Brucellosis in migratory sheep flock from Maharashtra,India

Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease worldwide distributed and having the economic as well as public health importance. The prevalence of brucellosis among sheep flock having history of abortions was studied. A total of 229 samples comprising of 157 blood and 72 clinical samples (vaginal swabs) were collected from 157 animals. Clinical samples were processed for the isolation of Brucella melitensis. Serum samples (n = 157) were tested by Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT) and i-ELISA. A total of 68 (43.31%) and 104 (66.24%) samples were positive by RBPT and ELISA, respectively. Brucella isolates (n = 2) were recovered from clinical samples. Both isolates demonstrated amplification for bcsp 31 and IS711 genes. On AMOS PCR, both the isolates amplified at 731 bp, i.e., belongs to B. melitensis species. The incidence of B. melitensis in a migratory flock warns the thorough testing and culling of Brucella-infected sheep from the flock on a continuous basis; otherwise, such incidence will be routine and poor farmers will be at a loss.     

Identification of genomic locations associated with grain micronutrients (iron and zinc) in rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution - In this investigation, recombinant inbred lines (RILs) population derived from PAU 201 (high yielding) and Palman 579 (high iron and zinc content) varieties...     

Vermicomposting of Vegetable Waste

? Vermicomposting is the degradation of organic waste through earthworm consumption, which converts the material into worm castings. Vermicomposting of vegetable waste was examined in order to identify suitable worm species and efficient levels of temperature and moisture. Laboratory experiments were conducted under controlled conditions using commonly available species: Pheretima sp.; Eisenia sp. and P. excavatus. Worms survived in the moisture range of 20-80 percent and the temperature range of 20°-40°C. Worm survival in decomposed and undecomposed organic wastes was also studied. Trials indicate that P. excavatus is the appropriate species for vegetable waste vermicomposting.