International Journal of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology

395-406

Authors: Gapili Naoura, Mahamat Alhabib Hassane, Djinodji Reoungal, Serferbe Signaboubo, Eva Weltzien- Rattunde

Plant genetic resources and germplasm are fundamental sources for plant breeding, and the assessment of the genetic diversity among germplasm accessions is useful to facilitate the more efficient use of plant genetic resources. The current study was carried out to estimate genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance to select genotypes and traits for breeding. In the experiment undertaken, fifty-three sorghum landraces were evaluated for selected seven qualitative and fourteen quantitative traits using randomized complete block design in three repetitions. There were differences (p< 0.001) among landraces for all assessed traits indicating a high degree of variability. Higher genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation were observed for grain weight of main panicle, number of leaf remain green and weight of main panicle. Estimates of phenotypic variances were higher than genotypic variance for all the studied quantitative traits. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for majority of assessed traits. This study allowed noting a positive relationship between number of day to flowering with plant height and stay green, and a negative correlation between plant height and weight of main panicle. A dendrogram revealed four main clusters of genotypes. The D2 statistics confirmed the highest inter-cluster distance between all clusters. This indicated existence of the possibility to improve genotypes through hybridization from any pair of clusters.

414-420

Authors: Premalatha Shetty, Chaithra Acharya, Nalavi Veeresh

Urea-potash mixture was added to the manured soil at three different concentrations equivalent to 0.8, 1.6 and 2.4g f urea per 10Kg of soil. Nitrate and nitrite N concentration in the soil increased within 24h after addition of urea. The nitrate N content in soil without urea was 17 µg and in urea fertilized soils, it ranged from 39.9-47 µg/g of soil after 19h. . Increase in total mineralizable N was around 67- 160% in urea fertilized soils in comparison to the control. Percent conversion of urea to nitrate and nitrite N decreased at higher concentrations of the fertilizer. Addition of biochar to urea amended soil did not bring about significant change in the available N content. Decrease in total mineralizable N and accumalation of available P was observed over the period of 15 days. Addition of urea resulted in acidification of the soil. Acidification of the soil could be correlated with increase in acid phosphatase concentration. The soil amended with biochar exhibited significant buffering capacity in the region of pH 7.4-9.

429-433

Authors: Anil Kumar Tiwary, Sumit Sharma, Milan Kandel, Manoj Kumar Shah

Induced molting of laying hens is a common husbandry practiced in many commercial farms. This study was aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of induced molting on production parameters along with production economics of Layers. For this study, Lohmann Brown-Classic hens were reared in a modern cage system from 10 weeks of age. There was no significant difference(P>0.05) in egg production in Hen Day Basis (HDP) before 65 weeks in comparison to standard performance table provided by Lohmann Brown- Classic Layers Management Guide (Cage Housing). A total of 8087 laying hens were divided into two treatment groups after 65 weeks of age; one group (N=4055) without any feed restriction (control=T0) and another (N=4032) had induced molting with 15 days of feed restriction, provided with only water and mineral supplements (T1) followed by five days of exclusive Ground Maize feeding. The average HDP before division of treatment was recorded 83.37%. The T0 and T1 group were reared up to 85 and 109 weeks respectively, in accordance to the economical sustainability. The feed intake per bird, egg production including marketable and non-marketable eggs and mortality along with production economics of both groups were recorded. The T1 group reached its peak egg production (88.48%) on Hen Day Basis (HDP) after 62 days following treatment which was higher (P<0.05) than the T0 group. The ratio of marketable to non-marketable eggs was found higher in T1 (69.32:1) than that of T0 (38.53:1). The production cost per egg was recorded NRs.6.86 and 6.99 respectively for T1 and T0 group with 4.33% more profit on T1 than T0 group. This study suggests that induced molting with feed restriction approach is beneficial to bypass the scarcity period with falling market value of eggs and also increase the ratio of marketable eggs to non-marketable eggs.

440-444

Authors: Amar Kumar Sinha

Type 2 DM is the common and rising on the world wide. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of Type 2 DM in eastern region of Nepal. The objectives of this study ware to find out the prevalence of type 2Diabetes Mellitus in different age groups and gender i.e. male & females of eastern region of Nepal. This was a hospital based retrospective study was carried out between the age group of 0-75 and 76 and above yrs during April 2015 to Feb.2016. Sample size 9,765 subjects who were attended outdoor patient department (OPD) and indoor patient department (IPD) investigated for estimation of blood glucose levels were selected. Family history of Type 2 DM (Diabetes Mellitus) was recorded by questioner. Blood Glucose estimation was performed by Glucose Oxidase Peroxidase (GOD/POD) enzymatic method used. Diagnostic criteria of Type 2 DM recommended by American Diabetes Association and WHO.Statistical analysis was done using Excel. Total of 9,765 patients were included in the study. Among the total population 9,765 found1, 195 patients elevated casesin which 829/5,612 were males and 366/4,153 were females. The highest prevalence of type 2 diabetes 47.03% in the age group of 26-50 yrs and the second highest was 44.77% in 51-75 yrs age group. Male were found to be higher 69.4% in all the age groups than females 30.6%. Out of 1,195 diabetic patients, 27.20% have family history of Type 2 DM (Diabetes Mellitus). It has been observed that Type 2 DM is the most common among the age group of 26-50 yrs. It is also evident that the higher prevalence group was found to be males than female’s. Recently it was found that the prevalence of Type 2 DM (Diabetes Mellitus) was increasing which could be due to ignorance of the problems and poor medical service in the country.

