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The objective of this study was to extract mucilages from chia (CM) and okra (OM), followed by their comprehensive chemical and physicochemical characterization, assessment of bioactive compounds, and antioxidant activities. The mucilages were dried at temperatures (50, 60, and 70 °C), and their drying kinetics were analyzed using mathematical models, along with thermodynamic attributes. Mucilage extraction involved aqueous processing: material comminution with water, immersion, filtration, and subsequent ethanol-induced precipitation. Preceding drying, mucilages showed high water content and activity, reduced ascorbic acid and lipids. CM had high mineral and starch content, while OM displayed elevated proteins, phenolic compounds, tannins, anthocyanins, and flavonoids. OM exhibited superior antioxidant activity (ABTS, FRAP, and DPPH). Among the various mathematical models considered, the Diffusion Approximation model best fitted the experimental data for CM, while the Two-Term model yielded the optimal fit for OM. The effective diffusivity and activation energy for CM were determined to be approximately 10−9 m2/s and 38.60 kJ/mol, respectively. Conversely, for OM, these values were calculated as 10−8 m2/s and 17.21 kJ/mol, respectively. The thermodynamic characteristics of both drying processes indicated a non-spontaneous nature. This investigation divulged distinctive attributes of the mucilages derived from chia and okra, highlighting their potential utility as valuable raw materials within diverse industries, encompassing the realms of both food and pharmaceutical sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Two experiments were conducted. One in the open field during the spring season 2021, in which crosses- and Reciprocal-Crosses (full diallel crossing) were conducted between five selected okra varieties and the other was a comparative experiment in the heated plastic green-house of the Department of Horticulture and Gardening Engineering, College of Agriculture, University of Tikrit, Iraq for the winter season 2022. The results showed that the differences between the parental genotypes and their reciprocal and Reciprocal-Crosses led to the emergence of hybrid vigour and in the desired direction in the results of a number of crosses, where the special values for the hybrid’s strength were calculated based on the average of the best (shortest) father H (BP), as the hybrid’s strength was characterised as in the plastic greenhouse, the hybrid (P5xP4) had a significant negative value, while 19 hybrids had undesirable positive values. In the open field, 11 hybrids had negative and significant hybrid strength, 2 had non-significant negative values and 7 had undesirable positive values. The results also showed that the effects of the general ability of compatibility for the first generation in the plastic green-house were high for the genotype P4, where the effects of GCA were significant and negative, as well as the parental styles recorded high and negative values, respectively, P3 and P2, while the effects of the P5 models and P1 were highly significant and positive, and the effects of the genera were positive. The results also showed that the effects of the specific combining ability varied in terms of genetic values of hybrids between the plastic green-house and the open field. The hybrids P3xP1, P4xP5, P4xP2, P1xP2, P3xP2 and P5xP3 had the highest negatively significant values for the effects of the special ability of compatibility in the greenhouse, while the hybrids P1xP2, P5xP3, P4xP3 and P1xP5 had the highest negative significant values in the open field. Percentage exceeded the average vigour of the hybrids for the characteristic of the number of okra branches in the open field compared to the plastic green-house, where 9 hybrids recorded negative and significant hybrid strength, with (P1xP5) having the highest value -40.994 and (P3x P2) the lowest. It had 12 leaf models. A negative and significant hybrid, where (P2xP5) had the highest value and (P5xP4) the lowest, 3 hybrids had non-significant negative values and 5 had undesirable positive values. In the plastic greenhouse, 10 hybrids had high and negative significant values, including P2xP45. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five okra varieties were crossed and reciprocally hybridized in two spring 2021 experiments. The second experiment is a comparative experiment in the plastic house of the Department of Horticulture and Garden Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tikrit for winter 2022 to evaluate the field performance of the resulting diallel crosses and their reciprocal hybrids of 20 hybrids and five parental structures and assess hybrid vigour using the Randomised complete block design with three replications of 25 hybrids each. The results showed significant differences between parental and hybrid genetic prototypes/patterns exchange and reciprocal in most attributes, negative heterosis in numerous diallel crossings, reciprocal hybrids above the parent rate, and some moral superiority. Cross-combination (3×5) had the highest plant height average, while hybrids (2×1) had a moral loss of (-50) and different branch averages. The hybrids (3×1) had the highest average, the hybrids (4×1) had the highest chlorophyll ratio and the hybrids (2×5) had the lowest average (-0.23417). The reciprocal hybrid (4×2) bloomed longest, the hybrid (4×1) the shortest, and the hybrid (5×4) the most thorns. The diallel crosses and their reciprocal hybrids of the product's characteristics and components showed negative hybrid vigour in several hybrids and hybridization above the parents rate in others, as well as positive moral superiority. The average (1×4 minus) hybrids had the lowest first fruit height, while the hybrids (4×5 and 5×4) had the highest. For the number of ribs, hybrids (3×1, 5×1 and 1×3) had the highest average (0.166667), hybrids (4×3) had the lowest value, and hybrids (1×3) had the lowest average of the first (-2.55756) and the total quotient (1.864) of hybrids (3×5). The length of the hybrid (4×2) was best, the diameter of the hybrid (2×4), and the weight of the two opposite hybrids (4×5 and 3×5). The diallel hybrid (1×2) and hybrid (3×1) were morally inferior to the lowest averages in early plant quotient and number of seeds, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant extracts have been shown to effectively inhibit metal corrosion. Using the Box-Behnken design, gravimetric, and electrochemical techniques, analyses were designed to investigate the anti-corrosion potential of okra in a 1M HCl medium. The inhibition performances derived from the various methods were in good agreement, demonstrating that physio-chemisorption was effective and adhered to the Langmuir isotherm model. The efficiency of okra mucilage extract was 96% at a much lower concentration compared to 91.2% and 88.4% for the unsieved extract and gelly-okra filtrate, respectively. FTIR results showed the presence of several functional groups in the okra mucilage extract that are associated with adsorption, and TGA analysis revealed that the extract has high thermal stability. FESEM analysis also supported evidence of adsorption. It was determined that corrosion inhibition by okra mucilage extract was primarily influenced by temperature, followed by extract concentration, with immersion time having the least effect. From the model optimization, it was observed that okra mucilage extract at 200 ppm, 60°C, and 24 h gave an inhibition efficiency of 89.98% and high desirability. These results demonstrate the high capacity of natural okra as an efficient biodegradable corrosion inhibitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methyl jasmonate (MeJA), as a plant growth regulator, which is involves in many morphological and physiological processes, plays an important role in defense systems of plants under abiotic stress conditions. Our work revealed the physiological and biochemical mechanisms involved in enhancing cadmium (Cd) stress tolerance of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) plants through the use of MeJA. The 50 μM-MeJA okra plants had good growth and increased physical size and their fresh weight (FW) and dry weight (DW) were increased by 163 and 294%, respectively, under CdCl2 stress, while okra plants without using MeJA died based on pot-planting experiment. Okra plants with 50 μM MeJA, 5 mM diphenyleneiodonium (NADPH oxidase inhibitor, DPI) and 50 μM MeJA + 5 mM DPI, respectively, showed good growth and increased physical size and their FW and DW were increased by 144%, 164% and 178%, and 85%, 112% and 144%, respectively, under CdCl2 stress, while okra plants without using MeJA died. A higher accumulation of jasmonic acid (JA) and abscisic acid (ABA) level was observed in okra plants treated with MeJA under CdCl2 stress. The activities of lipoxygenase and nine-cis-epoxycarotenoid dioxygenase were significantly enhanced in okra plants treated with MeJA under CdCl2 stress. According to stress resistance related component analysis, okra plants after MeJA treatment showed a significant increase in osmotic adjustment substance (proline, soluble protein and soluble sugar), photosynthetic pigment (chlorophyll a and b, total carotenoids) and antioxidants, such as glutathione (GSH) and ascorbic acid (AsA) and a significant decrease in oxidative stress indicators, such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), superoxide radicals (O2−), malondialdehyde (MDA) content and electrolyte leakage rates. During CdCl2 stress, the MeJA-treatment okra plants showed a remarkably increase in the activities of antioxidant enzyme, such as superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and peroxidase. As a result, there was a marked reduction of H2O2, O2− and MDA content and a significant increase in CAT, GR and APX activities, as well as GSH and ASA content involved in the ASA-GSH cycle in MeJA-okra, DPI-okra