scholarly journals Impact of In-situ Composting of Sugarcane Trashes on Soil Nutrients and Fertility

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
J. Kannan
Keyword(s):  
Tamil Nadu ◽  
Soil Analysis ◽  
C:N Ratio ◽  
Nutrient Content ◽  
Microbial Consortia ◽  
Cow Dung ◽  
Research Station ◽  
Carbon Nitrogen Ratio ◽  
The Cost

Background: Sugarcane is one of the important commercial crops in India. Sugarcane trashes are considered as a problem to the farmers, because of the cost of labour for its disposal. Farmers wishes to compost in the field itself to reduce the cost. A field experiment was conducted for the in-situ composting of sugarcane trashes at the Sugarcane Research Station, Cuddalore. Methods: The sugarcane trashes have wide C:N ratio, which is not suitable for the microbial degradation. Hence, for the in-situ composting of sugarcane trashes, a combination of Rock phosphate: gypsum: urea in the ratio of 5:4:1 (named as SRS mixture) was added to narrow the C:N ratio. For the quick degradation, the microbial consortia namely Tamil Nadu Agricultural University Bio mineralizer, (TNAU Bio mineralizer) commercially available Effective Microbes (EM) solution and the cow dung slurry were compared. Result: During the degradation period, the pH was slightly reduced and subsequently increased to neutral; reduction in EC, organic carbon, Carbon: Nitrogen ratio and increase in the nitrogen content was also noted. Field soil analysis indicated increase in the primary nutrient content especially in the treatments with TNAU Bio mineralizer and commercial EM solution. For the in-situ composting of sugarcane trashes, SRS mixture 100 kg t-1 followed by TNAU bio mineralizer 2 kg t-1 may be applied immediately after the harvest of the canes.

Field astrobiology research in Moon–Mars analogue environments: instruments and methods

2011 ◽  
Vol 10 (3) ◽  
pp. 141-160 ◽  
Author(s):  
B.H. Foing ◽  
C. Stoker ◽  
J. Zavaleta ◽  
P. Ehrenfreund ◽  
C. Thiel ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Remote Sensing ◽  
Soil Analysis ◽  
Remote Sensing Data ◽  
Research Station ◽  
Sample Analysis ◽  
Sample Collection ◽  
X Ray ◽  
Sensing Data ◽  
Geological Context

AbstractWe describe the field demonstration of astrobiology instruments and research methods conducted in and from the Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS) in Utah during the EuroGeoMars campaign 2009 coordinated by ILEWG, ESA/ESTEC and NASA Ames, with the contribution of academic partners. We discuss the entire experimental approach from determining the geological context using remote sensing, in situ measurements, sorties with sample collection and characterization, analysis in the field laboratory, to the post sample analysis using advanced laboratory facilities.We present the rationale for terrestrial field campaigns to strengthen astrobiology research and the link between in situ and orbital remote sensing data. These campaigns are supporting the preparation for future missions such as Mars Science Laboratory, ExoMars or Mars Sample Return. We describe the EuroGeoMars 2009 campaign conducted by MDRS crew 76 and 77, focused on the investigation of surface processes in their geological context. Special emphasis was placed on sample collection and pre-screening using in-situ portable instruments. Science investigations included geological and geochemical measurements as well as detection and diagnostic of water, oxidants, organic matter, minerals, volatiles and biota.EuroGeoMars 2009 was an example of a Moon–Mars field research campaign dedicated to the demonstration of astrobiology instruments and a specific methodology of comprehensive measurements from selected sampling sites. We discuss in sequence: the campaign objectives and trade-off based on science, technical or operational constraints. This includes remote sensing data and maps, and geological context; the monitoring of environmental parameters; the geophysical context and mineralogy studies; geology and geomorphology investigations; geochemistry characterization and subsurface studies.We describe sample handling (extraction and collection) methods, and the sample analysis of soils and rocks performed in the MDRS laboratory using close inspection, initial petrological characterization, microscopy, Visible-NIR spectrometry, Raman spectrometry, X-ray diffraction/X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, soil analysis, electrochemical and biological measurements.The results from post-mission analysis of returned samples using advanced facilities in collaborator institutes are described in companion papers in this issue. We present examples of in-situ analysis, and describe an example investigation on the exploration and analysis of endolithic microbial mats (from reconnaissance, in-situ imaging, sampling, local analysis to post-mission sample analysis).

