Search

In this paper, we discuss the existence and uniqueness of isolated periodic traveling wave solutions of a family of nonlinear reaction–convection–diffusion equations using the monotonicity of the ratio of Abelian integrals. A numerical study is also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we define enriched (ψ, φλ)-weakly contractive map in convex metric spaces where ψ is continuous on [0,+∞) and φλ is not continuous on [0,+∞) and prove the existence and uniqueness of fixed points of these maps in complete convex metric spaces. We provide an example in support of our result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we investigate an initial-boundary value problem posed for generalized Burgers equation (GBE) with linear damping via the method of matched asymptotic expansions. Asymptotic solutions are constructed for different sub-regions of the domain |$x > 0,~ t > 0$|⁠. A special solution is derived, and it describes the large-time asymptotic behavior of the solutions of the GBE for certain parametric ranges. We also observe that a stationary solution of the GBE describes the large-time behavior of solutions for certain parametric ranges. The existence and uniqueness of the relevant stationary solution are proved using a shooting argument. A numerical study is presented comparing the numerical solutions (obtained by the method of lines) with the asymptotic solutions constructed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The glasses of the composition 25 CaO – 10 (M 2 O 3) – 14 P 2 O 5 – 50 B 2 O 3 : 1 Er 2 O 3 (where M = Bi/Sb/Y) are prepared. The prepared samples are characterized by XRD, thermoluminescence (TL), UV and photoluminescence (PL) techniques. TL reports suggest that the sample of 10 mol% Y 2 O 3 concentration ( E Y ) exhibiting good shape symmetry factor ( u = 0.484 ) and low AEs ( E τ = 1.189 , E δ = 1.218 and E ω = 1.210 ) under γ -irradiation might be a good TL asset. The optical absorptions of present glasses are studied well through the Judd–Ofelt theory. The evaluations such as Judd–Ofelt parameters are additionally projected. They are found to be the best ( Ω 2 = 1.62 × 10 - 21 cm 2 , Ω 4 = 1.56 × 10 - 21 cm 2 and Ω 6 = 0.59 × 10 - 21 cm 2 ) for the sample of 10 mol% Y 2 O 3 concentration ( E Y ), which may be a good optical asset to develop a novel class of laser resources. The radiative evolutions corresponding to the emissive transition 4 S 3 / 2 → 4 I 15 / 2 are assessed by PL technique. The evaluations are found to be the best ( A t = 7089 s - 1 , τ rad = 140 μ s and β = 96.1 % ) for the sample of 10 mol% Y 2 O 3 concentration ( E Y ), which may be a useful luminescent resource. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MnO doped LiF–Sb 2 O 3 –ZnO–B 2 O 3 –SiO 2 glasses were synthesized by melt quenching technique. Different physical parameters such as density, molar volume, electronegativity, optical basicity and refractive index were calculated. The non-crystalline nature of the samples was confirmed by XRD analysis. SEM images projected that the prepared glass materials were contain well defined and indiscriminately allocated grains. The chemical analysis of these materials was studied by energy dispersion spectrum. The glass transition and glass crystallization temperatures of the glasses were recorded by DTA. FT-IR, Raman and ESR studies were also carried out on the prepared glass samples. The optical absorption reports of these glass materials have suggested that the octahedral tendency of Mn 2+ ions increases with increasing concentration of MnO. The optical bandgap, Urbach energy, transition probability and emission cross section of these glass materials were calculated. Photoluminescence studies were also performed on the glass samples. The outcomes on all the investigations of these glasses have suggested that the Mn 2+ ions predominantly occupy octahedral sites at higher concentrations of MnO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To meet the requirement of increasing demand for food and fodder and to ensure food security, it is important to increase the production potential through soil health improvement in rainfed agroecological regions besides the irrigated regions. Degrading soil health because of decrease in soil organic carbon (SOC) and resultant decline in overall soil fertility in rainfed areas is a major threat to sustenance of crop and fodder productivity. In view of the importance of soil organic matter (SOM), and its close relationship with soil health and crop production, its role in carbon sequestration and nutrient cycling has gained much attention in the last few years. Restoration of SOM contents in the soil to optimal levels will not only improve the soil health of rainfed agroecosystem, but will also significantly contribute towards boosting crop production. In this article, we have critically reviewed the impacts of different crop management practices on SOC content and its impact on soil health and crop productivity in rainfed agroecological regions of the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article summarizes the utility of farm pond technology as an adaptation strategy to overcome water shortage due to several reasons, including climate change. This technology has the potential to increase availability of water for supplemental irrigation, increase in cropped area and productivity leading to increase in net returns from crops. Farm pond offers a solution to overcome the increased frequencies of drought, particularly mid-season and terminal drought under climate change scenario. The article advocates for policy intervention to promote one pond for each farm holding having an area of 2.0 ha at individual farm level or on community-sharing basis. Constraints for large-scale implementation of farm pond technology are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintenance of soil physical health at its optimum level is essential for sustainable crop production and rational use of natural resources without jeopardizing their quality. The ongoing conventional tillage practices for crop production using intensive ploughing and removal of crop residue from the field have resulted in an increase in surface crusting, soil compaction, soil erosion, decrease in water infiltration and ultimately aggravation of the overall soil physical health deterioration. In recent years, many agricultural scientists across the world have recommended conservation agriculture as a solution to overcome the adverse effects of conventional tillage practices on soil physical health. Conservation agriculture is mainly an integration of three crop management practices, viz. minimum or no-tillage, permanent retention of crop residue and crop rotation. The present data indicates that conservation agriculture can improve soil physical properties and associated processes especially, soil water infiltration and storage, soil aeration, soil structure and soil porosity. It reduces soil erosion, soil compaction and crusting, and optimizes the soil temperatures for successful crop production. This article reviews the role of conservation agriculture in improving soil physical health and its associated processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world population is expected to increase by a further three billion by 2050 and 90% of the three billion will be from developing countries that rely on existing land, water, and ecology for food and well-being of human kind. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in its fifth assessment report (AR5) stated that warming of the climate system is unequivocal and is more pronounced since the 1950s. The atmosphere and oceans have warmed, the amounts of snow and ice have diminished, and sea level has risen. Each of the last three decades has been successively warmer at the earth's surface than any preceding decade since 1850 and the globally averaged combined land and ocean surface temperature data as calculated by a linear trend show a warming of 0.85°C (0.65-1.06°C) over the period of 1880-2012. World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ranked 2015 as the hottest year on record. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted in 2009-10 with the objective to monitor the effect of restorative soil management practices on biological soil quality. The experiment was initiated in 1995 in a strip-split-split plot design with three replications. Sorghum and castor were grown in two-year rotations. The procedure comprised of two tillage treatments: conventional tillage (CT) and minimum tillage (MT; main plots), three residues treatments: sorghum stover (SS), Gliricidia loppings (GL), no residue (NR; sub-plots), and two nitrogen levels 0 (N0) and 90 kg ha-1 (N90) (sub-subplots). After 15th year of the experiment, activities of the soil enzymes, microbial biomass carbon (MBC), labile carbon (LC) and organic carbon (OC) were studied. Soil management treatments significantly influenced the soil enzyme activities. Enzyme activity was significantly correlated with MBC, LC and OC. The biological soil quality has been assessed in terms of GMeanBSQI (geometric mean of biological soil quality index). From the viewpoint of GMeanBSQI, the order of superiority of soil management treatments was: MT (0.82) > CT (0.69). The performance of the residues was in the order GL (0.87) > SS (0.75) > NR (0.65). Nitrogen @ 90 kg ha-1 (0.81) proved superior to no nitrogen (N0 - 0.70). Among all the treatment combinations, MTGLN90 was found to be the most superior management option for ensuring higher GMean in rainfed Alfisol soils. The present study indicates that crop residue management under minimum tillage is of great significance in improving the biological soil quality indicators and indices. The results obtained are significant in improving biological soil quality index and crop productivity through appropriate soil management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A long-term experiment was conducted at the Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture for 13 years to evaluate the effect of low tillage cum cheaper conjunctive nutrient management practices in terms of productivity, soil fertility, and nitrogen chemical pools of soil under sorghum–mung bean system in Alfisol soils. The results of the study clearly revealed that sorghum and mung bean grain yield as influenced by low tillage and conjunctive nutrient management practices varied from 764 to 1792 and 603 to 1008 kg ha−1with an average yield of 1458 and 805 kg ha−1over a period of 13 years, respectively. Of the tillage practices, conventional tillage (CT) maintained 11.0% higher yields (1534 kg ha−1) over the minimum tillage (MT) (1382 kg ha−1) practice. Among the conjunctive nutrient management treatments, the application of 2 t Gliricidia loppings + 20 kg nitrogen (N) through urea to sorghum crop recorded significantly highest grain yield of 1712 kg ha−1followed by application of 4 t compost + 20 kg N through urea (1650 kg ha−1) as well as 40 kg N through urea alone (1594 kg ha−1). Similar to sorghum, in case of mung bean also, CT exhibited a significant influence on mung bean grain yields (888 kg ha−1) which was 6.7% higher compared to MT (832 kg ha−1). Among all the conjunctive nutrient management treatments, 2 t compost + 10 kg N through urea and 2 t compost + 1 t Gliricidia loppings performed significantly well and recorded similar mung bean grain yields of 960 kg ha−1followed by 1 t Gliricidia loppings + 10 kg N through urea (930 kg ha−1). The soil nitrogen chemical fractions (SNCFs) were also found to be significantly influenced by tillage and conjunctive nutrient management treatments. Further, a significant correlation of SNCF with total soil nitrogen was observed. In the correlation study, it was also observed that N fraction dynamically played an important role in enhancing the availability pool of N in soil and significantly influenced the yield of sorghum grain and mung bean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reducing tillage intensity and retaining residues are important components of conservation agriculture but in small holder systems in developing countries where crop residues have alternate uses such as fodder and fuelwood, recycling or external additions of organic matter may be a possible option. Information on impacts of long term reduced tillage on soil carbon, labile organic carbon fractions and their depth distribution is scant in drylands of semi arid regions. The effect of tillage intensity (CT—conventional tillage; RT—reduced tillage and MT—minimum tillage) and sources of nitrogen (100% OS: 100% of recommended N through organic source; 50% OS +50%IOS: 50% N through organic source and 50% N through inorganic source and 100% IOS: 100% N through inorganic source) on crop yields, soil organic carbon and C fractions in an Alfisol was assessed at the end of a 10 year long term experiment. Finger millet yields decreased significantly with reduction in tillage intensity (29%). Among N sources, highest yields were recorded with substitution of 50% of the N through organic source. After 10 years, the soil organic carbon (SOC) in 0–20 cm soil layer with MT was 11% higher than with CT. The labile fractions of carbon, viz. particulate organic carbon (POC), microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and permanganate oxidizable carbon (KMnO 4 -C) under MT were 47%, 16% and 43% higher, respectively, in comparison to CT in the 0–20 cm soil layer. The total carbon (TC) and total organic carbon (TOC) with MT were higher by 28% and 27% over CT and higher by 20% and 20% with 100%OS over 100% IOS. Labile carbon fractions revealed differential sensitivity and POC, MBC and KMnO 4 -C are sensitive indicators to detect short term management effects. Reducing tillage intensity and applying various N sources enhanced SOC marginally and the C sequestration rate varied from 62 to 186 kg ha −1 yr −1 . Based on the study it can be recommended for substitution of 50% of the recommended N with organic source as it increases crop yields and soil carbon and could be a potential alternative for residue retention for crops which have fodder value. Reducing the tillage intensity can enhance the SOC in semi arid rainfed systems but lower crop yields under MT is a concern which needs to be addressed in order to make these systems acceptable to the farming community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bi and tri metalic oxides based on Mn, Pb and Co composite catalysts were prepared by oxidation of metal acetates with KMnO 4 . The structure of the catalysts was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD). It is found that the Mn 2 Pb 2 CoO x catalyst has amorphous structure and contains various oxides of Mn, Pb and Co. Electrocatalytic activity of catalysts in 6 M KOH was studied using Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) and polarization. Cyclic Voltammetry plot of Mn 2 Pb 2 CoO x catalyst showed higher electrocatalytic activity towards the Oxygen Reduction Reaction (ORR) compared to other tri and bimetallic composite catalysts. The kinetics of ORR on the catalysts was investigated using the rotating disk electrode technique in 6 M KOH solution. From the slope of Koutecky–Levich plots, it is evident that the ORR on Mn 2 Pb 2 CoO x is a 4-electron transfer process. With these inherent features, the zinc–air battery was fabricated using various catalysts and their performance was examined for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper concerns the separable solutions of a generalized Burgers equation. Existence of separable solutions to the generalized Burgers equation is proved under certain conditions. A careful numerical study shows that these separable solutions of the generalized Burgers equation describe the large time asymptotic behavior of solutions of initial boundary value problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Dy3+-doped lead phosphate (PbPKANDy: P2O5+K2O+Al2O3+PbO+Na2O+Dy2O3) glasses were prepared by melt quenching technique and their optical properties have been studied. Judd-Ofelt parameters have been evaluated for 1.0mol% Dy2O3-doped lead phosphate glass and inturn derived radiative properties for excited luminescent levels of Dy3+ ions. The yellow-to-blue emission intensity ratios and CIE chromaticity coordinates were calculated which have been used to evaluate white light emission as a function of the activator (Dy3+) ion concentration. The observed non-exponential decay nature and quenching of lifetime for higher Dy3+ ion concentration (≥1.0mol%) have been attributed due to energy transfer of dipole–dipole type between excited and unexcited Dy3+ ions. The PbPKANDy glasses exhibit better luminescence properties which are suitable for generation of white light. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Sodiumsulpho borophosphate glasses with composition (40− x)Na2SO4–30B2O3–30P2O5: xMnO with x ranging from 0 to 5.0mol% were manufactures. Dielectric spectra have been studied over a wide frequency range of 102–105 Hz and in the temperature range within 30–250°C. The valance states of manganese ions and their ligand coordination in the glass network have been investigated using optical absorption, luminescence and ESR spectroscopy. The analysis of the these results has indicated that the manganese ions exist both in Mn2+ as well as in Mn3+ states and occupy prevailingly octahedral positions and serve as modifiers similarly to Na+ ions The values of dielectric parameters (dielectric constant, ε′(ω), loss tan δ and ac conductivity, σac) were found to increase with increasing MnO content. They play a role of modifiers similarly to Na+ ions, create bonding defects and free ions viz., [SO4]2−, [POO1/2O2]2−, [POO0/2O3]3–, Na+ and (NaSO4)−. The migration of these charge carriers would build up space charge polarization and may be responsible for the enhanced dielectric parameters. The ac conductivity also is enhanced with increasing MnO content. The mechanism responsible for such increase is well explained based on the modifying action of Mn2+ ions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of Platinum–Cobalt bimetallic catalyst supported on carbon (Vulcan XC-72R) were prepared by sequential deposition using an organic salt of cobalt for use as cathode in Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell (PAFC). The atomic percent of non noble metal with respect to Pt in the alloy was varied from 5 to 100 and the composition of alloy catalyst was confirmed by chemical analysis and SEM – EDS spectra. Electrochemical performance of the catalyst was studied in half cell and unit cells. The exchange current densities for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), for alloys with different concentration of non noble metal was evaluated from current-potential curves, which showed values close to 10−5 A/cm2 and the mass activity and specific activity, for the (ORR), were found to be higher for Pt–Co/C compared to that of 10% Pt/C catalysts. The catalyst was tested for its stability in unit cell for a period of 500 h using air as an oxidant which showed higher performance for Pt–Co/C containing 0.5 at% Co. The nature of hydrogen adsorption and dominant crystal plane was also evaluated from cyclic voltammetry. XPS analysis was carried out to determine the surface species present. Results show significant enhancement of electro catalytic activity of Pt by alloying with Co, with maximum activity at ca 0.5 at% Co. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of Li2O–Al2O3–ZrO2–SiO2 glasses doped with different concentrations of WO3 (0 to 5.0mol.%) have been synthesized. Differential thermal analysis of the samples indicated increasing glass forming ability with the increasing concentration of WO3 in the glass matrix. A variety of spectroscopic (optical absorption, IR, Raman and ESR) and dielectric properties (over a range of frequency and temperature) of these glasses have been investigated. The optical absorption and ESR spectral studies have pointed out that a part of tungsten ions do exist in W5+ state in addition to W6+ state especially in the samples containing low concentration of WO3. The IR and Raman spectral studies have suggested that there is a decreasing degree of disorder in the glass network with increase in the concentration of WO3. The values of dielectric parameters viz., dielectric constant, loss and ac conductivity at any frequency and temperature are observed to decrease as the concentration of WO3 is increased. Such changes have been attributed to decrease of redox ratio or decreasing proportions of W5+ ions that act as modifiers in the glass network. The quantitative analysis of the results of ac conductivity and dielectric properties have indicated an increase in the insulating character of the glasses with the concentration of WO3; this is attributed to the presence of tungsten ions largely in W6+ ions that participate in the glass network forming with WO4 structural units. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this article, we construct solutions of a nonhomogeneous Burgers equation subject to certain unbounded initial profiles. In an interesting study, Kloosterziel [ 1 ] represented the solution of an initial value problem (IVP) for the heat equation, with initial data in , as a series of the self-similar solutions of the heat equation. This approach quickly revealed the large time behavior for the solution of the IVP. Inspired by Kloosterziel [ 1 ]'s approach, we express the solution of the nonhomogeneous Burgers equation in terms of the self-similar solutions of a linear partial differential equation with variable coefficients. Finally, we also obtain the large time behavior of the solution of the nonhomogeneous Burgers equation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large number of seeds exhibiting intermediate and recalcitrant storage physiology, generally found in the tropics, subtropics, aquatic, and riparian environments, pose difficulty in ex-situ conservation because of their inherent intolerance to desiccation. The rapid drying of such seeds, especially intermediate seeds, renders them tolerant to desiccation to sufficiently low moisture content suitable for ex-situ conservation. The aim of this work was to establish the seed-storage physiology of Dipcadi saxorum, an endangered plant species of India, and develop suitable ex-situ storage protocol for conservation. Ex-situ storage potential of short-lived (4 months) seeds of D. saxorum was extended to 18 months by storage at 15°C after rapid drying of freshly harvested seeds to low (4%) moisture content (MC). Seeds exhibited 99-100% viability during storage under ambient conditions (slow-drying) up to 50 d (8.9% MC) but storage for 70 d resulted in 78% germination (6.5% MC). Seeds became nonviable after 170 d of storage (registering 5.1% MC) under ambient conditions. In contrast, the rapid-drying using silica gel reduced the MC from 42.42 to 4.5% within 9 h and showed 100% germination. The storage potential of rapidly dried (4, 9, 15 and 30% MC) seeds (tested at 25, 15, and -20°) increased to 18 months; seeds rapidly dried to 4% MC at 15°C gave 25% germination. Electrolyte leakage loss was reduced in the rapidly dried seeds compared with slow-dried seeds and negatively correlated (ranging from R2 = -0.97 to -0.99) with the percentage germination. Compared with slow drying, the rapid drying of seeds to 4 and 9% MC improved significantly the storage potential of D. saxorum seeds at all the storage temperatures