453-458

Authors: Manoj Sharma

This study assessed value chain and marketing performance of vegetable subsector of Sindupalchowk district, Nepal with the objectives of identifying the value chain actors and their roles, analyzing the market channel and identifying the problems related to production and marketing system The study was based on both primary and secondary data. The primary data were collected from 84 households that were selected purposive proportionately. The study showed major vegetable value chain actors as input suppliers, producers, bulk traders, retailers, wholesalers and consumers. The total amount of vegetable production was 29.73 tons with productivity of 7.2 tons/ha transacting 17.92 tons of vegetables through four marketing channels. The channel transacting the vegetables to consumers directly by producers was found to be dominant in terms of volume of vegetable which represented 71.75% of total vegetable supplied by farmers (12.86 tons). The bulk traders supplied 18.97 % of vegetables to Kathmandu and 8.77% to consumers of Sindupalchowk district through retailers. The wholesalers were of least volume transacting actor to consumers through retailers (0.51%). The study suggests that Government of Nepal should focus on development of marketing infrastructures to provide equitable market sharing to actors.

298-303

Authors: Sushant Puri, Shubham Shingh, Preeya Tiwari

Multicellular filamentous fungi grown on the surface and inside of moist food secretes toxins in the form of their secondary metabolites which are commonly called mycotoxins. The presence of mycotoxins in food has been a burning issue and a threat to food security and safety. The global population has sky-rocked continues to be, which has created a challenge of providing quality food to the consumers. Aflatoxins, prevalent in most of the food crops in Nepal as well have posed a risk to national food security. Moreover, the consumption of food products containing mycotoxins is a cause of several health hazards like cancer, gastrointestinal problems, and neuropsychiatric effects. Mycotoxins not only has affected humans but also animals. Prevention, decontamination, and inhibition of absorption of toxins have been done in order to manage and mitigate the effects of mycotoxins. Recent research on mycotoxins is focused on the development of new methods to detect and analyze masked mycotoxins obtained from various sources. This review shows the contribution of mycotoxin in the global food security issue as well as its deleterious effects in human and animal health.

309-316

Authors: Nabin Pandey, Madhusudhan Adhikhari, Binod Bhantana

In the world, the traditional agricultural practices are getting affected by various problems such as disease, pest, drought, decreased soil fertility due to use of hazardous chemical pesticides, pollution and global warming. As a result, there is a need for some eco-friendly bio-control agents that help in resolving the previous mentioned problems. The various types of biological control agents such as bacteria and fungi are involved in bio-control activity. Among them, fungal genus Trichoderma plays a major role in controlling the plant diseases. Species of Trichoderma are diverse fungal microbial community known and explored worldwide for their versatilities as biocontrol and growth promoting agents. These fungi reproduce asexually by production of conidia and chlamydospores and in wild habitats by ascospores. Trichoderma species are efficient mycoparasites and prolific producers of secondary metabolites, some of which have clinical importance. However, the ecological or biological significance of this metabolite diversity is sorely lagging behind the chemical significance. Several Trichoderma spp. positively affect plants by stimulating plant growth, and protecting plants from fungal and bacterial pathogens. They are used in biological plant protection as bio-fungicides as well as in bioremediation. A large number of research groups are working on various aspects of Trichoderma viz., diversity, ecology and their applications. The capacity of Trichoderma fungi to produce lytic enzymes is used in animal feed, and wine making and brewery industries. Trichoderma spp. are the most successful bio-control agents as more than 60% of the registered bio-fungicides used in today’s agriculture belongs to Trichoderma -based formulation. The increase in incidence and severity of diseases and emergence of new diseases causes the significant yield losses of different crops in Nepal. But the research and studies on plant diseases are limited.

327-334

Authors: Md. Nuruzzaman, Md. Shohel Rana, Aleya Ferdausi, Md. Monjurul Huda, Lutful Hassan, Shamsun Nahar Begum

A field experiment was conducted at subtropical region in Bangladesh to assess the contribution of morphological traits to variability in some NERICA mutant rice lines. The experiment was conducted following RCBD with three replications. Thirty-one NERICA rice genotypes (twenty-eight mutant lines along with three parents) of advanced generations were used. Data were collected on twelve morphological traits. The results of the principal component analysis showed that the first four components account for 80% of total variation giving a clear idea of the structure underlying the variables analyzed. This result was also supported by scree test. Cluster analysis using Ward's method classified the thirty-one genotypes into five distinct groups. The maximum inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters indicating the possibility of high heterosis if individuals from these clusters are cross-bred. The results of PCA were closely in line with those of the cluster analysis. These results can now be used by breeders to develop drought tolerant high yielding rice varieties and new breeding protocols for rice improvement.

341-346

Authors: Pawan Devkota, Dipendra Aryal, Baburam Khanal

Availability of plant nutrients in rhizosphere is directly influenced by types of crop grown and land use pattern. The experiment was conducted in Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality, Khotang, Nepal to assess the soil nutrients dynamics as influenced by different cropping system. Five different cropping systems (Rice – Wheat, Maize – Millet, Maize – Vegetables, Ginger and Cardamom) were selected as treatments and all treatments were replicated for five times for blocking in Randomized Complete Block Design. Soil samples from 0-15 cm depth were collected from each site and evaluated for soil pH, soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (N), available phosphorus (P), and available potassium (K). All the tested parameters except N were found to be significantly affected by cropping system. Soil in all five cropping systems were found acidic (pH<6.5) in nature with pH ranging from 5.180-6.640. The SOC was recorded highest (3.102%) from Cardamom based system and lowest amount of SOC was observed in Ginger based system. The highest amount of P (32.14 mg/kg) was reported in Maize – Vegetables cropping system and lowest P content (5.72 mg/kg) was recorded from Cardamom based system. P content in Ginger based system (31.51 mg/kg) was statistically at par with that of Rice – Wheat system. The highest K content (306.50 mg/kg) was recorded from Maize – Vegetable cropping system and lowest K content (34.80 mg/kg) was observed in Cardamom based system which is statistically similar to Rice –Wheat (35.70 mg/kg) and Maize –Millet systems (77.20 mg/kg). The result indicated that cropping systems have huge impact on plant nutrient dynamics in soil.

