Journal of Scientific Research and Reports

Association of Level of Uric Acid in Pregnancy and it’s Connection of Increase Gouty Arthritis in Women with Gestational Diabetes

A. S. Abdullahi — 2026-04-24

Uric acid is the principal end-product of purine metabolism in man and the primary biochemical requirement for the development of clinical gout is hyperuricemia. Prevalence of gout in women who are in their reproductive age is rare and only a few studies were carried out previously to investigate hyperuricemia in pregnancy. In this study, serum uric acid level was studied in 300 pregnant women attending Turai Yar’adua Women and Children Hospital Katsina. The blood glucose level of the women was also determined to check for gestational diabetes and whether there exist any correlation between blood glucose level and serum urate level. All the women recruited for this study were confirmed to be apparently healthy and were not previously diagnosed with diabetes or gouty arthritis. The results of the study obtained revealed that pregnancy is associated hyperuricemia. An average of 344.23±27.24aµmol/L for 1st trimester, 394.22±12.14aµmol/L for 2nd trimester and 455.40±11.52b µmol/L for 3rd trimester serum uric acid level was observed in pregnant women compared to the standard reference range of 380µmol/L for women. Increased serum uric acid level was observed with increased age of pregnancy; thus highest serum urate levels was observed in the third trimester as compared to the first and second trimesters. No correlation was observed between age of pregnant women and serum urate level or blood glucose level. However, slight correlation was observed between blood glucose level and serum uric acid level in most pregnant women with high blood glucose level suggesting a link between hyperglycemia and hyperuricemia. Findings from this study indicate that women diagnosed with gouty arthritis may risk experiencing gout flares when they are pregnant, particularly in their third trimester. Similarly, diabetic women may likely experience hyperuricemia and possibly gestational gouty arthritis during their pregnancy.

Evaluation of Okra Varieties/Genotypes for Whitefly Tolerance

Gita Jadav — 2026-04-25

Okra is a heat-loving, short-duration crop suited to warm climates and mainly grown during the kharif and summer seasons, fitting well into multiple cropping systems while providing quick economic returns, and is primarily cultivated for its tender pods widely used in various culinary preparations. To determine the best okra cultivar that can withstand the whitefly (Bemisia tabaci Gennadius). Thus, the current study, "Evaluation of Okra Varieties/Genotypes for Whitefly Tolerance," was conducted in the summer of 2023–2024 and 2024–2025. Sixteen okra varieties/genotypes were used in a randomized complete block design experiment. According to the results, none of the genotypes or varieties were found to be immune or resistant to whitefly infestation. The results revealed that the minimum whitefly population was recorded in varieties/genotypes GNO-1 (3.13 whiteflies/3 leaves), IPS-1 (4.16 whiteflies/3 leaves) and Parbhani Kranti (4.34 whiteflies/3 leaves). While, the maximum whitefly population were recorded in Pusa Sawani (11.32 whiteflies/3 leaves) and IPS-9 (10.68 whiteflies/3 leaves). Among the evaluated genotypes of okra, GNO-1 exhibited the highest level of resistance compared to the other tested varieties.

Perception of Stakeholders towards Preference of Gladiolus Varieties

Divya Parimi — 2026-05-09

Gladiolus is one of the most important flower crops grown commercially in different parts of India. Production of Gladiolus in India is estimated to be 259.77 thousand tonnes in 2021-22. The study aims to study the perception of stakeholders towards the preference for gladiolus varieties. The present study was conducted in the Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Dr P. D. K. V. Akola, Maharashtra, with an exploratory design of social research. The data was collected, examined, classified, quantified and tabulated by personally interviewing the randomly selected stakeholders, where the selected stakeholders comprise four different categories: flower growers, shopkeepers, consumers and university scientists, where each category consists of 40 members, making a total sample size of 160. A well-structured interview schedule was used to gather first-hand information from the respondents. A total of 24 varieties belonging to five colours of Gladiolus were selected for the study to assess the preference and perception of stakeholders. Arka Kesar variety in orange colour was preferred by all the stakeholders, whereas in yellow colour varieties, university scientists preferred P.D.K.V.Gold variety, and all others preferred Yellow stone variety. Arka Naveen's variety in purple colour was preferred by all the stakeholders. The perception was calculated on a three-point scale of agree (3), undecided (2) and disagree (3). The findings revealed that the majority of flower growers (53.33%), shopkeepers (56.66%), and consumers (66.66%) had a medium level of perception, while the largest proportion of university scientists (43.34%) had a medium level of perception towards preference for Gladiolus varieties. To further strengthen the Gladiolus sector, it is recommended to intensify the promotion and targeted dissemination of favoured cultivars, implement customised awareness and capacity-building programs for all stakeholder categories, and organise collaborative demonstration trials to facilitate participatory evaluation.

