Residuo de Elaeis guineensis (Arecaceae) como absorbente de combustibles para aplicación pasiva en ingeniería contra incendios / Elaeis guineensis (Arecaceae) residue as a fuel sorbent for passive application in fire-fighting engineering

Resumen Introducción: Los vertidos de líquidos inflamables pueden producir accidentes graves, principalmente en plantas industriales y en carretera. Para prevenir la dispersión de derrames, se utilizan diversas formas de recolecta, como la absorción con sólidos porosos. Residuos agroindustriales pueden ser aprovechados como materiales sorbentes de líquidos inflamables. Objetivo: Determinar la capacidad de absorción de las biomasas residuales del pedúnculo de la palma aceitera (Elaeis guineensis) y del endocarpio del fruto de coyol (Acrocomia sp.) para cuatro líquidos orgánicos inflamables. Métodos: Las biomasas residuales de E. guineensis y de Acrocomia sp. se evaluaron como sorbentes para combustibles derramados (diésel, queroseno de aviación, queroseno comercial y gasolina). Se midió la cantidad de líquido absorbida por las biomasas a 24 ºC durante una semana, y su cinética de desorción a 50 ºC, usando balanzas de secado. Resultados: La propiedad sorbente del material de Acrocomia sp. no fue satisfactoria, comparada con el pedúnculo de E. guineensis, debido a diferencias en arquitectura residual del material orgánico. Esta última biomasa muestra una capacidad de absorción para los combustibles de 2.4 ± 0.2 cm3 g-1 a 24 ºC. La diatomita absorbe mayor cantidad de los combustibles estudiados, pero la difusión de estos fluidos a 50 ºC por la matriz mineral es solo 0.26 ± 0.09 veces lo observado para el material de E. guineensis, como resultado del mayor grado de tortuosidad de los poros de la diatomita. Conclusiones: El pedúnculo de palma aceitera (E. guineensis) mostró un adecuado potencial desempeño para la aplicación pasiva en la mitigación de los riesgos de incendio, con respecto a la diatomita. El endocarpio del fruto de Acrocomia sp. no resultó útil para esta operación de recuperación.

Abstract Introduction: Spills of flammable liquids can lead to serious accidents, mainly in industrial plants and on roads. To prevent the spread of spills, various forms of collection are used, such as absorption with porous solids. Agroindustrial waste can be used as sorbent materials for flammable liquids. Objective: To determine the sorption capacity of the residual empty-fruit bunch of oil-palm (Elaeis guineensis) and the macaw palm (Acrocomia sp.) nutshell for four organic flammable liquids. Methods: The residual biomasses of E. guineensis and Acrocomia sp. were assessed as sorbents for spilled fuels (diesel, jet fuel, commercial kerosene, and gasoline). Volumetric measurement of liquid-fuel absorption at 24 ºC was taken during a week. Desorption was measured at 50 ºC as the drying kinetics, by using moisture scales. Results: The sorption capacity of the Acrocomia sp. material was not satisfactory, compared to the E. guineensis residual material, due to differences in the residual architecture of the organic material. This last can absorb 2.4 ± 0.2 cm3 g-1 at 24 ºC, during a one-week period. Diatomite absorbs greater quantities of the organic liquids but, the fluids diffusion at 50 ºC is 0.26 ± 0.09 times more slowly in the mineral matrix, because of the greater pore tortuosity in this mineral matrix. Conclusions: The oil-palm empty fruit bunch of E. guineensis, showed lesser but adequate performance than the sorbing behavior for fire hazard mitigation of diatomite. The nutshell of macaw palm (Acrocomia sp.) did not prove to be useful for this recovery operation.

Application of Google Earth Engine in the preliminary analysis of fire severity in the Iberá National Park and Reserve, Argentina / Aplicación de Google Earth Engine en el análisis preliminar de la severidad de incendios en la Reserva y Parque Nacional, Argentina

ABSTRACT Fires are one of the most aggressive and sudden disturbances that can affect ecosystems. During the first months of the year 2022, a series of fires of great magnitude spread in the Iberá streams, which is the largest wetland in Argentina and the second largest in South America after the Pantanal in Brazil, with devastating environmental and social consequences. The aim of this study is to analyze the fires that occurred in the Iberá Reserve and National Park located in the province of Corrientes at the beginning of the year 2022 using remote sensing techniques through the Google Earth Engine processing platform. In this study, the total affected areas were calculated and their severity was analyzed. The results indicate that approximately 20 % of the reserve and close to 50 % of the Iberá National Park have been burned, with a predominance of severity levels ranging from moderate high to high. Remote sensing techniques are a significant resource in fire monitoring, making it a powerful tool in planning regulations or measures aimed at contributing to the mitigation, management, and early warning of fires.