354-358

Authors: Pushpa Karna Mallick

Pollen morphology of twelve species of angiosperms from Central Nepal was cytologically carried out in present investigation. In this investigation pollen morphology of Bignonia venusta Ker Gawl. and Jacranda mimisifolia D.Don from the family Bignoniaceae; Brassica compestris L. from Brassicaceae; Cuphea hyssopifolia Kunth. from Lythraceae; Coriandrum sativum L. from Apiaceae; Crepis japonica L. and Dichrocephala integrifolia (L f.) kunzte. from Asteraceae; Delphinium ajacis L. from Ranunculaceae; Dianthus barbetus L. from Caryophyllaceae; Euphorbia Milii Des Moul. and Euphorbia pulcherima L. from Euphorbiaceae and Magnolia fuscata from Magnoliaceae were studied. Shape of the pollen grains found to be mostly spheroidal, few circular, one elliptical, one triangular and one elongated in this study. Sculpture of exine wall found to be smooth, echidnae, tected, reticulated and perforated type. Aperture of the pollen grains found to be triporate to pentaporate. The large, medium and small sized pollen grains were observed in present research. The high diversty of sculpture type in pollen grains of angiosperms has been associated to diversity in pollination systems. Smooth pollen grains are linked with wind or water pollination while sculptured pollen grains associated with biotic pollination. The morphology of pollen grain is one of the significant tools in solving some taxonomic problems such as identification, tracing phylogenetic relationship on the family, generic or specific level and in plant systematic and evolution.

365-369

Authors: Kishor Kafle, Chandeshwar Parsad Shriwastav, Madan Marasini

Field experiment was conducted at the research farm of Regional Agriculture Research Station (RARS), Khajura to evaluate the influence of integrated nutrient management options that could enhance the properties of soil and yield of potato under the different climatic conditions of Khajura. The experiment was started in November 2016 in randomized complete block design with different seven treatments of nutrients using Farm yard manure (FYM), Poultry manure (PM) Vermicompost (VC). Available N, P and K status in the soil increased gradually due to the application of inorganic and organic fertilizers. The plots receiving 50 % RDNPK through inorganic fertilizers and remaining 50% RDN through PM registered the highest available N, P and K status in the soil. The highest pH (6.3) content in soil was found in plots treatments with poultry manure and inorganic fertilizers. Potato plots treated with FYM and inorganic fertilizers produced higher SOM content in soil after harvest (2.38%) as compared to control plots (2.09%). The treatments integrated with FYM show less bulk density than the control plot. Organic manures treated plots produce taller plants as compared plots receiving inorganic fertilizers only. Integrated use of 50 % recommended dose of NPK through inorganic fertilizers and remaining 50% RDN through PM produced higher numbers of tubers per plot (304 tubers per plot) and total tuber yield (22.86 tha-1).

378-381

Authors: Gaurav Rawal, Denusha Shrestha

Leptospira hardjo is the most commonly reported cause of leptospirosis among cattle globally. The objective of this study was to determine sero-detection of Leptospira hardjo in cattle of Bhaktapur district of Nepal. A cross-sectional study was conducted in cattle pockets located at 4 different village development committees (VDCs) in the Bhaktapur district of Nepal. The sample collection was done in cattle to determine the sero-detection of Leptospira hardjo from February 2014 to June 2014. A total of 176 serum samples were collected from four VDCs of Bhaktapur district namely Sipadol, Dhadikot, Duwakot and Nangkhel, selected purposively. Forty samples from Sipadol, 46 Dhadikot, 42 Duwakot and 48 from Nangkhel were collected. 5 ml of blood was collected aseptically from jugular vein using 5 ml sterile disposable syringe. After that blood was transferred to the plain vacutainer. The harvested sera were transferred to serum vials and stored at in -20˚c deep freeze of Central Veterinary Laboratory until used for ELISA test. For screening of Leptospira hardjo, the Leptospira hardjo antibody test kit, ELISA (Prionics, Netherlands) was used. ANOVA along with multiple comparison test Tukey was used to compare frequency of detection across different locations in Bhaktapur district using SAS 9.4. MS-Excel was used to manage ELISA data from four different VDCs and to extract information regarding frequency of detection. There was 5.11% sero-detection in cattle of Bhaktapur district. Location wise sero-detection was 5% in Sipadol, 4.3% in Dhadikot, 4.76% in Duwakot and 6.25% in Nangkhel. The study showed that the detection of Leptospira hardjo in cattle. There was no statistical difference (P>0.05) between location suggesting that cattle in all areas are equally at risk of this pathogen. Further study is suggested on isolation and identification of disease in Nepal.

