Online: ISSN 2784 – 0360 | ISSN – L 2784 – 0360 | Print: ISSN 2784 – 0379 ISSN-L 2784 – 0360

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2024

Sound and Silence: A Comparative Study of Noise Pollution in Shimla’s Residential and Commercial Sectors, Himachal Pradesh, India

Nov 18, 2024 |

Hritik Thakur, Pawan K. Attri

ABSTRACT. Noise pollution is a growing global issue, impacting both developed and developing countries, including India. Shimla, a historically significant city and a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh, is experiencing increasing noise pollution due to its expanding population, more vehicles, congested roads, and tourists. This study evaluates noise pollution in Shimla’s commercial and residential areas, comparing current levels with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) standards and proposing mitigation measures. Noise was measured using a Metravi (SL-4010) sound level meter, with readings taken every three minutes for three hours in the morning, at noon, and in the evening. The equivalent continuous noise level (Leq) was calculated and compared to standards. Measurements were conducted in March and April 2024 at 15 locations. Additionally, a survey of 100 people assessed the causes and effects of noise pollution. Results showed that the Leq dB(A) values ranged from 76.87 dB(A) at Boileauganj Chowk to 84.97 dB(A) at the Old Bus Stand in commercial areas. In residential areas, Khalini Chowk recorded the highest Leq of 80.56 dB(A), while Mall Road had the lowest at 76.87 dB(A). Vehicles were identified as the primary noise source by 75% of respondents. In the survey, 51.67% of respondents reported irritation due to high noise levels, and 38.33% experienced headaches, highlighting the adverse effects on residents’ well-being and health. All locations exceeded CPCB standards for noise levels. The study recommends measures to reduce noise pollution in Shimla and suggests further comprehensive noise pollution studies in Himachal Pradesh.

Keywords: commercial area; noise pollution; residential area; shimla.

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Predictive Air Pollution Assessment Using Matrix Algebra And GIS/GPS in Aguleri Anambra State

Nov 18, 2024 |

Leonard Chukwuemeka Anyika, Chidi Obi

ABSTRACT. This study assessed the air pollution loads of sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM10) from Aguleri in Anambra State of Nigeria using matrix algebra and the geographical information system (GIS)/global positioning system (GPS) attachment to MATLAB. The pollutant values of SO2 and NO2 were obtained using the Crowcon Gas Monitor Model CE 89/336/EEC, while the PM10 values were obtained with the Crowcon Particulate Monitor Model No.1000 with the serial number 298621. The pollution characteristics of the study area were simulated using the polynomial expression yi = k + k1x1 + k2x2 + k3x3 +… knxn.. The predictive parameter constants, k, were determined with the solution to the simultaneous equations arising from the polynomial expressions using matrix algebra. MATLAB 7.9 curve fitting software was used to produce associated model equations from the fitted curves for the variations of SO2, NO2 and PM10 as a function of locations in Aguleri for both rainy and dry seasons. The evaluation of pollution models used for the study showed that constants from the fitted curves do not closely match constants from ab initio calculations. The corresponding coordinates in both GIS/GPS contour and surface plots revealed a pollution distribution concentration of 50% in Aguleri. The results revealed that the stations in Aguleri had a satisfactory air pollution index rating. This study serves as an improvement to air quality studies and a veritable tool for air quality management and policymaking.

Keywords: air pollutants; particulate matter; polynomial equations; seasons; software.

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Sources of Information Used by the Farmers in the Nineveh Plains

Nov 18, 2024 |

Shawkat A. M’Sadeq, Hojeen M. Abdullah, Nabaz I. Mohammed, Fathi A. Omer, Nashwan S. Mizzouri, Amanda J. Dickson, Peter M. Hirst, Mark A. Russell