Yield and quality evaluation of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc) genotypes under high rainfall zone of Tamil Nadu

1970 ◽  
pp. 95
Author(s):  
R Balakumbahan ◽  
J P Joshua
Keyword(s):  
Tamil Nadu ◽  
Quality Evaluation ◽  
Zingiber Officinale ◽  
Fibre Content ◽  
Research Station ◽  
Local Strains ◽  
High Rainfall ◽  
Yield And Quality ◽  
Rainfall Region ◽  
Horticultural Research

An experiment on ginger was undertaken between April 2012 to March 2015 at Horticultural Research Station, Pechiparai with an objective to identify suitable ginger cultivar or accession with higher yield and quality attributes suitable for high rainfall zone of Tamil Nadu. Twenty four ginger genotypes, local strains and varieties were collected from different ginger growing tracts of India and evaluated for their performance in high rainfall region. Among the twenty four genotypes tested, the accession Z. O- 4 recorded higher fresh rhizome yield (22.16 ha-1) than other genotypes whereas Z. O - 6 recorded highest dry recovery per cent (22.47%). Higher oleoresin and fibre content was recorded in genotypes Z. O – 5 (9.56%) and Z . O – 17 (11.20%) respectively. 

scholarly journals Metagenome-assembled genomes infer potential microbial metabolism in alkaline sulphidic tailings

2021 ◽  
Vol 16 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Wenjun Li ◽  
Xiaofang Li
Keyword(s):  
Community Structure ◽  
Mine Tailings ◽  
Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization ◽  
High Throughput Sequencing ◽  
Microbial Consortia ◽  
Metabolic Reconstruction ◽  
Metal Release ◽  
Community Members ◽  
Oxidative Stresses

Abstract Background Mine tailings are hostile environment. It has been well documented that several microbes can inhabit such environment, and metagenomic reconstruction has successfully pinpointed their activities and community structure in acidic tailings environments. We still know little about the microbial metabolic capacities of alkaline sulphidic environment where microbial processes are critically important for the revegetation. Microbial communities therein may not only provide soil functions, but also ameliorate the environment stresses for plants’ survival. Results In this study, we detected a considerable amount of viable bacterial and archaeal cells using fluorescent in situ hybridization in alkaline sulphidic tailings from Mt Isa, Queensland. By taking advantage of high-throughput sequencing and up-to-date metagenomic binning technology, we reconstructed the microbial community structure and potential coupled iron and nitrogen metabolism pathways in the tailings. Assembly of 10 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), with 5 nearly complete, was achieved. From this, detailed insights into the community metabolic capabilities was derived. Dominant microbial species were seen to possess powerful resistance systems for osmotic, metal and oxidative stresses. Additionally, these community members had metabolic capabilities for sulphide oxidation, for causing increased salinity and metal release, and for leading to N depletion. Conclusions Here our results show that a considerable amount of microbial cells inhabit the mine tailings, who possess a variety of genes for stress response. Metabolic reconstruction infers that the microbial consortia may actively accelerate the sulphide weathering and N depletion therein.

scholarly journals Seawater Absorption and Adhesion Properties of Hydrophobic and Superhydrophobic Thermoset Epoxy Nanocomposite Coatings

Nanomaterials ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 272
Author(s):  
Ayman M. Atta ◽  
Mohamed H. El-Newehy ◽  
Meera Moydeen Abdulhameed ◽  
Mohamed H. Wahby ◽  
Ahmed I. Hashem
Keyword(s):  
Thermal Stability ◽  
Oleic Acid ◽  
Salt Spray ◽  
Adhesion Properties ◽  
In Situ Modification ◽  
Long Time ◽  
Seawater Environment ◽  
Thermoset Epoxy ◽  
The Cost

The enhancement of both thermal and mechanical properties of epoxy materials using nanomaterials becomes a target in coating of the steel to protect it from aggressive environmental conditions for a long time, with reducing the cost. In this respect, the adhesion properties of the epoxy with the steel surfaces, and its proper superhyrophobicity to repel the seawater humidity, can be optimized via addition of green nanoparticles (NPs). In-situ modification of silver (Ag) and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) NPs with oleic acid (OA) was carried out during the formation of Ag−OA and CaCO3−OA, respectively. The epoxide oleic acid (EOA) was also used as capping for Ca−O3 NPs by in-situ method and epoxidation of Ag−OA NPs, too. The morphology, thermal stability, and the diameters of NPs, as well as their dispersion in organic solvent, were investigated. The effects of the prepared NPs on the exothermic curing of the epoxy resins in the presence of polyamines, flexibility or rigidity of epoxy coatings, wettability, and coatings durability in aggressive seawater environment were studied. The obtained results confirmed that the proper superhyrophobicity, coating adhesion, and thermal stability of the epoxy were improved after exposure to salt spray fog for 2000 h at 36 °C.

scholarly journals Lifestyle of sponge symbiont phages by host prediction and correlative microscopy