387-394

Authors: L. Rani, A. Munjani, G. Lakra, A.K. Choudhury, R.K. Pandey

Different species of Cassia found in Jharkhand are consumed as daily vegetables have high nutritional value. Most of them are underutilized and display varied ethenomedicinal values. The work was carried out with an aim to document three ethno medicinal properties of three different species of Cassia, Cassia fistula, Cassia siamea and Cassia tora. The documentation was done among 100 tribal people residing in the area near Morabadi, Ranchi. The knowledge revealed that the three plants were used in almost every tribal houses as a dietary supplement and various medicinal uses. According to the Munda Vaidya’s the plant Cassia is of pitta nature and its different part have different uses. The root is used against tuberculosis glands, diabetes, as a tonic, the root and bark paste mixed in equal amount is used against snake bite. traditionally it is used as laxative, for the treatment of leprosy and various skin disorders. the present study aimed to screen and quantify primary and secondary metabolite by quantitative and qualitative method. The pigments (chlorophyll and carotenoid) were characterised by UV visible spectroscopy. Concentration of chlorophyll-a, chlorophyll-b and carotenoid was calculated by Arnon method (80% acetone extract). The spectrophotometric study of the different pigment of the three species of Cassia, Cassia fistula (chl-a 254.516, chl-b 305.741, total chl 533.7 carotenoid 10.6), Cassia siamea (chl-a 257.88, chl-b 393.16, total chl 630.2 carotenoid 9.395), Cassia tora (chl-a 266.36, chl-b 271.96, total chl 538.32 carotenoid 16.3). The result revealed that chl-a was highest in Cassia tora followed by Cassia siamea and Cassia fistula. Chl-b pigment followed C. siamea> C. fistula>C. tora pattern, total chl C. siemea>C. tora>C. fistula and the carotenoid amount C. tora > C. fistula > C. siamea. In screening of secondary metabolites tannin, saponins alkaloids, terpenoids, resin Phyto-sterols were carried out on the aqueous extract showed +ve test for all except phyto-sterols and on the powdered specimen gave –ve result in aqueous, ethanol as well as acetone extract.

130-152

Authors: Liza Goyal, Sunil Khanna

In lieu of rising crude oil prices, exhaustion of petroleum feed stocks and environmental challenges, only renewable fuels have the potential to match the energy requirements of the future. Among the various renewable fuels, butanol has recently gained a lot of attention because of its advantages over other biofuels. Its microbial production by clostridia through ABE fermentation is being explored for improved yield and cost effectiveness. Using lignocellulosic wastes successfully for butanol production through ABE fermentation is a major breakthrough to deal with the future energy crisis. Genetic engineering of microbes to increase the carbon and redox balance, cell recycling, media optimization, mathematical modelling and tolerance improvement strategies are being attempted to overcome the hurdles of high production cost, by products formation leading to low yield and product toxicity. Along with genetic engineering major research is cantered on heterologous host engineering for improved butanol production and tolerance. This review highlights the recent advances in improving yield and tolerance to butanol in both Clostridial and heterologous hosts from genetic engineering and fermentation methodology aspects.

161-166

Authors: A. Bista, T.N. Joshi, K. Biswokarma, S. Yadav

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is one of the major vegetable crops of Nepal. Potato is grown all over the globe and consumed as either vegetable or staple food depending upon the crop production scenario. It is also an integral part of human diet. Potato is a high nutrient mining crop and needs higher fertilization for economic tuber production. Despite sufficient application of Nitrogen (N) and Phosphorus (P2O5), low replenishment and widespread potassium deficiency are limiting the potato production in Nepalese condition. Growth parameters such as plant height, leaf area and chlorophyll% was positively correlated with potassium application. Potassium alleviated stresses of frost and drought and reduced incidence of diseases like late blight, black scurf and hollow heart. Potassium also decreased the reducing sugar content and improved chips color and quality. Similarly, potassium application before harvest was found to increase storage life of potato tubers. Furthermore, potassium application significantly increased the yield of potato tubers and quality parameters such as Vitamin C content and specific gravity. Source of potassium and method of potassium application also affected growth, yield and quality parameters. Soil application of potassium in splits coupled with foliar spay was found to perform better. Optimum dose of potassium was recommended for economic tuber production

174-183

Authors: B.S. Obadamudalige, Chalinda Koshitha Beneragama, S.M.M.R. Mawalagedera

Alstroemeria spp. is one of the highly demanded cut flower in the local and global cut flower market. Short vase life of flowers and leaves, petal wilting, petal drop, and transparency of petals are major postharvest problems. The objective was to extend the vase life of Alstroemeria spp. with 1-methylcyclopropene and ascorbic acid. Freshly cut flowering stems of Alstroemeria spp. were treated with 1-methylcyclopropene (0.25 ppm) and ascorbic acid (57 mM) alone and in combination of the two, for six hours. Distilled water was used as the control. Postharvest concentrations of anthocyanin, chlorophyll and glucose in flowers were best maintained when treated with a combination of 1‐methylcyclopropene and ascorbic acid, compared to all other treatments. Percentage fresh weight loss was same among treatments. The best treatment to extend vase life of Alstroemeria spp. is the combination of 1‐methylcyclopropene and ascorbic acid, which extended the vase life by additional seven days compared to the control.

195-206

Authors: Mansi Malik, Reeti Chaudhary, C. S. Pundir

An improved amperometric pyruvate biosensor was fabricated by immobilizing covalently commercial pyruvate oxidase (POx) from Aerococcus sps. onto nanocomposite of c-MWCNT (carboxylated multi- walled carbon nanotubes), copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) and polyaniline (PANI) electrodeposited onto gold (Au) electrode. The copper nanoparticles were prepared by chemical reduction method and characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV- visible spectroscopy and X- ray diffraction (XRD). The working electrode (POx/c-MWCNT/CuNPs/PANI/AuE was studied via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) at different stages of its construction. The biosensor showed optimum activity at a pH of 5.0 and 35°C and a linearity for pyruvate in the concentration range, 0.1 µM to 2000 µM. The analytical recovery of added pyruvate was 99.6% and 99.2%. The within and between batch coefficients of variation (CV) were 0.052% and as 0.022% respectively. There was a commendable correlation between sera pyruvate values as measured by standard spectrophotometric method and the present method. The biosensor was applied to measure sera pyruvate level and compared with that biosensor based on pyruvate oxidase nanoparticles covalently bound to Au electrode.