ABSTRACT. The study examined the different agriculture information channels utilized by farmers in the Nineveh Plains. A total of 308 of information sources were classified based on districts, minority groups, and age categories. A comprehensive questionnaire was prepared and covered several channels, including experienced farmers, farmer groups, extension offices, NGOs, radio, TV, newspapers, and libraries. The results of this study showed that Experienced farmers were the most dependable agriculture information source for farmers in Al-Hamdaniya, Bashiqa, and Telkaif. In Al Hamdaniya, 77.4% considered experienced farmers trustworthy, while in Bashiqa and Telkaif, percentages were 74.7% and 66.3%, respectively. Farmers from various minorities, including Turkmen (79.4%), Shabak (75.3%), Christian, Kaki (74.1%), and Yazidi (69.1%), identified experienced farmers as the predominant and trusted information source. farmers’ groups, and NGOs as source of information were significantly differed among minorities. The majority of kaki farmers (59.3%) depended on the Farmers’ group as source of information. However, 48% of Christian farmers (48.3%) received agriculture information from NGOs. Based on age categories, high percentage of interviewed farmer considered radio, TV, newspapers, libraries, extension offices, farmer groups, and NGOs as not dependable information sources. Instead, more than 68% of famers from all age group considered experienced farmers as the primary and trusted source of information.

Keywords: field crops; information sources; livestock; Nineveh Plains; vegetables; water resources.

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Genetic Assessment of Yield Traits and Heterosis in Maize Testcrosses under Different Soil Nitrogen Conditions

Nov 18, 2024 |

Folusho Anuoluwapo Bankole, Olawale Serifdeen Aboderin

ABSTRACT. Yield trials demand significant time and resources, necessitating efficient data collection on parental lines to optimise breeding programs and reduce costs. This study assessed the correlation between parental traits and hybrid performance, consistency, and predictability of trait expression in F1 hybrids and the heterotic advantage of agronomic traits. A total of 82 parental lines (79 lines and 3 testers) and 237 testcrosses were evaluated alongside 3 standard checks under low- and optimum-soil nitrogen (N) conditions at the Institute for Agricultural Research experimental fields in Zaria and Mokwa during the 2019/20 and 2020/21 growing seasons. Significant genetic variability was observed among parental lines and testcrosses, offering strategic breeding opportunities. Grain yield reductions under low-N conditions (35–95% in inbreds and 1.3–89% in hybrids) highlighted the impact of N stress and the need for N tolerance in maize genotypes. Correlation analysis and repeatability results linked yield improvement in low-N tolerant maize hybrids to the selection of parental lines with superior performance in traits, such as grain yield, stay-green characteristics, and flowering traits. Parental lines P69 and P14, which showed high tolerance to low N and consistent high yields, were identified as valuable genetic resources. Among the hybrids, P65×T2, P66×T3, and P66×T2 stood out, with grain yields exceeding 6000 kg/ha, representing a 42% yield advantage over the best check. These hybrids also demonstrated a high heterotic advantage over their parents and standard checks, indicating their potential for adoption as commercial hybrids in Nigeria.

Keywords: biplot; heterosis; line × tester analysis; maize testcrosses; nitrogen stress; trait correlation.

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Evaluation of In Vitro Protocols for Effective Regeneration of West African Theobroma cocoa (L)

Nov 18, 2024 |

Bardee Wrojay Potter Jr., Bismark Anokye, Esther E. Uchendu

ABSTRACT. Cacao is a perennial tree crop from the Malvaceae family. It is made up of twenty-one species, with Theobroma cacao as the commonest and one of the most economically important crops globally. West Africa is the largest region of producers. Lack of availability of planting materials all year round has been a major factor besetting cocoa production in West Africa and has led to a drastic reduction in production in the last decade. Establishing an efficient in vitro protocol for germinating zygotic embryos of local West African cocoa varieties offers a solution to expedite large-scale planting material production to enhance cocoa sustainable production and material availability. An effective in vitro protocol for germinating zygotic embryos of local West African cocoa varieties will help produce large planting materials within the shortest possible time and promote sustainable supply, which could boost cocoa production within the region and increase the availability of planting materials. Four West African local varieties of Theobroma cacao were cultured in three explant types on both Driver and Kuniyaki Walnut (DKW) basal salts and Murashige and Skoog (MS) culture media without growth regulators for twenty days. The three explant types included seeds with mucilage (SWM), seeds without mucilage (SWtM) and embryo axis (EA). The cultured explants were kept in a growth room of light intensity with a temperature of 25 ℃ ±1, relative humidity of 85% and the three explant types responded differently. Germination responses significantly varied among the explant types. SWtM sprouted earlier with more than 160 plantlets before day 5, followed by EA with 150 plantlets before day 5, while SWM showed the lowest mean germination percentage of 8% compared to SWtM and EA with 9% Early sprouting was observed in the DKW medium with almost 250 (34.72%) plantlets development before day five compared to the MS medium with less than 150 (20.83%) plantlets development, but the MS medium produces the optimal growth performance with the best mean germination time of 0.08 per day, final germination percentage of 71.39%, and development of the growth parameters leading to the development of plantlets, including 2.60 for number of leaves. This study shows that the media for in vitro culture and the source of explants significantly influence seed germination and produce dissimilar effects on the germination of zygotic embryos of Theobroma cacao varieties. The study recommends using SWtM on DKW medium for early sprouting of seeds of Theobroma cacao followed by a transfer into MS medium for seedling development into plants.