and MeJA + DPI-okra plants under CdCl2 stress. These results demonstrate that exogenous MeJA increases the accumulation of JA, ABA and proline, which enhances Cd stress tolerance of okra plants, by regulating endogenous hormones metabolism, osmotic adjustment substances, photosynthesis pigment and ROS metabolism. It might provide breeders with practical tools to alleviate Cd toxicity in agricultural crops based on this knowledge. Key message: Exogenous MeJA increases the accumulation of JA, ABA and proline, which enhances Cd stress tolerance of okra plants, by regulating endogenous hormones metabolism and osmotic adjustment substances, photosynthesis pigment and ROS metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment to diversify the rice--wheat system to increase employment and income was conducted during 2017-18 at the research farm of CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishwavidyalaya Palampur with eight cropping systems that were replicated four times. One-year results revealed that the highest rice grain yield (16477 kg/ha), net returns (₹ 219828/ha) and marginal returns (₹ 80946) were recorded from the rice -- palak -- cucumber sequence. Okra -- radish -- onion resulted in maximum food availability (55.16 kg/ha/day), whereas employment generation was maximum from rice -- lettuce -- potato + coriander (102.91%). In terms of carbohydrate yield (5146 kg/ha), protein yield (640.6 kg/ha) and energy equivalent (23919 MJ/ha), it was highest from the rice -- wheat sequence; however, in the case of carbohydrate and energy equivalent, it was on par with rice -- lettuce -- potato + coriander. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The screen house experiment was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of species of Trichoderma in combination with poultry manure in the control of Meloidogyne incognita infecting okra. Trichoderma viride at 2.65 x 107, 2.40 x 107, 1.85 x 107 spores/ml and T. harzianum at 2.40 x107, 1.40 x 107, 1.10 x 107 and 9.0 x 106 spores/ml were applied singly, in combination with poultry manure at 10, 15 and 20 t/ha. The obtained results showed highly susceptibility of okra to M. incognita with Gall index (G.I = 5.00) with no poultry manure amendment or Trichoderma infestation. Increase in poultry manure rates and spore density of Trichoderma applied singly were significantly (P< 0.05) reduced root galling, nematode density in soil per plant and nematode reproduction factor (Rf). The combination of different rates of poultry manure with either species of Trichoderma at various spore densities were significantly (P<0.05) inhibited root galling and nematode population more than single application. The combination of T. viride at 2.65 x 107 spores/ml or T. harzianum 2.40 x 107 spores/ml with 20 t/ha poultry manure produced okra with the least GI (2.00). The combination of Trichoderma species with poultry manure significantly (P<0.05) enhanced growth, dry matter accumulation and fresh pod yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study determined the effect of alcoholic extract of common purslane, Portulaca oleracea, Java grass, and Cyperus rotundus oil in controlling the two-spotted spider mite on okra plants. The results of laboratory experiments showed the efficiency of purslane alcoholic extract was highly toxic to adult mites, but its effect was limited on eggs. In contrast, Cyperus oil was highly effective against mite eggs and adults. Cyperus oil gave the highest mortality of 86.94%, with significant differences from the purslane extract, where 68.61% mortality was observed and differed significantly from the control treatment. An increase in mortality increased with concentration, and the highest mortality of 95.83% was achieved at 5%, compared to the mortality of 59.58% at 1% treatment. The ovicidal activity was significant after the C. rotundus oil treatment compared to the purslane extract application. Cyperus oil reduced egg hatching by 42.50%. However, purslane extract did not affect the hatching significantly (91.70% hatching) and was not significantly different from the control. In general, the hatching rate decreased with increasing concentration of Cyperus oil and was only 40% at the 5% treatment compared to 60 and 96.70% at 1% treatment and controls, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biology of fruit and shoot borer (Earias vittella F.) was studied under the natural conditions in the instructional farm of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalay in pre-kharif, kharif and postkharif on okra. The study revealed that the egg incubation in pre-kharif, kharif and post-kharif revealed that the egg incubation were 3.18±0.40, 3.61±0.70 and 4.25±0.67 and larval period were 11.00±0.88, 11.00±0.82 and 13.01±1.81 during corresponding seasons respectively. The pupal period in pre-kharif, kharif and post-kharif were 13.01±1.81; 11.00±0.82; 10.97±2.15 days respectively. The adult male longevities observed were 3.64±0.67, 5.60±0.70 and 7.33±0.97 during pre-kharif, kharif and post-kharif. On the other hand female longevities observed were about 7.45±1.57; 8.87±1.10; 9.41±1.51 days in corresponding seasons respectively. The female fecundity during pre-kharif, kharif and post-kharif were 91.55±10.93, 117.55b±10.60 and 132.04±5.83 eggs in their lifetime. The pre-oviposition during pre-kharif, kharif and post-kharif were 1.64±0.50, 1.52±0.53 and 1.88±0.57 and the oviposition periods in corresponding seasons were 2.73±0.47, 3.22±0.79 and 4.32±0.52. While post-oviposition periods in pre-kharif, kharif and postkharif were 3.09±0.70, 4.14±0.63 and 3.23±0.92 respectively. Its total life-cycle was completed in 27.45±1.57, 31.60±1.90 and 41.35±2.55 days during pre-kharif, kharif and post-kharif respectively. Higher fecundity may lead to faster population growth that may surpass the economic threshold level (ETL), even though the shoot and fruit borer’s life cycle is longer in kharif and post-kharif. Thus, it may be said that the kharif and pos-kharif seasons are the most susceptible to shoot fruit and shoot borer infestation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several plants rich in phenolic compounds have many uses in the food and pharmaceutical fields. However, after extraction, these active biomolecules are susceptible to degradation. Microencapsulation is a possible solution to prevent this rapid degradation. In this study, phenolic compounds from the okra Abelmoschus esculentus L's leaves, fruits and seeds were extracted using microwave-assisted extraction and then microencapsulated via the spray drying technique using maltodextrin combined with pectin (in a ratio of 10:1) as an encapsulation material. The total phenolic content, DPPH scavenging and antimicrobial activities of okra extracts and encapsulated samples were evaluated to verify the encapsulation efficiency. Particle size distribution determination and scanning electron microscopy of the microcapsules were also carried-out. The ethanolic leaf extract showed higher significant levels of total phenolic compounds (162.46 ± 4.48 mg GAE/g DW), and anti-oxidant (75.65%) and antibacterial activities compared to those of other aqueous and ethanolic extracts from fruits and seeds. Furthermore, the spray-dried ethanolic leaf extract had the highest total phenolic content. However, the encapsulated ethanolic fruit extract had the highest percentage of DPPH scavenging activity (30.36% ± 1.49). In addition, antibacterial activity measurements showed that the addition of ethanolic and aqueous seed microcapsules provided a significant zone of inhibition against the bacterium Brochotrix thermosphacta (38 mm and 30 mm, respectively). Okra aqueous leaf microcapsules showed the smallest Sauter mean diameter values (7.98 ± 0.12 µm). These data are applicable for expanding the use of okra leaves, fruits and seeds as food additives and/or preservatives in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The introgression of genetic material from one species to another through wide hybridization and repeated back-crossing, plays an important role in genetic modification and enriching the cultivated gene-pool with novel genetic variations. Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus [(L.) Moench)] is a popular vegetable crop with high dietary fibre and protein, rich in essential amino acids, lysine and tryptophan. The wild Abelmoschus genepool has many desirable traits like ornamental value, short internodal length, more number of productive branches, extended bearing, perennation tendency, reduced fruit length (more consumer preferred trait), high mucilage content (medicinal value), abiotic stress tolerances such as drought, high temperature and biotic stress resistances such as okra Yellow Vein Mosaic Virus (YVMV) and Enation Leaf Curl Virus (ELCV) diseases. The repeated use of elite breeding lines led to narrowing of the genetic base of the okra crop, one of the major factors attributed to breakdown of resistance/ tolerance to biotic stresses. YVMV and ELCV are the two major diseases, causing significant yield loss in okra. Hence, wide hybridization was attempted to transfer tolerance genes from wild species to the cultivated genepool to widen the genetic base. Material and methods: The screening of germplasm of wild Abelmoschus species at hotspots led to the identification of tolerant species (Abelmoschus pungens var. mizoramensis, A. enbeepeegeearensis, A. caillei, A. tetraphyllus and A. angulosus var. grandiflorus), which were further used in a wide-hybridization programme to generate interspecific hybrids with the cultivated okra. Presence of pre- and post-zygotic barriers to interspecific geneflow, differences in ploidy levels and genotype specific variations in chromosome numbers led to varying degrees of sterility in F1 plants of interspecific crosses. This was overcome by doubling the chromosome number of interspecific hybrids by applying Colchicine at the seedling stage. The 113 cross derivatives generated comprising amphidiploids in the F1 generation (30), F3 (14), one each in F2 and F4 generations, back cross generation in BC1F2 (03), BC1F3 (25), and BC2F3 (02), crosses between amphidiploids (27), multi-cross combinations (07) and interspecific cross (between A. sagittifolius x A. moschatus subsp. moschatus) selfed derivatives at F8 generation (03) were characterized in the present study. Besides they were advanced through selfing and backcrossing. Results and Discussion: The amphidiploids were found to possess many desirable genes with a considerable magnitude of linkage drag. Majority of the wide cross derivatives had an intermediate fruit morphology and dominance of wild characters viz., hispid fruits, stem, leaves, tough fruit fibre, vigorous perennial growth habit and prolonged flowering and fruiting. The fruit morphology of three BC progenies exhibited a high morphological resemblance to the cultivated okra, confirming successful transfer of useful genes to the cultivated okra genepool. The detailed morphological characteristics of the various combinations of Abelmoschus amphidiploids and the genetic enhancement of the genepool achieved in this process is reported here. