eBook Chapters

Principle

The one-step growth experiment refers to a scientific methodology. A study aimed at observing the molecular events that take place during viral reproduction. This elucidates the fundamental features of the virus replication process and determines the optimal multiplicity of infection and timing for virus harvest. The initiation of modern bacteriophage research can be traced back to the development of the one-step growth curve by Max Delbrück and Emory Ellis in 1939, which utilised the Escherichia coli-T4 bacteriophage system. One step growth curve consists of three clearly defined phases 1. Latent period refers to the initial phase of a process where no significant changes or activities are observed. 2. Burst or Rise period is the subsequent phase characterised by a sudden increase virus particle. 3. Plateau period is the following phase where a stable and constant level virus replication.

Materials required

It is a very common disease found in all the onion and garlic growing areas. It mostly attacks the bulb as well as the seed crop. The infection or severity of the disease is more in Kharif crop causing 60% yield loss.

Onion is one of the oldest cultivated plant species. Onion forms the bulb in the first year and the seed in the second year. The leaves arise from a shortened crown stem. The sheaths of the older or outermost leaves enclose the younger ones. The basal portion of the leaves encircles the stem, and thickens to form the bulb. The stem elongates during the second year forming the flower stalk. The onion has a fibrous root system extending to a depth of over one meter, but most of them are found in upper surface about one-half meter area.

Thrips: Thrips tabaci: Thripidae

The nymphs and adults of the thrips desap from the narrow spaces between the inner leaf axils. Leaves are faded, with curled tips and shining silver streaks or brown spots.  Many minute yellow or white insects are seen moving, generally near the base or middle of leaves and they suck the sap from the plants.  Plants are faded and the yield is reduced.

I. FILL UPS

1. Onion is a bulbous _____ herb.
2. Onion is a _____ pollinated crop.
3. Thin white mass within the seed coat is called _____.
4. _____ method is commonly followed for onion seed production.
5. The minimum isolation distance for foundation seed is _____.

Onion (Onion cepa, 2n = 2x 16, highly cross-pollinated, family Amaryllidaceae), is a valuable vegetable crop for the people all over the world. Tomato, onion and potato put together have been given a nick name as TOP seeing their combined importance globally. As per Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare-Horticulture Statistics Division, Government of India (MAFW, 2018), the global acreage, production and productivity of onion during 2016 were 4.96 million ha, 93.17 million tons and 18.80 tons/ha. Top 10 onion producing countries in the world are China, India, Egypt, USA, Iran, Turkey, Russian Federation, Pakistan, Brazil and Argentina. During 2016, China occupied I rank with area, production and productivity figures of 1.09 million ha, 23.91 million tons and 22.00 tons/ha. India was closely at II rank with corresponding figures of 1.20 million ha, 19.20 million tons and 16.18 tons/ha. Productivity-wise, USA is at the top rank (56.40 tons/ha), followed by Iran (37.95 tons/ha) and Egypt (36.71 tons/ha). The Netherlands is the world’s largest onion exporter with a total of around 800,000 tons, which is ca. 80% of its total annual production (Shigyo and Kik, 2008).

Within India, which produced 19.20 million tons of onion from 1.20 million ha (12 lakh ha), the major onion producing states during 2017-18 have been as given

The onion, or Allium cepa var. cepa L., 2n=16, is one of the most important vegetables that are grown and eaten globally (Kiani et al., 2023). It is referred to as the 'queen of the kitchen' because of its wide range of culinary applications (Selvaraj, 1976). It can be eaten raw or prepared in a variety of ways, including as pickles, soups, frying, boiling, and baking (Cattivelli et al., 2021). Apart from being consumed raw, onions also provide excellent raw materials for the processing sector. They can be processed into onion pastes, dehydrated powder, flakes, rings, shreds, and onions in vinegar or brine (Gnanasundari et al., 2023). Additionally, it possesses several health promoting factors such as antihyperlipidemic, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, anti-microbial, immune-protective, anti-obesity properties, and rich in several minerals and vitamins (Pareek et al., 2017). Medicinal value of onion has been known since antiquity; the third or fourth century A.D.'s "Charak Samhita" is one of the medical treatises that mentions it (Ray et al., 1980). Allicin, ajoene, allixin thiosulfinates, sulphites, and other significant biochemical components are found in onion, giving them considerable use and nutraceutical value.

India is considered a pioneer in software development and a favourite destination for IT-enabled services. West Bengal is predominantly an agrarian State. Comprising only 2.7% of India’s geographical area, it supports nearly 8% of its population. There are 71.23 lakh farm families, of whom 96% are small and marginal farmers. The average size of land holding is only 0.77 ha. However, the State is bestowed with diverse natural resources and varied agro climatic conditions that support the cultivation of a wide range of crops.

