating metabolic disorders.<br />The current study aimed to investigate the diversity of medicinal plants traditionally used by the Ao (Naga) tribe in Mokokchung for diabetes treatment and to document these folk remedies. Mokokchung district, Nagaland, is home to the Ao (Naga) tribe, a community reliant on ethnomedicinal herbs for their daily needs and healthcare. The study, conducted between September 2021 and March 2022, involved structured interviews with traditional healers to collect information on their use of medicinal plants in managing various ailments. The study findings underscored the richness of medicinal plants and folk formulations employed in diabetes treatment within the Mokokchung district of Nagaland. A total of 32 medicinal plant species from 26 families were documented. Despite the advancements in modern medicine, traditional ethnomedicinal practices are gradually losing favor, particularly among younger generations, leading to the erosion of this invaluable knowledge. Hence, there is an urgent need for further scientific investigation to validate the claims and efficacy of folk medicines used for diabetes treatment. Inthis background, there is a critical requirement for inventory, documentation and scientific validation of these practices and folk medicines. Immediate attention to these efforts is crucial to preserve this invaluable knowledge and facilitate its integration with modern medical practices, ensuring the preservation and effective utilization of this traditional wisdom.</p>Joynath PeguAmal BawriGyati YamDuman TalomInubo RochillImlikumba JamirRobindra Teron
Copyright (c) 2022 Joynath Pegu, Amal Bawri, Gyati Yam, Duman Talom, Inubo Rochill, Imlikumba Jamir, Robindra Teron
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2024-01-132024-01-1311138138710.14719/pst.2602A new variety of Gymnosporia emarginata (Celastraceae) from the Coromandel Coast of Peninsular India
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2255
<p>A new variety, Gymnosporia emarginata (Willd.) Thwaites var. coromandelica N.Balach. & P. Umamaheswari (Celastraceae) has been described from Tamil Nadu, India. The diagnostic characters of this variety are: long stamens, ovary immersed in the disc, style sessile and stigma lobes converged. Detailed descriptions, differences in characters between the 2 varieties, ITS based phylogenetic analysis and related images are provided for easy identification.</p>P UmamaheswariNatesan BalachandranV KumaresanK Yuvarani
Copyright (c) 2022 P Umamaheswari, Natesan Balachandran, V Kumaresan, K Yuvarani
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2024-01-012024-01-01111010510.14719/pst.2255Notes on the status of Limnophila micrantha (Benth.) Benth. and L. glandulifera Philcox (Plantaginaceae)
https://horizonepublishing.com/journals/index.php/PST/article/view/2831
<p>The taxonomic status of 3 species of the genus Limnophila viz., L. micrantha (Benth.) Benth., L. glandulifera Philcox and L. repens (Benth.) Benth. were examined. L. micrantha and L. glandulifera is found to be conspecific with L. repens. Hence, these 2 names are reduced here into the synonymy of the earlier name, L. repens (Benth.) Benth.</p> <p> </p>SINISHA EDATHUMTHAZHE KUNI JASEELA VALIYA THODIYIL PRADEEP NEDIYAPARAMBU SUKUMARAN
Copyright (c) 2022 SINISHA EDATHUMTHAZHE KUNI , VT Jaseela, PRADEEP NEDIYAPARAMBU SUKUMARAN
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2024-01-142024-01-1411145145310.14719/pst.2831