Latest news with #Teak
Agriland
5 days ago
- Business
- Agriland
Explainer: How do proofs fluctuate in the ICBF Active Bull List?
The most recent evaluation of the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) Active Bull List has sparked a bit of controversy among farmers as one of the most popular bulls in the country had his Economic Breeding Index (EBI) drop like a meteor. So, naturally enough, the most recent evaluations caused debate among farmers, with many looking for a bit more clarity on how these evaluation are made. Agriland highlighted these concerns among farmers with the ICBF, and asked for more clarity around how these evaluations are carried out and how bulls are assessed. The bull causing the debate is Tankardsrock Teak (FR7929), who previously held the top position on the ICBF Active Bull List prior to the most recent genetic evaluation. However, in the latest update, his ranking has dropped significantly as he fell 200 places to 201st. This decline is largely attributed to a reduction of €73 in his Fertility Sub-Index, which also impacted his Carbon Sub-Index, decreasing it by €8. The bull – which is owned by the National Cattle Breeding Centre (NCBC) – was the most used bull in the 2024 season, which demonstrates why farmers are concerned about his sudden drop in EBI from €370 in March to €287 now. How do proofs fluctuate? It was highlighted by the ICBF to Agriland that Tankardsrock Teak moved from a Genomic Proof (GS) to a Daughter Proof (DP-Irl), as daughter performance data was included in his EBI for the first time. Consequently, Teak's proof reliability increased by 13%. While daughter records are now directly contributing to his Milk Sub-Index, his fertility proof is still primarily driven by genomics and predictor traits. Predictor traits are genetically correlated with economically important traits. For example, Milk Kilograms (Milk Kg) is used as a predictor trait for Calving Interval and Survival. The ICBF highlighted that these traits serve as proxies to improve the reliability of evaluations—especially for young animals who have not yet expressed the target traits. They are important tools for making early, informed selection decisions that enhance herd productivity and profitability. So, for Tankardsrock Teak's latest evaluation, two new predictor traits were incorporated into his Fertility Sub-Index calculation for the first time, which was Age at First Calving (AFC) and Milk Kg. Teak now has 257 daughter records for AFC and 127 daughter records for Milk Kg and on average, his daughters calve 0.65 days later than their herd mates and produce 152kg more milk. While the increased milk production is genetically favourable, the strong negative genetic correlation between high milk yield and fertility contributed to the drop in his fertility index. Combined with the slightly poorer AFC performance, these factors have significantly impacted his EBI. Fertility genomics vs. reality What we can take from this data is that genomic predictions for milk performance are proving accurate, which is evident in Teak's daughters' milk yields. However, Teak's daughters will not yet have any calving interval and survival phenotypes, the traits that will make up the fertility sub-index. The ICBF confirmed that first lactation milk recording data has been obtained and given the negative association built into the evaluation between milk and fertility have caused his fertility prediction to drop. That said, there is still one remaining predictor trait yet to be included ahead of Teak receiving first parity calving interval and survival data later in the year: Calving to First Service (CFS). Interestingly, this trait has a stronger genetic correlation to fertility than both AFC and milk kg and may help recover some of the decline in his fertility sub-index once it gets integrated, so, maybe not all is lost in terms of the fertility of this bull. It is also worth noting that fertility records on later parities are also used where available so a sire will not be fully proven for fertility until his daughters that survive reach the start of their sixth lactation. To accommodate the implementation of new economic values into the EBI and the introduction of a genetic base change, the next genetic evaluation will take place in late September. Certainly, Teak is one to keep an eye on for the next evaluation as his CFS data will be incorporated and will give a better insight into his fertility performance. ICBF advice The only real practical way of overcoming these fluctuation in proofs and avoid having such a fluctuation affect the EBI and genetic merit of your herd, is to have a large bull team and not to overuse one bull in the team. The ICBF highlighted that genomics has been proven to work and is accelerating genetic progress across the dairy industry. While fluctuations in bull proofs can be concerning such as the recent changes seen with Teak, they are not unusual as similar adjustments have occurred in the past as more daughter data becomes available. To minimise the impact of these fluctuations, farmers are strongly advised to use teams of bulls when breeding replacements. No more than 15% of heifer replacements should come from any single bull. This strategy spreads risk and ensures a more balanced herd. Despite the recent drop in his Fertility Sub-Index, Teak continues to demonstrate excellent genetic merit for milk production and may be suitable bull to use on your herd. It's still too early to determine where his fertility figures will ultimately settle, particularly with additional data yet to be included in his evaluation.