The net cropped area is 52.05 lakh ha, comprising 68% of the geographical area and 92% of arable land. The cropping intensity is 184%. However, as the State is in the humid tropic and the Bay of Bengal is close by, it often must face natural vagaries like floods, cyclones, hailstorms, etc. Though the State has a surplus production of rice, vegetables and potatoes, a huge gap exists between the requirement and production of pulses, oilseeds, and maize. The deterioration of soil health due to imbalances in chemical fertilizers, the paucity of suitable improved seed varieties, inadequate farm mechanization, unorganized marketing structure, etc., is a major challenge to agricultural growth.

Introduction

E lectronic-resources is an umbrella term which refers to provision of digital instruction courseware over the public Internet, private distance learning networks or in-house via an intranet. E-resources most often means an approach to facilitate and enhance access through the use of devices based on information and communications technologies (ICT) like personal computers, digital television, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistant) and mobile phones. The electronic resources might include notes, PowerPoint presentations, video clips or Internet sites.

Online library resources aim at providing materials, information and services by different types of libraries to the end users. These libraries may be in different jurisdictions, but agree to serve one another on the same basis as each service to its own users through the use of ICT. With the rapid growth of information on veterinary science, there are frequent delays in providing service to the end users when traditional library systems are adopted. The cost of providing service is also rising, mainly because of manual methods and duplication of investments in library holdings. ICT enables the use of the Internet, email, discussion forums, and collaborative software to support students and veterinarians through the use of WANs (Wide Area Networks), and may also be considered where greater flexibility and just-in-time access is desired.

Introduction

Oomycete and fungal diseases are considered as the second most economically impactful diseases in aquaculture, after bacterial diseases. However, among both the diseases, oomycetes are more common. The oomycetes are members of the Kingdom Chromista, which also includes diatoms, kelps, and brown algae. These group of pathogens form free-swimming zoospores and their cell walls are composed of cellulose and glycans rather than chitin. Fish-pathogenic oomycetes (Saprolegnia, Achlya, Aphanomyces and Branchiomyces), are commonly known as water moulds, are ubiquitously distributed in a variety of aquatic environments and ecological niches, and belong to the Order Saprolegniales. These pathogens have low host specificity and infect a diverse range of fishes. On the other hand, most of the fungi (Fusarium sp., Aspergillus sp., Candida sp., Paecilomyces sp., Penicillium sp. and Cladosporium sp.) responsible for infection in fish, form non-motile spores and their cell walls are made up of chitin. In addition, Ichthyophonus sp. an important pathogen which, superficially appears like fungus and produces spores and hyphae, belongs to a distinct clade of protistan parasites. Among the oomycete diseases, infection with A. invadans is considered as one of the most serious fish disease. Therefore, the disease is discussed elaborately.

Infection with Aphanomyces invadans: Infection with Aphanomyces invadans is popularly known as, Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS). It has a complex infectious aetiology and is clinically characterised by the presence of invasive Aphanomyces infection and necrotising ulcerative lesions, typically leading to a granulomatous response (Plates 9 and 10). In an expert consultation held during the sidelines of the Fifth Symposium on Diseases in Asian Aquaculture (DAAV) at Gold Coast, Australia in November 2002, it was proposed to rename the disease as epizootic granulomatous aphanomycosis; however, the term EUS is still used popularly.

Aim: To perform open and short circuit test on a single-phase transformer, to obtain equivalent circuit parameters.

Open circuit test

The core loss or iron loss i.e. the no-load loss in a transformer is determined by performing the no-load test at normal sine wave impressed voltage. Through the iron loss in a transformer is not governed by the supply being connected to primary or secondary side but when measuring this no-load loss.

It is usually more convenient and safer to supply the voltage to the low voltage side. This makes the test apparatus cheaper and becomes safer for the low testing personal. To determine the shunt branch parameter of the equivalent circuit, the primary side (L.V.) is connected to a normal supply voltage and rated frequency and secondary side (H.V.) is left open with care so that there is no possibility of coming in contact with any part of (H.V.) terminals. The wattmeter connected in the primary (L.V.), will then read the total hysteresis.

ABSTRACT

There is a tremendous growth in the open educational resources in the recent past and large number of universities and academic organisations are making their resources freely available over the internet which has become a significant source of open educational content. Open education movement are built on the belief that anyone can use, access, reuse and redistribute these educational resources without any constraints. These Open education movements are helping educational community worldwide in making education more accessible and in making it more effective. In this chapter effort has been made to provide an overview of the history and emergence of open educational resources’ movement. This chapter also explains the various characteristics and sources of open educational resources. This chapter will help the libraries and librarians to know about open educational resources initiatives and to incorporate them in their libraries for effective resource delivery and disseminations.

Keywords: ICT, OER, Open educational resources, Digital resources, Digital repositories.