RESUMEN Los incendios son una de las perturbaciones o disturbios más agresivos y repentinos que pueden afectar a los ecosistemas. Durante los primeros meses del año 2022 se propagaron una serie de incendios de gran magnitud en los esteros del Iberá, el cual es el mayor humedal de Argentina y el segundo de Sudamérica luego del Pantanal en Brasil, con consecuencias ambientales y sociales devastadoras. El objetivo del trabajo consiste en analizar los incendios ocurridos en la reserva y el Parque Nacional Iberá ubicada en la provincia de Corrientes a principios del año 2022 aplicando técnicas de teledetección a través de la plataforma de procesamientos de Google Earth Engine. En este trabajo se calculó las áreas totales afectadas analizándose la severidad de estas. Los resultados muestran que se ha quemado alrededor del 20 % de la reserva y cerca del 50 % del Parque Nacional Iberá con predominio de niveles de severidad entre moderada alta y alta. Las técnicas de teledetección son un insumo significativo en el monitoreo de incendios, lo que la vuelve una herramienta potente en la planificación de normativas o medidas que contribuyan con la mitigación, gestión y alerta temprana de incendios.

Growth and cadmium and nickel uptake of maize (Zea mays L.) in a cadmium and nickel co?contaminated soil and phytoremediation efficiency using ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid

Background: Anthropogenic activities release cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), and other heavy metals into soil. Zea mays can clean up contaminated soils, but little is known about how Cd and Ni co-contamination stress affects ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA)-based phytoextraction and phytoremediation, hence this study was conducted. Methods: The experiment involved nine treatment levels (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg kg-1 Cd and 0, 15, 30, 45, and 60 mg kg-1 Ni), grouped into three categories: CT as the control group, P as Cd + Ni only, and CAP as Cd + Ni + EDTA (n=3). The treatments used (CH3COO)2Cd•2H2O and NiSO4 as the source of Cd and Ni, respectively, and EDTA was applied at two rates (0 and 0.5 g/kg). After the experimental period, measurements were taken for shoot length, biomass, and metal concentrations in both the roots and shoots using established procedures. Results: The concentrations of metals in plants' roots and shoots increased as the concentrations in soil increased, but shoot length, biomass, bioconcentration factor (BCF), and translocation factor (TF) values decreased with increasing soil metal content. The application of EDTA increased metal uptake but led to greater root and shoot biomass loss. Generally, TF values for Cd and Ni were less than 1 but most of the BCF values were greater than 1. Conclusions: The study found that phytostabilization is the main mechanism for phytoremediation of Cd-Ni-co-contaminated soils with Zea mays, with EDTA addition enhancing metal accumulation and reducing biomass yield.

A preliminary assessment of the length-weight relationship and condition factor of Hydrocynus vittatus and Oreochromis niloticus in Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe

Background: Hydrocynus vittatus and Oreochromis niloticus are two economically important fish species in Zimbabwe. The length-weight relation can be employed to assess the health and well-being of fish so as to assist fish farmers. The objective of the study was to investigate the length-weight relationship and condition factor of these fish species. Methods: Thirty-four fish of each species (Hydrocynus vittatus and Oreochromis niloticus) were collected by seine netting in the Sanyati Basin, Lake Kariba in August 2019. The total length (TL) and standard length (SL) were measured in centimetre (cm), and the body weight (BW) was measured in grams (g). The body weight (BW) was measured using a digital top-loading electronic weighing balance. Results: The value of the exponent b in the LWR for H. vittatus was 2.984, indicating negative allometry (b<3). The exponent value of O. niloticus in the LWR was 3.04 (b>3) implying positive allometry. The r2 values for H. vittatus and O. niloticus were 92.3% and 97.3% respectively, indicating that there was a high degree of positive correlation. The condition factor for both fish species were greater than 1.60 implying good physiological conditions for both fish species. Conclusions: This study provides preliminary information on length-weight parameters of O. niloticus whose data was previously not available in the take.

Tree species composition, growing stock and biomass carbon dynamics of the major timber species in Hindu Kush regions of Pakistan / Composição de espécies de árvores, estoque em crescimento e dinâmica de biomassa de carbono das principais espécies madeireiras nas regiões de Indocuche no Paquistão

Using inventory data, this study evaluates the species composition, growing stock volume (GSV), and biomass carbon (BMC) of the five major timber species in the sub-tropical, and temperate/sub-alpine regions of Pakistan. It was found that the stem density varies between 50 and 221 trees ha -1, with a mean of 142 trees ha-1 (13.68 million trees for entire forest area). Among the species, Pinus wallichiana showed a high species composition (27.80%) followed by Picea smithiana (24.64%). The GSV was found in the range of 67.81 to 425.94 m3 ha-1, with a total GSV value of 20.68 million m3 for the entire region. Similarly, The BMC ranged from 27.04 to 169.86 Mg ha-1, with a mean BMC value of 86.80 Mg ha-1. The total amount of stored carbon was found at 8.69 million tons for a total of 95842 ha of commercially managed forest. Furthermore, the correlation analysis between the basal area (BA) and GSV and BMC showed that BA is the best predictor of GSV and BMC. The findings provide insights to the policy makers and forest managers regarding the sustainable commercial forest management as well as forest carbon management in the recent global carbon management for climate change mitigation.