Buzz Feed
20-05-2025
- General
- Buzz Feed
31 DIY Home Upgrade Products For 'Whoa'-Worthy Results
Some faux-stainless-steel contact paper to make those old appliances that haven't been replaced since the '80s feel just a tad bit newer. Reviewers say this is easy to use and easy to remove! A prismatic window film, because you enjoy a little privacy, thank you very much — but also love feeling like your home is an enchanted getaway. Reviewers like how easy it is to install and how pretty it looks when the sun shines through juuust right. Or some stick-on fluted window film that gives off a modern look and easily upgrades the space, whether it's there to give you more privacy in your office or if you want to hide away your belongings in a chic and subtle way. A TikTok-famous sunset lamp to give your space an aura-like glow. Reviewers say this gives their room a whole different vibe, and they love the 180-degree rotation that allows them to cast the light on their walls or their ceiling. A pack of three under-cabinet lights if you want to add some subtle ambiance to the underside of your cabinets instead of turning on the bright overhead light when it's time for a late-night snack. This is especially great for renters because it doesn't require any drilling! Some waterproof, stain-resistant faux marble contact paper to revive your dingy-looking desk or bleh-looking bathroom countertop. Reviewers say this is super easy to install and remove (shout out renters), and it's way cheaper than doing a full renovation project. Peel-and-stick backsplash tile that'll make it look like you put in a lot of time and effort into perfectly laying those thin little tiles when, in reality, you completed a whole backsplash in just a few hours. Or a version with that classic subway tile look if you're in the mood for a DIY project that won't take the entire weekend to finish. Reviewers say these are easy to apply and easy to cut for those areas where you have outlets. *And* while you're at it: some water-resistant, easy-to-install peel-and-stick floor tile because, unfortunately, your landlord didn't take into consideration your ~boho vibes~ when choosing the tile for your kitchen or bathroom floor. It's renter-friendly and super cute! Some decorative hinges and windows that make it *look* like you're in a high enough tax bracket to splurge on nice garage doors, only to reveal that these bad boys were installed in seconds! Some pre-made wall panels to add some extra pizzazz to your boring walls. Measuring, cutting, painting, and doing all that work yourself costs you time *and* money. These, on the other hand, are super easy to install and help you get that expensive upgraded look! Interlocking Teak tiles that turn your boring outdoor floor into a ✨beauty✨ without any major installation knowledge. These lock right in place like a puzzle, and if you decide to move, you can just lift them up and pack 'em when you leave. A set of gold cabinet pulls, which will liven up your drawers and give a nice modern touch without paying that West Elm price tag. Replace your outdated cabinet handles with these easy-to-install pulls that will look super sleek! A boob light cover because your place came with an... interesting choice for an overhead fixture, and you're aiming for something a little more aesthetic. This will make all the difference in your home, and it's easy to install. Win-win! Some wood grain tape to add to the outside of your mirrors to make them look 10x better than when you moved in on day one. Instead of buying a whole new mirror to match your aesthetic, just use this and watch how it brings a whole new vibe to your space. A peel-and-stick wallpaper if you've been dying to have an elegant accent wall in your bedroom or want to liven up the walkway for when guests arrive. No need for measuring and wallpaper paste when all you do is: 1. Peel and 2. Stick! Or a peel-and-stick wallpaper with a tile-like look to spruce up that kitchen backsplash or the boring area in your laundry room. This is renter-friendly and makes it look like you put a LOT more effort into decorating than you really did. Waterproof globe string lights so you can turn your backyard into your favorite hangout spot of the house. Whether they're lining your roof or strung across the patio, these will make your outdoor space sparkle. A velvet slipcover to zhuzh up that cheap couch from Facebook Marketplace or the bright green sofa that you got on sale (and for good reason). Plus, this comes with straps to hold it in place, so you won't have to struggle with it popping off every time you sit down or get up. Wood polish and conditioner, which targets all those worn-down, scratched, and dinged-up cabinets and tables that are starting to become a real eyesore. No need to spend boatloads of money on new furniture or replacing wood — simply rub this on, to not only refresh furniture, but to help prevent it from further drying out and cracking. A roll of faux ivy to add a touch of nature to your outdoor patio that came with an ugly wire fence. Privacy can be pretty! A nontoxic, waterproof grout pen that saves you from the headache of searching through Home Depot to figure out how to re-grout a tile floor. This precise little pen lets you simply color in the lines to give you a quick fix for that eyesore of a bathroom floor. A kitchen cabinet painting kit to do a full 180 on those old wood cabinets and transform your space. It does require some more effort, but thankfully, you won't need to do any stripping or priming. (The most painstaking parts!) A recessed light conversion kit that'll help you switch things up a bit and finally let you install those beautiful pendant lights that you've been eyeing on the RH website. A discrete cord cover if you want to hide those annoying cables that hang down from your mounted TV. It easily sticks onto the wall and makes it look so much nicer! A set of floating shelves to spruce up your empty walls and add some extra storage for plants, knick-knacks, or most-used kitchen ingredients. Reviewers say these are super easy to install and are very sturdy (enough to hold up to 22 pounds!). A set of removable tile decals so even your boring ol' stairs can get a little revamp when you're turning your new apartment into a full-on home with some personality. A roll of rattan cane webbing in the event you find an absolute gem with great potential on FB Marketplace and want to revamp it to match your home's aesthetic. This, plus a little paint and some new hardware, will make you feel like you've got Anthropologie-worthy pieces in your place! Front door paint if you've always wanted to be the house on the street with the iconic red door. There's a variety of colors to choose from, but whichever one you go with, you'll be glad that this adds a fun pop of color to your home. Brick whitewash paint that transforms your fireplace with very little effort. It'll liven up your living room and bring a modern touch to your outdated brick fireplace. A removable arch wall decal to add a little character to your plain white walls without having to take a trip to Home Depot or Lowe's, and figuring out which colors will actually work well together. Whether you put it in your living room or use it as a "faux" headboard in your bedroom, it'll look super cute!