Open nucleus breeding system is considered to be a best approach to bring genetic improvement in livestock. This system was first introduced New Zealand for faster genetic improvement of sheep. The milk recording under field condition is quite expensive. Moreover, farmers are not under any obligation to retain the animal till the lactation is completed. The generation interval is also very large as it takes about 6-7 year by the time complete record on progeny testing programmes in developing countries is available, so that the effective genetic improvement is small. Use of best proven bull on the elite cow, which are best 5-10% of the cow for genetic improvement of the population. The net genetic gain in the herd considering the actual genetic improvement from various parents off spring path is around 0.7% per annum. Considering these situation in develop countries it has been proposed that ‘nucleus’ herd be created where males from the best cows are obtained. The nucleus herd would be open in the sense that the lowest yielding cows are culled every year and are replaced by procurement of that many high yielding cow from farmers herd. The nucleus herds are utilized entirely for production of males for breeding purposes in the population.

Open nucleus breeding system is considered to be a best approach to bring genetic improvement in livestock. This system was first introduced New Zealand for faster genetic improvement of sheep. The milk recording under field condition is quite expensive.  Moreover, farmers are not under any obligation to retain the animal till the lactation is completed.  The generation interval is also very large as it takes about 6-7 year by the time complete record on progeny testing programmes in developing countries is available, so that the effective genetic improvement is small.  Use of best proven bull on the elite cow, which are best 5-10% of the cow for genetic improvement of the population. The net genetic gain in the herd considering the actual genetic improvement from various parents off spring path is around 0.7% per annum.  Considering these situation in develop countries it has been proposed that ‘nucleus’ herd be created where males from the best cows are obtained.  The nucleus herd would be open in the sense that the lowest yielding cows are culled every year and are replaced by procurement of that many high yielding cow from farmers herd.  The nucleus herds are utilized entirely for production of males for breeding purposes in the population.

Abstract

This paper is intended to focus on importance of Agro-diversity, seed conservation practices, impact of monoculture on biodiversity and connected formal and informal institutions and governance mechanisms. Furthermore this paper explores to discuss the innovation processes, technologies which help in conserving existing diversity, process of evolving newer lines that eventually meet the needs of the farems. Open Source Seed Network (OSSN) would be an organisational platform which consists people engaged in conservation, farmers that can develop Value for Cultivation and Use data for the existing crop varieties in different agro- climatic growing conditions using participatory varietal selection. Farmer breeders engaged in selection and development of newer varieties and Farmers institutions involved in production and marketing of seed to other farmers. Further to elaborate the process the stakeholders will perform the responsibility of conservation and revival of the existing varieties, PVS for generating VCU data, PPB, perform Maintenance Breeding, maintain community seed banks, seed production and marketing. In addition we attempts to focus on mechanisms while making public sector as partners in participatory plant breeding which enable development of locally suitable varieties. An access and benefit sharing mechanism based on an open source model rather than on exclusive rights based is planned for free exchange of germplam within the purview of General Public License for plant Germplasm (GPLGP). This paper emphasise advantages of GPL that prevents exclusive rights, bio piracy, safeguarding farmer derived genetic resources, develop legal/institutional framework that eventually allows farmers to freely exchange, save, improve and sell seeds. In the end this could trigger the emergence of an institutional framework in which farmers and plant scientists work together in plant improvement that contribute to a sustainable food system.

Introduction
 
Library automation in the first giant step towards the use of ICT based products & services in libraries. It brings great revolution and saves tremendous time of users and library staff for collecting and disseminating information. Library automation refers to use of computers, associated peripheral media such as software for automation, magnetic tapes, disks, optical media etc. Library automation makes the provision to provide the 'right information to right reader at the right time in a right form in a right personal way' it is the basic aim of libraries. There are some open source software available e.g. Evergreen, CDS Invenio, Koha, NewGenLib, PMB, PhpMyLibrary, OpenBiblio as well as many commercial software: SOUL, Alice for windows, Netlib, LibSys etc.

INTRODUCTION

The term open source describes the practices in production and development that promote access to the end product’s source materials. Open Source Software (OSS) came into existence with the development of ICTs. The services and the collections of the libraries and information centres are becoming global due to the application of Information Communication Technologies. Information can now be accessed from even the remote places with the help of internet. The term “open source” refers to software that includes the original source code, used to create it so that users can modify it writing to their requirements.

It also includes the right of redistribution; therefore, there may be products that are based on other open source products. While the software may be free, a developer or distributor may charge for services such as special programming, installation, training and technical support, etc. In general, the source code of OSS is widely accessible, freely available and reusable. Now the institutions especially the academic institutions are starting to build their own repository to serve their community locally and globally.

Autoclave Operating Procedures

Place all material to be autoclaved in an autoclavable tray. All items should have indicator tape. Separate liquids and solids should be autoclaved separately. Ensure that the lids on all bottles are loose. Do not put a large number of items in tray, to ensure that all items reach the appropriate temperature. Also allow sufficient air/steam circulation.

Steps in autoclave

Pressure should read ‘O’ when you open the pressure chamber of the autoclave.

Place items to be autoclaved in the autoclave and close the door. Some autoclaves require that you also lock the door after it’s closed.

Set time - typically 20 minutes.

Temperature should be set at 121°C already, but double-check and change if necessary.

Set cycle: If liquid, set “liquid cycle” or “slow exhaust”. If dry, set “dry cycle” or “fast exhaust” + dry time.