Usando dados de inventário, este estudo avaliou a composição de espécies, volume de estoque crescente (GSV) e carbono de biomassa (BMC) das cinco principais espécies madeireiras nas regiões subtropicais e temperadas/subalpinas do Paquistão. Constatou-se que a densidade do caule variou entre 50 e 221 árvores ha-1, com média de 142 árvores ha-1 (13,68 milhões de árvores para toda a área florestal). Entre as espécies, Pinus wallichiana apresentou alta composição de espécies (27,80%), seguida de Picea smithiana (24,64%). O GSV foi encontrado na faixa de 67,81 a 425,94 m3 ha-1, com um valor total de 20,68 milhões de m3 para toda a região. Da mesma forma, o BMC variou de 27,04 a 169,86 mg ha-1, com valor médio de 86,80 mg ha-1. A quantidade total de carbono armazenado foi de 8,69 milhões de toneladas para um total de 95.842 ha de floresta manejada comercialmente. Além disso, a análise de correlação entre área basal (BA), GSV e BMC mostrou que BA é o melhor preditor de GSV e BMC. As descobertas fornecem insights para os formuladores de políticas e gestores florestais sobre o manejo florestal comercial sustentável, bem como o manejo florestal de carbono no recente gerenciamento global de carbono para a mitigação das mudanças climáticas.

Tree species composition, growing stock and biomass carbon dynamics of the major timber species in Hindu Kush regions of Pakistan

Abstract Using inventory data, this study evaluates the species composition, growing stock volume (GSV), and biomass carbon (BMC) of the five major timber species in the sub-tropical, and temperate/sub-alpine regions of Pakistan. It was found that the stem density varies between 50 and 221 trees ha -1, with a mean of 142 trees ha-1 (13.68 million trees for entire forest area). Among the species, Pinus wallichiana showed a high species composition (27.80%) followed by Picea smithiana (24.64%). The GSV was found in the range of 67.81 to 425.94 m3 ha-1, with a total GSV value of 20.68 million m3 for the entire region. Similarly, The BMC ranged from 27.04 to 169.86 Mg ha-1, with a mean BMC value of 86.80 Mg ha-1. The total amount of stored carbon was found at 8.69 million tons for a total of 95842 ha of commercially managed forest. Furthermore, the correlation analysis between the basal area (BA) and GSV and BMC showed that BA is the best predictor of GSV and BMC. The findings provide insights to the policy makers and forest managers regarding the sustainable commercial forest management as well as forest carbon management in the recent global carbon management for climate change mitigation.

Resumo Usando dados de inventário, este estudo avaliou a composição de espécies, volume de estoque crescente (GSV) e carbono de biomassa (BMC) das cinco principais espécies madeireiras nas regiões subtropicais e temperadas/subalpinas do Paquistão. Constatou-se que a densidade do caule variou entre 50 e 221 árvores ha-1, com média de 142 árvores ha-1 (13,68 milhões de árvores para toda a área florestal). Entre as espécies, Pinus wallichiana apresentou alta composição de espécies (27,80%), seguida de Picea smithiana (24,64%). O GSV foi encontrado na faixa de 67,81 a 425,94 m3 ha-1, com um valor total de 20,68 milhões de m3 para toda a região. Da mesma forma, o BMC variou de 27,04 a 169,86 mg ha-1, com valor médio de 86,80 mg ha-1. A quantidade total de carbono armazenado foi de 8,69 milhões de toneladas para um total de 95.842 ha de floresta manejada comercialmente. Além disso, a análise de correlação entre área basal (BA), GSV e BMC mostrou que BA é o melhor preditor de GSV e BMC. As descobertas fornecem insights para os formuladores de políticas e gestores florestais sobre o manejo florestal comercial sustentável, bem como o manejo florestal de carbono no recente gerenciamento global de carbono para a mitigação das mudanças climáticas.

Optimum Sowing Window and Suitable Varieties for Cultivation Soybean (Glycine max L.) During Off-Season in Northern Telangana Zone