India.com
11-05-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
Ira Dubey Honors Her Mother With Eco-Friendly Gesture This Mother's Day
New Delhi: Actor Ira Dubey, known for her powerful performances on stage and screen, marked Mother's Day with a heartfelt tribute to her mother and renowned theatre and film personality, Lillete Dubey. In collaboration with the social enterprise Ira dedicated 100 trees to her mother as part of the organization's Trees for Farmers initiative in Baran, Rajasthan. The trees, which include region-appropriate species such as Amla, Teak, Guava, and Ber, aim to boost local biodiversity and improve rural livelihoods. The project is designed to enhance groundwater recharge, provide fodder for livestock, curb soil erosion, and generate employment for local communities. Ira Dubey, whose artistic repertoire spans acclaimed plays like Womanly Voices, 30 Days in September, and August: Osage County, as well as films such as Aisha and Dear Zindagi, expressed deep appreciation for the initiative. 'This Mother's Day, what can be better than nourishing the earth that sustains us with such generosity?' said Dubey. 'These 100 trees are also a perfect gift for my mother, who has spent a lifetime nurturing talent in theatre and planting seeds of creativity and joy. I hope more people join me in dedicating trees and making a contribution towards creating a healthier planet.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ira Dubey (@iradubey) has announced plans to plant over 20,000 trees in the 2025–26 financial year through the initiative, reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability and community upliftment.
Hindustan Times
06-05-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Amazon Sale ends soon! Grab top discounts of up to 70% off on wardrobes across all styles with our best picks
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Time of India
01-05-2025
- General
- Time of India
A tale of two trees
Whilst travelling in Garhwal hills near Lansdowne , recently I was again attracted to the beauty of the pine trees ,uniformly spread over the hills. The smell of pine in addition to its look is distinct. There is variety too in pine , I was amazed to see a pine spread out like a Mango tree at one place , though most are of conical shape. However if one examines the utility of this seemingly beautiful tree it is limited. It secretes gum( resin) from its trunk which sadly remains wounded with axe marks to stimulate secretion. The 'Resin' is used in preparation of tar for road construction, the wood is used in making of furniture but is of lower variety and no match to Teak, Saal or Shisham etc. The thin leaves are of no use to cattle and shed regularly to create a slippery layer which is dangerous in hill trekking , specially when wet. Moreover it consumes lot of water. In contrast is the grey oak/Indian oak tree commonly called 'Baanj' which is also found in these heights, it does not bear any fruit ,carries ordinary look, gawky appearance, its leaves are of dull green colour, to add to its woes is its name 'Baanj' referred in North India for women who are unable to bear children. An insulting term , uttered in loud whispers by jealous friends, ambitious Mother-in-laws and spoilt Sister-in-laws ( Nanads ). This is burden of feudal India where women were (are?) considered as commodities , primarily for producing children and if any one failed even owing to biological inadequacy of her husband the poor lady carried the burden of being referred to as 'baanj'. However despite its dull look it is preferred by the villagers and community at large as it is a rich source of water. It retains water in its roots and it is common to see a small but regular water stream near a cluster of 'Baanj' trees. It is a saying in hills that where ever you see baanj there will be water. Its leaves are also eaten by cattle .Compared to 'Baanj', pine consumes a lot of water and the initiators of this disastrous practice in hills were the Britishers. They encouraged growth of pine as it looked beautiful and its wood was utilized indiscriminately in timber trade using the rivers in hills for transportation . Despite being innovators in Science their sense of environment was grossly faulty. Pine tree though was existing in these hills along with other tree varieties but it was the English who increased its plantation for ,it is said that if one plants pine in an acre area soon it expands to five! In comparison Oak grows slow . Once the English had set their eyes on these lucrative trees they set factories to process resin for tar for road construction . Large tracks of slopes near Dehradun and Kalsi were cut to send wood for rail track etc during the first world war! The hills are barren still as new trees find it difficult to grow in slopes. Even 'Meera Bahen' whose Ashram was situated near Rishikesh had complained to the British Government