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Isolation of Limosilactobacillus sp. MYSN3 isolated from noni fruit (Morinda citrifolia). • Limosilactobacillus sp. MYSN3 CFS showed 69.98, 63.60 and 69.12 % inhibition of R. solanacearum, X. oryzae pv. oryzae and P. carotovorum sub sp. carotovorum respectively in microplate assay. • Limosilactobacillus sp. MYSN3 was effective in phosphorous, potassium, zinc, silicon solubilization, IAA and GA 3 production along with siderophore production and protease activity and enhanced growth of tomato, chilli and okra plants under glasshouse condition. The aim of the study was to determine the antibacterial, plant growth promotion and bio-control activity of Limosilactobacillus sp. MYSN3 isolated from noni fruit (Morinda citrifolia). The noni fruit yielded eight distinct isolates and one effective isolate MYSN3 was chosen considering their antibacterial activity for further studies. The isolate MYSN3 recorded good inhibitory effect toward the tested plant pathogenic bacteria. The CFS of MYSN3 showed 69.12, 69.98 and 63.60 % inhibition against, Pectobacterium carotovorum sub sp. carotovorum, Ralstonia solanacearum and Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae respectively in microplate assay. The isolate MYSN3 was identified as Limosilactobacillus sp. with accession number OL347895 and was verified using 16sRNA gene sequencing and had 95.23 % similarity with the earlier deposited sequence of Limosilactobacillus sp. - KJ865402. The effective isolate MYSN3 was characterized for growth promotion in plants and biological control attributes. Isolate MYSN3 showed IAA production (35.18 µg/ml), gibberellic acid production (23.45 µg/ml), solubilization of phosphate, potash, zinc and silicon and gave positive outcomes for protease and siderophore production and negative for cellulose degradation activity, HCN production activity and amylase activity. Seed treatment with Limosilactobacillus sp. MYSN3 greatly enhanced the standard of seed germination and seedling vigour of tomato by paper towel method and significantly increased plant height of tomato, chilli and okra under glasshouse condition when compared to control. The findings of the current research revealed that isolated Limosilactobacillus sp. MYSN3 possess promising antibacterial activity, plant growth promoting characteristics and bio-control traits. The potentiality of the isolate as bioinoculants and bio-control agents deserves further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of edible coatings to preserve fruits and vegetables during storage has attracted increasing attention. Also, salicylic acid has been used as an anti-ethylene and antimicrobial compound to improve the postharvest life of some crops. In this study, the effects of different concentrations of salicylic acid (0, 1, 2, and 4 mM) and sweet basil mucilage (0, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 percent) on the postharvest quality of okra during storage at 10 °C were evaluated. The results showed that increasing the storage time decreased the quality characteristics of okra. Sweet basil mucilage and salicylic acid treatments were significantly effective on maintaining the quality characteristics of okra. The highest levels of fruit firmness, soluble solids, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid, visual appearance, and the lowest weight loss were obtained in the 0.3% sweet basil mucilage and 4 mM salicylic acid treatments. Okra without coating and salicylic acid treatment completely lost its appearance quality during 16 days of storage but okra treated with high concentrations of salicylic acid and mucilage had good quality and required marketability. As a result, sweet basil mucilage and salicylic acid can be used as effective treatments to maintain the quality aspects of okra for a more extended period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among several pests infesting okra plants, the cotton mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) is considered one of the most destructive pests. Field trials were conducted in a private field in Esna District, Luxor Governorate, Egypt, during two successive growing seasons (2021 and 2022) with the aim to study the seasonal fluctuation of P. solenopsis population infesting okra plants (Balady cultivar). Furthermore, the impacts of both climatic conditions and plant age on the seasonal variation of the tested insect pest were determined. The results indicated that P. solenopsis infested okra plants from the first week of March until the end of July, and had three peaks of activity per season, which were recorded in the first week of April, third week of May, and fourth week of June. The mean total population density of P. solenopsis per 10 leaves over the whole first season was 235.96±16.05 individuals and for the second season, it was 242.13±17.01 individuals. June was the most favourable month for P. solenopsis population increase (as measured during weekly inspections), while March was the least favorable in both growing seasons. Pooled effects of environmental conditions and plant ages had a strong relationship with P. solenopsis population density, with an Explained Variance (EV) of 93.26% in the first season and 95.09% in the second season, during the two seasons. Daily mean relative humidity was the most effective variable in explaining changes in the population density of P. solenopsis for the 1st season (2021), while the it was the major element influencing the changes in population in the 2nd season. On the other hand, the daily maximum temperature was clearly the least effective factor in population changes during both seasons. The data presented here can aid to monitor the oscillations in the population density of this pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study used field observations to demonstrate that intercropping okra in a pear orchard reduced pheromone trap catches of Grapholita molesta in two years, whereas intercropping with castor bean reduced them in one year, relative to natural grass cover. GC-MS assays showed that hydrocarbons, phenols, and ketones predominated in the volatiles emitted from okra, whereas aldehydes, ketones, and esters were the most abundant volatiles emitted from castor bean. Five of these compounds exhibited repellency to G. molesta in olfactometry assays, especially cinnamaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, and thymol; the former also served as an attractant for the egg parasitoid Trichogamma dendrolimi, which is often used in augmentation biocontrol of the moth. Intercrops can lower pest densities by increasing plant diversity, altering chemical communication in the arthropod community, and integrating well with other IPM tactics. We used two years of field observations and Y-tube olfactometer assays to explore the effects of intercropping a pear orchard with okra and castor bean on the cosmopolitan fruit-boring pest Grapholita molesta (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). Intercropping okra reduced G. molesta trap catches in the pear orchard in both years, and intercropping with castor bean reduced them in the second year. Hydrocarbons, phenols, and ketones predominated in the GC-MS assay of okra volatiles, whereas castor bean volatiles were rich in aldehydes, ketones, and esters. Five of the commercially available volatiles released by these plants exhibited repellency to G. molesta in olfactometer trials, especially cinnamaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, and thymol; the former compound also exhibited attraction to the egg parasitoid Trichogamma dendrolimi (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae). In addition to their repellent properties, okra and castor bean may enhance integrated control of G. molesta in orchards by hosting prey that support populations of generalist predators that either provide biological pest control services within the orchard ecosystem or generate non-consumptive effects that contribute to pest deterence. Among the plant volatiles evaluated, cinnamaldehyde has the best potential for deployment in orchards to repel G. molesta without disrupting augmentative releases of T. dendrolimi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acetaminophen (N-acetyl-p-aminophenol, APAP), commonly called the 'paracetamol', is one of the most regularly utilized medicines, particularly in children. When administered at the recommended doses, it is a safe medication. However, oxidative stress and inflammation caused by exposure to toxic doses lead to centrilobular hepatic necrosis. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is utilized in the therapy, however it has potential adverse effects. On the other hand, it is known that the seeds of the common vegetable Okra, Abelmoschus esculentus (AE), a herbal product, possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities. In the present study, we explored whether AE can be used as an alternative to standard NAC therapy without any adverse effect in the treatment of acute APAP induced liver injury. Forty male Wistar rats were placed into five groups: Control, AE, APAP, APAP+AE and APAP+AE+NAC groups. Antioxidants such as native thiol and total thiol were found rised in the APAP group by adding AE (p =0.043 and p =0.028, respectively). Anti-inflammatory indicator IL-10 was also found increased, while marker ALT, which is a sign of hepatotoxicity, got decreased (P=0.005 and P <0.001, respectively). Histologically, AE has been shown to improve worsened congestion (P =0.003), cytoplasmic vacuolization (P =0.01), sinusoidal dilatation (P =0.001), Kupffer cell proliferation (P <0.001) and inflammation (P <0.001). These results suggest that the okra seeds may be a potential therapeutic agent for paracetamol induced hepatotoxicity and it can be attributed to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Okra is a plant farmed for its pods, leaves, and stems all of which are edible. It is famous for its ability to tolerate long desiccation periods. It belongs to the Malvaceae family and is a sister species to hibiscus, cotton, and cacao plants. Methods. In the current study, okra plants were used as a model to sequence, assemble, and analyze the evolutionary and functional characteristics of the Dicer-like protein gene family (DCL) based on DNAseq and qPCR techniques. Results. Four Dicer-like (DCL) single-copy genes of the okra plant Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench (AeDCL) were successfully assembled. The lengths of the AeDCL copies were 8,494, 5,214, 4,731, and 9,329 bp. The detected exons in these samples ranged from a single exon in AeDCL3 to 24 exons in AeDCL4. AeDCLs had five functional domains of two DEAD-like helicase superfamilies, N and C; one Dicer domain; one ribonuclease III domain (a and b); and one double-stranded RNA-binding domain. The PAZ domain was completely annotated only for AeDCL1 and AeDCL3. All AeDCLs were up-regulated under drought conditions, with leaves showing more extensive fold changes than roots. The study focused on a comprehensive genomewide identification and analysis of the DCL gene family in naturally drought-tolerant okra plants, an orphan crop that can be used as a model for further genomic and transcriptomic studies on drought-tolerance mechanisms in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, representative urban and peri-urban Indian food baskets have been studied for the presence of toxic and essential elements. The concentration of target toxic and essential elements was used to estimate dietary intakes (EDIs) and health risks. Across all food matrices, toxic elements like Cd and Pb were dominant. The highest concentrations of the target elements were found in vegetables, with Cd, Pb, and Ni being beyond permissible limits of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the World Health organization (0.05 mg/kg, 0.1 mg/kg, and 1.5 mg/kg, respectively) in okra, spinach, and cauliflower. The sum of concentrations of the toxic elements (As, Ni, Hg, Cr, Cd, Pb) in vegetables had a range of 0.54–12.08 mg/kg, the highest sum was found in spinach (median 12.08 mg/kg), followed by okra (median 1.68 mg/kg). The EDI was observed for vegetables with a contribution as high as 92% for Cd. Dairy products were found with the highest loading for Ni with a dietary intake of 3.1 mg/kg/day for adults and twice as much for children. Carcinogenic risk for Ni was the highest and found above the threshold for all food categories, as was the case with As. Cumulative carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks were mostly contributed by milk and vegetables, in particular, spinach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The information on greenhouse gas (GHG) emission and energy use patterns from vegetable production in the Chotanagpur plateau region of Jharkhand state is minimal. The current study analyzed the energy input–output and GHG emission and their relationship with the productivity of two critical vegetables grown in the region, viz. summer season okra and tomato. In this regard, data were collected from 30 vegetable farmers of the region in a pretested questionnaire through personal interviews. The results show that the overall energy input used in the okra production was 8828.71 MJ ha−1 of which human energy (27.62%), petrol (27.31%), farmyard manure (13.59%), and animal energy (13.22%) contributed the primary inputs. The total energy required for tomato production was 4798.66 MJ ha−1, where petrol (25.13%) contributed the highest, followed by fertilizer (16.94%), diesel (14.67%), electricity (12.06%), farmyard manure (12.03%), and human energy (11.65%), respectively. The energy ratio (energy output to energy input) for okra and tomato was estimated at 2.85 and 7.58, respectively. The benefit cost ratios for tomato and okra production were 7.87 and 1.71, respectively, showing that the cultivation of both the vegetables is remunerative in the region, with tomato being more remunerative than okra. The total GHG emission was 875.41 and 322.75 kg CO2eq ha−1 for okra and tomato, respectively. The economical use of inputs could help reduce GHG emissions in vegetable production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) is a beneficial vegetable and oil crop that has found valuable use as food, paper, medicine, and oil. However, because of climate change, a lack of better okra cultivars that can resist drought has hampered okra production in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and across the world. This study aimed to investigate the economic production of this vegetable in a forest setting. The okra (A. esculentus L.) experiment was conducted underneath three forest trees (i.e. Albizia lebbeck, Melia azedarach, and Leucaena leucocephala) in the agroforestry area. A single-factor Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications was utilised. The sample was then separated into three groups: okra-L. leucocephala agroforestry, okra-M. azedarach agroforestry, and okra-A. lebbeck agroforestry. The findings of the study revealed that okra production had differed significantly in three agroforestry practices. The fresh okra yield was highest (10.20 ton/ha) in the okra-A. lebbeck agroforestry. The okra-L. leucocephala agroforestry (9.10 ton/ha) came in second, while the lowest yield was in the okra-M. azedarach agroforestry (8.90 ton/ha). Moreover, the okra-A. lebbeck agroforestry recorded the maximum benefit–cost ratio (3.97) for economic performance. This ratio was 21% and 14% higher compared to the respective performance of the okra-M. azedarach agroforestry and okra-L. leucocephala agroforestry. However, the highest amount of carbon sequestration (238.90 ton/ha/yr) was measured in the okra-M. azedarach agroforestry as well as (229.80 ton/ha/yr) in the okra-A. lebbeck agroforestry practice. Finally, the okra-A. lebbeck agroforestry practice would significantly increase production, touching financial benefit and ensuring sound environmental quality using the vacant woodlot space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assessment of health risk associated with the consumption food crops grown in the Ishiagu mining area has been carried out. Mining activities in the area have consequently increased the concentration of heavy metals in the arable soils. Uptake by plants can lead to bioaccumulation which increases the health risk of inhabitants of the community. In this study, forty (40) samples of leaves of Musa paradisiaca, Carica papaya, Abelmoschus esculentus, Telfairia occidentalis, Phaseolus vulgaris, Manihot esculenta, Colocasia esculenta and tubers (Solanum tuberosum, Dioscorea alata, Dioscorea cayenensis, M. esculenta, Dioscorea rotundata and C. esculenta) were collected across the area and analysed for heavy metals using atomic absorption spectrophotometric method. Health risk indices were applied to evaluate the effect on humans. Result show that the metal accumulations follow Hg > Cd > Mn > Pb > Cu > Co > As > Cr > Zn > Mo and Hg > Cd > Pb > Mn > Co > Cu > Cr for leaves and root/tubers, respectively. The DIM, HRI and THQ were analysed for adult and children, respectively, where children were found to be more vulnerable to these associated risks. DIM, HRI and THQ data revealed Hg, Cd and Pb as the most potent contaminants in the area with risk quotient of following order Hg > Cd > Pb. Tubers showed higher frequency of the presence of these metals, whereas leaves accumulate higher quantity/concentration of them. Mo and Zn were BDL in the crops sampled in the study area except for leave of M. esculenta from LSI 1 with Zn 42.15 mg/kg. There are diverse degrees of health risk that could be incurred through consumption of these food crops resulting from Hg, Cd and Pb which has HRI and THQ > 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Salinity adversely affects okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] plants by inducing osmotic and oxidative stresses. This study was designed to enhance salinity-induced osmotic and oxidative stress tolerance in okra plants by applying organic amendments. Methods: The effects of different organic amendments (municipal solid waste compost, farmyard manure (FYM) and press mud) on osmotic potential, water use efficiency, activities of antioxidant enzymes, total soluble sugar, total soluble proline, total soluble protein and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents of okra plants grown under saline conditions (50 mM sodium chloride) were evaluated in a pot experiment. The organic amendments were applied each at the rate of 5% and 10% per pot or in various combinations (compost + FYM, FYM + press mud and compost + press mud each at the rate of 2.5% and 5% per pot). Results: As compared to