studied. Our study revealed that seeds of D. saxorum exhibited intermediate storage physiology and can be desiccated to sufficiently low moisture content (4%) well suited for ex-situ storage for conservation, if rapidly dried despite their sensitivity to desiccation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we construct asymptotic N-wave solutions for the nonplanar Burgers equation as via a balancing argument. These constructed asymptotics are compared with the approximate solutions of the nonplanar Burgers equation obtained by an approach due to Parker ( Acoust. Lett. 4 (1981)). We also present a computationally convenient form for the N-wave solution of the nonplanar Burgers equation modifying Sachdev et al.'s ( Stud. Appl. Math. 103 (1999)) approach. The asymptotic N-wave solutions obtained by balancing argument and modification to Sachdev et al.'s approach are validated by a careful numerical study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we construct large-time asymptotic solution of the modified Burgers equation with sinusoidal initial conditions by using a balancing argument. These asymptotics are validated by a careful numerical study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new disease in Jatropha curcas L. plants was observed during the summer season in 2009 and 2010 in plantations in several Indian states, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. The outbreak of the disease coincided with the leafdropping (dormant) stage of the crop, which sets in with the increasing moisture stress. Affected J. curcas plants showed drying along with shrivelling, and discoloration of the stem with sticky reddish-brown exudation at the base of the plants. Black lesions (soft and rotting) on the stem under the bark and cambium layer were also observed. From the affected stem parts, fungal cultures were isolated and tested for their pathogenicity on pot-grown plants. The fungal isolates caused symptoms on J. curcas leaves and petioles (black spots, 1-3 mm in diameter). Then they spread to the stems causing shrivelling and gummosis of hard-wood stems, and finally led to the death of the infected plant. The causal fungus was identified as Botryosphaeria dothidea using microscopic observations of hyphae and spores, and internally transcribed spacers (ITS) sequencing technique. In addition, four other fungal isolates were also isolated from the affected tissues, which were identified as Macrophomina phaceolina, Phomosis longicolla, Fusarium oxysporum and Alternaria alternata using the ITS sequencing technique. The role of these fungal cultures, i.e. whether they grow as saprophytes on the affected dead tissues or have any role in causing the black rot disease, needs further study. Spraying J. curcas plants showing early symptoms of this disease with Bavistin (carbendazim 50% WP) at the rate of 2 g l-1 water controlled the spread of the symptoms and led to the recovery of plants with new leaf growth after the rains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid population increase, urbanization, soil degradation and inappropriate management practices have put tremendous pressure on natural resources, particularly on soil, water, and vegetation. Soil resource is vital for farming to provide food and nutritional security performing ecosystem functions and services and achieving Sustainable Developmental Goals (SDGs). Worldwide, ~33% soil resource has been adversely degraded by diverse processes. To protect soil resource from further degradation, there is a strong need of sustainable soil management practices for enhancing soil organic carbon (SOC), soil health, and crop production in a sustainable manner. "No-till farming (NT)/conservation agriculture (CA)" has been widely practiced worldwide on about 210 million ha. The long-term NT experiments play a significant role in improving soil health, SOC sequestration, and in-depth understanding of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission, climate change mitigation and optimizing resource use efficiency, to cater for the needs of the present- and future-generations. According to FAO, NT/CA is a farming system that promotes minimum soil disturbance (i.e., no tillage), maintenance of a permanent soil cover, and diversification of plant species. This system increases biodiversity and natural biological processes in above- and below-ground surface, which helps in enhanced water- and nutrient use-efficiency and sustained crop production. From the literature, it is evident that shift from traditional/conventional tillage (CT) with residue burning/removal to NT/CA farming has been recognized as an important soil management practice/strategy for sustaining soil health, reducing soil erosion and reversing soil degradation. This chapter deliberates the effect of NT/CA on soil health, nutrient stratification, SOC dynamics through modeling, SOC sequestration, GHG emissions, socio-economic condition in adoption and also suggesting the future perspectives on NT and CA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research was to develop glasses that are thermally reflective, radiation-resistant, and mechanically robust. We have synthesized the La(20-x)Pb10B70:Eux series of glasses in this regard. Then, characterization, radiation shielding, structural analysis (Raman, FT-IR, DTA, SEM, XRD, and EDX), dielectrics, thermoluminescence are planned. The XRD and SEM analyses of the test samples reveal a vitreous appearance. The chemical constituents are identified by the EDX analysis in terms of their percentage of atomic weight. The density (2.592 g/cm3) and molar volume (45.44 cm3 mol−1) of the fabricated glass were evaluated as physical properties. The glass transition temperature (approximately 273 °C) and thermal stabilities (0.656 percent) of glasses are determined to be solely dependent on Eu3+ ions, according to DTA investigations. FT-IR and Raman analyses were employed to determine the various structural vibrations of the sample glass. By employing the ultrasonic velocities of the test glasses, an assessment was conducted on the micro-hardness of the glass (5.01 GPa). The shielding characteristics of radiation, such as RPE (31.6 percent) and MAC (16.9 cm2/g), indicate that the shielding behavior is solely the result of the Eu3+ ions. It has been observed that TL properties are examined at gamma irradiation intensities ranging from 5 to 25 kGy. An evaluation was conducted on the frequency factor (3.225 × 1021 S−1) and A.E. (1.785 eV) of glasses. The findings indicate that the TL characteristics of glasses are solely influenced by the Eu3+ ions. Additionally, the investigation of the dielectric properties of glasses was ascertained. The analysis focused on the dielectric constant (8.891), dielectric loss (0.026), ac conductivity (0.735 × 10–8 Ω−1 cm−1), and A.E. (1.051 eV) values of the fabricated glass. The findings suggest that the dielectric properties of glasses are entirely determined by the presence of Eu3+ ions. Overall the LBPE-1.5 glass found to be best in the structural, mechanical, optical, dielectric, radiation shielding and thermoluminescence properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate models project that many terrestrial ecosystems will become drier over the course of this century, leading to a drastic increase in the global extent of arid soils. In order to decrease the effects of climate change on global food security, it is crucial to understand the arid environment and the constraints associated with arid soils. Although the effects of aridity on aboveground organisms have been studied extensively, our understanding of how it affects soil processes and nutrient cycling is lacking. One of the primary agricultural constraints, particularly in arid locations, is water scarcity, due to which arid soils are characterized by sparse vegetation