Start the cycle. On some autoclaves, the cycle starts automatically at step 5. On others, turn to “sterilize”

2.1 Definition and Concept

An operating system (abbreviated as ‘OS’) is the program that, manages all the other programs in a computer. Every general-purpose computer must have an operating system. It provides support for the loading and execution of other programs which are known as Application Programs.

A standard operating procedure (SOP) is a set of step-by-step instructions compiled by an organization to help workers carry out routine operations. SOPs aim to achieve efficiency, quality output and uniformity of performance, while reducing miscommunication and failure to comply with industry regulations. The military (e.g. in the U.S. and UK) sometimes uses the term standing (rather than standard) operating procedure because a military SOP refers to a unit’s unique procedures, which are not necessarily standard to another unit. The word “standard” can imply that only one (standard) procedure is to be used across all units. The term can also be used facetiously to refer to practices that are unconstructive, yet the norm. In the Philippines, for instance, “SOP” is the term for pervasive corruption within the government and its institutions.

1.    Operations Research provides ___________.

(a) Earliest solution

(b) Feasible solutions

(c) Scientific approach to solutions

(d) Statistical approach to solutions

2.    Operations Research totally eliminates ___________.

(a) Quantitative approach

(b) Intuitive approach

(c) Qualitative approach

(d) Decision makers ability

Ophthalmic or ocular ultrasound can provide important diagnostic information that is readily not available with other diagnostic techniques. Ocular ultrasound is emerging as an important diagnostic modality in veterinary ophthalmology.

Abstract

The known views in society about the biotech foods were collected and structured in statements. An opinion survey of sixty scientists of CCS Haryana Agricultural University on these statements was conducted. Half of the scientists agreed that there were no biotech food products in our country. Biotech foods were considered safe for human consumption by 61.7% of the respondents. A large majority of the scientists considered that biotech foods were different in taste from foods made from conventional crops. Similarly 65% of scientists had the opinion that biotech crops increase food allergies. Fifty percent of the scientists agreed that biotech foods were regulated and tested. The rest opined that labeling is needed for biotech foods even in USA. Overwhelming majority felt that biotech foods were not widely accepted. Meat, milk and egg products from biotech animals were not concieved as unsafe to eat by 43.3% respondents. Equal number of scientists felt the same about foods produced through biotechnology and viewed that these were not tested for health.

13.1. Origin and distribution

• Native to Turkey Western Mediterranean region.

• Cultivation in India - Confined to states of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh

13.2. Economic importance

• Opium and codeine - important medicines used for analgesic and hypnotic effects.

• A semi-synthetic derivative of drug from morphine - Heroin.

• Seeds contain linoleic acid which lowers blood cholesterol.

• License from Government is mandate for cultivation

Cut worms: Agrotis suffusa: Noctuidae

Adult moth lays eggs in moist soil or on lower side of leaves.  Dark brown larvae cut young plants at ground level and shoot of grown up plants. Damage results in growth retardation of plants and reduced yield.

Introduction

Meat is a highly nutritious animal product relished by majority of the population in India. India produced around 6.2 million MT of meat in 2013 (FAOSTAT, 2013), standing at fifth position in world meat production and accounts for only 3 per cent of total meat production in the world (APEDA, 2017). Contribution of livestock sector to national economy in terms of gross domestic product (GDP) was 4.1 per cent in 2012-13 (Islam et al., 2016). The percentage of meat subjected to processing in India is only 1-2 per cent compared to 70 per cent in developed countries (Sen et al., 2013). Relatively higher proportion of poultry (7-8%) is converted into further processed poultry products. Major proportion of the meat produced in the country is derived from old and unproductive animals. Availability of spent birds is also on the rise due to the rapid growth in poultry industry. Meat from such animals and poultry has less desirable palatability attributes, especially tenderness, which makes it more suitable for processing into value added products. This will provide consumers with more acceptable, convenient, healthy and versatile products while simultaneously increasing the economic returns to the processor. The profitability of meat industry is critically dependent in deriving extra value from lower-value meat cuts. To achieve this, value must be added in the eyes of the consumer across the wide chain of value added products.

Introduction

The global food system is anticipated to supply safe and nutritious food to a population that is expected to increase from 7.5 billion now to approximately 10 billion by 2050. Not only will there be more mouths to feed, but as incomes rise in rising and developing nations, demand for meat, fish, and dairy will rise as well (Brooks et al., 2019). Demand for agricultural commodities is rising rapidly as the world's population grows. Agriculture’s deep connections to the world economy, human societies, and biodiversity make it one of the most important frontiers for conservation around the globe (world wildlife).

Today's connected world has given entrepreneurs millions of new places to start small businesses, and the Internet has a lot of information to help them. Also, the internet has made it easier for business owners to connect with their peers, learn from their mistakes, and use their good decisions as a guide for their paths.