for their policy to encourage plantation of 'Pine ' instead of other productive and harmonious variety of trees . The nature's analogy restores the belief that 'beauty is but skin deep', but we tend to glorify appearance ! Akin to the two variety of trees that dominate the landscape of Uttarakhand there are two varieties of people , cultures , ideology , outlook and economy too! The 'oak people' live in the villages , scantly populated and yet aspiring to emerge out of their daily sweat and toil . They may add marginally to GDP but are sentinels of the borders . The 'pine people' live in safe towns where 'buzz and business' prevails and which we are converting to 'smart cities' , where concrete is sought and worshipped. The 'Oak economy' is the village economy which once survived on 'money orders' of the soldiers to home and family and now sustains on the income of their fathers and husbands who work in distant cities . There are villages of prosperity in agriculture turned around by consistent hard-work and perseverance , but few . The 'pine economy' is built on the cutting of hills to make large hotels and highways and destroying the few cities which were earlier quiet and peaceful stations to retire and spend time with friends. The villages which expected attention when the new state was carved out of Uttar Pradesh are ignored and abandoned , some are called 'ghost villages'. The 'oak culture' is the culture of the region , the language of the region , the song of the region , the dance of the region – sweet and scarce, and soft and serene , not loud and all pervasive and incessant which has creeped and seeped from distance far. The heart and soul of the hill state rests in the villages snuggled in inaccessible locations. There is a simple and robust feature of Uttarakhand represented by the officers and soldiers of the Garhwal Rifles and Kumaon Regiment ; there regimental centres are located in Lansdowne and Ranikhet. The society and culture of the villages which feeds these centres is much influenced and dependent on these Regimental centres and it is the dream of the vast majority of young men to join the Armed forces . Their needs are few and limited and the love for the Armed forces is sincere and runs deep. The beacon of hope, the moral compass and figure of veneration are the women who reside in these villages ; distant , remote , far away from the metal road, still seen carrying grass for cattle or wood for fuel on their head . They nurture their hardy boys and girls in difficult circumstances . They suffer separation, distance , loneliness , cold, remoteness , vagaries of weather , scarcity , social contact and yet they smile as you pass by and consider you their own , never are suspicious of your intentions . These women who are the guardians of hills are akin to those oak groves which provide wide branches stretched like protective arms , as if to convey that 'we are with you in thick and thin'. Women in hills tie sacred thread around trees to seek their blessings and protection , but they never tie the thread around the pine tree! The speed of the 'pine economy ' is fast and it conquers its neighbours and all that opposes on the way . An elite , well fed and well bred are its sponsors as it looks for quick and easy gains . This is evident and visible in 'religious tourism ' where air services , ariel trollies are being launched and the foot-tracks since yore which bear the footprints of our ancestors and seers are untraceable . Pilgrimage is being considered as an achievement to 'tom -tom' rather a path to purity and salvation . The 'Oak youth' seek education in schools and colleges near their villages , mostly Government schools with modest and moderate means . They seek higher education in Government universities and join the Army of unemployed. The 'Pine student' manages to obtain admission in privileged and popular private university on the basis of the loan which their parents have obtained with difficulty . They somehow complete their education under the constant threat of EMI lapse and join private firms at modest salary . Many flood the urban streets of Uttarakhand and wait for their good fortune to smile . There are people who participated in the 'Chipko movement' and for the formation of 'Uttarakhand' and those who recently came out in streets and halted cutting of trees in New Cantt in Dehradun . There are also people pursuing the fast 'four lane express highway' between Dehradun – New Delhi reaching in two and half hours by cutting thousands of trees on its way . To sum it up , the 'pine road' is a mirage unattainable . The 'oak road ' is the Truth road of trust and worthiness . The songs of Narendra Singh Negi and 'Girda' are its Record keepers and oral history , it desires little and takes little but gives in abundance. Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email Disclaimer Views expressed above are the author's own.