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. T. Jahn ◽  
T. Lachnit ◽  
S. M. Markert ◽  
C. Stigloher ◽  
L. Pita ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Distinct Pattern ◽  
Microbial Consortia ◽  
Bacterial Symbionts ◽  
Correlative Microscopy ◽  
Phage Ecology ◽  
Infection Dynamics ◽  
Imaging Approach ◽  
Animal Hosts ◽  
Viral Distribution

AbstractBacteriophages (phages) are ubiquitous elements in nature, but their ecology and role in animals remains little understood. Sponges represent the oldest known extant animal-microbe symbiosis and are associated with dense and diverse microbial consortia. Here we investigate the tripartite interaction between phages, bacterial symbionts, and the sponge host. We combined imaging and bioinformatics to tackle important questions on who the phage hosts are and what the replication mode and spatial distribution within the animal is. This approach led to the discovery of distinct phage-microbe infection networks in sponge versus seawater microbiomes. A new correlative in situ imaging approach (‘PhageFISH-CLEM‘) localised phages within bacterial symbiont cells, but also within phagocytotically active sponge cells. We postulate that the phagocytosis of free virions by sponge cells modulates phage-bacteria ratios and ultimately controls infection dynamics. Prediction of phage replication strategies indicated a distinct pattern, where lysogeny dominates the sponge microbiome, likely fostered by sponge host-mediated virion clearance, while lysis dominates in seawater. Collectively, this work provides new insights into phage ecology within sponges, highlighting the importance of tripartite animal-phage-bacterium interplay in holobiont functioning. We anticipate that our imaging approach will be instrumental to further understanding of viral distribution and cellular association in animal hosts.

scholarly journals A Threat of Farmers’ Suicide and the Opportunity in Organic Farming for Sustainable Agricultural Development in India

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (8) ◽  
pp. 2400 ◽  
Author(s):  
Karthikeyan Mariappan ◽  
Deyi Zhou
Keyword(s):  
Organic Farming ◽  
Tamil Nadu ◽  
Agricultural Development ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Conventional Farming ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Small Scale Farmers ◽  
The Cost ◽  
Input Cost

Agriculture is the main sources of income for humans. Likewise, agriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy. In India, Tamil Nadu regional state has a wide range of possibilities to produce all varieties of organic products due to its diverse agro-climatic condition. This research aimed to identify the economics and efficiency of organic farming, and the possibilities to reduce farmers’ suicides in the Tamil Nadu region through the organic agriculture concept. The emphasis was on farmers, producers, researchers, and marketers entering the sustainable economy through organic farming by reducing input cost and high profit in cultivation. A survey was conducted to gather data. One way analysis of variance (ANOVA) has been used to test the hypothesis regards the cost and profit of rice production. The results showed that there was a significant difference in profitability between organic and conventional farming methods. It is very transparent that organic farming is the leading concept of sustainable agricultural development with better organic manures that can improve soil fertility, better yield, less input cost and better return than conventional farming. The study suggests that by reducing the cost of cultivation and get a marginal return through organic farming method to poor and small scale farmers will reduce socio-economic problems such as farmers’ suicides in the future of Indian agriculture.

scholarly journals Black Soldier Fly Larval Valorization Benefitting from Ex-Situ Fungal Fermentation in Reducing Coconut Endosperm Waste

Processes ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (2) ◽  
pp. 275
Author(s):  
Chung Yiin Wong ◽  
Kunlanan Kiatkittipong ◽  
Worapon Kiatkittipong ◽  
Seteno K. O. Ntwampe ◽  
Man Kee Lam ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Principal Component ◽  
Correlation Study ◽  
Statistical Correlation ◽  
Waste Reduction ◽  
Ex Situ ◽  
Larval Feeding ◽  
Rhizopus Oligosporus ◽  
Black Soldier Fly ◽  
The Cost

Oftentimes, the employment of entomoremediation to reduce organic wastes encounters ubiquitous shortcomings, i.e., ineffectiveness to valorize recalcitrant organics in wastes. Considering the cost-favorability, a fermentation process can be employed to facilitate the degradation of biopolymers into smaller organics, easing the subsequent entomoremediation process. However, the efficacy of in situ fermentation was found impeded by the black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) in the current study to reduce coconut endosperm waste (CEW). Indeed, by changing into ex situ fermentation, in which the fungal Rhizopus oligosporus was permitted to execute fermentation on CEW prior to the larval feeding, the reduction of CEW was significantly enhanced. In this regard, the waste reduction index of CEW by BSFL was almost doubled as opposed to in situ fermentation, even with the inoculation of merely 0.5 wt % of Rhizopus oligosporus. Moreover, with only 0.02 wt % of fungal inoculation size to execute the ex situ fermentation on CEW, it could spur BSFL growth by about 50%. Finally, from the statistical correlation study using principal component analysis, the presence of Rhizopus oligosporus in a range of 0.5–1.0 wt % was regarded as optimum to ferment CEW via ex situ mode, prior to the valorization by BSFL in reducing the CEW.