217-221

Authors: Abdul Ghaffar Khoso, Saeed Ahmed, Farrukh Asghar, Mansab Khan, Enayat Aziz, Khalil Asghar

Study was carried out on “Insect pests associated with tomato in local vegetable markets of Sindh, Pakistan” during November and December 2018. The insect pests’ infested-tomatoes are also sold in local vegetable markets and consume by people in Sindh, Pakistan. In present study was seen that the tomato fruit borer (caterpillar) fed symptoms, it had holed and bored, starting where the stem is attached to the fruit and these were ripped tomatoes and red colour. Insect infested tomatoes were collected; the thickness, length, the holes and inner fruit (interior) portions of the fruit damaged by the larvae were also measured and examined. A random selection of 30 vegetable vendor shops was selected in each city of Sindh. The largest pest infested tomato fruit was 30,120, the minimum was 2, 2 from the stock of 5, 5 kg, and 4, 7 green vegetable vendor shops there no pests found in tomato fruits. Overall, 243,995 insect-infested tomatoes were found in 305,515 kg, 30, 30 vegetable vender shops in Qasimabad and Shahdadkot. The maximum and minimum mean thicknesses and lengths of tomato fruits recorded from Qasimabad and Shahdadkot were 3.73, 3.31 cm, 3.06, 2.82 cm and 5.19, 4.75 cm, and 2.98, 3.7, respectively. The overall maximum and minimum thickness and tomato fruit length were 2.77, 3.83 cm and 2.47, 3.51 cm, respectively. The maximum and minimum mean ​​of tomato fruit hole and depth (internal feeding part) infested by insects were 0.73, 0.94 cm2 and 0.43, 0.61 cm2 and 1.07, 1.01 cm2 and 0.4, 0.38 cm2, respectively. While, the Overall total average hole diameter depth of the insect-infested tomato fruit was 0.51, 1.12 cm2 and the total depth was 0.75, 0.55 cm2 of the Qasimabad and Shahdadkot recorded respectively.

227-235

Authors: Bhojan Dhakal, Naba Raj Devkota, Sabita Subedi

A study was conducted to find out the production potential, nutrient composition, and the variability of the most commonly available fodder trees along with the varying altitude to help optimize the dry matter requirement during winter lean period. The study was carried out in Lho and Prok Village Development Committee of Manaslu Conservation Area (MCA), located in Gorkha district of Nepal.The study was conducted in two parts: social and biological. Accordingly, a households (HHs) survey was conducted to collect primary data from 70 HHs, focusing to the perception of respondents on impacts of climatic variability to the feeding management. The next part consisted of understanding yield potential and nutrient composition of the four most commonly available fodder trees (M. azedirach, M. alba, F. roxburghii, F. nemoralis), within two altitudes range: (1500-2000 masl and 2000-2500 masl) by using a RCB design in 2*4 factorial combination of treatments, each replicated four times. Fresh yield and dry matter yield of the each fodder trees was significant (P<0.01) between the altitude and within species. Fodder trees yield analysis revealed that the highest dry matter (DM) yield (28 kg/tree) was obtained for F. roxburghii but that remained statistically similar (P>0.05) to the other treatment. On the other hand, most of the parameters: ether extract (EE), acid detergent lignin (ADL), acid detergent fibre (ADF), cell wall digestibility (CWD), relative digestibility (RD), digestible nutrient (TDN), and Calcium (Ca) among the treatments were highly significant (P<0.01).

243-247

Authors: Mohammad Quamrul Islam Matin, Mohammad Amiruzzaman, Md. Motasim Billah, Most. Bilkis Banu, Nazmun Naher, Dilwar Ahmed Choudhury

The present study was carried out to investigate the correlation coefficient, path analysis and genetic variability among some barley varieties for nine characters in a Randomize Block Design (RBD) with three replications in three environments of Bangladesh. High genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) was obtained from grain/ spike (29.89 %), yield/ plant (28.72%) and effective tiller/plant (21.86 %) and spike length (13.56 %). The characters with high GCV indicated high potential for selection. The highest heritability (Hb) was observed for 1000 seed weight (95.09) followed by yield/ plant (93.98), grain/ spike (92.09) and spike length (69.93), days to heading (72.65) but the lowest Hb was identified for effective tiller/plant (22.41) followed by the plant height (34.21). Those traits with higher heritability may be considered for selection. Grain/ spike had the highest positive direct effect (5.65) on yield followed by 1000 seed weight (4.65), spike length (1.26), yield/ plant (0.66), days to heading (0.55) and days to maturity (0.34). These parameters were identified as direct selection. Direct negative effect on yield was shown by plant height (-0.32) and effective tiller/plant (-0.74). This was an indication of indirect selection.

248-256

Authors: Bhishma Raj Dahal, Swodesh Rijal

The study was conducted to determine the resource use efficiency, profitability and demography of maize farming in Sindhuli district. This study was conducted in 120 maize producers, 60 from Kamalamai Municipality (KMC) and 60 from Marin rural municipality. Pretested semi-structured questionnaire was administered to randomly selected farmers. Maize producers were interviewed using face to face interview method in the month of October 2018. All the data were entered into SPSS and Microsoft excel and analysis was done by using Microsoft excel and SPSS. Cobb- Douglas production function was used to determine the resource use efficiency of maize production. Benefit cost ratio in the research area is 1.20 which indicates that maize production was profitable and farmers of Sindhuli get additional 20 paisa with investment of one rupee in maize farming. Productivity, cost and income per hectare of maize farming in Sindhuli was 1.98 tons, Rs 42423.3 and Rs 50805 respectively. 10% increase in chemical fertilizer, FYM and seed cost resulted in increase in income by 7.21%, 2.43% and 0.6% respectively. 10% increase in labor and animal power resulted into 0.2% and 0.07% decrease in output. For optimal allocation of resource expenditure on seed and chemical fertilizer were need to be increased by 89.93% each. Labor, animal power and FYM were over utilized resources for maize farming. The sum of coefficients was 0.983 which implied decreasing return to scale, 100% increase in all the factor of production included in the model would result in 98.30% increase in maize production.