Keywords: DKW; explants types; germination; in vitro; media types; MS; Theobroma cacao.

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Efficiency of Different Methods in Breaking the Dormancy of Erythrina lysistemon Hutch. Seeds

Nov 18, 2024 |

Sami Mohammed Salih, Ahmed Amrajaa Abdulrraziq

ABSTRACT. Erythrina lysistemon seeds imported to Libya go through a stage of being unable to germinate; we call this phase “dormancy”. The present study evaluated the efficiency of the following methods in breaking the dormancy of newly collected Erythrina lysistemon seeds from mature pods and stored for 12 months: untreated seeds (control), mechanical scarification with sandpaper, soaking treatments (tap water for 24 h, hydrochloric acid for 60 min, hydrogen peroxide for 48 h, acetone for 72 h, Clorox cleaner for 72 h, cow dung and chicken manure for 24 h, and hot water at 100° C for 30 min), scarification with soaking (distilled water for 24 h, and cow dung and chicken manure for 12 h). All treatments showed a significant increase (p<0.05) in the germination rates of newly collected E. lysistemon seeds from mature pods, except for the treatment in which seeds were soaked in tap water for 48 h, which was ineffective. The different scarification treatments were more efficient than the other treatments, recording the highest germination percentages and lowest mean germination times, while the soaking treatments led to high seed mortality. In contrast, seeds stored for 12 months showed a significant decrease in germination percentage with a delayed mean germination time compared to newly collected seeds under all tested treatments. Soaking all treatments was ineffective in breaking the dormancy of E. lysatetemon seeds stored for 12 months. The results indicate that E. lysistemon seeds have physical dormancy that can be overcome using different scarification.

Keywords: mature seed; mechanical scarification; physical dormancy; stored seed.

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Assessing the Impact of Agricultural Practices on Environmental Sustainability in Nigeria

Sep 6, 2024 |

Bright Oluwatomilola Olunusi

ABSTRACT. This study investigates environmental sustainability and growth trends in Nigeria over a 30-year period (1991–2020), focusing on key indicators such as agriculture value added, forest area, employment in agriculture, employment in industry, and renewable energy consumption. Time series analysis reveals a linear increase in deforested land and agricultural expansion, alongside a decline in agricultural employment, which stabilised around 2013. Employment in the industry showed a dip until 2011, then increased steadily. Gender-disaggregated data highlights a notable disparity in agricultural employment, with significantly more males engaged compared to females. Using regression analysis with leaps, autoregressive distributed lag models, and Granger causality tests, the study identifies strong associations between deforested land and predictor variables such as agricultural land percentage, employment in industry, and renewable energy consumption. The results show that these variables significantly predict deforestation. Interestingly, a significant negative association was found between employment in agriculture and deforestation, although causality tests indicated no significant causation, suggesting a nuanced relationship influenced by factors like land-use conflicts and climate change. These findings highlight the nexus between socio-economic factors and environmental outcomes, emphasising the need for targeted policies to address deforestation, promote sustainable land management, and reduce gender disparities in agriculture. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to foster sustainable development and inclusive economic growth in Nigeria and across Africa.

Keywords: agricultural land-use change; deforestation; economic development; environmental sustainability; renewable energy; time series analysis.