Open Educational Resources (OERs) for Teaching Insect Morphology and Taxonomy: A Review

Dwarka — 2026-04-25

Open Educational Resources (OERs) have emerged as transformative tools in the landscape of science education, especially in fields like entomology, where high-quality imagery, interactive modules and taxonomic keys are vital. Insect morphology and taxonomy, a cornerstone in understanding insect biodiversity, ecology and pest management, requires robust pedagogical tools. This review explores the global scenario of OERs available for teaching insect morphology and taxonomy, analyzes their effectiveness, accessibility and pedagogical integration and identifies gaps and future directions. The review synthesizes literature from educational repositories, scientific journals and government databases, and provides a comprehensive critique of available platforms such as BugGuide, Morphbank, iNaturalist, Lucid Keys and others. The study also highlights the need for localized, multilingual and curriculum-aligned OERs to enhance teaching outcomes in entomology.

Boosting Reproductive Efficiency in Livestock: Management Strategies and Approaches

Suraj Koujalagi — 2026-04-27

Reproductive efficiency is a fundamental determinant of productivity, economic viability, and sustainability in livestock production systems. Optimal reproductive performance ensures regular calving or parturition intervals, maximizes lifetime output per breeding female, and accelerates genetic improvement. Declines in fertility are associated with extended days open, increased services per conception, higher culling rates, and elevated production costs. This review synthesizes current knowledge on livestock production management approaches aimed at improving reproductive efficiency across major species, including cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, swine, and poultry. Key determinants such as genetic selection, crossbreeding, genomic tools, nutritional management during critical physiological stages, herd health programs, housing design, environmental control, and assisted reproductive technologies are critically examined. Strategic feeding during pre-pubertal growth, transition period management, mineral and vitamin supplementation, and maintenance of optimal body condition score are highlighted as essential nutritional interventions. Advances in artificial insemination, estrus synchronization, fixed-time AI, embryo transfer, in vitro fertilization, and sexed semen technology have significantly enhanced reproductive outcomes and genetic gain. Precision livestock farming, sensor-based estrus detection, and data-driven decision-support systems further improve breeding efficiency and economic returns. Persistent challenges, including climate stress, emerging reproductive diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and technological accessibility constraints, are discussed in the context of sustainable livestock development. Integration of genetic, nutritional, environmental, and health management strategies, supported by digital innovations and evidence-based practices, is essential to achieve consistent improvements in reproductive performance. A holistic and multidisciplinary approach will be critical for strengthening livestock resilience, reducing environmental footprint, and meeting the growing global demand for animal-source foods.

Management Strategies for Coriander Wilt Disease: Role of Fungicides and Biocontrol Agents

Vijay Kumar — 2026-05-05

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.), popularly known as ‘dhania’, is one of the oldest seed spices used by mankind that belongs to the family ‘Apiaceae’, synonym to ‘Umbelliferae’. Wilt disease of coriander, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. coriander, poses a major threat to crop productivity worldwide. This review synthesises current knowledge on chemical and biological strategies for the effective management of coriander wilt. Fungicides remain effective in reducing disease incidence, though concerns about resistance and environmental impact limit their long-term use. Biocontrol agents, including Trichoderma spp., Pseudomonas fluorescens, and mycorrhizal fungi, offer sustainable alternatives by suppressing pathogen growth and enhancing plant defence. Integrated disease management approaches combining fungicides with biocontrol agents have demonstrated encouraging results in both greenhouse and field experiments, offering improved disease suppression and enhanced crop performance. Recent advances in molecular and biotechnological tools have further contributed to a better understanding of host–pathogen interactions and the mechanisms underlying biological control, thereby supporting the development of more effective management strategies. Despite considerable progress, significant research gaps remain, particularly in relation to large-scale field validation, formulation stability, and commercialisation of biocontrol products. Future research should therefore focus on developing eco-friendly, cost-effective, and farmer-accessible technologies for sustainable coriander cultivation. Overall, this review emphasises the importance of integrated management strategies for the long-term and environmentally sound control of coriander wilt.