269-273

Authors: Sudip Mahat, Sundar Sapkota, Sanjib Sapkota, Krishna Katuwal

Ginger is a high value crop belongs to family Zingiberaceae. Ginger has multiple health benefits and can be easily grown in mid-hill regions of Nepal. The major challenge is the limited availability of information on factors affecting ginger yield. The objective of this project was to analyze different factors influencing ginger production. The study was conducted in Surkhet district of Nepal in 2018. A total of 100 farmers (60 and 40 from Barahtal and Chingad rural municipalities respectively) were selected using simple random sampling technique. Primary data were collected using interview schedule, focus group discussion and key informant interview. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and Microsoft Excel. The descriptive statistics, chi-square test and correlation were used to derive conclusion. The average age and land under ginger cultivation were 41 years and 0.093 hectare respectively. Average ginger production in the study area was 980 kg per ropani. There was a strong positive relationship between farm size and ginger production. Training, subsidy and labor crisis had positive association with ginger production. However, family size and years of schooling were not significant but positively correlated. It is recommended that concerned authorities should give emphasis on farmer training, extension services, and subsidy to enhance ginger production.

279-288

Authors: Kailash Prasad Pandey, Bijay Shrestha, Kushal Naharki, Chitra Bahadur Kunwar

The major objective of this study is to assess the status of maize production and adoption of improved maize seeds in Tanahun district. The study also aims to determine the factors affecting the adoption of the improved seeds. 100 maize farmers from four different local bodies of Tanahun were selected by the purposive sampling method for the household survey. Descriptive statistics, chi-square test, independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, logit model and index score ranking method were used for the data analysis. The productivity of maize and annual income from maize were 767.62 kg/ha and Rs 9500 higher for the farmers using improved seeds as compared to those using the local seeds. The mean annual household income of farmers replacing the seeds yearly was Rs 18983 higher than the farmers replacing the seeds rarely. The frequency of the agriculture technician support and the frequency of seed replacement with the improved seed were found to significantly determine the adoption of the improved maize seeds. Farmers receiving the regular technician support were 15.726 times more likely to adopt the improved seeds as compared to those receiving the technician support rarely or never. The adopters had 458.10 kg/ha higher productivity than the non-adopters. Lack of irrigation facility was found to be the major problem in maize cultivation whereas the lack of timely availability of improved seed was found to be the most important constraint for the adoption of improved seeds.

291-297

Authors: Premalatha Shetty, Aveena Roche, Sasidhar B Somappa

Extract was prepared from the pulp and peels of the Syzygium caryophyllatum berries. At pH ≤2, the extract showed prominent red coloration and at pH values above 7, the extract attained bluish-green coloration. These typical characteristics indicate presence of anthocyanin pigments in the berries. The yield of the anthocyanins was around 1.9mg per gram wet weight and, around 43% of the anthocyanin pigments appear to be present in polymerized forms. At pH 1.0, the pigments absorbed maximally at 515nm and at pH 9.0, the pigments were found to absorb to a maximum extent in the range of 380-400nm. The colors at alkaline pH were unstable, while the red coloration under acidic conditions was relatively stable when exposed to fluorescent light and temperature of 50°C. Mass spectrum of the extract showed predominance of malvidin and petunidine derivatives in the extract. Syzygium caryophyllatum berries can serve as reservoirs of anthocyanin pigments.

1-5

Authors: Md. Akbal Husen

Efficient fish marketing needed for the growth of fish production as well as development of fishery sector. Domestic fish markets development in the Nepal will plays a very crucial role in the development of fisheries sector. Fish marketing system development in Nepal is in infant stage. Fish marketing channel has not been systematic in Nepal. The fish marketing infrastructure and the facilities for the fish market should be developed by identifying the possible production and collection centers in the country. Live fish have getting higher price in the market and fish imported from India price is lesser than fresh wet fish of Nepal. Government policy needed to upgrade the existing fish marketing system to ensure supply of hygiene fresh fish and processed fish for consumers.

12-21

Authors: Samuel Tizazu Agidew, Alemayehu Hailemicael Mezgebe

In sacred forests of indigenous communities, landscapes are deemed sacred and are protected through social norms and spiritual values. The main objective of this study was to analyze the woody species composition of Shawo forest and explore the traditional governing systems that safeguard the sacred forest up to the present. Systematic sampling method was used to collect data. Accordingly, 42 quadrats each with 400 m2 (20 m X 20 m) was laid along the 14 transect lines. All woody plant species were collected and identified in each of these quadrats. Vegetation parameters such as DBH an Height of each quadrat were recorded. Interview and group discussion were held with local community to gather socio-cultural information. From the result, 16 plant species were found. The average plant density was 499 individual ha-1 with DBH and H value of 9.21 cm and 10.43 m respecitively.. The maximum mean plant height was 39.43 m (Syzygium guineense).The total basal area of all plant species was found to be 56.1 m2.ha-1. From the total plant species of Shawo forest Syzygium guineense has the largest basal area 35.77 m2.ha-1 (63.77%) occurring in all 42 plots. The most important plant species of Shawo forest was Syzygium guineense with important value index (IVI) of 151.7 contributing to 50.57% of total IVI. For future sustainability of Shawo forest, community traditional conservation practices should be appreciated and supported.