Aims: To identify the optimum sowing time and suitable varieties of soybean for profitable cultivation during the off-season in the Northern Telangana Agroclimatic zone of Telangana state in India.Study Design: Strip plot design with three replications.Place and Duration of Study: The Regional Sugarcane and Rice Research Station, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU), Rudrur, Nizamabad District, Telangana state, India, between October 2022 and June 2023.Methodology: The field experiment was conducted in medium clay loam soil under irrigated condition. The experiment was laid out in strip plot design with three varieties viz., JS 335 (V1), ASB 22 (V2) and KDS 726 (V3) as horizontal strips and nine dates of sowings viz., 3 Oct (D1), 19 Oct (D2), 3 Nov (D3), 19 Nov (D4), 3 Dec (D5) 19 Dec (D6), 3 Jan (D7), 19 Jan (D8) and 3 Feb (D9) as vertical strips, replicated thrice. The seeds were sown by dibbling at 5 cm apart within the row and rows were space at 45 cm apart. Standard recommended package of practice of kharif season suggested by PJTSAU was followed. The data on growth yield attributes was recorded on selected 5 plant, averaged/ plant and grain yield was recorded from net plot, converted to one hectare and analyzed statistically using OP Stat.Results: The results of the experiment revealed that, the cv. KDS 726 recorded the maximum plant height (35.2 cm) and biomass accumulation (8.93 g plant-1) which was significantly more over the cv. JS 335 and cv. ASB 22 in 3 Nov and 19 Oct sowings, respectively. The cultivars the cv. JS 335 (V1) recorded more number of pods over cv. ASB 22 (V2) and cv. KDS 726 (V3) in 19 Oct (D2), 3 Nov (D3), 19 Nov (D4), 3 Dec (D5) and 3 Jan (D7) sowings. The cv. KDS 726 (V3) was found superior in terms of seeds pod -1 (3.0) which was comparable to cv. JS 335 (V1) and significantly more over cv. ASB 22 (V2) when it was sown on 19 Oct (D2). The cv. KDS 726 (V3) recorded significantly more test weight (g) over cv. JS 335 (V1) and cv. ASB 22 (V2) from 19 Oct (D2) to 3 Jan (D7) sowings. The cv. ASB 22 sown on 3 Oct produced significantly more seed yield (753 kg ha-1) and haulm yield (1599 kg ha-1) over cv. JS 335 and cv. (KDS 726). Conclusion: The soybean cv. ASB 22 with sowing first week of Oct was found to be suitable for cultivation during the off season.

A Comprehensive Review on Biochar

Biochar from the pyrolysis of organic biomass is a highly porous carbon with many useful applications. While providing practical options for disposal and disease control, it also contributes to carbon sequestration by trapping carbon in plant biomass. The composition and structure of biochar depends on factors such as temperature, heating rate and production time. It also leads to bio-oil and biogas, which can be used for biochar production, electricity generation and the production of various chemicals. Incorporating biochar into the soil improves pH, electrical conductivity, water holding capacity, cation exchange capacity and microbial activity.It reduces nutrient leakage and all necessary fertilizers reduce environmental pollution. Biochar also plays an important role in crop improvement. Besides improving the soil, biochar also has the advantage of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, reducing pesticide use and being used in the construction, cosmetics and treatment, wastewater and food industries. India is rich in biomass resources and has great potential for biochar production. This study explores various production technologies, their effects on biochar energy and the benefits of using biochar.

Assessment of Growth Performance of Casuarina equisetifolia Clones in Tropical Region of Jabalpur District of Madhya Pradesh, India

Casuarina equisetifolia L., commonly known as the Casuarina or Australian Pine, is a fast growing, evergreen tree native to the coastal regions of Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands and can be useful in carbon sequestration and in afforestation programme in tropical forest. An experiment was laid out at Tropical Forest Research Institute, Jabalpur (M.P.) India with an aim to assess the growth performance of Casuarina equsetifolia clones namely IFGTB CH-1, IFGTB CH-2, IFGTB CH-3, IFGTB CH-4, IFGTB CH-5, IFGTB CH-6, IFGTB CH-7, IFGTB CH-9, IFGTB CH-10 in tropical region of Madhya Pradesh comes under Kaymore plateau and Satpura Hills agroclimatic zone of the state. The results revealed that the clone IFGTB CH-5 produced the maximum volume per m3 followed by the Clone IFGTB CH-2 and IFGTB CH-4 because of the highest survival percentage among the all clones and maximum carbon stock was found in clone IFGTB CH-5 (0.044 tonnes) followed by CH-2 (0.028 tonnes), CH- 4 (0.026) and minimum carbon stock was found in CH-1 (0.016). Thus, Clone CH-5 is recommended for this region under afforestation programmes due to its fast growth within a short period of 2 years, quick pulpwood yield and maximum carbon sequestration.

Carbon Sequestration Potential of Trees in Urban Vegetation Islands: A Case Study

Aim: Increasing levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) and other “greenhouse” gases contribute to an increase in atmospheric temperature. Trees act as a sink for CO2 by fixing carbon during photosynthesis and storing excess carbon as biomass. The current study focuses on the contribution of vegetation within Janki Devi Bajaj Government Girls College, Kota towards carbon sequestration potential and climate regulation.Study Design: Non-destructive method of biomass estimation was used to measure the GBH of individual trees on the campus.Place and Duration: The study was conducted in Janki Devi Bajaj Government Girls College, Kota in Rajasthan, India from July 2022 to June 2023.Methodology: Above-ground biomass (AGB) and below-ground biomass (BGB) were calculated with the help of field measures of diameter at breast height (DBH) of the trees using allometric equations and Carbon equivalent was calculated with scientifically verified formula.Results: The present study enumerated a total of 849 trees belonging to 43 tree species on the campus. The most dominant species was Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels with a total of 163 trees followed by Phoenix sylvestris (L.) Roxb (121 trees) and Eucalyptus obliqua L'Her (97 trees). The above-ground biomass (AGB) and below-ground biomass (BGB) of all the trees on the campus are equivalent to 373937 kg and 56090.54 kg, respectively. The total biomass accumulated is 430027.5 kg and the total carbon content of the campus trees is equal to 215013.75 kg. The total carbon sequestered by all the trees in a year is 788.38 tons. In other words, on average carbon sequestered by an individual tree on the campus is 928.60 kg/year or 0.93 tons/year.Conclusion: Urban green islands are likely to have a wider impact on biomass accumulation in turn carbon storage and sequestration in comparison to other structural parameters like species richness or density. Thus, in urban areas, the amount of potential carbon storage is positively influenced by increasing biomass.