cover, low soil organic carbon, poor soil structure, reduced soil biodiversity, and a high rate of soil erosion via wind. Increased aridity will limit the availability of essential plant nutrients and crop growth, and subsequently pose serious threats to key ecological processes and services. The increasing rate of soil salinization is another major environmental hazard that further limits the agricultural potential of arid soils. These soil constraints can be ameliorated and the crop yields increased through case-specific optimization of irrigation and drainage management, enhancing the native beneficial soil microbes, and combinations of soil amendments, conditioners, and residue management. This review explores technologies to ameliorate soil constraints and increase yields to maintain crop output in arid soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we introduce the notion of boundedness in a fuzzy metric space. This notion is a special case of the notion of F-boundedness due to [1]. Using this notion, we prove a fixed point theorem for maps from a fuzzy metric space to a sub class of the set of bounded subsets of that fuzzy metric space, under Hadzic type t-norm. The proof of our theorem is non-constructive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the study is to prepare Ag+-doped ZnO nano crystals and to assess their structure, optical behavior, TL analysis, photocatalytic activity. Using sol–gel technique the Ag+-doped ZnO nano crystals prepared. Using the FT-IR, XRD, BET surface area, SEM, EDX characterization techniques, we have examined the structure of the developed samples. The TL analysis of samples was done under a dose of 25 kGy gamma irradiation. Trap depth parameters of the samples evaluated. Which suggested the ZnO nano crystals doped with Ag+ ions are purely TL active. The optical studies such optical absorption, photoluminescence of samples reveal their optical behavior. The optical band gap of the samples also evaluated. Which is increasing with increase in concentration of Ag+ ions in ZnO nano crystals. Using the MV (10 ppm) and CR (10 ppm) dyes, under visible light the photocatalytic activity of the samples reported. At a reaction period of 90 min, the nano powder containing 1.0 mol% Ag+-doped ZnO nano crystals and a band gap energy of 2.75 eV demonstrated the best photocatalytic efficiency (∼91 %) in both colors. The evaluation was done on the impact of radical scavenger research and catalyst dosage on degrading efficiency. The rate of reaction in the presence of 1.0 mol% Ag+-doped ZnO nano crystals was four times higher than the ZnO catalyst's rate constants, and the degradation reaction follows pseudo-first-order kinetics. The degrading process shows pseudo-first-order kinetics, and the reaction rate was four times higher than the ZnO catalyst in the presence of 1.0 mol% Ag+-doped ZnO nano crystals. It took three cycle runs for the degrading efficiency to drop by 1 %. Thus, 1.0 mol% Ag+-doped ZnO nano crystals was employed as a promising photocatalyst with strong reusability potential for the degradation of textile colors, which will be very beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and the adverse effects associated with climate change have necessitated the need for identification of systems with high carbon sink as a mitigation strategy. Tree-based systems with short rotation species either as farm forestry or agroforestry systems have the potential to sequester carbon in a short period. Leucaena and eucalyptus-based systems, mostly planted at closer spacing, are widely distributed in several districts of Andhra Pradesh, India. The objective of this communication is to analyse the carbon storage of two land-use systems (farm forestry and agroforestry) with two short rotation tree species, viz. leucaena and eucalyptus, and to evaluate their carbon sequestration potential in degraded lands. Trees in farm forestry systems were close planted at 1 × 1 m and 3 × 2 m, whereas those in agroforestry systems were planted at wider spacing of 3 × 0.75 m and 7 × 1.5 m in paired rows, in leucaena and eucalyptus respectively. The carbon stock of leucaena farm forestry system was 62 Mg/ha, whereas in eucalyptus farm forestry system, it was 34 Mg/ha for a rotation of 4 years. Biomass and carbon accumulation were relatively higher in farm forestry systems and the rate of accumulation was highest during the third year. It is concluded that, leucaena and eucalyptus systems can play an important role as carbon sinks and contribute significantly to the removal of CO2 from the atmosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Li2O–ZrO2–SiO2: Ho3+ glasses mixed with three interesting d-block elemental oxides, viz., Nb2O5, Ta2O5 and La2O3, were prepared. Optical absorption and photoluminescence spectra of these glasses have been recorded at room temperature. The luminescence spectra of Nb2O5 and Ta2O5 mixed Li2O–ZrO2–SiO2 glasses (free of Ho3+ ions) have also exhibited broad emission band in the blue region. This band is attributed to radiative recombination of self-trapped excitons (STEs) localized on substitutionally positioned octahedral Ta5+ and Nb5+ ions in the glass network. The Judd–Ofelt theory was successfully applied to characterize Ho3+ spectra of all the three glasses. From this theory various radiative properties, like transition probability A, branching ratio β r and the radiative lifetime τ r, for 5S2 emission levels in the spectra of these glasses have been evaluated. The radiative lifetime for 5S2 level of Ho3+ ions has also been measured and quantum efficiencies were estimated. Among the three glasses studied the La2O3 mixed glass exhibited the highest quantum efficiency. The reasons for such higher value have been discussed based on the relationship between the structural modifications taking place around the Ho3+ ions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this study, the principal role of Al2O3 on the features of the photoluminescence spectra of Tm3+ ion and upconversion phenomenon in Tm3+ and Er3+ codoped CaF2−Al2O3−P2O5−SiO2 glass system has been investigated. The concentration of Al2O3 is varied from 2 to 10mol% while that of Er3+ and Tm3+ is fixed. IR and Raman spectral studies have indicated that there is a gradual increase in the degree of disorder in the glass network with increase in the concentration of Al2O3 up to 6.0mol%. This is attributed to the presence of Al3+ ions in octahedral positions in larger proportions. When the glasses are doped with Tm3+ ions, the blue and red emissions were observed, whereas in Er3+ doped glasses blue, green and red emissions were observed. When the glasses are codoped with Tm3+ and Er3+ ions and excited at 790nm, all the three emission lines were observed to be reinforced, especially in the glasses mixed with 6.0mol% of Al2O3. The IR emission band detected at about 1.8μm due to 3F4→3H6 transition of Tm3+ ions is also observed to be strengthened due to codoping. The reasons for enhancement in the intensity of various emission bands due to codoping have been identified and discussed with the help of rate equations for various emission transitions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Fluorophosphate glasses of composition, P2O5 +K2O+KF+MO+Al2O3 +xEu2O3 (M=Mg, Sr and Ba; x=0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0 and 6.0mol%) were prepared and characterized their optical properties. Crystal-field (CF) analysis revealed a relatively weak CF strength around Eu3+ ions in the Ba based fluorophosphate glasses. The Judd-Ofelt parameters have been estimated from the oscillator strengths of 7F0 → 5D2, 7F0 → 5D4 and 7F0 → 5L6 absorption transitions of Eu3+ ions and were used to evaluate the radiative properties of the 5D0 → 7FJ (J=0–4) transitions. Considerable variation has been observed in the relative intensity ratio of 5D0 → 7F2 to 5D0 → 7F1 transitions of Eu3+ ions due to change in the alkaline earth metal ions. The decay of the 5D0 level shows single exponential and less sensitive to Eu3+ ions concentration as well as MgO/SrO/BaO modifiers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The traditional Taguchi method is widely used for optimizing the process parameters of a single response problem. Optimization of a single response results the non-optimum values for remaining. But, the performance of the manufactured products is often evaluated by several quality characteristics/responses. Under such circumstances, multi-characteristics response optimization may be the solution to optimize multi-responses simultaneously. In the present work, a multi-characteristics response optimization model based on Taguchi and Utility concept is used to optimize process parameters, such as speed, feed, depth of cut, and nose radius on multiple performance characteristics, namely, surface roughness (Ra) and material removal rate (MRR) during turning of AISI 202 austenitic stainless steel using a CVD coated cemented carbide tool. Taguchi's L8 orthogonal array (OA) is selected for experimental planning. The experimental result analysis showed that the combination of higher levels of cutting speed, depth of cut, and nose radius and lower level of feed is essential to achieve simultaneous maximization of material removal rate and minimization of surface roughness. The ANOVA and F-tests are used to analyze the results. Further, the confirmation tests are conducted and the results are found to be within the confidence interval. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrient deficiencies in soil–crop contexts and inappropriate managements are the important reasons for low crop productivity, reduced nutritional quality of agricultural produce and animal/human malnutrition, across the world. The present investigation was carried out to evaluate nutrient deficiencies of sulphur (S) and micronutrients [zinc (Zn), boron (B), iron (Fe), copper (Cu) and manganese (Mn)] in agricultural soils of India for devising effective management strategies to achieve sustainable crop production, improved nutritional quality in crops and better animal/human health. A total of 2,42,827 surface (0–15 cm depth) soil samples were collected from agriculture fields of 615 districts lying in 28 states of India and were analysed for available S and micronutrients concentration. The study was carried out under the aegis of All India Coordinated Research Project on Micro- and Secondary-Nutrients and Pollutant Elements in Soils and Plants. The mean concentrations were 27.0 ± 29.9 mg kg−1 for available S, 1.40 ± 1.60 mg kg−1 for available Zn and 1.40 ± 4.70 mg kg−1 for available B, 31.0 ± 52.2 mg kg−1 for available Fe, 2.30 ± 3.50 mg kg−1 for available Cu and 17.5 ± 21.4 mg kg−1 for available Mn. There were variable and widespread deficiencies of S and micronutrients in different states. The deficiencies (acute deficient + deficient + latent deficiency) of S (58.6% of soils), Zn (51.2% of soils) and B (44.7% of soils) were higher compared to the deficiencies of Fe (19.2% of soils), Cu (11.4% of soils) and Mn (17.4% of soils). Out of 615 districts, > 50% of soils in 101, 131 and 86 districts were deficient in available S, available Zn and available B, respectively. Whereas, > 25% of soils in 83, 5 and 41 districts had deficiencies of available Fe, available Cu and available Mn, respectively. There were occurrences of 2-nutrients deficiencies such S + Zn (9.30% of soils), Zn + B (8.70% of soils), S + B (7.00% of soils) and Zn + Fe (5.80% of soils) to a greater extent compared to the deficiencies of Zn + Mn (3.40% of soils), S + Fe (3.30% of soils), Zn + Cu (2.80% of soils) and Fe + B (2.70% of soils). Relatively lower % of soils were deficient in 3-nutrients (namely S + Zn + B, S + Zn + B and Zn + Fe + B), 4-nutrients (namely Zn + Fe + Cu + Mn) and 5-nutrients (namely Zn + Fe + Cu + Mn + B) simultaneously. The information regarding the distribution of deficiencies of S and micronutrients (both single and multi-nutrients) could be used by various stakeholders for production, supply and application of right kind of fertilizers in different districts, states and agro-ecological regions of India for better crop production, crop nutritional quality, nutrient use efficiency, soil health and for tackling human and animal malnutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glasses with composition of (20–x)LiF–10Sb 2 O 3 –10B 2 O 3 –60P 2 O 5 :x MnO (0< x <0.5 mol%) were synthesized. The non-crystalline nature of the samples was confirmed by XRD analysis and the glass forming abilities were analyzed by DTA studies. The compositional dependence of various structural vibrational units was analyzed by FT–IR and Raman studies. DTA, FT–IR and Raman studies suggested a higher degree of disorder in the glass network with increasing concentration of MnO up to 0.3 mol %. The reversal trend has been observed beyond 0.3 mol% suggesting an increasing polymerization causing lower degree of disorder in the glass network. The optical properties of LiF–Sb 2 O 3 –B 2 O 3 –P 2 O 5 : MnO glasses were analyzed by optical absorption, photoluminescence and ESR spectra. The observations of ESR, OA and PL spectral studies suggested that the gradual increase of octahedral Mn 2+ ions with the increase in the concentration of MnO up to 0.3 mol%. At higher concentration i.e. above 0.3 mol% of MnO, there was a reduction in the concentration of octahedral Mn 2+ ions. The electrical properties of the glass samples were studied by both DC and AC conductivity studies. The dielectric dispersion analysis was also performed on the prepared glass samples. The results of these studies indicated that there is a mixed conduction (both ionic and polaronic) and the polaron hoping seems to prevail over ionic conduction in the glasses containing MnO less than 0.3 mol%. The increase in space charge polarization is responsible for enhanced values of dielectric parameters and AC conductivity for all frequency and temperature ranges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sm 3+ -doped oxyfluoride tellurite-tungsten (TWGSm) glasses were prepared by conventional melt quenching method. The optical properties were investigated through photoluminescence excitation, emission and luminescence decay analysis. The optical band gap energy was determined as ∼3.425 eV for 1.0 mol% of Sm 3+ -doped TWGSm glass. Upon 404 nm excitation, the TWGSm glasses emit luminescence through 4 G 5/2  →  6 H 5/2 (563 nm), 4 G 5/2  →  6 H 7/2 (600 nm), 4 G 5/2  →  6 H 9/2 (645 nm) and 4 G 5/2  →  6 H 11/2 (705 nm) transitions. The Judd-Ofelt analysis was performed using absorption spectrum and obtained radiative parameters were used to estimate the laser characteristics of present glasses. The concentration of Sm 3+ has been optimized as 1.0 mol% for efficient luminescence. The luminescence decay of 4 G 5/2 emission level was studied by monitoring the emission and excitation wavelengths at 600 and 404 nm, respectively. The experimental lifetime of 4 G 5/2 level was decrease with increase of Sm 3+ concentration. The 1.0 mol% of Sm 3+ -doped TWGSm glass could be the best choice for solid state visible lasers to emit orange luminescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil physical degradation has become a serious problem in both rainfed and irrigated areas of India. According to an estimate, about 90 m ha area is experiencing soil physical constraint in the country. In rainfed regions, among several other constraints related to crop and climate, soil physical constraints are the key which severely limit crop productivity. The predominant soil constraints which are governed by the principles of soil physics include subsurface hard pan and compactness, crusting and hardening, slow