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Morphological and Physiological Responses of Maize to Varying Nitrogen Sources and Stress Levels in Hydroponic Systems: a Comparative Study

Aug 1, 2024 |

S.M. Abidur Rahman, Billal Hossain Momen, Rashedur Rahman Tanvir, Bitopi Biswas, Mosammat Nilufar Yasmin, Tariful Alam Khan, M. Robiul Islam

ABSTRACT. A hydroponic experiment was conducted at the Precision and Automated Agriculture Laboratory, Department of Agronomy and Agricultural Extension, University of Rajshahi, from April to August 2023. The objective was to investigate the morphological and physiological responses of maize to varying nitrogen sources and stress levels in hydroponic systems. The experiment comprised three nitrogen treatments: CN (100% chemical nitrogen as 2 mM NH4NO3), ON (100% organic nitrogen as 4 mM glycine), and LN (low nitrogen as 10% of 2 mM NH4NO3 chemical nitrogen solution). The popular maize variety NH7720 (marketed by Syngenta Bangladesh Limited) was used. The experiments followed a completely randomised design with three replications. The CN treatment consistently outperformed the ON and LN treatments in various growth-related parameters, including plant height (72.73 cm), leaf area (295.54 cm²), shoot dry weight (0.65 g/plant), total chlorophyll content (3.11 mg/g), and shoot (11.06%) and root (10.82%) protein content, indicating that adequate nitrogen treatment stimulated strong growth and development in maize plants. Conversely, the LN treatment exhibited a superior shoot-to-root ratio (85.43%), proline accumulation (188.01 µg/g), number of root tips (21.25), root length (31.65 cm), root network area (619.10 cm²), root diameter (5.63 mm), root volume (13944.71 mm³), and root surface area (3705.51 mm²). These results suggest that under nitrogen-deficient conditions, maize plants allocate resources to root development and stress tolerance mechanisms. The organic nitrogen (ON) treatment showed intermediate results, being statistically similar to both the CN and LN treatments across a range of characteristics, suggesting that organic nitrogen or glycine might be less effective than chemical nitrogen or ammonium nitrate in promoting optimal maize growth.

Keywords: hydroponic experiment; maize; morphological adaptation; nitrogen stress; physiological adaptation.

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Yield and Quality Characteristics of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) Cultivars by Different Sowing Dates

Jul 30, 2024 |

Mehmet Necat İZGİ, Abdullah ÇİL, Ayşe Nuran ÇİL

ABSTRACT. A field trial was initiated to ascertain the optimal sowing date for five distinct sunflower cultivars in Turkey’s Mardin Province. The trial scrutinised various parameters including plant height, head diameter, seed yield, protein content, oil content and oil yield. The first sowing produced the highest seed yields (3484 kg ha−1), with the Şems (3255 kg ha−1) and Zuhat (3157 kg ha−1) cultivars producing the highest values. The highest overall oil content was achieved in the second sowing (31.7%) and in the Zuhat cultivar (34.6%). The highest mean oil yields were observed in the Zuhat cultivar (1096 kg ha−1) and in the first sowing (1084 kg ha−1). There was a general decrease in yield as the sowing date was delayed. Winter sowing is suggested for the Zuhat cultivar. If possible, the second sunflower crop should be sown shortly following the harvest of the main crop.

Keywords: cultivar; oil content; protein content; sunflower; sowing date; yield.

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Protein Content Stability of Triticale Genotypes Under Multiple Environments Using AMMI Analysis

Jul 9, 2024 |

Enver Kendal

ABSTRACT. Triticale is an important source of protein in animal nutrition, both as grain and silage. Protein is a quality criterion that is strongly affected by the environment and genetic factors. The objectives of this study were to assess genotype–environment (G-E) interactions and determine and compare stable genotypes to recommend for further evaluation. The protein content of 12 genotypes obtained from 7 environments were evaluated using additive main effect and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) analysis in the 2014–2015 and 2015–2016 growing seasons in 4 locations in Turkey. The variance of AMMI analysis based on protein content showed a significant effect of environment, genotype and G–E interaction, with a 93.0, 2.3 and 4.5% total variation, respectively. Partitioning of the total sum of squares showed that the effect of environment was a predominant source of variation, followed by the G–E interaction and genotype effect. AMMI analysis showed that the first principal component was highly significant at P < 0.01. The mean grain protein content varied from 14.9 to 16.2% among the genotypes and from 10.9 to 18.8% among the environments. AMMI analysis indicated that G3, G12 and G1 were quite promising genotypes. G8, which was used as a variety candidate in this research, was quite stable but had a low protein value. In addition, G3, G11 and G12 had a higher protein content than the standard varieties evaluated in this research. G3 had both a high protein content and stable genotype; therefore, it can be recommended to release as a candidate. As AMMI analysis indicated, E1 and E7 environments were especially suitable for protein studies in triticale, while E4, E5 and E6 showed poor results and were not suitable environments.