Farm-Scale Mapping of Soil Microbiological Indicators Using Geostatistical Technique

Soil microbiological properties viz. soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and dehydrogenase activity (DHA) are sensitive soil quality indicators. Spatial modeling and prediction map of soil MBC and DHA were generated for a semiarid agricultural farm, New Delhi, India from 288 geo-referenced grid samples spaced 100 m × 100 m distance using geospatial techniques and geo-statistics. Soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC) ranged from 19.7 to 519.7 µg g-1 with standard deviation of 84.1 and soil DHA varied from 1.2 to 17.2 µg TPF g-1 dry soil hr-1 with sample variance of 10.89. Soil MBC and DHA had high data viability with coefficient of variation (CV) of 42.5 % and 53.2%, respectively. The best fit semivariogram for both soil MBC and DHA was exponential model and had practical spatial range of 1500 m and 1473 m respectively. Environmental disturbances or extrinsic factors dominantly influenced the spatial variability of soil MBC, expressing its weak spatial dependency. Besides, both soil structural/internal factors and extrinsic factors controlled soil DHA variability with moderate level of spatial dependency. Spatial variability map of soil MBC and DHA, prepared with good accuracy through ordinary kriging in GIS software, showed that major area of the farm had soil MBC ranging from 150 to 250 mg kg-1 and had DHA from 1.2 to 10 µg TPF g-1 dry soil hr-1.

Effect of Herbicide (Propaquizafop and Imazethapyr) on Weed Flora Associated with Blackgram in Central India

An experiment was conducted at Product Testing Unit, Department of Agronomy, JNKVV, Jabalpur to study the effect of application of propaquizafop and imazethapyr herbicide on weeds associated with blackgram. The experimental field was having mixed weed flora comprising of grassy as well as broad leaved weeds. Nine treatments comprised of four rates of application of propaquizafop+ imazethapyr at 47+70, 50+75, 53+80 and 56+85 g/ha and alone application of propaquizafop (100 g/ha), imazethapyr (100 g/ha), pendimethalin (1500 g/ha) and hand weeding twice at 20 and 40 DAS including weedy check, were laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications. All herbicide treatments were applied in 500 liters of water per hectare, using flat fan nozzle as per the treatments. The dominant weed flora, species wise weed density, weed biomass, Weed control efficiency and weed index were recorded at different interval. The study revealed that the Echinochloa colona (29.39%) and Dinebra retroflexa (24.30%) were the found as dominant weeds in the field whereas, other monocot weeds like Cyperus iria (18.19%) and dicot weeds like Mullugo pentaphylla (12.23%), Eclipta alba (7.58%) and Alternanthera philoxeroides (8.31%) were also present in less numbers in blackgram under weedy check plots. Among the herbicidal treatments, activity of propaquizafop+imazethapyr mixture at the dose 53+80 and 56+85 g/ha emerged as effective control for the weeds associated with blackgram.

Effect of Different Pre-Sowing Treatments on Germination Characteristics of Strawberry Guava (Psidium cattleainum Sabine)

Aim: The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of different pre-sowing treatments on germination characteristics of strawberry guava (Psidium cattleainum Sabine).Study Design: The experiment consisted of eleven treatments and three replications laid out in a Completely randomized design (CRD).Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at Orchard Nursery, Department of Fruit Science, Horticulture College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during April-June 2023.Methodology: Seeds of Psidium cattleainum (strawberry guava) were collected from guava germplasm from an orchard and treated with different pre-sowing chemicals. After pre-sowing treatment, the seeds were sown and various germination characteristics and growth parameters were observed and recorded.Results: The seeds treated with GA3 500 ppm for 30 minutes took minimum days to germinate (20), with higher germination percentage (79.33%), maximum vigour index I, and vigour index II (708.6 and 584.23). The growth parameters such as seedling height, stem girth,and number of leaves, primary root length, number of lateral roots were recorded higher in GA3 500 ppm followed by Thiourea 1%.The biomass production of seedlings was also higher in seeds treated with GA3 500 ppm.Conclusion: The seeds treated with GA3 500 ppm for 30 minutes recorded higher germination characteristics, growth parameters and biomass production. So for quicker propagation of strawberry guava to be used as rootstock, seeds can be treated with 500 ppm GA3 to obtain the large number of seedlings for the use of rootstock.

