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Optimization of DNA Extraction Protocol for Mormodica charantia

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Optimization of DNA Extraction Protocol for Mormodica charantia Authors: Yathurshi, P.; Kumari, H.M.P.S.; Thirukkumaran, G. Abstract: Bitter gourd is a monoecious crop that belongs to the Curcubitaceae family. It has significant agricultural and medicinal value. High levels of bioactive substances such as phenolic compounds and polysaccharides, along with other contaminants, restrict obtaining high-quality and higher-quantity DNA from these plants. To minimize contaminants and to ensure the integrity of extracted DNA, extraction protocols must be modified. The aim of this study is to optimize the DNA extraction protocol for Mormodica charantia by using variations of the CTAB method. This protocol mainly depends on the buffer that is used to lyse cells and separate DNA from other cellular compounds with phenol, chloroform, and isoamyl alcohol. Three variations of the protocol were followed. Tender leaves were used for DNA extraction. UV spectrophotometry was used in the following wavelengths, A230, A260, A280, and A320, to evaluate the quantity and quality of the isolated DNA obtained through each protocol, and the results were compared. The results from UV spectrophotometry were further validated by agarose gel electrophoresis. The first protocol was the standard CTAB extraction method, which yielded 0.884±0.245 (μg/150mg) DNA with a concentration of 17.68±4.89 (ng/ μl). The second protocol was the modified CTAB with cold treatment. Leaves were ground in a cold motor and pestle, which was surrounded by ice cubes, that yielded 0.3±0.079 (μg/150mg) DNA with a concentration of 5.994±1.582 (ng/μl). The third protocol was modified CTAB with cold treatment and RNAse treatment; this method yielded 0.461±0.265 (μg/150mg) DNA with a concentration of 13.23±6.92 (ng/μl). The optimized protocol 3 was found to be more suitable and comparatively gave high yields of pure DNA with minimal RNA contamination in the presence of the RNAse enzyme, as ensured by Agarose gel electrophoresis. Furthermore, the DNA templates generated using the modified method could facilitate genetic studies, marker-assisted breeding, and molecular breeding efforts in bitter gourd to enhance desirable traits in the future. This protocol can be further refined and applied to other plants that have similar biochemical properties.

From Agricultural Data into Knowledge Services: A Statistical Analysis of Paddy Yield Trends in Northern Sri Lanka (2004 - 2024)

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Title: From Agricultural Data into Knowledge Services: A Statistical Analysis of Paddy Yield Trends in Northern Sri Lanka (2004 - 2024) Authors: Terensan, S.; Gajapathy, K.; Anushika, C.M.; Kishanthan, A. Abstract: Understanding long-term yield trends and variability in paddy cultivation is crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity, ensuring food security, and guiding strategic policy interventions in Northern Sri Lanka. Despite the agricultural importance of this region, comprehensive district-level analyses of yield trends and irrigation scheme performance remain limited. This study aimed to analyze yield trends, stability, seasonal variability, and irrigation scheme performance, providing evidence-based insights for policy formulation and farmer support. Two decades (2004/2005–2023/2024) of district-wise paddy data (Vavuniya, Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, Mannar, and Jaffna) covering both Yala and Maha seasons were statistically analyzed using linear regression to quantify yield trends and coefficient of variation (CV) to assess yield stability. Comparative analyses across irrigation schemes (major, minor, rain-fed) and seasons were performed using SPSS statistical software (version 26). The results were compared with the data of Anuradhapura; an adjacent district with a strong reliance on irrigation schemes for paddy cultivation. Findings revealed a significant upward yield trend in Mullaitivu district (55.1 kg/ha per year; R²=0.224, p<0.05), while Vavuniya consistently exhibited the highest average yields (4478 kg/ha) with exceptional stability (CV=11.3%). Yield recovery post-2010 was notably strong in Kilinochchi (22.5%) and Mullaitivu (20.2%). Major irrigation schemes significantly outperformed minor schemes (4197 vs. 3781 kg/ha) and rain-fed cultivation (3158 kg/ha), displaying superior yield stability (CV=19.6%). Interestingly, the Yala season consistently achieved higher yields than Maha across all irrigation schemes, suggesting advantages in controlled irrigation conditions. Anuradhapura district data further contextualizes these findings, revealing consistently high productivity in major irrigation schemes (e.g., 4549 kg/ha in 2004/2005) and demonstrating the critical role of large-scale infrastructure in sustaining yields. The district’s long-term trends highlight the resilience of irrigated systems compared to rain-fed cultivation when considering the trends in rainfall vary in terms of distribution and amount over the past decade. This study provides critical evidence supporting strategic investments in irrigation infrastructure and optimized seasonal management practices. It highlights the value of transforming open agricultural datasets into actionable insights, promoting sustainable agriculture, and informed decision-making in Northern Sri Lanka.

