Multivariate Based Marker Analysis in Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.)

Genetic diversity of 30 accessions of turmeric was assessed at the molecular level and compared to morphological traits for degree of divergence. The pattern of clustering of quantitative data based on D2, K means and UPGMA revealed discrepancy among them. The cluster profile, based on quantitative data and RAPD markers exhibited considerable levels of congruence between them. Accessions studied for degree of divergence by RAPD profiles revealed 68.50% polymorphism for 21 primers. The highest number of fragments (10) was obtained with primer OPG 19 while OPC 18 was completely monomorphic. Primers OPB 08, OPC 20, OPE 09 and OPG 19 detected a high level of polymorphism (> 90%). Discrepancy observed at both morphological and molecular levels in the accessions emphasizes the need for specific morphological and molecular markers for discriminating these accessions

Impact of Gamma Rays on Turmeric Crop (Curcuma longa L.)

Experiments were carried out during 2000-2003 at the Department of Spices and Plantation Crops, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, to assess the impact of gamma irradiation on days to maturity, yield and curing per cent in turmeric (Curcuma longa L.). The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design with two replications. Three genotypes namely, Salem Local - G1 (CL144), Alleppy finger turmeric - G2 (CL146) and PTS 43 - G3 (CL147) were treated with seven doses of gamma rays (1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 and 4.0 kR) along with control. The plants matured earlier and yield per plant and curing percentage improved at 2.0 kR, followed by 2.5 kR, whereas, higher doses of gamma rays had a negative effect on yield and curing percentage and these higher doses prolonged maturity. Among the genotypes used, G1 (CL144) was found to show a good response to gamma irradiation

Effect of Shade and Integrated Nutrient Management on Biochemical Constituents of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.)

A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of partial shade, inorganic, organic and biofertilizers on biochemical constituents and quality of turmeric. The study was laid out in split plot design, consisting of two main plots viz., open and shade. The sub-plot treatments consisted of different doses of inorganic fertilizers, organic manures, biofertilizers and growth stimulants constituting of 40 different treatment combinations. The treatment combinations, viz., shade with application of 100 % recommended dose of NPK + 50 % FYM (15 t ha-1) + coir compost (10 t ha-1) + Azospirillum (10 kg ha-1) + phosphobacteria (10 kg ha-1) + 3 % panchagavya showed increased total chlorophyll content, total phenol content and registered the highest yield per plot. On the contrary, provision of shade decreased the curing percentage as compared to open condition. Among the quality characters, the highest curcumin (5.57 %) and essential oil (5.68 %) content were registered in the treatment, shade with application of 50 % FYM + coir compost + Azospirillum (10 kg ha-1) + phosphobacteria (10 kg ha-1) + 3 % panchagavya

Management of coriander wilt using biocontrol agents

A replicated field trial on biocontrol of coriander wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f., sp. coriander; was conducted in kharif season during 1995-96, 1996-97 and 1997-98 in the Department of Spices and Plantation Crops, Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore. Seed treatment with Trichoderma viride at 4 g kg-1 of seed was found to be more effective in reducing the wilt incidence to 5.3 per cent as against 28.3 per cent recorded in untreated, control plots in all the three years. The mean yield (387.5 kg ha-1) for all the three years was also significantly higher in seed treatment with T. viride as against very low yield (162 kg ha-1) obtained in untreated plots. The cost benefit ratio was also enhanced with the same treatment. &nbsp

Traumatic quadriceps rupture in a patient with patellectomy: a case report

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Introduction</p> <p>Acute traumatic, unilateral, quadriceps rupture after patellectomy is rare.</p> <p>Case presentation</p> <p>We present a 42-year old male who experienced a unilateral left quadriceps tendon rupture following assault by four people. Twenty-seven years before this injury, the patient had suffered ipsilateral femur and comminuted patellar fractures, which were managed by intramedullary nailing and patellectomy respectively. We performed primary end to end repair of the torn tendon. Postoperatively, histology revealed findings consistent with pre-existent degenerative changes. The patient made good recovery, and returned to his former occupation which was reliant on his ability to drive.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Degenerative changes of the tendon of the extensor mechanism of knee following patellectomy may predispose the quadriceps tendon to traumatic rupture. Early operative intervention and protracted rehabilitation are required to obtain the best functional results.</p