Comparative Analysis of the Effect of Different Insecticide Treatments on Nagpur Mandarin in Biomass Accumulation

The Comparative Analysis of the Effect of Different Insecticide Treatments in Nagpur Mandarin on Biomass Accumulation was conducted during the Ambia bahar of 2009-10. The experiment was carried out on an eight-year-old Nagpur mandarin orchard with a spacing of 6.0 m x 6.0 m at Futala farm, College of Agriculture, Nagpur. The study aimed to assess the impact of different insecticide treatments on Citrus psylla management. A trial comprising of eleven treatments was set in the Randomized Block Design (RBD), replicated thrice, with each treatment plot having four plants. Four branches were selected from each plant at random and tagged. The population of citrus psylla (both nymph and adult) was counted on the twigs of 5 cm fresh growth of the shoot from all the four sides of the plant during Ambia bahar of 2009-2010. The study found that imidacloprid 0.25 ml/l, acetamiprid 0.1 g/l, and quinalphos 1 ml/l + karanj oil (pongamia oil) 10 ml/l were the most effective treatments based on biomass accumulation (wet weight basis). Meanwhile, treatments with lower efficacy were Verticillium lecani 4 g/l + mineral oil 5 ml/l, azadirachtin 2 ml/l, mineral oil 5 ml/l, and Verticillium lecani 4 g/l. Furthermore, the application of imidacloprid 0.25 ml/l, acetamiprid 0.1 g/l, thiomethoxam 0.1 g/l, and quinalphos 1 ml/l + karanj oil (pongamia oil) 10 ml/l were found to be the most effective treatments based on biomass accumulation on a dry weight basis. The results indicated that treatments with imidacloprid, acetamiprid, thiomethoxam, and quinalphos with karanj oil were the most effective in promoting higher growth of new flush, bearing (buds, flowers and fruit), and biomass accumulation on both wet weight and dry weight basis. Among them, the treatment with imidacloprid at 0.25 ml/l was found to be the most effective.

Pelletization Process for the Production of Fuel Pellets from Various Surplus Biomass: A Review

The increasing demand for renewable and sustainable energy sources has led to a growing interest in utilizing surplus biomass for the production of fuel pellets. Pelletization is a promising process that converts biomass into compact and uniform fuel pellets, which can be used as an alternative to fossil fuels. Biomass is an important renewable energy source, and surplus biomass can be used to produce fuel pellets. The review also discusses the different types of biomass feedstocks that can be used for pelletization, including their availability, properties, and suitability for pellet production. The review further delves into the pelletization process, covering the key steps, such as size reduction, drying, conditioning, pelletization, and cooling. The influence of process parameters on pellet quality, including pellet durability, density, moisture content, and energy content, is also discussed in detail. The information presented in this review can serve as a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, and policymakers interested in biomass pelletization for renewable energy production.

Estratégias para recuperação de xilooligossacarídeos do licor de resíduos de eucalipto para avaliação do seu efeito estimulante em Staphylococcus xylosus / Strategies for xylooligosaccharides recovery from eucalyptus waste liquor to evaluate their stimulatory effect on Staphylococcus xylosus

Xilooligossacarídeos (XOS) são reconhecidos pelo seu potencial prebiótico relevante para diversos setores industriais e foram obtidos após o pré-tratamento hidrotérmico da biomassa lignocelulósica residual de galhos de eucalipto. Subprodutos inibitórios são gerados durante o processo de solubilização dos oligossacarídeos e acabam comprometendo a utilização do licor em microrganismos. Neste trabalho, o processo de destoxificação, hidrólise enzimática e atividade estimulantes de crescimento da bactéria Staphylococcus xylosus foram estabelecidos. Os resultados mostraram que a adsorção com carvão ativado em pó removeu cerca de 55% do ácido acético e mais de 90% do ácido fórmico, compostos fenólicos, lignina solúvel, furfural e 5-hidroximetilfurfural, e que a soma dos oligossacarídeos xilobiose (X2) e xilotriose (X3) foram maximizadas de 0,57 g/L para 1,21 g/L com 110 U/gXOS da enzima endoxilanase e 6,3% do licor destoxificado na hidrólise enzimática. O consumo de cerca de 63% de X2 e de 46% de X3 pela bactéria em meio basal deficiente em fontes de carbono, mas acrescido com os oligômeros, proporcionou maior crescimento celular em relação aos meios basais com alta composição de carbono, com e sem XOS, revelando seu potencial prebiótico pelo efeito estimulante de crescimento. (AU)

Xylooligosaccharides (XOS) are recognized for their prebiotic potential relevant to several industrial sectors and were obtained after hydrothermal pretreatment of residual lignocellulosic biomass from eucalyptus branches. Inhibitory by-products are generated during the solubilization process of oligosaccharides and end up compromising the utilization of the liquor in microorganisms. In this work, the detoxification process, enzymatic hydrolysis and growth stimulating activity of Staphylococcus xylosus bacteria were established. The results showed that adsorption with powdered activated carbon removed about 55% of acetic acid and more than 90% of formic acid, phenolic compounds, soluble lignin, furfural, and 5-hydroxymethyl furfural and the sum of the oligosaccharides xylobiose (X2) and xylotriose (X3) were maximized from 0.57 g/L to 1.21 g/L with 110 U/gXOS of the enzyme endoxylanase and 6.3% of the detoxified liquor in the enzymatic hydrolysis. The consumption of X2 and X3 were about 63% and 46%, respectively, by the bacteria in basal medium deficient in carbon sources, but in medium added with the oligomers, provided higher cell growth compared to basal medium with high carbon composition, with and without XOS, revealing its prebiotic potential by its growth-stimulating effect. (AU)