With time it has been well proved that protected cultivation is a better technology to enhance productivity and quality of the crops by providing a logical and technical solution to manage the major and minor biotic and abiotic stresses encountered under open field cultivation of major horticultural crops. The effectiveness of the technology has also been observed in many parts of the world (Singh, 2013). Presently, the area under different forms of protected cultivation is around 4.5 million ha in the world. During the last two and half decades, the area under protected cultivation has increased exponentially in various countries and around Mediterranean sea.

Introduction

Agriculture sector has the most important role in Indian economy. Earlier, Indian farmers largely depend upon the human and animal power. But with time passage, implements viz. tractor and tractor driven have been introduced. During the last 10 years, It has been observed that the concept of farm mechanization and its importance has been well accepted and accordingly new farm implements/ equipments have been developed and commercialized. This has resulted in increase of productivity and production to feed the ever increasing population besides reduction in drudgery associated with farm operations. Farm mechanization has played a positive role in increasing employment in rural areas through generation of opportunities for operators, mechanics, salesmen etc. (Anonymous, 2018)

Introduction

India has been an agricultural economy since its inception. Several mechanisms are used in agribusiness, such as forward and backward linkages with secondary and tertiary sectors, such as manufacturing and service sectors. Opportunities in agriculture and related sectors can be identified at various stages of the farming process. Generally, agribusiness opportunities exist at the input stage, the farming stage, the value chain, the output processing and marketing stage, and the related services stage. As a result of globalisation and a more interconnected global market, the scope and potential of agribusiness opportunities is expanding. For entrepreneurs, there are numerous potential opportunities. Many different inputs are required in the agricultural process, such as seeds, fertilisers, pesticides, and innovative and localised farm technology. As a result, the aforementioned areas create agribusiness opportunities in developing and producing these inputs.

The one-day SCSP-training program on “Opportunities for fish farmer producer companies and government schemes for fisheries stockholders” was organised by Shashwat Sheti Vikas Pratishthan, Shivajinagar, Pune, Maharastra, on 4 January 2022. The training programme was sponsored by MANAGE, Hyderabad. 50 people participated in the training program, consisting of agrifarmers, fishermen and unemployed youths. Out of the 50 participants, 19 were women and 31 were men.

The session is all about FPO formation MANAGE organised a training programme to sensitise farmers about Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and various schemes under PMMSY. FPOs can help farmers take advantage of economies of scale in production and marketing, and the government’s plan to establish 10,000 new FPOs by 2024 is a step in the right direction. It is while social media is a powerful tool for spreading information quickly, not everyone has access to it, especially in rural areas. So, training programmes like this can be very effective in reaching out to farmers and providing them with the information they need to make informed decisions about their farming practices.

Introduction

Floriculture, the branch of horticulture dedicated to the cultivation of flowers and ornamental plants represents a dynamic and lucrative sector within the agricultural industry. It offers vast opportunities for enhancing livelihood security, particularly in rural areas where agriculture is the primary source of income. The global demand for flowers and ornamental plants is rising, driven by increasing consumer preferences for natural beauty, aesthetic enhancement of personal and public spaces and the growing cultural significance of flowers in events and celebrations. This chapter explores the diverse ways and avenues through which floriculture can generate profit, emphasizing the use of flowers and their byproducts to enhance economic stability and improve the quality of life for farmers. By examining market potential, technological advancements, value addition and sustainable practices, this chapter aims to highlight how f loriculture can significantly contribute to livelihood security. In India,the f loriculture industry is identified for growing traditional loose flowers and cut flowers both under open field and protected environmental conditions, respectively. Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh are the leading states which grow loose flower where as West Bengal, Karnataka, Orissa, Jharkhand, Assam, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh are cut flower growing states. Floriculture sector is also the good source of generating higher income, profit and employment opportunities to the India’s youth, moreover, promoting involvement of women and enhancement of exports. India has now emerged as the second largest producer of flowers in the world. The country has exported 22,519 tonnes of floricultural products to the world in (2015-16). India’s total export of floriculture in 2015-16 was Rs. 479.42 crore. The major importing countries were United States, Netherlands, Germany, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Japan and Canada.

Introduction Insects are the largest group of individuals in the phylum Arthropoda. They are the most dominant species on earth, as they originated 480 million years ago. Insects account for damage to agriculture produced through pest incidence; they also render benefits through pollination services, reduction in pest population as natural enemies, and various other services. Utilisation of beneficial insects like silkworms, honeybees, and lac insects for their products was well known to Indian people way back. In the current chapter, opportunities for the utilisation of some of these beneficial insects for emerging businesses are discussed.

Insect farming

By 2050, there will be a 60% increase in the global need for proteins, driven by the unrelenting growth of the human population. What is very disturbing is that present protein manufacturing uses very unsustainable methods, in addition to this exponential increase. The ecosystem is under a lot of stress from traditional farming practices, which also contribute to the loss of already depleted wild fish species and water supplies. By 2050, there will be 10 billion people on the planet, and to feed them sustainably, new farming options such as insect farming will be necessary. Due to their rapid rates of reproduction and high protein content, insects are extremely simple to produce (Igini, 2022).