Optimized in vitro seed culture for disease-free propagation of curry leaf (Murraya koenigii)

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Optimized in vitro seed culture for disease-free propagation of curry leaf (Murraya koenigii) Authors: Premasiri, W.M.A.C.; Fonseka, D.L.C.K.; Terensan, S.; Nanayakkara, N. Abstract: Curry leaf (Murraya koenigii) is a valuable plant in both culinary and medicinal uses, preliminary due to its unique aroma, flavour, and bioactive compounds. This semi-hardwood species in tropical and subtropical regions, however conventional propagation is hindered by bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. These pathogens reduce yield and disrupt genetic fidelity, leading to desirable traits such as aroma, disease resistance, and overall vigor. Although, seed propagation, preferable to vegetative methods, it remains susceptible to contamination. In vitro seed culture presents a viable solution by enabling seed sterilization. Cultivation in a controlled, aseptic environment, thereby eliminating external and some internal contaminants. This approach supports the propagation of disease-free, true-to-type seedlings, and helps conserve elite genotypes. Thus, developing a standardized in vitro seed culture protocol, seeds were collected from fully ripened berries of premium, export-grade curry leaf plants in Jaffna. A total of 108 replicates were used to conduct this research, following 10% and 15% Clorox concentrations with three different exposure times: 10, 15, and 20 minutes. The most effective treatment was identified as 15% Clorox for 20 minutes, yielding the highest survival and contamination-free rate of 78% (P < 0.05). Germinated seedlings were then cultured for shoot proliferation under various hormonal treatments, including 2.0 mg/L, 2.5 mg/L, and 3.0 mg/L 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP) with 0.5 mg/L Naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA). Among them, 2.5 mg/L BAP with 0.5 mg/L NAA produced the maximum number of shoots per explant, 6 after ten weeks, significantly outperforming other treatments (P < 0.05). These findings, validated through SAS software using ANOVA and Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) analysis, demonstrate that in vitro seed culture with optimized protocols enables large-scale propagation of genetically stable, disease-free curry leaf plants, boosting both commercial viability and export potential.

Application of smart technologies in organic farming: recent advances and future directions

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Application of smart technologies in organic farming: recent advances and future directions Authors: Pakeerathan, K. Abstract: Smart farming is the use of information technology and sensors to collect and analyze data about crops, soil and weather conditions to make informed decisions about crop management, such as when to irrigate, apply fertilizer or control pests and diseases. The application of SMART technologies in organic farming is a relatively new field, but there have been some recent advances that have the potential to improve the sustainability and efficiency of organic production. The future of SMART technologies in organic farming is promising. As these technologies continue to develop, they will provide organic farmers with new tools to improve their yields, reduce their environmental impact, and make their operations more sustainable. This chapter reports current developments and applications of SMART technologies such as sensor technology, biotechnology, nanotechnology and information communication technology, etc., in organic agriculture and blooming technologies for scientists and students who are working in the field to use this chapter as reference material.