Keywords: AMMI; location; protein content; triticale.

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Cover Story

Jun 12, 2024 |

Plastic debris pollution is one of the world’s most prevalent pollution problems, affecting oceans and inland waterways. An estimated 10% of plastic waste ends up in the ocean, endangering marine turtles and altering the physical properties of the marine environment.
As a result of mass production, plastics have spread throughout the marine environment and are now particularly common in marine ecosystems, significantly threatening environmental and human health as well as the economy. Most of this plastic waste comes from unregulated use, manufacturing and importation, indiscriminately dumped or deposited at dumpsites and landfills. Significant quantities of plastic debris originate from various activities such as tourism, fishing and other recreational activities on beaches.

If waste management does not improve, the total amount of plastic waste entering the ocean is expected to increase by an order of magnitude by 2025. Evidence suggests that even remote and protected areas are not immune to plastic pollution, and it is essential to identify marine macro-plastics that have washed up on beaches to determine the source of the pollution and develop the best cleanup plans. In the Philippines, for example, marine plastic research is critical because the country is heavily reliant on the marine environment and the ecosystem services it provides. Results of a macro-plastic waste characterisation study along the coastal boulevard to develop both ecologically and economically sound management plans and policy recommendations are presented on page 183.

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Enhancing Maize Productivity with Infield Rainwater Harvesting Techniques and Cattle Manure in Semi-Arid Areas Of Zimbabwe

Jun 12, 2024 |

Andrew Tapiwa Kugedera, Ponesai Mutero, Letticia Kudzai Kokerai

ABSTRACT. Soil fertility and moisture management can be sustainable ways to improve crop production in low rainfall areas. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of infield rainwater harvesting and cattle manure on maize yield, rainwater use efficiency, agronomic efficiency, and the value–cost ratio. The experiment used a split plot design with three in situ rainwater harvesting (IRWH) techniques (planting pits, infiltration pits, and conventional tillage (as a control)) as the main treatment factor and cattle manure as the sub-plot factor at four levels (0, 2.5, 5, and 10 t ha−1). The interactive effects of IRWH, cattle manure, and season were significant among all parameters measured (p<0.05). The highest maize grain yield (3990 kg ha−1) was obtained from the planting pits with 10 t ha−1 cattle manure in the 2022/23 cropping season. Maize stover yield increased with an increase in cattle manure, with the highest yield of 6450 t ha−1 at 10 t ha−1 cattle manure. Rainwater use efficiency was significantly (p<0.05) increased by an average of 2.5 kg ha−1 mm−1 from 0 to 2.5 t ha−1. Agronomic use efficiency significantly decreased with the increasing application rate of cattle manure (p<0.05). The interaction of planting pits and 2.5 t ha−1 cattle manure had the highest cost ratio of 6.66 in the 2022/23 season. The interaction between planting pits and 10 t ha−1 cattle manure resulted in higher maize yields and rainwater use efficiency. However, it is recommended that smallholder farmers use planting pits and 2.5 t ha−1 cattle manure to obtain higher yield increments and high profits in high-risk climates. Keywords: agronomic efficiency; infiltration pits; maize production; planting pits; value–cost ratio.

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Lead Levels in Milk and Its Products From Various Environments in Egypt

Jun 7, 2024 |

Assem Abou-Arab, Mahmoud Abou Donia, Ali Enb

ABSTRACT. Milk and its products are considered healthy due to their content of key nutritional elements. Despite their essential role in the human diet, they may be susceptible to contamination with many chemical pollutants from the surrounding environment, most notably heavy metals such as lead, which is considered toxic to consumers. This study evaluated lead concentrations in milk and dairy product samples collected from various Egyptian environments. The results showed significant differences (p < 0.05) in Pb concentrations in the samples collected from different environments in Egypt (industrial, traffic and rural). The average lead content in raw cow’s milk, sterilised milk, Domiati cheese, Ras cheese, processed cheese and yoghurt samples from industrial areas were 2.23, 0.33, 3.19, 5.10, 0.11 and 0.09 mg/kg, respectively. In traffic areas, lead concentrations were 1.83, 0.30, 2.72, 4.72, 0.13 and 0.09, and in rural areas, they were 0.61, 0.27, 1.52, 3.13, 0.13 and 0.09. The data showed that Pb levels in dairy product samples collected from industrial areas are very high compared with those collected from traffic areas. By contrast, the lowest Pb concentrations were recorded in samples from rural areas. It is recommended that lead levels in different foods, especially milk and its products, be evaluated at regular intervals. Keywords: dairy products; environments; lead; milk.