control, high total soluble sugar (60.41), total soluble proline (33.88%) and MDA (51%) contents and increased activities of antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase (83.54%), catalase (78.61%), peroxidase (53.57%] in salinity-stressed okra plants, were indicative of oxidative stress. Salinity significantly reduced the osmotic potential (41.78%) and water use efficiency (4.75%) of okra plants compared to control. Under saline conditions, 5% (farmyard manure + press mud) was the most effective treatment, which significantly improved osmotic potential (27.05%), total soluble sugar (4.20%), total soluble protein (73.62%) and total soluble proline (23.20%) contents and superoxide dismutase activity (32.41%), compared to saline soil. Application of 2.5% (FYM + press mud), 5% press mud, and 10% compost significantly reduced MDA content (27%) and improved activities of catalase (38.64%) and peroxidase (48.29%), respectively, compared to saline soil, thus facilitated to alleviate oxidative stress in okra plants. Conclusions: Using organic amendments (municipal solid waste compost, farmyard manure and press mud) was a cost-effective approach to improve salinity-induced osmotic and oxidative stress tolerance in okra plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Flavonoids are one of the crucial secondary metabolites as several functions are carried out by flavonoids, including regulating cell growth, luring insects and pollinators, and defending against biotic and abiotic stressors. They are found in fruits, whole grains, vegetables, spices, tea, wine, herbs, and seeds. More than 4000 flavonoid compounds have been discovered and extracted through different techniques. Most flavonoids are frequently utilized in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and other products. A flavonol glucoside called gossypin is the primary phytochemical of herbs that comes under the "Malvaceae" family and can be found in many species, including Hibiscus esculentus, Gossypium indicum, and Hibiscus vitifolius, all have it in their flowers. Gossypin shows not only significant pharmacological activities but also a defence mechanism and protects against pathogens, UV radiation, etc. It has drawn much interest from researchers and scholars due to its benefits of few adverse effects, high efficacy, and simple preparation. Thus, the current review focuses primarily on the pharmacological accounts of gossypin in various acute and chronic diseases. The various assays and animal studies conducted in the past supported gossypin effects as supporting the concept of the objective of the title. The review also highlights various patents filled on gossypin's importance and current market scenario. Conclusion: Therefore, the technical contents based on pharmacological activities, patents and current market scenario provided in this paper for the improvement of research in numerous scientific fields will be helpful to researchers for suitable alternative designs of gossypin in various disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the findings of a study on the effects of integrated nutrient management on the nutrient content and uptake of okra plants. The study found that a specific treatment involving the use of 75% recommended dose of fertilizers, along with organic amendments and beneficial bacteria, significantly increased the nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content in the okra pods and plants. This treatment also showed higher overall nutrient uptake compared to other treatments. The research suggests that combining inorganic and organic sources of nutrients can enhance nutrient uptake in okra plants, which can be valuable for improving okra production and nutrient management practices. These findings align with previous research on okra. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Acute lung injury is respiratory failure due to various causes. Increased inflammatory and oxidative processes are recognized to play an essential role in the etiology of ARDS. Abelmoschus esculentus is an herbal product used to treat various diseases due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. We aimed to investigate whether Abelmoschus esculentus has an effect on acute lung injury. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, we used the ethanol extract of Abelmoschus esculentus seed. It divided forty male Wistar rats into five equal groups: 1) control, 2) Abelmoschus esculentus, 3) lipopolysaccharide, 4) lipopolysaccharide+Abelmoschus esculentus, and 5) lipopolysaccharide+ Abelmoschus esculentus +dexamethasone groups. Results: In the lipopolysaccharide group, native thiol, total thiol, IL-10, and IFN-ɣ levels significantly changed. Abelmoschus esculentus was effective when used with dexamethasone in increasing native thiol and total thiol values (p=0.008 and p=0.004, respectively). On the other hand, when Abelmoschus esculentus was used alone, it significantly increased IL-10 levels and decreased IFN-ɣ levels in the lipopolysaccharide group (p=0.025 and p<0.001, respectively). Additionally, improvements were noted in histological findings of alveolar congestion (p=0.006), intra-alveolar hemorrhage (p=0.006), and intra-alveolar macrophages (p=0.001). Conclusion: Abelmoschus esculentus, with its anti-inflammatory effect, may represent a new potential for treating acute lung injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Okra shoot and fruit borers, Earias insulana and Earias vittella are the major pests of economically important crops like okra and cotton. It is important to understand pest biology and ecology before initiating control measures, however little is known about their comparative biology on okra. Therefore, we studied biometrics of E. insulana and E. vittella in laboratory conditions on okra fruits and recorded the duration of different life stages along with their morphological parameters, to differentiate both the species. Oviposition was comparable in both species, however, incubation period and oviposition period was shorter in E. vittella. Although incubation, oviposition, post-oviposition period were at par in both the species, but there was a significant difference in larval and pupa periods. Total life cycle being comparable in both species, the larval period was significantly longer in case of E. insulana (13.8 days), while its pupal period (8.5 days) was significantly shorter in comparision to E. vittella (9.9 days). Sex ratio in E. insulana and E. vittella was recorded as 1:0.72 and 1: 0.61 (male: female) respectively. Both species were slightly different in terms of their morphological parameters. This study provides basic knowledge about the biology of these pests that may be helpful while formulating IPM strategies against them in okra as well as cotton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. Introduction: The practice of intercropping (mixed cropping) may represent a promising sustainable solution to improve crop production from small parcel of land. Intercropping, a technique of growing two or more crops simultaneously in the same field, is an agro-ecological practice for sustainable crop intensification. Intercropping ensures efficient utilization of light and other resources, reduces soil erosion, suppresses weed growth, and thereby helps to maintain greater stability in crop yields. It also guarantees greater land occupancy and thereby higher net returns. Although many researches have evaluated the effects of intercropping of common fruit vegetable crops like cucumber (Cucumis sativus), there is still paucity of information on this. From a practical point of view, information on cucumber and okra (Esculentus abelmoschus) intercropping is not available. Okra and cucumber are among the important fruit vegetables, and therefore conducting research on their intercropping is important to achieve a better understanding of interactions of the mixed cultivation of these two plants. The objectives of this research were finding the best cucumber cultivars in mixed cultivation with okra in terms of qualitative and quantitative traits, investigating the correlation between traits in mixed crops, and comparing the mixed crops in different years and selection of the most beneficial cultivation. 2. Materials and Methods: In order to investigate the relationship between yield and its components and to select the best mixed crop of okra and cucumber in terms of quantitative and qualitative traits, an experiment was conducted based on randomized complete blocks design with three replications at greenhouse condition under the supervision of the Research Institute of Horticultural Sciences of Varamin, Iran, during two years (2020-2021). Ten cucumber cultivars including 'Viola', 'Mirsoltan', 'Mito', 'Emilie', 'CUB-9042', 'FC-21', 'CUB-9045', 'FC-27', 'NAGIN', 'NEGIN' mixed with okra cultivar 'Baker' were used in this study. The evaluated traits were fresh weight of fruit in each node, plant height, stem diameter, fresh yield of fruit, dry yield of fruit, number of internode, fruit diameter, fruit length, fruit number and leaf chlorophyll content. 