Características principales del biocarbón derivado de restos de Theobroma cacao L. para su uso en suelos agrícolas

La incorporación de biocarbono para mejorar los suelos agrícolas está ganando popularidad, pero hay poca información sobre las propiedades del biocarbono derivado de los restos de la cosecha de cacao. En la investigación se determinaron varias características del biocarbono obtenido del proceso de pirólisis de la cáscara de las mazorcas de cacao. Los análisis realizados fueron: porcentajes de fibra lignocelulósica, análisis proximal, estructura microscópica y grupos funcionales. También se realizó con el biocarbón un ensayo de adsorción con Cd+2 mediante un sistema de recirculación con agua, con el fin de obtener las isotermas de Lang-muir y Freundlich (modelos matemáticos de adsorción de moléculas en superficies sólidas). Los contenidos fibrosos abarcaban 56,2% celulosa, 27,07% lignina y 3,15% hemicelulosa. Con 8,15% de humedad y pH 9,86 se obtuvo un promedio de 35,58% de biocarbón. La forma de los poros fue irregular, se confirmó la presencia de los grupos hidroxilo, carboxilo y carbonato. Los modelos de absorción indicaron una capacidad de adsorción máxima de 0,280 mL/g en Langmuir y una intensidad de absorción de Cd+2 de 0,06 en Freundlich. Si bien el biocarbón demostró propiedades adecuadas para suelos ácidos, su capacidad de adsorción resultó limitada en las condiciones evaluadas.

Using biochar to enhance agricultural soils is becoming more popular, but not much is known about the qualities of biochar made from cocoa crop leftovers. The study identified several traits of biochar created from cocoa pod husks through the pyrolysis method. The examination included the following evaluations: levels of lignocellulosic fibre, proximal analysis, microscopic structure, and functional groups. The Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were evaluated through an aqueous recirculation Cd2+ adsorption assay. The fibrous contents consisted of 56.2% cellulose, 27.07% lignin, and 3.15% hemicellulose. At a moisture content of 8.15% and a pH of 9.86, 35.58% biochar was produced. The pores were not uniform in shape and contained hydroxyl, carboxyl and carbonate groups as identified. According to the isotherms, the Cd2+ that can be adsorbed is 0.280 mL/g at Langmuir, and the Cd2+ adsorption intensity is 0.06 at Freundlich. Even though the biochar had desirable properties for acidic soils, its ability to adsorb was restricted under the tested conditions.

O uso crescente do biocarvão em solos agrícolas justifica uma investigação mais aprofundada de suas propriedades menos conhecidas. Esta pesquisa concentrou-se no biocarvão produzido a partir de resíduos da colheita do cacau e teve como objetivo identificar seus atributos por meio da pirólise da casca da vagem do cacau. As análises realizadas incluíram fibra lignocelulósica, análise proximal, estrutura microscópica e grupos funcionais. As isotermas de Langmuir e Freundlich foram avaliadas por meio de um ensaio de adsorção de Cd2+ em recirculação aquosa. O conteúdo fibroso consistia em 56,2% de celulose, 27,07% de lignina e 3,15% de hemicelulose. Com um teor de umidade de 8,15% e um pH de 9,86, foram produzidos 35,58% de biochar. A estrutura porosa era irregular, indicando a presença de grupos hidroxila, carboxi-la e carbonato. As isotermas mostraram que o modelo de Langmuir tem uma capacidade máxima de adsorção (qmax) de 0,280 mL/g e uma intensidade de ad-sorção de Freundlich de 0,06 para Cd2+. Embora o biochar tenha demonstrado propriedades adequadas para uso agrícola, sua capacidade de adsorção foi limitada nas condições avaliadas.

Biofixation of CO2 by two species of microalgae grown in photobioreactors / Biofijación de co2 por dos especies de microalgas cultivadas en fotobiorreactores

RESUMEN Se evaluó la capacidad de biofijación de dióxido de carbono (CO2) por las especies Chlorella vulgaris y Scenedesmus obliquus cultivadas en fotobiorreactores en un fotoperiodo 12:12 h. Se empleó un diseño experimental completamente al azar cuyas fuentes de variación fueron: especie microalgal y dosificación de CO2 (0,36; 11,44 y 22,62 g.d-1). Los fotobiorreactores fueron unidades plásticas con 3,8 L de medio de cultivo (solución NPK + micronutrientes), e iluminación artificial con lámpara fluorescente de 4400 lúmenes. Se estimaron las variables: productividad de biomasa mediante la metodología de peso seco, biofijación de CO2 por método numérico y eficacia de remoción del CO2 en porcentaje. Los resultados se sometieron al análisis de varianza y pruebas de medias de Tukey (p<0,05). Se registró mayor productividad de biomasa y biofijación de CO2 en C. vulgaris comparada con S. obliquus. La mayor biofijación de CO2 por C. vulgaris y S. obliquus se registró a la dosis de 11,44 g.d-1 con 161,79 ± 4,72 y 55,31 ± 0,73 mg.L-1d-1, respectivamente. La eficiencia de remoción de CO2 fue significativamente mayor con la dosis 0,36 g.d-1 registrando valores de 49,80 ± 3,16 y 39,13 ± 0,57 % para C. vulgaris y S. obliquus respectivamente. Estos resultados sugieren la posibilidad de escalado de fotobiorreactores de bajo costo para biofijación de emisiones de CO2 en fuentes fijas industriales, contribuyendo así a la mitigación de gases de efecto invernadero.