27-30

Authors: Abdul Ghaffar Khoso, Mansab Khan, Saeed Ahmed

Study was carried out on Feeding Preference of Larvae and Adults of Zigzag Beetle on Sucking Insect Pests of Brinjal Under Laboratory Conditions in 2013 at Tando Jam. Observations on feeding preference of Zigzag beetle shows that the highest feeding consumption of first instar larvae of Zigzag beetle were consumed 9.28±1.47aphids/day. Similarly on whiteflies the feeding rate was 7.56±1.05, and on thrips 5.28±0.98. The mean highest consumption of 1st instar was recorded on aphids, and lowest on. Similarly in the second instar larva the mean highest consumption rate during 24 hours was recorded on aphids. 19.21±1.97 / day followed by whiteflies 13.39±2.82/day and thrips 10.36±1.89/day. In case of third instar larvae the maximum feeding rate was recorded on aphids 35.26±2.06/day followed by whiteflies. 23.15±2.45/day and thrips 16.36±3.82/day. The fourth instar larvae of Zigzag beetle was consumed 52.69±3.89aphids/day followed by whiteflies 39.64±3.02/day and thrips 26.85±5.56/day. While the feeding preference rate of both male and female adults of Zigzag beetle also observed. The male adults of Zigzag beetle was 61.17±4.67 aphids/ day. On whiteflies was 42.89±4.12. Similarly on thrips was 32.56±6.26 thrips/ day. The mean aphid consumption by female adults was more on aphids 72.34±5.33 / day followed by whiteflies 47.23±4.93/day and thrips 37.89±7.19/day. The overall data indicated that fourth instar larvae of Zigzag beetle was more voracious feeder of different sucking insect pests of brinjal as compare to 1st, 2nd and 3rd instar larvae and female adults of Zigzag beetle consumed more sucking pests of brinjal than male adults . However, there is no significant difference between both sexes. The data reveals that aphids was most preferred food and thrips was least preferred prey for Zigzag beetle.

39-42

Authors: Keshar Bahadur Khatri, Roshan Babu Ojha, Keshab Raj Pande, Babu Ram Khanal

A field experiment was conducted in an Inceptisols with sandy loam soil of the research farm of Agriculture and Forestry University, Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal from October 2016 to January 2017 to evaluate the effects of different sources of organic manure in growth and yield of radish. The experiment was carried out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with six treatments (Poultry manure, goat manure, FYM, biogas byproduct, recommended dose of fertilizer and control) and was replicated four times. Pyuthane Red variety (released on 1994) of radish was used as a test crop. After analysis of primary nutrients of the organic manures, the amount was fixed on the basis of recommended nitrogen (100 kg N per hectare) as a reference value. The application of organic manures significantly increased the plant height, number of leaves, leaf breadth, root length, root diameter and biomass yield. The highest biomass yield (75.16 Mg/ha) and highest root yield (49.41 Mg/ha) was obtained from poultry manure application which was similar with recommended rate of fertilizer. The study suggested that application of poultry was found more beneficial and significantly improved growth and yield of radish.

49-53

Authors: Anish Pyakurel, Bhishma Raj Dahal, Swodesh Rijal

A field experiment was conducted at Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality of Khotang district during April 14 to May 28 of 2018 to evaluate the effect of molasses and organic fertilizer in soil fertility and yield of Spinach (Spinacia oleracea var 'patane local'). The effect of molasses and organic fertilizer in soil fertility and yield of spinach was evaluated by using RCBD (Randomized Complete Block Design) with five treatments and five replications. The five treatments were soil application of molasses, foliar application of molasses, molasses+organic fertilizer, organic fertilizer and controlled soil. The field was divided into 25 plots, each having an area of 1.2×1.2 m2 and distance between each plot was 0.5m. Spacing of 30×15 cm2 was maintained. The mean comparison was done through Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Molasses+organic fertilizer had highly significant result in soil organic carbon content (SOC), nitrogen, potassium, soil PH and yield of Spinach. Higher soil organic carbon (4.51%), nitrogen (0.24%), potassium (557.80 mg/kg) and yield (3.08kg) was obtained at molasses+organic fertilizer whereas soil application of molasses had significantly low PH (5.54). Poor soil fertility, lack of sustainable soil management, lack of chemical fertilizers was problems for declining crop productivity in Khotang district. The experiment suggests that, farmers could be benefitted by application of molasses and organic fertilizer as it improves soil fertility and increases the yield of spinach.

62-68

Authors: Bhishma Raj Dahal, Swodesh Rijal

A study was conducted for comparative analysis of demographic, production economics and determinants of potato production between Kakani rural municipality and Bidur municipality of Nuwakot district. Altogether 120 potato producers, 56 from Kakani and 64 from Bidur were randomly selected. Pretested semi-structured questionnaire was administered to randomly selected farmers. Potato growers were interviewed using face to face interview method in the month of October 2018. All the data were entered into SPSS and Microsoft excel and analysis was done by using Microsoft excel, STATA and SPSS. Average productivity in the research area was 14.69 ton per hectare. Average cost of production and profit was Rs 8614.61 per ropani and Rs 6083 per ropani respectively. B/C ratio in the research area was 1.71. 10% increase in organic manure (FYM and poultry manure), pesticide and tuber resulted in 1.88%, 1.99% and 0.05% increase in income respectively. 10% increase in labor and chemical fertilizer resulted into 0.1% and 0.5% decrease in output. Labor and chemical fertilizer was over utilized resource for potato production. The probability of cultivation of potato in large scale was found to be 56.92% higher for those with access to extensive service and 47.89% higher for those who have received training. Most of the farmers don not use improved seed thus distributing improved seed, providing training and extension services help to increase profit of potato production in Nuwakot district. 100% increase in all the factor of production would result in 32.39% increase in potato production.