3. Results and Discussion: The results of combined analysis of variance showed that there was a significant difference between intercrops in terms of evaluated traits. The interaction of year and intercropping was also significant on all traits except stem diameter. Results of mean comparison based on Duncan's test showed that cultivation of okra with greenhouse cucumber cultivars including 'Viola', 'Fc-21' and 'Emilie' are suitable intercrops based on fruit weight in each node, plant height, stem diameter, fresh yield of fruit, dry yield of fruit, internode number, fruit diameter, fruit length, fruit number, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll content. Based on results of the evaluation of intercrops using a multifaceted view during experimental years, mixed cultivation of okra and greenhouse cucumber cultivars including 'Viola' and 'Emilie' were selected as desirable intercrops. Correlation analysis results showed that there was a positive correlation between the characteristics of fresh and dry yield of fruit and chlorophyll a content, fruit number, fruit length, stem diameter, plant height and fruit diameter and internode number and chlorophyll b content. According to principal components analysis the first four components justified the main part of variation. According to the ratio of land equality (LER), cultivation of okra with cucumber cultivars including 'Mirsoltan', 'Emilie', 'CUB-9042', 'CUB-9045' were the most profitable intercrops. Based on several studies, intercropping will lead to better and more efficient use of environmental resources by plants. This technique can considerably reduce weed growth and distribution in agricultural fields. There are several reports on promising results of intercropping in different horticultural crops with improved qualitative characteristics and higher yield performance. 4. Conclusion: In conclusion, the results showed that cultivation of okra (cv. 'Baker') with the greenhouse cucumber cultivars including 'Mirsoltan', 'Viola' and 'Emilie' could be considered as desirable intercrops. Also, intercropping okra with cucumber had higher desirability than pure cultivation of okra in terms of yield and some of most important quantitative characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present monograph describes the salting-out assisted liquid–liquid microextraction (SALLME) and reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector (RP-HPLC-DAD) based quantification of two frequently applied neonicotinoid insecticides, i.e. acetamiprid (ACE) and imidacloprid (IMD), from selected tropical fruits (citrus and guava) and vegetables (tomato, okra and cauliflower). The SALLME conditions like pH, liquid/solid ratio and salt ratio (NaCl/Na2SO4) were varied over a wide range of conditions for the enhanced recovery of IMD and ACE from spiked quality control (low, high and medium) of fruits and vegetables. Meanwhile, RP-HPLC-DAD quantification of IMD and ACE was found to be linear over 1–100 μg/L with the coefficient of determination (R 2) value ≥0.997 and slope of the calibration curve (sensitivity) ≥2.3 × 104 peak area unit (μAu). The analysis of selected fruits and vegetables after 0 (1 h), 1, 3, 7, 10 and 14 days of foliar application revealed the presence of IMD and ACE residues in okra and guava higher than maximum residual limits set by the Codex Alimentarius Commission until the third day of spray. Overall, the SALLME-RP-HPLC-DAD was found to be a rapid, selective and expedient choice for the routine analysis of neonicotinoids in environmental and food commodities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial inoculants are beneficial microorganisms applied to plants or the soil to promote plant growth and control pest disease and weeds. Microbial inoculants isolated from local surroundings are indigenous microorganisms (IMO) inoculants. The performance of the IMO inoculants is varied depending on the sources and the local environment. Therefore, it is important to identify the right sources to enhance the efficiency of the IMO inoculants. This research aims to study the performance of okra and soil by mixing potential yeast sources for indigenous microorganisms (IMO) inoculants. Longan and mango were chosen as the sources of yeasts. The IMO inoculants were fermented for a week, and the microorganisms group was identified. Then, the IMO inoculants were applied to the okra and tested for physical and mineral content analysis. IMO inoculants with mango and longan showed a higher yeast population than the control. However, IMO inoculants with mango showed the best plant growth and harvesting time performance. The soil treated with both IMO inoculants also showed higher potassium and calcium. To conclude, plants treated with both IMO inoculants performed better than the control. Thus, IMO inoculants with longan and mango may potentially enhance the yeast community in IMO inoculants, indirectly improving okra growth and benefiting the agriculture field in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The yellow vein mosaic disease (YVMD) transmitted through whitefly is a serious threat to okra fruit and quality production. Although, the disease can be managed up to some extent through chemicals by controlling the vector population. But, the use of resistant varieties is most economic and environment friendly. Therefore, the present study was planned to find out the new resistant source through artificial screening against YVMD. For this, the sixteen accessions belonging to seven different okra wild species along with two cultivars of cultivated okra (Pusa Sawani and Punjab Padmini) were evaluated against YVMD during rainy season of 2016 and 2017. Screening against YVMD was conducted using viruliferous whitefly (Bemisa tabaci Genn.) mediated mass inoculation and observations were recorded from symptomless to very severe infection. Observations were recorded consecutively for two years that confirmed no symptoms of YVMD up to 90 Days After Inoculation (DAI) for accession SBT-12597 and SBT-12592 of Hibiscus acutetus resulting zero coefficient of infection (CI) termed as highly resistant. Accessions IC-203833 and IC-470751 of A. angulosus depicting lowest CI value of 2.3 and 3.7 respectively were also assigned as highly resistant to YVMD at 90 DAI. The accession EC-329394 of A. manihot recorded CI value of 67.9 followed by accession IC-141056 (CI 61.6) of A. moschatus and A. tuberculatus (CI = 44.4) were found susceptible to YVMD up to 90 DAI. The cultivated okra A. esculentus variety Pusa Sawani with CI value of 75.0 and Punjab Padmani (CI 60.0) showed highly susceptible and susceptible reaction to YVMD, respectively. Deng universal primer confirmed the resistance in all the selected plants by showing absence of viral DNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoride is non-essential element for the plant's growth. It becomes the part of food chain by natural and anthropogenic activities. World Health Organization has declared it "a health hazardous element". The objective of current investigation was to assess the remedial influences of Salicylic acid (100ppm, 200ppm) on Abelmoschus esculentus L. (Okra) under the stress of different concentrations of sodium fluoride (50ppm, 100ppm, 150ppm) to get maximum yield and biomass attributes. Okra variety "Sabz Pari" was studied during the spring season of growth (February to April) 2021. Sodium fluoride reduced biomass growth parameters (dry weight of shoots and roots and total dry weight, fresh weight of root and shoot and total fresh weight) in okra plants. Foliar application of different concentrations of salicylic acid, 100ppm and 200ppm, were applied twice a week under salt stress. Exogenous application of salicylic acid enhanced yield parameters (number of flowers, number of pods, number of seeds/pods, number of seeds/plants, pod length, pod fresh weight, pod dry weight, fresh weight of seeds/plant, dry weight of seeds/plant, 1000 seed weight, yield index) at both vegetative and reproductive stage. However, higher concentration of salicylic acid (200ppm) impedes the growth of applied plant. Additionally, salicylic acid is a growth regulator and antioxidant for improving yield and biomass by relieving the locked ions due to sodium fluoride in the soil. Hence salt tolerance was enhanced by the exogenous application of Salicylic acid in Abelmoschus esculentus L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoride is a non-essential electronegative element for plant growth. It enters the food chain through natural and anthropogenic processes. The aim of this research was to evaluate the therapeutic impact of Salicylic acid (100ppm, 200ppm) on Abelmoschus esculentus L. (Okra) under the stress of different sodium fluoride concentrations (50ppm, 100ppm, and 150ppm) in order to achieve the best growth and biochemical characteristics. The Okra variety "Sabz Pari" was studied during the spring growing season (February to April) of 2021 under the sodium fluoride stress. Sodium fluoride impede the growth attributes such as root and shoot length, number of leaves, and leaf area of Okra plant. Exogenous application of Salicylic acid improved chl a, chl b and carotenoid of Okra plants under sodium fluoride stress. Salicylic acid enhanced the production of protein and ascorbic acid that reduced the toxic effect of sodium fluoride. Salicylic acid has anti-oxidant and growth promoting properties that increase salt tolerance of Okra plants and perhaps ameliorates the deleterious impact of salt stress and enhances the growth and biomass of Okra plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetable processing waste is considered a cheap source of bioactive substances that are applicable as additives in the processing of some functional foods. So, this study aimed to use okra pod waste with substitution ratios of 5, 10 and 15 % of wheat flour in pan bread manufacture. The physicochemical, rheological and sensory properties of ready-made pan bread were studied. Also, the impact of feeding diabetic rats pan bread containing okra pod waste on some biological parameters and histological variations of pancreas, kidney and liver was evaluated. The obtained results revealed that okra pod waste powder showed a higher content of protein, fat, ash and crude fiber than wheat flour. Antioxidant activity of okra pod waste was 88.74%. In comparison to the control sample made from only wheat flour, the farinograph and extensigraph results of wheat flour combined with okra pod waste indicated a decrease in dough development, degree of softening, elasticity, and extensibility, but an increase in water absorption and stability time. Pan bread containing 15% okra waste had the highest loaves weight (873.33 g), and the lowest specific volume (1.81 cm3 /g) compared with control bread (810.67 g and 2.28 cm3 /g, respectively). When the ratio of okra waste powder in pan bread was increased, there was a substantial rise in the content of moisture, fat, protein, fiber, ash and Antioxidant activity. No significant differences were found in all sensory evaluation scores between pan bread containing 5% okra pod waste and the control. Whereas, pan bread containing 15% okra pod waste obtained the lowest scores but it was satisfactory. Feeding diabetic rats on pan bread containing 5, 10 and 15% of okra pod waste led to a significant reduction in glucose, HbA1c rates and increased insulin levels in blood samples. Also, it caused a significant amelioration in the lipid profile, kidney and liver functions, also pancreas, kidney and liver tissue sections of diabetic rats. In conclusion, pan bread containing okra pod waste can improve the glucose level and protection against diabetes diseases and their complications. Future studies are needed to find a new sources of bioactive compounds from food factory waste and use them in the processing of functional food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Application of salicylic acid can enable the use of brackish water in the hydroponic cultivation of okra in arid and semi-arid regions. In this context, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of foliar application of salicylic acid in mitigating the impacts of salt stress on the physiology, growth, and production of "Canindé" okra cultivated in a hydroponic system. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse, using an NFT—Nutrient Film Technique hydroponic system. A completely randomized design was adopted in a split-plot scheme, with four levels of electrical conductivity of the nutrient solution—ECns (2.1, 3.6, 5.1, and 6.6 dS m−1) considered as plots and four concentrations of salicylic acid—SA (0, 1.2, 2.4, and 3.6 mM), considered as subplots, with four replications, each of which consisting of two plants. Foliar application of salicylic acid at a concentration of 1.2 mM attenuated the harmful effects of salt stress on the physiology, growth, and production components of "Canindé" okra cultivated in a hydroponic system with ECns of up to 6.6 dS m−1. Plants cultivated with ECns of 6.6 dS m−1 and salicylic acid at a concentration of 1.2 mM obtained an increase of 11.13% (36.4 g per plant) in total production per plant compared to plants cultivated with the same ECns level and without application of salicylic acid. These results demonstrate that salicylic acid, when supplied by foliar application at adequate concentrations, can act as a signaling molecule and reduce the effects of salt stress on hydroponic okra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench.] is a nutrient-rich vegetable crop widely grown in the tropics and subtropics mainly for its edible pods. The haploid technique has been used in plant breeding for the improvements of plants and to develop new varieties in relatively a short time. Hence, we have optimized several factors such as plant growth regulators (PGR), sucrose concentration, cold treatment, type of media and culture conditions for callus induction from the anther and ovary of okra (557 F1 hybrid). Methods: The flower buds of different sizes were collected to determine various stages of development and then subjected to cold pretreatments. The explants were then cultured on various combinations of PGRs i.e., naphthyloxy acetic (NOA), Indole acetic acid (IAA), 2, 4-Dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2, 4-D), Benzyl amino purine (BAP), isopentenyl adenine 2iP, Kinetin (KIN) and Thidiazuron (TDZ). Result: The optimum developmental stage of microspore for callus initiation was achieved from flower buds of okra and its size was about 11 mm long. Flower buds that emerged one week after the flowering showed significantly higher percentage of callus induction. The optimum stage for ovary and ovule culture were one or two days prior to anthesis and the flower buds stage was 35±1mm. In conclusion, our study investigated the effect of several factors that affects callus induction in okra and optimized cultured conditions for future haploid development for okra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research work evaluated the yields of fresh pods and vegetativeness of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) leaves when they were naturally subjected to different environmental parameters at two different years. The okra crops were planted two times, in the rainy season of 2019 and in 2020 between May and August. Temperature and humidity values were taken at 10.00 h and 14.00 h daily from School meteorological unit. Temperature-Humidity-Index (THI) values were computed. Yield parameters namely plants' heights, Leaf Area Index (LAI), number of leaves, stem girth, cumulative yields of leaves and okra fresh pods were measured. Results show that okra planted in 2019 gave the highest vegetative yield via LAI (398.50 m²) and number of leaves (16.50) in 2019, the values in 2019 have increase of 9.57% and 8.91% respectively over their corresponding values in year 2020. Also, the THI directly affects the growth rates, yield components and average cumulative yields of fresh okra pods at the significant difference (P≤ 0.05). Years of planting and season of planting, temperature and humidity of the environment affect the yield and yield components of okra and the project is feasible in economic sense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review aims to explore the prospective scope of excipients obtained from edible natural sources and its unique application in the field of pharmaceutical formulation development. A systematic literature search was conducted using data base like PubMed, Science Direct, Embase, and Google Scholar. A total of 50 articles were identified and reviewed, which primarily focused on the unique application of edible natural sources as excipients in the field of pharmaceutical formulation development. The results revealed that edible natural sources like Dillenia indica, Abelmoschus esculentus; Oryza sativa L; Artocarpus heterophyllus; Tamarindus indica; Musa paradisiaca; Mangifera indica; Ipomoea batatas; Hibiscus sabdariffa and Solanum tuberosum are a promising source of excipients and have great potential to be used in the formulation of pharmaceutical dosage form. Furthermore, the use of these sources may potentially reduce the costs associated with the production of pharmaceuticals dosage form and could also improve the safety profile of the drugs. The review highlights the importance of the use of edible natural sources as excipients and their potential to revolutionize the field of pharmaceutical formulation development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This study aimed to investigate the extraction of mucilage from okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) and evaluate its functional properties. Response Surface Methodology, based on a 3-factored 3-leveled Box Behnken design was employed. Independent variables were extraction temperature (25–80 °C), extraction time (1–7 h) and water to the raw material ratio (4:1–10:1). The optimum extraction conditions were as follows: extraction time is 1.52 h, the ratio of water to okra is 7.2:1 and extraction temperature is 50.51 °C. At these optimum conditions; extraction yield, swelling capacity, emulsion capacity, emulsion stability, antioxidant capacity and total phenolics content were predicted as 23.24%, 44.2 (ml/g), 47.05%, 50.18%, 38.95% and 36.75, respectively. Mucilage decreased oiling off of the mixture by 95.4%. Okra mucilage was used in pistachio nuts paste as a stabilizer. It increased product stability from 80.80 ± 1.05% (control sample) to 97.19 ± 1.52%. Results showed that okra mucilage can be used as an additive in food formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Very few studies have thus far evaluated the impact of various processing and preservation techniques (blanching, frying, freezing, dehydration, and sun drying) on the levels of total phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant activities of okra. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different processing and preservation methods on the levels of phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant activities of okra. The ethanolic extracts of each sample were analyzed before and after preservation and storage for a period of three months. The results showed a significant improvement (p < 0.05) in total phenolic content (134.1 mg GAE/100g) and DPPH (1-1-diphenyl1-2-pricrylhydrazyl) scavenging activity (IC50 value of 3.0 mg/mL) in blanched okra when compared to fresh okra (86.35 mg GAE/100g and IC50 value of 3.8 mg/mL, respectively). Fresh okra exhibited the highest flavonoid content (105.75 mg QE/100g), while sun-dried okra samples stored for three months exhibited a decrease in total phenolic content (14.45 mg GAE/100g), total flavonoid contents (13.25 mg QE/100g), reducing power activity (23.30%), and DPPH scavenging activity (IC50 value of 134.8 mg/mL). The DPPH inhibition activities of all okra treatments showed a significant and positive correlation with the okra phenolic and flavonoid content (r = 0.702 and 0.67, respectively). The reducing power activity (%) of okra treatments exhibited a strong correlation (r) with phenolic contents (r = 0.966), and the correlation with flavonoid contents was 0.459. Generally, different processing and preservation methods of okra revealed that the impact on total phenolic and flavonoid contents, as well as antioxidant activities, was slightly significant among samples preserved using the same method during storage. In addition, blanched and frozen okra resulted in the highest retention of phenolic contents and antioxidant activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted on the impact of amendments on organic carbon-nutrient dynamics and growth of okra at instructional farm of College of Agricuture, Padannakkad (Nileswar) from October to December 