ABSTRACT The biofixation capacity of carbon dioxide by the Chlorella vulgaris and Scenedesmus obliquus species cultivated in photobioreactors was evaluated in a 12:12 h photoperiod. A completely randomized experimental design was used, whose sources of variation were: microalgal species and CO2 dosage (0.36, 11.44 and 22.62 g.d-1). The photobioreactors were plastic units with 3.8 L of culture medium (NPK solution + micronutrients), and artificial lighting with a 4400 lumens fluorescent lamp. The following variables were estimated: biomass productivity using the dry weight methodology, CO2 biofixation by numerical method and CO2 removal efficiency in percentage. The results were subjected to the analysis of variance and Tukey's mean tests (p <0.05). Higher biomass productivity and CO2 biofixation were recorded in C. vulgaris compared to S. obliquus. The highest biofixation of CO2 by C. vulgaris and S. obliquus was recorded at the dose of 11.44 gd-1 with 161.79 ± 4.72 and 55.31 ± 0.73 mg.L-1d-1, respectively. The CO2 removal efficiency was significantly higher with the 0.36 g.d-1 dose, registering values of 49.80 ± 3.16 and 39.13 ± 0.57 % for C. vulgaris and S. obliquus respectively. These results suggest the possibility of scaling up low-cost photobioreactors for biofixation of CO2 emissions in industrial fixed fonts, thus contributing to the mitigation of greenhouse gases.

Weed Smothering in Mustard (Brassica spp) by its High-Density Uniform Broadcast Sowing

Manual weed control in mustard is very expensive because of its high labour requirement i.e., 150-250 labourers/ha. Chemical weed control again imposes environmental hazards. Mechanical weed control in mustard is not still that popular till date. Due to severe weed competition, the yield reduction in Indian mustard may go as high as 70 per cent. Thus weed control in zero till mustard using its high-density sowing (HDS) was studied in different farmers’ field, at ICAR-CRIJAF, in North 24 PGS and Purulia, from 2018-2022. Fast growing and high- density uniform mustard canopy (100-200 m2) developed at early stages hinders sunlight penetration (up to 99.98 per cent) below its canopy (at 35- 40 days), leading to scanty and under developed growth of different composite weed species at harvest, those germinate or grow below mustard canopy. Weed population below mustard canopy was reduced by 92 to 97 per cent at mustard harvest. It was only 10-80/m2 at harvest over 350-1000/m2 in weedy situation at initial germination. The reduction of dicot weed biomass below matured mustard at harvest was 81-99 percent (5-150g/ m2) percent over weedy plots (500-800/ m2). Reduction of effective flowers/pods of different weeds under matured mustard canopy were up to 99.5 percent. Proper agronomic management practices of HDS mustard e.g., seed rate, date of sowing, uniformity of sowing, irrigation and fertiliser application will eliminate the herbicide application or manual weeding in mustard. Nearly 80 percent mustard plants remain active at harvest. It saves 150-250 labours /ha depending on weed species and its density of germination. Mustard grain yield ranged from 15-30 q/ha depending on management and varieties used. This weed smothering merit of mustard can be used for eco friendly weed control in other wide spaced field/horticultural crops using its dwarf variety (Toria).

The association between different types of cooking fuels and common health problems: north India region

Background: The fuel used for cooking is a major source of indoor air pollution because of inefficient combustion and inadequate ventilation. This study was conducted to see if there is any association between the type of cooking fuel and common health problems in light of inadequate ventilation. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study; 688 subjects were selected randomly from various sectors and the outlying areas of Surajkund. The impact of indoor air pollution on health was assessed by questionnaires, general physical examination, and pulmonary function testing. Results: One of the key findings of the study has been the implication of LPG, touted as a safe, non-polluting fuel with a definite negative impact on health. There was significantly more breathlessness experienced by LPG users as opposed to the users of wood and cow dung. Though the prevalence of fever in both groups was similar, chest pain, burning of eyes, and fatigue were reported by wood and cow dung users much more frequently. The pulmonary function test showed restrictive pathology in cow dung and wood users, whereas obstructive pathology in LPG users. Conclusions: LPG is considered “clean” fuel because it does not produce visible emissions. However, improper burner design, blocking and clogging of the flue vent, and insufficient combustion air result in improper combustion and the emission of aldehydes, CO, hydrocarbons, and other organics. It would be folly to believe that LPG is harmless. Even a harmless material may become harmful if used inappropriately.