Introduction

Functional food or medicinal food is any healthy food claimed to have a health-promoting or disease-preventing property beyond the basic function of supplying nutrients. The general category of functional foods includes processed food or foods fortified with health-promoting additives, like “vitamin-enriched” products. Fermented foods with live cultures are considered as functional foods with probiotic benefits. Functional foods are an emerging field in food science due to their increasing popularity with health-conscious consumers. The term was first used in Japan in the 1980s where there is a government approval process for functional foods called Foods for Specified Health Use (FOSHU) (Benkouider, 2005).

Distinguishing functional foods from dietary supplements and natural or herbal medicine is especially difficult, and cultural perceptions on this vary. Further complications are the large number of terms often used interchangeably and in a confusing manner such as health foods, nutraceuticals, designer foods, pharmafoods, and so forth. Much of the basic fortification (such as iodization of table salt) is no longer considered “Functional food” but new specialized extracts and ingredients for functional food fortification have emerged, including dietary fibres, plant sterols and probiotics. There is growing research on the potential of biotechnology to develop functional foods for improved health effects of the staple foods in developing countries—for example, high-iron rice, high-vitamin A rice, improved oil content in oil crops, and improved protein.

4.1 Introduction

Apart from an optical source, the optical detector is another important component of the optical fiber sensor. The optical detector converts the optical signal to an electrical one. The signal is then processed either to record or display. There are various kinds of optical detectors but the commonly used in sensors are semiconductor diodes. In some of the cases photomultiplier tube has been used. In this chapter we shall describe the basic principles of optical detectors and their operational characteristics.

1.1 Introduction

Since 1990s optoelectronics and fiber optics technology underwent significant advances due to innovations in the telecommunications, semiconductor and consumer electronics sectors. The developments of compact disk (CD) players, laser printers and the high performance and reliable optical fiber communication are the result of these advances. The optical fiber sensor technology is a direct outgrowth of the revolutions taken place in optoelectronics and fiber optic communication industries. Many of the components associated with these industries are used for optical fiber sensor applications. In the beginning the main hurdle in the development of sensors was the cost of components such as optical sources and detectors. With the time, components prices are falling and the improvements in fiber, laser and photodetector technology have taken place. It is expected that as the time progresses the optical fiber sensors will replace the conventional devices for the measurements of various physical, chemical and biological parameters such as rotation, acceleration, electric and magnetic fields, temperature, pressure, acoustics, vibration, position, strain, humidity, viscosity, pH, glucose, heavy metals, gases, viral infection, pollutants etc.

Abstract

Quality assessment of fruits and vegetable before marketing and processing is an essential task. Various destructive and non-destructive methods have been investigated to achieve this goal. Among the several prevalent noninvasive methods, optical properties measurement methods also promotes for nondestructive quality inspection of fruits and vegetables. The optical properties of biological tissue are, therefore, very importance important for getting sample information and data quantification of the inside of the material. The main goal of this chapter is, thus, to introduce fundamental concept of optical properties, its principle and application in fruits and vegetables. The discussion of electromagnetic radiation for better understanding of the nature of light has also been explored.

3.1 Introduction

Optical sources are a key element in many fiber optic systems. This component converts the electrical signal into a corresponding light signal that can be injected into the fiber. Several factors such as wavelength, source output and spectral bandwidth are important when selecting light source to achieve the best performance of the sensor. The optical sources used for sensors range from hot filament lamps to semiconductor lasers. These sources can be placed into two groups - incoherent and coherent sources. The tungsten lamp and light-emitting diode (LED) are some of the incoherent sources while the lasers come in the category of coherent sources. The LED is normally preferred if the multimode fiber is used for the sensor. If the optical power requirement is high then the laser with multimode optical fiber is used. For the sensors based on interference phenomenon, coherent sources with single mode fibers are used. In the case of distributed sensing, short pulse high power lasers are used. In a laboratory demonstration experiment, a visible laser such as a simple He-Ne laser may be the preferred source while in commercial applications a compact and rugged source such as laser diode or an LED is preferred. Before using the source it is very essential to know its maximum power output, wavelength of emission, linewidth, radiation pattern and modulation bandwidth. The purpose of this chapter is to provide the physics of some of the light sources and their important operating characteristics that are used in sensors.

3.1 Introduction

Energy comes in many forms like chemical, radiant, mechanical, electrical, nuclear etc and can transform from one type to another. Energy can also be transferred or moved from one object to another. Electromagnetic (EM) radiation is a form of energy that can take many forms, such as radio waves, microwaves, X-rays and gamma rays even sunlight is also a form of EM energy. Visible light is a small portion of the EM spectrum, which contains a broad range of electromagnetic wavelengths.

Electromagnetic waves, a self –propagating transverse radiation, are created when an atomic particle, such as an electron, is accelerated by an electric field, causing it to move. The movement produces oscillating electric and magnetic fields. The electric and the magnetic components of the wave are perpendicular to each other and also perpendicular to the direction in which wave is travelling in a bundle of light energy called a photon. Photons travel in harmonic waves at the fastest speed possible in the universe: 186,282 miles per second (299,792,458 meters per second) in a vacuum, also known as the speed of light. There are three important characteristics of the electromagnetic radiation, its frequency, amplitude and speed (Figure 3.1).

