Search

Potato is a globally significant crop, crucial for food security and nutrition. Assessing vital nutritional traits is pivotal for enhancing nutritional value. However, traditional wet lab methods for the screening of large germplasms are time- and resource-intensive. To address this challenge, we used near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) for rapid trait estimation in diverse potato germplasms. It employs molecular absorption principles that use near-infrared sections of the electromagnetic spectrum for the precise and rapid determination of biochemical parameters and is non-destructive, enabling trait monitoring without sample compromise. We focused on modified partial least squares (MPLS)-based NIRS prediction models to assess eight key nutritional traits. Various mathematical treatments were executed by permutation and combinations for model calibration. The external validation prediction accuracy was based on the coefficient of determination (RSQexternal), the ratio of performance to deviation (RPD), and the low standard error of performance (SEP). Higher RSQexternal values of 0.937, 0.892, and 0.759 were obtained for protein, dry matter, and total phenols, respectively. Higher RPD values were found for protein (3.982), followed by dry matter (3.041) and total phenolics (2.000), which indicates the excellent predictability of the models. A paired t-test confirmed that the differences between laboratory and predicted values are non-significant. This study presents the first multi-trait NIRS prediction model for Indian potato germplasm. The developed NIRS model effectively predicted the remaining genotypes in this study, demonstrating its broad applicability. This work highlights the rapid screening potential of NIRS for potato germplasm, a valuable tool for identifying trait variations and refining breeding strategies, to ensure sustainable potato production in the face of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This comprehensive review explores the critical importance of the preanalytical phase in hematology laboratory testing and its significant impact on the overall quality of results. The preanalytical phase encompasses all the processes from sample collection to sample preparation, and any errors during this stage can lead to inaccurate and unreliable hematological data. By systematically examining the various sources of preanalytical errors, including specimen collection, transportation, and handling, this review provides insights into the potential challenges faced in the hematology laboratory. Furthermore, the article discusses a range of effective prevention strategies to mitigate preanalytical phase errors and enhance the reliability of hematological test results. These strategies encompass improvements in staff training, standardization of collection procedures, implementation of quality control measures, and advancements in technology and automation. The review emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of awareness and adherence to best practices in the laboratory setting. Preanalytical errors remain a major concern in every laboratory because the majority of the stages leading up to these errors are not within the direct control of the laboratory. Even though they cannot be eliminated, they can definitely be minimized. The preanalytical errors of a hematology laboratory can be reduced with the help of quality management systems, personnel training, regular audits, and automation in the preanalytical stage, thus increasing the accuracy of the results and providing better patient care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indian potato production potential (54 million tonnes) strengthens the cause of export of this crop from the country. Government of India has identified districts of Agra and Farrukhabad in Uttar Pradesh, and Sabarkantha and Banaskantha in Gujarat for potato export promotion in the Agri-export policy-2018. However, issues like suitable varieties, sustainable production and protection technologies, and efficient marketing channel are challenges for acceleration of potato export in a significant way. One of the critical gaps, suitable export potential varieties was taken up in current study. Eight potato varieties were evaluated in replicated field trials at farmer's fields in district Agra and Gandhinagar. Based upon yield performance and feedback from exporters, potato varieties Kufri (K) Frysona (35.3), K Ganga (31.8), K Chipsona-3 (28.2), K Sangam (28.0) and K Bahar (24.0) have better export-grade (>55mm) tuber production potential (tha-1) in western Uttar Pradesh. Variety K Chipsona-3 (30.7), K Sangam (29.6), K Ganga (27.2) and K Frysona (24.9) are exhibiting prospects of export from Gujarat. Newly released specialty potato cv. K Neelkanth has also attracted the attention of exporters. Suitable potato varieties acceptable for importing destinations and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) developed by ICAR-CPRI holds a better future for Indian potato export. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kufri (K) Daksh is a main season, medium maturing, high yielding, water-use-efficient table potato variety that can be grown in regions with limited water availability. It is a clonal selection from the cross between CP1748, having high water use efficiency and LT-1 tolerating high temperature stress. Its plants are tall and vigorous with field resistance to late blight. Its tubers are white-cream (light yellow), ovoid with shallow to medium eyes and cream flesh with good keeping quality. It is fertilizer responsive and can yield 30-35 t/ha under low water (≤ 20%) availability in middle Gangetic plains. K Daksh has better trade-off for high CO2 gain and low water loss through optimization in plant canopy leaf area and plant height components. K Daksh can be an excellent choice to tolerate high temperature and water stress regimes in changing climatic scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uttar Pradesh, particularly its western region, has better export potential for the premium early potato segment as leading Indian exporters demand export-grade tubers (>55mm) during January to tap the deficit period of fresh potatoes in the global market. With this background, a field experiment was conducted during 2020-22 in the early crop season with five promising varieties/ advanced hybrid viz., Kufri Sangam, Kufri Kiran, Kufri Neelkanth, Kufri Chipsona-4 and WS/07-113. The crop was planted in September end and harvested in mid-January. Advanced hybrid WS/07-113 recorded the highest export-grade tuber yield (4.95 t/ha), followed by Kufri Kiran (4.63 t/ha). Maximum tuber dry matter content was attained by cv. Kufri Chipsona-4 (21.3%) followed by Kufri Kiran (20.1%) and Kufri Sangam (19.3%). As a specialty segment, exporters showed keen interest in cv. Kufri Neelkanth which has 4.32 t/ha export-grade tuber yield and 18.6% specific gravity. As exporters require potatoes in January, crop duration may easily be increased to 85-90 days to achieve higher yields. Performance of varieties and exporters' feedback indicates that western UP can lead to export-grade potato production during the early-season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]