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The Impact of Climate Change on The Sustainability of Wine Production and the Structure of Wine Consumption in the Northeast Region of Romania

May 10, 2024 |

Gabriela Ignat, Bianca Antoanela Ungureanu, Ioan Prigoreanu, George Ungureanu

ABSTRACT. This study was carried out with the aim of investigating and analysing different aspects related to viticulture and wine production in the northeast region of Romania. The methodology focused on the use of statistical data and field research, with an emphasis on the impact of potential climate change on wine production and consumer preferences. The analysis of the evolution of vine cultivation in the northeast region of Romania was carried out using statistical data on grape harvest, area planted to vines and wine production. The results showed significant changes in these indicators over the period analysed (2013-2022), reflecting the dynamics of the wine industry in the region. A survey of a sample of 50 respondents provided relevant data on their preferences. Analysis of this data revealed information on preferred wine types, consumption habits and purchasing preferences. Although the population‘s preference for white wine is evident, climate change may pose a challenge for the region, and in the future, it may be necessary to adapt vineyard locations and cultivate vine varieties more suitable for red wine production. These issues have important implications for planning and developing the future of the wine industry in the northeast region.

Keywords: climate change; distribution; production; sustainability; wine.

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Effect of Dairy and Meat Wastewater Irrigation on Seedling Growth

Apr 29, 2024 |

Laura Carmen Apostol, Eufrozina Albu, Cristina Ghinea

ABSTRACT. Milk and meat processing industries release large quantities of nutrient-rich wastewater with organic compounds (proteins, fats, carbohydrates) in high concentrations. Reusing and recycling this biodegradable wastewater for crop irrigation could be a sustainable solution once the phytotoxic effects of wastewater on crops have been investigated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of milk and meat processing wastewaters on germination percentage, seed vigour indices, the seedling tolerance index and the phytotoxicity index of pea (Pisum sativum L.), sugar maize (Zea mays saccharata), purslane (Portulaca oleracea), wheat (Triticum aestivum) and red spinach (Amaranthus dubius). The two wastewater types were collected at the inlet of the city’s sewage system and analysed to determine their physicochemical and microbiological characteristics. The seeds of all five plant species were irrigated with untreated wastewater effluents. The highest – germination percentages were obtained for wheat (92%) and the lowest for red spinach (2.5%). Wheat, purslane, pea and red spinach samples irrigated with meat processing wastewater had higher germination percentages than samples irrigated with dairy wastewater. A higher phytotoxicity was observed for sugar maize, followed by red spinach irrigated with both types of wastewater. Future investigation into the effects of effluent dilution on these types of plants is recommended.

Keywords: food industry wastewater; phytotoxicity; seed germination; sugar maize; wheat.

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Optimal Conditions for Extracting High-Quality Pectin From Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia Crassipes) for Less Soluble Hydrogel Production

Apr 24, 2024 |

Erawan Baothong, Pisit Chareonsudjai

ABSTRACT. The research aimed to extract high-quality pectin from water hyacinth for less soluble hydrogel production. The product adds value to water hyacinth waste and helps solve environmental problems. The high degree of esterification pectin can be prepared as a hydrogel, which can be used in various pollution treatment applications. The quality of pectin depended on raw materials and extraction conditions. The optimum condition was initially predicted using the response surface method (RSM). Three extraction variables were studied, including pH 1.0-4.0, temperature 50-110ºC, and extraction time 30-240 min. A total of seventeen runs including five replicate runs were studied. Functional groups of pectin were studied using Fourier Transform Infrared spectrophotometry. The degree of esterification and emulsifying properties were determined for assessing the quality of extracted pectin. The result revealed that the extraction conditions strongly affected both the yield and the quality. The condition of pH 2.5, 110ºC, and 30 minutes had the highest degree of esterification of 94.13 % but low yield (1.42%). On the other hand, under the conditions of pH 1.0, 110ºC, and 135 min extract time had the highest yield of 3.85% (about 76.6% of pectin content) however the degree of esterification is low at 43.25 %. Two mathematical models were proposed for yield and number of ester groups. The result will be used for the selection of high-quality pectin to produce insoluble hydrogel for pollution treatment in the future.