ABSTRACT

In vitro pollination and fertilization could be a tool for heterosis breeding of triploid turmeric cultivars, which are almost non-seed setting naturally. Investigations were undertaken to optimize media combinations for the development of in vitro pollinated ovules to mature seed .The half strength MS medium supplemented with auxins and cytokinins was superior to full strength MS. The supplementation of ½ strength MS medium with either auxins or cytokinins at lower concentrations induced some ovule development. The ovule development was more when auxins and cytokinins together were given. The combination of ½ MS +3% sucrose +NAA 0.5mg l ^-1 +BAP 1mg l^-1 showed maximum ovule swelling in cultures. The combinations of BAP 4mg l^-1 with IAA 0.2mg l^-1 produced callusing instead of ovule swelling.

Cellulose is a homopolymer of β (1–4) glucose linkage. It is the most abundant polymer present on the surface of the earth, which is mainly produced by the vascular plants (Sharma et al., 2019; Dayal et al., 2013; Sheykhnazari et al., 2011). Cellulose obtained from higher vascular plants has been employed for making textile and papers.

Abstract

The landslides have become the fast spreading disaster all over the Indian sub-continent. As such landslides were mostly occurring in the Mighty Himalayan Mountains, it was all along attributed to active tectonics. But when it started occurring in most of the mountain belts of India, various geological parameters, the anthropogenic phenomenon and rain fall were inferred to be the main causes for the landslides. Hence when this concept emerged, and again the Remote Sensing and the GIS technologies have phenomenally evolved, different types of variables, again on different resolutions and different methodologies have been adopted to prepare landslide vulnerability maps and this has started yielding varying types of outputs. As the landslide vulnerability zonation mapping (LVZ) is the first step in landslide studies it is essential to evolve a suitable methodology for the same. So the present study was carried out in a test site of around 300 sq.km in between Coonoor and Otacamund, Nilgiri mountains, Western Ghats, South India. In the said study, a set of 12 Earth System Parameters/Variables which could contribute to landslide vulnerability were prepared as GIS raster databases from the data interpreted from satellite MSS data and field geological and geophysical data sets. Similar GIS database was generated on 144 landslides. These landslides were superposed over such 12 Earth system parameters data and landslide vulnerability weightages were assigned to each subvariables of these Earth system parameters. In assigning weightages using such landslide incidence data various methods viz; slope, integrated terrain, information value, weight of evidence, index overlay and BIS methods were used and landslide vulnerability zonation maps were prepared adding all the 12 weightages assigned Earth system variables. In this, all the 12 earth system parameters were having same resolutions. Then the outputs were compared which revealed that the information value method is the best suited method for LVZ mapping followed by weight of evidence method.

Antimicrobial drugs are important medicines which are continuously developed and evolveddue to the phenomenon of development of antimicrobial resistance to antimicrobial agents by microorganisms since the discovery of Penicillin by Sir Alexander Fleming in 1928-29. It has become essential for both pharmacologists and clinicians to optimize the certain principles of pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic aspects in both development of new antimicrobial drugs and in getting better therapeutic outcome in actual clinical situations in the field conditions to overcome the challenge thrown by microorganisms to the mankind.

Pharmacokinetics (PK) describes the relationship between the dose of any drug given and the resulting concentration in the body. It includes the physiological process of absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination whereas Pharmacodynamics (PD) describes the interaction between the drug concentration and pharmacological/therapeutic effect in vivo. It is determined as a definite concentration of a drugand its ability to kill or inhibit the cultured pathogenic microorganismin vitro that is aptly described asminimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) in case of antimicrobial drugs.

Introduction

Agriculture ranks as the second-largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 20% of the total, following the energy sector. Converting the agricultural waste from trash to treasure is very challenging issue for the researchers/scientists. The practice of indiscriminate dumping and burning crop residue poses serious human and environmental health risks and threatens food and energy security (Singh and Chauhan, 2022). Addressing crop residue burning requires strong technological interventions and policy support due to factors like labour scarcity, lack of appropriate technology and most important the short window of 15-20 days between harvesting and the next crop sowing. On-field burning not only degrades the environment but also leads to the loss of valuable nutrient content in crop residue. Agri-waste burning constitutes approximately 25% of total agri-biomass production globally, underscoring the urgent need to find economically viable alternatives to mitigate this issue and curb outdoor degradation. The scientific community is increasingly focusing on valorizing lignocellulosic-based agricultural waste for biofuel generation and industrial enzyme production. Given the pressing concerns regarding energy use and environmental degradation, there is a growing imperative to transition from non-renewable to renewable energy sources. Renewable energy has the potential to satisfy a significant portion of global energy demand by 2050. Leveraging lignocellulosic waste from agricultural systems is crucial for renewable energy generation and environmental sustainability. Agri-waste, composed mainly of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, boasts high energy conversion efficiency compared to fossil fuel-based technologies. Effective agri-waste management techniques can address energy security and greenhouse gas emissions issues (Varjani et al., 2022). The sheer volume of agricultural residue globally, equivalent to around 50 billion tons of oil, highlights the substantial potential of agricultural biomass for energy production. Similarly, composting agri-waste offers an eco-friendly alternative to energy-intensive inorganic fertilizers, promoting sustainable agricultural crop production. Retaining or incorporating agri-waste into soil can enhance soil fertility and crop productivity (Yadav et al., 2019). Moreover, due to its diverse biochemical composition, agri-waste holds promise for various industrial applications.