and high permeability, non-optimal porosity, poor soil structure, poor water receptivity, retention and transmission, etc. It is now well-established that unless the soil physical environment is maintained at its optimum level, the genetic yield potential of a crop cannot be realized even when all the other requirements are fulfiled. The optimum soil physical environment creates a suitable condition for better crop production both in irrigated and rainfed regions. Rainfed agriculture, often referred to as dryland agriculture, is practiced in areas that are relatively warmer (arid, semi-arid) and dry sub-humid regions of the country. These regions are highly diverse, ranging from resource-rich areas with good agricultural potential to resource-constrained areas with a much more restricted potential. These regions represent a wide variety of soil types, agro-climatic and rainfall conditions. This article discusses the soil physical constraints in rainfed regions of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subsistence agriculture practice and a combination of harsh climate and fragile soils along with increasing demographic pressure are matters of great concern from the viewpoint of resource management and longterm sustainability in the semi-arid tropical Alfisol soils of India. In this study, soil quality index (SQI) has been computed on 190 sites of farmers' fields in southern India to evaluate the possible effect of land management practices on soil degradation and determine the critical levels of soil organic C stock to maintain a desirable SQI and also suggest appropriate management practices. In all, 26 predominant physical, chemical and biological properties of soils were studied and based on principal component analysis, moisture retention at field capacity, available soil N, available P, DTPA-extractable Zn, exchangeable sodium percentage, C-mineralization and bulk density were identified as the key indicators of the study region. SQI was also computed using four soil functions, viz. nutrient cycling, availability of water, resistance of soil to degradation, and salinity and sodicity. Soil resilience index was computed using data on substrateinduced respiration after exposing the soil to heat stress. SQI was highest under paddy followed by permanent fallow, maize, cotton, intercropping, redgram, and was lowest under castor system. Based on the results, it was observed that the soils which had higher SQI were also productive and they exhibited higher resilience capacity. An amount of 8.6 Mg ha-1 soil organic C stock per 15 cm depth was found essential to maintain soil quality and 2.2 Mg ha-1 of organic matter was needed every year to maintain this stock. On-farm participatory research trial was conducted using SQI as a tool for sustainable land-management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rainwater harvesting and its utilization have a very important role to play in harnessing the production potential within dryland systems. This study assesses the performance of small rainwater harvesting structures (farm-ponds) in 5 major rainfed states of India over the period 2009–2011 using data from multiple sources and stakeholders. Rainwater which is harvested using structures of varying types and sizes was used for either supplemental irrigation or recharging open-wells. In many cases, the farm level rainwater harvesting structures were highly effective for rainfed farming and had a multiplier effect on farm income. In some situations however, it was viewed by farmers as a waste of productive land. The use of farm ponds in Maharashtra, for example, resulted in a significant increase in farm productivity (12–72%), cropping intensity and consequently farm income. In the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, farm pond water was profitably used for supplemental irrigation to mango plantations, vegetables or other crops and animal enterprises with net returns estimated to be between US$ 120 and 320 structure −1 annum −1 . Despite such examples, the adoption of the farm ponds was low, except in Maharashtra. A functional analysis of the reasons for high adoption of water harvesting structures indicated that factors such as technical support, customized design, level of farmer participation, age, existing ownership of open wells, annual rainfall and household assets were the major determinants of performance of farm-level rainwater harvesting structures. Based on this countrywide analysis, different policy and institutional options are proposed for promoting farm-level rainwater-harvesting for dryland agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vertisol soils of central India are heavy in texture, with high clay content and low organic matter. These soils are prone to degradation and the soil loss is due to poor management practices including excessive tillage. Based on a long-term study conducted for improving the quality of these soils, it was found that management practice such as low tillage (LT) + 4 t ha−1compost + herbicide (Hb) recorded significantly higher organic carbon (OC) (6.22 g kg−1) and available N (188.5 kg ha−1) compared to conventional tillage (CT) + recommended fertilizer (RF) + off-season tillage (OT) + hand weeding (HW) (OC: 4.71 g kg−1, available nitrogen (N) (159.3 kg ha−1). Among the physical soil quality parameters, mean weight diameter (MWD) was significantly higher under LT + 4 t ha−1straw + Hb (0.59 mm). The practice of LT + 4 t ha−1straw + HW recorded significantly higher microbial biomass carbon (MBC) (388.8 μg g−1). The order of key indicators and their contribution towards soil quality was as follows: OC (29%) >, MBC (27%) > available zinc (Zn) (22%) > MWD (9%) > available boron (B) (8%), > dehydrogenase activity (DHA) (5%). The order of the best treatment which maintained soil quality index (SQI) values reasonably good (>1.5) was as follows: LT + 4t ha−1compost + HW (1.65) > LT + 4 t ha−1compost +Hb (1.60) > LT + 4t ha−1straw + HW (1.50). Hence, these treatments could be recommended to the farmers for maintaining higher soil quality in Vertisols under soybean system. Correlation studies revealed stronger relationship between key indicators like OC (R2 = 0.627), MBC (R2 = 0.884), available Zn (R2 = 0.739) and DHA (R2 = 0.604) with Relative Soil Quality Index (RSQI). The results of the present study would be highly useful to the researchers, farmers and land managers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field experiments were conducted in farmyard manure (FYM) and maize-residue (MR) blocks during 1984–2011 with the objective of identifying a superior treatment for attaining maximum finger millet yield and soil fertility at Bangalore. The treatments tested in the FYM block were Control; FYM@10tha−1; FYM@10tha−1 + 50% nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK); FYM@10tha−1 + 100%NPK; 100%NPK; and in the MR block, Control; MR@5tha−1; MR@5t ha−1 + 50%NPK; MR@5tha−1 + 100%NPK; 100%NPK. FYM@10t/ha + 100%NPK gave a maximum mean yield of 3207 kg/ha in the FYM block, while MR@5t/ha + 100%NPK gave 2548 kg/ha in the MR block. Regression and principal component (PC) models of yield were developed through soil fertility and rainfall variables to assess the treatments. Maximum yield predictability of 60% and 65% under regression, and 76% and 75% under the PC model were observed for the FYM and MR blocks, respectively. FYM@10t/ha + 50%NPK was superior, with maximum gross returns of Rs.41286/ha and benefit–cost ratio (BCR) of 2.27 in the FYM block compared to MR@5t/ha + 100%NPK (gross returns of Rs.34530/ha and BCR of 2.09) in the MR block with maximum soil fertility, and are recommended for adoption under semi-arid Alfisols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A long-term experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of integrated use of organic and