2021. Experimental field was laid in randomized block design with eight treatments and three replications using 'Arka Anamika' okra variety as the test crop in red sandy loam soils. Eight treatments tested include T1 (control), T2 (KAU POP (2016) fertilizers + FYM), T3 (soil test-based fertilizers), T4 (soil test-based fertilizers + lime), T5 (KAU organic POP-based FYM + lime), T6 (T5 + soil test-based fertilizers), T7 (KAU organic POP-based vermicompost + lime) and T8 (T7 + soil test-based fertilizers). There was significant effect of treatments on okra growth and yield. Treatment T8 (T7 + Soil test based fertilizers) was superior in its effect on plant height, dry matter and fruit yield. Soil analysis at different stages showed significant treatment effects on parameters such as active carbon, inorganic nitrogen, total phosphorus, inorganic phosphorus, total sulfur, inorganic sulfur, soil microbial biomass carbon, pH, available potassium, calcium, magnessium, iron, manganese and boron. Integrated application of vermi compost based organic and soil test based inorganic amendments (T8) was found to be having the most positive impact on these parameters. Plant nutrient content was also significantly influenced by treatments. The plants under FYM based integrated nutrient management treatment (T6) were having the highest plant N, K, Ca, S and Mn contents. KAU based integrated nutrient management practice (T2) had the highest plant Mg value, while vermi compost based INM practice (T8) had the highest plant Zn and B contents. The study revealed that integrated application of lime, FYM / vermi compost and soil test-based fertilizers had a significant positive effect on the organic carbon nutrient dynamics and growth of okra in red sandy loam soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To counteract the effects of drought stress, scientists have adopted several approaches including the use of different chemicals both inorganic and organic, which is contemplated as a highly efficient and cost-effective shot-gun approach. Ascorbic acid (AsA) is a potential organic substance, which widely occurs in plants, and is considered to be an effective antioxidant to counteract reactive oxygen species (ROS). Thus, a pot experiment was performed to assess the relative mitigating impacts of synthetic AsA and naturally occurring AsA in the form of lemon juice (LJ) and orange juice (OJ) on two cultivars of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) namely Sabz Pari and Bhindi Sanwali under varying water deficit conditions. After 30 days of seed germination, okra seedlings were subjected to different irrigation regimes, i.e., water deficit stress [(65% and 50% F.C.) and control conditions (100% F.C.)]. Different levels of AsA [control (no spray), 14 mg L-1 LJ, 24 mg L-1 OJ and 150 mg L-1 AsA] obtained from different sources were applied as a foliar spray to control and water-stressed plants. Drought stress prominently reduced plant growth and yield attributes of the okra cultivars. Water-deficit conditions (65% and 50% F.C.) substantially decreased the fruit chlorophyll (a, b) pigments and the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme, while an increase was observed in the contents of fruit's hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA), total phenolics, total soluble sugars, AsA, and total soluble proteins. Drought stress also increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes like peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT). However, plant growth and yield attributes, fruit chlorophyll pigments, total phenolics, total soluble sugars, total free amino acids, total soluble proteins, AsA, GB, H2O2, and the activities of antioxidant enzymes (POD and CAT) were increased by the AsA exogenous treatment in both okra cultivars under water deficit and control conditions. Overall, LJ and OJ were more effective than the synthetic AsA in upregulating the physiological and metabolic processes of okra plants. So, cost-effective as well as multi-nutrient natural sources of AsA could be suggested for alleviating the harmful effects of water deficit stress on plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, many studies have reported the properties and functionality of okra pectin. However, these studies are about green okra pods, and pectin in red okra pods, stems, and roots has not been reported. Therefore, this study aimed to optimize the red okra extraction method using response surface methodology (RSM) analysis and evaluate the effects of extraction time, temperature, solvent ratio, and pH on the extract yield and crude pectin content. Based on RSM analysis, 4.35 h, 98.04 °C, 23.34 solvent ratio, and pH 3.36 are the optimal parameters for extracting crude pectin from red okra, and the crude pectin content was predicted to be 40.83%. When red okra was extracted under these extraction conditions (4 h, 100 °C, 23 solvent ratio, and pH 3), the extraction yield was 45.26%, and the crude pectin content was 38.42%, which was similar to the yield obtained under the conditions derived from the RSM analysis. In addition, the pH control using hydrochloric acid was replaced with citric acid, and the changes in extract yield and crude pectin content were compared. When citric acid was used, the extract yield was 49.15% (8.6% increase), and the crude pectin content was 42.76 ± 2.56% (11.3% increase); compared to when hydrochloric acid was used, the yield increased. Finally, the standardization of red okra raw materials was determined by analyzing the extraction yield and crude pectin content by part, harvest time, and size of red okra using the established extraction method using citric acid. As a result, it was confirmed that the extraction yield obtained from the established extraction method was reached from the extraction of red okra fruits up to 12 cm in size that were harvested between July and November. Additionally, compared to the non-pectin fraction, the crude pectin fraction isolated from red okra pod extract showed significantly higher total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC). These findings, reported for the first time, may contribute to the development of processes to purify red okra pectin, functional evaluation studies of pectin, and potential applications of red okra extract in various industries and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Vegetables scarcity due to soil nutrient declination as one of the major concerns has been the persistent scenario in the late and post-monsoon period in Bangladesh. Hence, an experiment was executed at the research field of University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh to investigate the crop yield potentiality of okra upon application of varied nitrogen doses in different frequencies in off-season (July-November, 2019). Upon application five levels of nitrogen amendments viz., 70 kg N/ha and 110 kg N/ha applied in 3 splits and 4 splits and control or farmers' practices [70 kg N/ha once at final land preparation (FLP)] to three okra varieties (Local, BARI Dherosh-2 and Hybrid); the Local cultivar exhibited superiority in most of the vegetative characters except the number of branches and leaves per plant being maximum in Hybrid and root: shoot ratio higher in BARI Dherosh-2. The hybrid variety didn't show much growth after 60 DAS but it performed superior in early flowering (39.27 days) and harvesting (43.67 days) along with the highest yield (374.03 g/plant and 12.47 t/ha) and BARI Dherosh-2 had its excellence in exhibiting extended duration harvesting (57.00 days) and pod dry matter content (30.96%) in off-season. Again, plants treated with 110 kg N/ha applied in 4 splits exhibited maximum growth at least from 60 DAS to the end of harvest and produced the highest yield (440.24 g/plant and 14.68 t/ha) that yield was almost double to that of control (228.06 g/plant and 7.60 t/ha). Consequently, BARI Dherosh-2 combined with 110 kg N/ha applied in 4 splits gave the utmost yield (469.50 g/plant and 15.65 t/ha) along with maximum pod dry matter (32.03%) compared to control yield (195.97 g/plant and 6.53 t/ha). Besides, N-amendment extended the harvesting period of okra by at least 8 days (from 43.78 days to 51.22 days) compared to control and BARI Dherosh-2 was harvested for significantly longer duration (61.67 days after the first picking) when 110 kg N/ha applied in 4 splits compared to only 37.67 days of picking period in local cultivar under farmers' practice. Therefore, it is evident that extended but judicial and intermittent N-amendments helped in increased okra production with long duration harvest in the lean season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the impacts of climate change on okra and tomato yields. Fertilizer consumption and credit to the crop sector were considered as covariates in the analysis. Time-series data, spanning a period of 40 years, were obtained from various sources. An autoregressive distributed lag model was applied to analyze short- and long-term impacts of climate change and agricultural inputs on okra and tomato yields. Not all variables were stationary at levels (order zero), but they were all significant at first difference, indicating the presence of cointegration. The Bound's test F-ratio was statistically significant and implied the presence of long- and short-term relationships among the variables studied. The mean temperatures had negative impacts on okra and tomato yields in both the short and long terms. Credit guaranteed to the crop sector had positive short- and long-term impacts on tomato yield; fertilizer consumption had a negative long-term impact on okra yield. Our study concludes that climate change, particularly rising temperature, impacts herbaceous fruit crop production in Nigeria. Therefore, we recommend that breeding and disseminating climate-smart tomato and okra varieties will help fruit crop farmers respond to rising temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]