This innovation introduces a system aimed at enhancing the nutritional quality of fried fish through the integration of artificial intelligence. This system consists of three fundamental elements: a microcontroller, a stainless steel probe featuring a temperature sensor, and an oil-level detection sensor. Additionally, it includes a mobile application powered by artificial intelligence, facilitating the evaluation of the polyunsaturated fatty acid to saturated fatty acid ratio and the index of atherogenicity profile of fried fish. The data collected by the microcontroller undergo thorough processing using an artificial neural network model, along with meta-heuristic optimization techniques such as genetic algorithms and particle swarm optimization (PSO). This processing led to the determination of the PUFA/ SFA and IA profiles of fried fish. Upon alignment of the derived data with the predetermined ideal PUFA/SFA and IA values stored in the application database, the application transmits this information to the system, triggering an alert through the integration of a buzzer within the device.

Interactions of different chemical components affect water quality in shrimp ponds.

7.1 Introduction

The practice of rainwater storage in the pond is quite common but still there is a need to improve its design. Most of the ponds used for rainwater storage are designed on thumb rule: either they are under or over designed. An over designed farm pond can meet the supplemental irrigation needs of the crop but it may not be economical. On the other hand, an under designed pond though economical, may not be able to meet the irrigation needs of the crops at all times. It is reported that in some case up to 20% of the farm area is used for construction of farm pond. These farm ponds are found not to be optimal. Although these ponds are able to meet the crop water demand at most of the stress periods, but considering the economics, they are observed not to be optimal. The big size farm ponds need large areas to be wasted for the digging of the structures. They need huge investment for their construction and lining. Hence, proper scientific studies are needed so that its storage becomes adequate to save the crops from the adverse effects of the drought in monsoon and to assure the possibility of growing a second crop in the winter and at the same time, it is economical also. Simulation studies by daily water balance models of both the crop field and the pond help to understand the availability of water in the pond to meet the supplemental irrigation demand of the crops.

Maintaining your dog’s oral hygiene is crucial for their overall health and happiness. Dental issues can lead to pain, infection and even systemic health problems affecting vital organs. This comprehensive guide delves deeper into the importance of oral care, step-by-step techniques for cleaning your dog’s teeth, signs of dental issues and tips for maintaining optimal oral health.

Importance of Oral Care

1. Preventing Periodontal Disease

Stages of Periodontal Disease: This common dental issue progresses through stages, starting with gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and advancing to periodontitis, where the supporting structures of the teeth are damaged. Untreated periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and infections that can spread to different tissues including gastrointestinal tract, liver, heart and kidneys.

2. Avoiding Bad Breath (Halitosis)

Causes: Bad breath is primarily caused by microbial buildup in the mouth due to poor oral hygiene. Persistent bad breath can be a sign of more serious dental problems.

Basics of effective oral presentation : Planning , preparing (Introduction, Body and conclusion), Delivery, Body language and Handling anxiety-Strategies for giving oral presentation

Oral presentation means delivering an address to a public audience. It also refers to public speaking and/or speech-making. It is a brief discussion of a defined topic delivered to a public audience in order to impart knowledge or to stimulate discussion. The skill in oral presentation is equally as important as effective writing. Almost every oral presentation contains an introduction, main body and conclusion like a short paper. Though it is a formal speech in nature or vocal performance to an audience, it may occasionally require adequate planning and thorough preparation in using one’s voice, body language and visual aids such as slideshows to present and illustrate the points more effectively and to achieve the desired results.

Body languages such as eye contact, facial expression, posture and gesture plays a significant role in oral presentation process. The proper use of the voice and the ability to adjust it to suit the slightest differences of meaning are also very important in oral presentation. In addition to correct pronunciation, variation in pitch and cadence, free from speech mannerism, fluency in delivery are also very important in oral presentation.

Abstract

Orange is a machine learning and data mining suite for data analysis through Python scripting and visual programming. It is a general -purpose tool of data mining for machine learning. It’s having a multi-layer architecture which is suitable for different kinds of users, from new data mining learner to programmers who prefer to use the tool through its interface. Here we report on which features interactive data analysis and component-based assembly of data mining procedures. In the paper we highlight the history of Orange’s development process and present its current state, achievements and the future challenges.

Keywords: Python, Data mining, Machine learning, Toolbox, Scripting