scholarly journals Effect of Differentiated Nitrogen Fertilization on the Enzymatic Activity of the Soil for Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas L. [Lam.]) Cultivation

Agronomy ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (12) ◽  
pp. 1970
Author(s):  
Barbara Sawicka ◽  
Barbara Krochmal-Marczak ◽  
Piotr Pszczółkowski ◽  
Elżbieta Jolanta Bielińska ◽  
Anna Wójcikowska-Kapusta ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Enzymatic Activity ◽  
Total Nitrogen ◽  
Nitrogen Fertilization ◽  
Ipomoea Batatas ◽  
Polynomial Regression ◽  
Sandy Loam ◽  
C:N Ratio ◽  
Soil Reaction ◽  
Research Station ◽  
Fourth Degree

The experiment was conducted between 2015–2017 in the Research Station for Cultivar Testing in Uhnin (51°34′ N, 23°02′ E), in Luvisols developed from sandy loam soils. Soil samples for the tests of enzymatic activity were collected after the crop was harvested. The measurements included: the content of dehydrogenases, phosphatases, urease and protease, as well as total organic carbon, total nitrogen and mineral nitrogen in soil, based on standard methods. The research results point to changes in the enzymatic activity of light soil under the influence of varied nitrogen fertilization. In objects fertilized with this ingredient, the activity of the analysed enzymes was significantly higher than in the control soil, except for combinations fertilised with 150 kg ha−1 N characterised by the highest accumulation of N-NO3− in soil. The activity of dehydrogenases, phosphatases and urease changed as the nitrogen dose increased. The polynomial regression analysis enabled a better understanding of those dependences. In the case of dehydrogenases, phosphatases and urease, a third-degree curvilinear relation of enzymatic activity to nitrogen fertilisation was observed (a fourth-degree relation was found, with a coefficient R2 in those equations amounting to =0.958, 0.977, 0.979, respectively) and in the case of protease activity, a fourth-degree relation, with coefficient R2 = 0.989. However, soil acidity did not have a significant influence on either the enzymatic activity or physico-chemical characteristics of soil under the cultivation of sweet potatoes. The C:N ratio turned out to be significantly negatively related to the content of the enzymes dehydrogenase (Adh), phosphatase (AF), urease (AU) and protease (AP) as well as the content of total nitrogen, especially its ammonium form (N-NH4). The obtained results indicate the usefulness of research on enzymatic activity as an indicator of soil reaction to nitrogen fertilization and will enable maintenance of the optimal biological balance of cultivated soils.

Wells for welfare or illfare? Cost of groundwater depletion in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India

Water Policy ◽  
2008 ◽  
Vol 10 (4) ◽  
pp. 391-407 ◽  
Author(s):  
K. Palanisami ◽  
A. Vidhyavathi ◽  
C. R. Ranganathan
Keyword(s):  
Tamil Nadu ◽  
Economic Cost ◽  
Groundwater Depletion ◽  
Cropping Pattern ◽  
Watershed Development ◽  
Groundwater Overdraft ◽  
Well Spacing ◽  
Coimbatore District ◽  
Tamil Nadu State ◽  
The Cost

Groundwater depletion is experienced in several districts of Tamil Nadu state and Coimbatore district is heading in that direction. The average well failure rate is 47% for open wells and 9% for bore wells. The total cost of depletion for new wells varies from Rs 1,999 per ha to Rs 90,975 per ha. The electricity subsidy to the farmers has varied from Rs 22,621 per ha for coconut growers to Rs 25,498 per ha for banana growers as on 2004. The cost of irrigation per cubic metre (m3) is less on large farms. The average net return with free electricity varies from Rs 0.14 per m3 to Rs 1.38 per m3 and is drastically reduced when electricity is priced at an economic cost, i.e. Rs −1.15 to Rs −0.14 per m3. The shift in cropping pattern towards high value crops helped the farmers to some extent to bear the cost of externalities arising out of depletion. The social cost caused by groundwater overdraft is about Rs 554.3 million, which may increase when the well density increases further. Suggested policy options are to change the cropping pattern to less water-consuming crops, to invest in watershed development activities, to change inefficient pumpsets and to adopt well spacing norms.

Granulometry and Moisture Influence for In Situ Soil Analysis by Portable EDXRF

2011 ◽  
Author(s):  
Fábio L. Melquiades ◽  
Rodrigo O. Bastos ◽  
Gabriel E. V. Biasi ◽  
Paulo S. Parreira ◽  
Carlos R. Appoloni ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Soil Analysis ◽  
Moisture Influence
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