75-80

Authors: Dinesh Bhattarai, Nirajan Bhattarai, Rajani Osti

Campylobacter is a fastidious organism that is capable of surviving in wide range of environments and potentially can cause serious infection in human and animal which can commonly available in the different sources of water used for daily purpose. This research was conducted to figure out the prevalence of the thermophilic Campylobacter in the water used in various slaughter houses of Kathmandu and Ruphendehi district of Nepal. So a cross sectional study was conducted and 200 water samples (100 for each district) was collected aseptically and submitted to Bacteriological Unit for the confirmation. Isolation and identification of Campylobacter was being done as described by OIE Terrestrial Manual, 2004, Chapter 2.8.10. Laboratory finding was done to confirm the positive cases. The study revealed the prevalence status of Campylobacter in water used in the slaughter house of Ruphendehi district is 12% and Kathmandu Valley is 0.00%. Thus, Ruphendehi has comparatively more prevalence of Campylobacter than Kathmandu. The water samples tested were all from actual or potential water sources for the use in slaughter house, so there are clear implications for the transmission of Campylobacter spp. to human and animal suggesting further expanded research is required in this area.

88-95

Authors: S. Sankhi, K.R. Sapkota, B. Regmi

Objective: To determine the effect of age and frequency of collection on quality parameters of Jersey bull semen at National Livestock Breeding Center (NLBC), Pokhara. Materials and Methodology: Nine Jersey bulls were selected randomly from NLBC. To obtain the effect of age, six bulls of three different age interval (3-4, 5-7 and 8-9 years) were selected randomly. Remaining three bulls were used to determine the effect of frequency of collection on semen quality. Studies were conducted for three months (Nov/Dec to Dec/Jan, 2016). Semen quality was analyzed using CASA system and SMILE software. ANOVA and paired t- tests were applied to find out level of significance. All the statistical analyses were done using SPSS 17.0 Results: Sperm concentration, post- thaw motility, live sperm, and abnormal sperm were significantly affected by the age of the bulls. Semen quality was found superior in the bulls belonging to 5-7 years of age intervals. Significantly higher value for semen volume, sperm concentration and post- thaw motility was obtained on second collection (P<0.05). However, volume initial motility, pre-filling motility, live sperm and abnormal sperm percentage did not differ significantly among different age intervals and between the frequencies of collection. Conclusion: Different quality parameters of semen like volume, concentration, initial motility, pre-filling motility, post thaw motility, live and normal spermatozoa percentages were higher in 5-7 years old bulls and in second collection of semen.

102-107

Authors: Pushpa Karna Mallick

Morphological structures of pollen-grains of fifteen species of angiosperms collected from Central Nepal were cytologically carried out. Pollen structure of fifteen species viz. Antirrhium majus from family Plantaginaceae, Brunfelsia pauciflora and Petunia hybrida from Solanaceae, Centurea cyanus and Chrysanthemum morifolium from Asteraceae, Malvaviscous arboreus from Malvaceae, Lantana camera from Verbenaceae, Chlorophytum comosum from Asperagaceae, Oxalis europia from Oxilidaceae, Jasminum officinale from Oleaceae, Geranium roseous from Geranaceae, Mirabilis jalapa from Nyctaginaceae, Phlox paniculata from Polymoniaceae and Tradescantia brivifolia from commelinaceae studied in this investigation. Most of the structure of pollen found to be spheroidal, some irregular, oval, elongated and circular. The present study gives an account of variations of pollen grain structure within the angiosperms family. Triporate to polyprate aperture and echinate to smooth walled exine were observed in present study. Pollen morphology of the angiosperm is significantly helpful at the generic and specific level in plant taxonomy.

114-119

Authors: Arjun Prasad Khanal

This study was conducted in Gulmi and Palpa districts in western hills of Nepal in 2017 AD with the main objective to assess the impacts of earthquake in coffee production and marketing. One hundred and sixty coffee producers were selected by a three- stage sampling procedure. In this study only 6.9 % of coffee producers had said that they had experienced impacts of massive earthquake 2015 AD on coffee production and marketing. Among the coffee producers(6.9%) who said that they had experienced the impact of earthquake 2015 AD, majority (37%) of them said that they had suffered some minor (repairable) cracks in their houses and sheds while 27% of them had said that rate of drying of water sources is accelerated after earthquake leading to shortage water for drinking and irrrigating coffee fields. Since eathquake 2015AD had minor impacts on coffee production and marketing, pre earthquake preparedness like public awareness programs, quality construction practices, preparation of new codes and standards for infrastructure design and training coffee producers, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders should be done in the study area to cope with the unforeseen consequences of earthquake in future.

124-129

Authors: Ratna Silwal Gautam

Carbon sequestration is one of the main ecosystem services in today’s condition. Estimation of above ground tree biomass and carbon stock is important as it gives ecological and economic benefits to the local people. This study was conducted in the Hasantar Community Forest (HCF) of Nagarjun Municipality, Kathmandu. Concentric circular plots of 12.62m radius were established in five different blocks of HCF for the study of tree species. The main objective of this study was to find out the Important Value Index (IVI), Above Ground Tree Biomass (AGTB) and carbon stocks tree species of HCF. This forest comprises the tree species of families like fagacaeae, moraceae, myrtaceae, fabaceae etc in dominant numbers. Schima wallichii was found ecologically most significant tree species as it possess highest IVI value. The carbon stock of this plant was found as 206.865 t/ha which comprises 27 % of total carbon in HCF. The total above ground tree carbon stock of HCF (55.4 ha.) was found 144.795 t/ha.