Keywords: Eichhornia crassipes; high-quality pectin; optimum condition; water hyacinth.

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Effect of Pre-Exposure on the Insecticidal and Repellency Properties of Citrus paradisi Peel Essential Oil Against Tribolium castaneum

Apr 16, 2024 |

Adeyemi O. Akinyemi, Samuel A. Babarinde, Habeeb O. Adetunji, Oladeji K. Alalade

ABSTRACT. Although the use of essential oils (EOs) for pest control has gained popularity due to their biodegradability and ecological safety, a major concern regarding their use is stability. Therefore, this aspect deserves empirical studies to enable potential end users to adopt research findings on the pesticidal potential of EOs. This research investigated the insecticidal and repellence impacts of Soxhlet-extracted grapefruit peel (Citrus paradisi Macfad. (Rutaceae) Lane) EO pre-exposed to air for 0, 0.5, 1 and 2 h (before introducing insects) on Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). The ethanol diluents were initially allowed to evaporate for 15 min in all treatments. Contact toxicity was tested on larval and adult stages at 5 and 15% concentrations of the EO, while repellency was tested at a 5% concentration. The impacts of EO on adult behavioural activity were also observed 24 h after exposure. Grapefruit EO was effective in controlling T. castaneum adults and larvae at higher doses. Exposure periods had an immediate significant effect on larvae and adult mortalities 1 and 6 h after the insects were introduced. At a 15% concentration, EO with a 0 h pre-exposure period had significantly higher adult and larva mortalities after 6 h than those of 0.5, 1 and 2 h pre-exposure. Regardless of oil pre-exposure, insects were repelled, especially in test periods between 12 and 30 min. Therefore, grapefruit EO could be formulated for increased stability when an immediate impact is needed.

Keywords: exposure periods; grapefruit peel; mortality; pest control; toxicity.

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Response of Sweet Corn Varieties to Plant Density and Tiller Removal: Preliminary Studies

Apr 15, 2024 |

Răzvan Huțuliac, Cristina Precupeanu, Ionela Cătălina Vasilachi, Alexandru Cojocaru, Mihaela Roșca, Vasile Stoleru

ABSTRACT. The sweet corn breeding strategy aims to enhance and sustain a consistent yield over time. The interaction between density and tiller removal is currently being discussed among sweet corn farmers, as well as scientists working in sweet corn. Considering the studies carried out to date and the research directions suggested by them, the present study aimed to determine the impact of plant density, variety, tiller removal and their interactions on the yield and ear prolificacy/weight of sweet corn under the climatic conditions of northeast Romania. The experiments were focused on 3 sweet corn varieties (Deliciosul de Bacău, Deliciul verii and Royalty F1), sown at 3 densities (50k, 60k and 70k plants/ha) and considering 2 variants for tiller removal (tiller removal / without tiller removal). The highest yield of sweet corn was recorded in the Royalty F1 hybrid in the plots in which the tillers were removed (24.27 t/ha). The Royalty F1 hybrid also had the heaviest ears (313.33 g) in plots with tiller removal and 60k plants/ha. Overall, the most favourable plant density in terms of yield was 60k plants/ha. The experimental results showed that in the climatic conditions of northeast Romania, tiller removal led to increased yield, especially in the Deliciosul de Bacău hybrid. Tiller removal in this hybrid resulted in a significant increase in yield (from 18.41 to 23.08 t/ha).

Keywords: plant density; sweet corn variety; tillers impact; yield.

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A New Natural Food Dye: Microencapsulated Cornelian Cherry Bioactive Compounds

Apr 8, 2024 |

Iuliana-Maria Enache, Liliana Lucescu Ciurlă, Nicoleta Stănciuc, Antoanela Patraș, Camelia Vizireanu, Liviu Mihai Irimia

