Variation in cone and seed characters in blue pine (Pinus wallichiana) across natural distribution in western Himalayas

We analyzed 17 seed sources （seed stands） ofPinus wallichiana for variations present in cone and seed characters, scattered over natural distribution in north-west Himalayan states （Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh） of India. The significant variations were observed in cone weight, cone length, cone width, seed length, seed width, seed weight, seed germination, radicle length, and plumule length among different seed sources of the species. Significant positive correlation between seed weight, cone weight and cone width showed that seed weight in the species depend more on the cone size. Seed germination was also positively correlated with seed weight, cone weight and radicle length in the study. The estimates of variability with regard to genetic parameters for seed weight, seed germination, cone length, cone width, cone weight showed wide range of variation in the study. Seed weight showed high heritability values coupled with maximum genetic gain. Traits with such values indicate presence of good amount of heritable additive components and are under strong genetic control. The findings of the study revealed that seed sources expressed both phenotypic and genotypic differences in the seed and cone traits which might be due to the differences in genetic make up of various seed sources and environmental factors i,e. genotypic and environmental interaction, The study suggests that the seed weight should be given the top priority for the further improvement of this species.

Effect of Instant Asparagus Powder on Sleeping Disorder

[Objective] This study was to evaluate the efficacy of instant asparagus powder, a functional food made of asparagus, for improving sleep quality. [Method] A total of 60 volunteers were selected, and each of them consumed two bags of instant asparagus powder （24 g） once a day for 60 consecutive days. Then, the sleep quality of the volunteers was evaluated. At the same time, the safety indices and insomnia-related endocrine indices were determined. [Result] Instant asparagus powder significantly increased the sleep time of sleep disorders from 5.1 to 6.1 h, shortened the time to fall asleep from 50.4 to 25.3 rain, and reduced the time to fall asleep after being awake from 46.5 h to 19.5 h. The differences before and af- ter the consumption of instant asparagus powder were significant （P〈0.05）. The sat- isfaction of sleep quality was high. Instant asparagus powder had good safety with- out liver and kidney function influence. Instant asparagus powder could reduce the levels of cortisol and norepinepthrine and increase the levels of serotonin and dopamine. [Conclusion] Instant asparagus powder could improve the quality of sleep, characterized by safety and effectiveness. The sleep quality-improving effect of in- stant asparagus powder might be related to the regulation of HPA axis or the regu- lation of serotonin secretion.