inorganic sources of nutrients on soil quality and its relation to finger millet yield under two predominant crop rotations viz., groundnut–finger millet and finger millet monocropping in hot moist semiarid rainfed Alfisol soils in South India. Two experiments were laid out separately for each cropping system in a randomized complete block design with five treatments individually with FYM and maize residue-based combinations viz., Control (T1), FYM @ 10t ha−1or Maize residue (MR) @ 5t ha−1(T2), farm yard manure (FYM) @ 10t ha−1or Maize residue (MR) @ 5t ha−1 + 50% RDF (Recommended Fertiliser Dose) N, P2O5& K2O (T3), FYM @ 10t ha−1or Maize residue (MR) @ 5t ha−1 + 100% RDF N,P2O5& K2O (T4), Recommended N, P2O5& K2O (T5). Thus, four sets of nutrient management systems were evaluated. The results showed that farm yard manure or maize residue application in combination with recommended dose of fertilizer significantly improved the soil physical, chemical, and biological properties compared to control and application of inorganic fertilizers alone. Based on evaluation of 19 soil quality parameters under each of the four nutrient management systems, the common key soil quality indicators emerged out were: organic C (OC), available nitrogen (N), available sulfur (S), and mean weight diameter (MWD) of soil aggregates. A significant correlation between the finger millet yield and the relative soil quality indices (RSQI) indicates the importance of soil quality in these semiarid Alfisol soils. The results and the methodology adopted in the present study could be of importance in improving the soil quality not only for the region of the study, but also in other identical soils and cropping systems across the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil-test crop-response experiments on rice were conducted in the Bastar Plateau Agroclimatic Zone of Chhattisgarh during 2009–2011 to assess yield, soil, plant, and fertilizer nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) nutrient relationships and calibrate optimum fertilizer doses for attaining yield targets. Soil fertility status was poor to medium for N (194–283 kg ha−1) and P (7.53–19.66 kg ha−1), and medium to good for K (226–320 kg ha−1). Based on nutrient requirements (NR, kg q−1) and contributions from soil (CS, %), fertilizer (CF, %), and farmyard manure (CFYM, %), optimum fertilizer doses were derived. The fertilizer doses were validated for attaining yield targets of 5000 and 6000 kg ha−1in farmer’s fields. Rice yield within 10% deviation was attained, which indicated that soil-test-based fertilizer dose was superior. This approach could be adopted for regions with similar soil and agroclimatic conditions in other parts of the world to increase rice yields. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Inceptisols in the submountainous region of Indo-Gangetic Plains in India are known as low productive areas due to several constraints like decline in soil organic matter and fertility, deterioration of soil physical and biological properties. The present study was conducted with tillage as main treatments and integrated nutrient management as subtreatments to improve soil quality and to identify the key indicators of soil quality after 5 years of experimentation in maize–wheat cropping system at Ballowal Saunkhri. Conventional tillage (CT) + interculture (IC) maintained significantly higher soil quality indices (SQI) of 1.12 which was at par with 50% CT + IC + chemical weed control (CWC) (1.08). Application of nitrogen (N) through 50% (organic) + 50% (inorganic) maintained higher soil quality with SQI of 1.10 followed by application of 100% N through organics (1.08). The results indicated that reduction in the intensity of tillage to 50% with interculture practices and combined use of organic and inorganic fertilizers maintained higher soil quality in these degraded Inceptisols. The methods of principal component analysis and computation of SQI adopted will be highly useful to future researchers, land managers, and students at locations across the world having similar climatic and edaphic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, widespread micronutrient deficiencies have become a serious challenge for sustaining crop production systems and food security. Of all micronutrients, zinc (Zn) is the most deficient one. Hence, efficient Zn management is essential to achieve potential crop yields. A six-year field experiment was conducted on Typic Hapludalfs with maize-wheat cropping system to study the direct and residual Zn management effect on maize and succeeding wheat crop, respectively. The effect on soil available Zn was also evaluated. Three Zn application frequencies, viz. once (single year), alternate (every alternate year), and continuous (every year) at four Zn application rates, viz. 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0 kg ha−1 along with one control (no Zn) were investigated from 2013 to 2019. The Zn application significantly improved the crop yields, system sustainability, DTPA-Zn, and different Zn pools without causing any environmental risk. In general, the continuous application of Zn at 5.0 kg ha−1 produced the best yield and system productivity. The economically optimal system productivity was obtained with 5.93 and 7.46 kg Zn ha−1 for alternate and continuous frequency Zn application, respectively. The optimal DTPA-Zn to attain the highest system productivity of 7.64 t ha−1 was 1.55 mg kg−1. The crop yields were mainly influenced by the alternate and continuous application of Zn at lower rates (2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 kg ha−1), whereas Zn fractions and DTPA-Zn were significantly influenced by Zn application at higher rate (10 kg ha−1) irrespective of Zn application frequencies. Similar results were obtained with PCA analysis. The results of this study suggested the rationality of Zn application in attaining economically viable and environmentally sound maize-wheat system productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low productivity and cultivation of low value crops in the Indian semi-arid tropics (SAT) is the main cause for poor farm-based livelihoods. Poverty leading to low risk-taking ability of farmers and production related constraints like widespread multi-nutrient deficiencies are major stumbling blocks for shifting to high value agriculture. Realizing the need to support poverty-entrapped smallholders to connect to markets, the government of Karnataka state in India supported market-led shift to high value agriculture through a consortium of technical institutions and convergence of agricultural schemes. New widespread deficiencies of secondary and micronutrients like sulfur (52% farms), zinc (55%) and boron (62%) along with earlier known deficiencies of nitrogen (52%) and phosphorus (41%) were identified as main constraints for realizing productivity potential and a threat for sustainability. Policy supported initiative during 2011/12 showed more economic returns with diversified high value crops and strengthened 0.23 million smallholders. On-farm evaluations of soil test-based nutrient balancing to tomato, okra, brinjal, chilies, onion, cabbage and beans increased productivity by 5 to 58% over the farmers' practice of adding macronutrients only. Small additional cost (' 770 to 1520 per ha) of balanced nutrition significantly increased additional benefits (' 5300 to 74,000 per ha) with fairly high cost-benefit ratio (1:4 to 1:82). Substantial returns enhanced risk-taking ability of smallholders to manage productivity constraints in future by themselves. Results showed that initial little investments in science and market-led social assistance programs should be a way forward for mainstreaming poverty-entrapped smallholders in other parts of SAT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]