ABSTRACT. Cornus mas (CM) is one of the four edible fruits of the Cornus genus, a rich source of biologically active compounds (BACs) such as vitamins (like vitamin C), carotenoids, iridoids, and phenolics (phenolic acids, anthocyanins, and other flavonoids). This study aimed to analyse the improvement of the stability of CM anthocyanins by microencapsulation, in order to propose a new natural food dye. Microencapsulation using a mixture of whey protein isolate (WPI) and chitosan (CH) as wall materials has been applied to protect anthocyanins against external factors (e.g., light, temperature, storage, etc.). Two experimental variants of microencapsulated powders, WPI:CH = 1:1 (CH1) and WPI:CH = 1:2 (CH2), were realised by varying the wall materials ratio. The cornelian cherry fruit concentrated extract was evaluated for its phytochemical, colourimetric, and antioxidant capacities. Due to the excellent anthocyanin encapsulation effectiveness (74.29 – 88.71%), the wall materials utilised for both powders can be considered effective choices to safeguard the anthocyanins. All tests performed on the microencapsulated powders demonstrated that both suggested experimental forms can serve as a healthy substitute for artificial food additives. The incorporation of cornelian cherry fruit extract and microencapsulated powders into a food matrix (jelly candies) allowed examination of their effectiveness. The colour analysis rigorously characterised all the colour parameters related to red nuances (due to anthocyanins content, such as cyanidin-3-glucoside) and yellow nuances (associated with carotenoids content).

Keywords: chitosan; jelly candies; natural pigments; phenolic compounds; whey protein isolate.

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Effect of Okoro [(Albizia zygia (J.F.) Macbr)] Leafy Biomass and NPK Fertiliser on the Growth and Yield of Sweet Pepper (Capsicum annum L.)

Apr 4, 2024 |

Adams Latif Mohammed

ABSTRACT. Agricultural productivity and sustainable crop management are pivotal aspects of global food security and economic stability. The quest for efficient and environmentally friendly practices in crop production has led to a surge in research exploring the utilisation of organic materials alongside conventional fertilisers to enhance crop growth and yield. An experiment was conducted over a growing period of three months, starting in August 2023 at the research field of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi-Ghana, to investigate the effects of Albizia zygia leafy biomass in combination with NPK fertiliser on the growth and yield of sweet pepper (Capsicum annum L.). A randomised complete block design was employed with four treatment groups replicated four times, including various combinations of A. zygia leafy biomass and NPK fertiliser, alongside control groups of sole fertiliser application and untreated plots (T1). The treatments were as follows: T1 = No biomass, no NPK (control); T2 = 0.5348 kg of A. zygia leafy biomass per 4.86 m2 (1100.5 kg/ha of A. zygia leafy biomass); T3 = 0.2463 kg of NPK per 4.86 m2 (506.7 kg/ha of NPK); and T4 = 0.2674 kg of A. zygia leafy biomass per 4.86 m2 + 0.1231 kg of NPK (550.3 kg/ha of A. zygia leafy biomass + 253.4 kg/ha of NPK). The assessed parameters were plant height, number of leaves, number of branches, fruit yield and fresh fruit weight. Significant variations (p ˂ 0.05) were observed in the growth parameters (plant height, number of leaves, number of branches) and yield attributes (fruit yield and fresh fruit weight) of sweet pepper among the treatments. The combined application of A. zygia leafy biomass and NPK fertiliser (T4) exhibited increased effects on plant height, number of leaves, number of branches, fruit yield and fresh fruit weight compared to individual treatments and control groups (p ˂ 0.05). Notably, the treatment combining A. zygia leafy biomass and NPK fertiliser (T4) demonstrated a substantial increase in plant height (44.58 cm), a significant improvement in the number of leaves (42.98) and a remarkable enhancement in the number of branches (11.33) compared to the sole applications and the control group. Furthermore, the combined treatment significantly increased (p ˂ 0.05) the yield parameters, including fruit yield and fresh fruit weight per hectare, showcasing an increase of 8796/ha and 23.91 t/ha, respectively, compared to sole fertiliser application and the control. The findings from this study demonstrated that the incorporation of A. zygia leafy biomass, either solely or in combination with NPK fertiliser, positively impacted the growth and yield of sweet pepper plants. These results highlight the potential of A. zygia leafy biomass as a valuable organic amendment for sustainable and enhanced crop production, offering promising implications for agricultural practices aimed at improving yield and plant growth.

Keywords: Albizia zygia; Capsicum annum (L.); NPK fertiliser; organic amendment; sweet pepper.

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© by the authors; licensee Journal of Applied Life Sciences and Environment, Iasi, Romania. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0)