Artificial Intelligence in Genomics: Transforming the Future of Biological Discovery: A Review

Bikrant Jeet Sarmah — 2026-05-12

Artificial intelligence has become one of the most consequential methodological developments in contemporary genomics because it offers ways to learn complex biological patterns from genome sequences, population-scale variation catalogues, functional genomic assays, single-cell profiles, epigenomic maps, protein-structure resources and clinical molecular datasets. This review examines how artificial intelligence is transforming biological discovery across the genomic sciences. It considers the progression from classical machine learning to deep learning, transformer-based foundation models, graph-based integration and generative modelling, with particular emphasis on sequence interpretation, variant calling, functional annotation, regulatory genomics, protein structure prediction, single-cell analysis, multi-omics integration, genome editing and genomic medicine. The review argues that artificial intelligence is changing genomics from a mainly descriptive and catalogue-building discipline into a more predictive, integrative and hypothesis-generating science. However, it also stresses that artificial intelligence cannot substitute for biological reasoning, experimental validation or clinically governed interpretation. Major challenges include limited interpretability, technical artefacts, data leakage, ancestry bias, underrepresentation of many global populations, privacy risk, reproducibility concerns and the difficulty of translating benchmark performance into clinical utility. Future progress will depend on more diverse genomic datasets, transparent benchmarking, pangenome-aware modelling, biologically interpretable architectures, stronger links between prediction and perturbation experiments, and governance systems that protect individuals and communities while enabling responsible data sharing. Properly used, artificial intelligence can accelerate discovery across molecular biology, disease genetics and precision medicine, but its value will depend on how rigorously predictions are validated and how fairly genomic benefits are distributed.

Digital Agriculture and Smart Farming: A Review of Emerging Technologies and Their Adoption Barriers

N. K. Singh — 2026-05-14

The integration of digital agriculture and smart farming technologies represents a transformative evolution in modern agronomy, offering unprecedented solutions to the intertwined crises of global food security, climate change, and resource depletion. This comprehensive review article critically examines the landscape of emerging technological innovations—including the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and blockchain—and their profound impact on optimizing agricultural productivity. By transitioning from traditional, intuition-based practices to precision-driven, data-centric methodologies, smart farming facilitates the precise management of crucial inputs such as water, fertilizers, and pesticides, thereby enhancing the yields of staple crops like Zea mays and Glycine max. Despite these proven agronomic and environmental benefits, the global diffusion of digital agriculture remains highly uneven. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the formidable adoption barriers that impede the proliferation of smart farming, with a specialized focus on the Indian agricultural context. In India, where the sector is dominated by smallholder farmers with fragmented landholdings, the transition is significantly hindered by severe economic constraints, a lack of robust rural digital infrastructure, and pervasive digital illiteracy. Furthermore, the absence of standardized data governance policies and localized, language-accessible software platforms exacerbates the technological divide. Through a thorough synthesis of current literature, this paper identifies the critical bottlenecks in technology transfer and highlights the urgent necessity for cohesive policy interventions. By mapping both the technological potential and the socioeconomic limitations, this review aims to guide policymakers, agritech developers, and agricultural stakeholders in formulating targeted strategies to accelerate the inclusive adoption of digital agriculture in developing economies

Integrated Agronomic Approaches for Enhancing Soil Health and Crop Performance

Pragya Pandey — 2026-05-15

The degradation of soil health and stagnant crop productivity represent significant threats to the foundation of 21st-century Indian agriculture. Decades of reliance on high-input cropping systems have compromised the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of the soil, seriously hampering the long-term sustainability of agricultural operations. In this critical context, the implementation of integrated agronomic approaches—including integrated nutrient management (INM), conservation agriculture, crop diversification, biofertilizer application, green manuring, and biochar amendments—offers a science-based pathway for restoring soil health and increasing productivity. Long-term field experiments conducted across diverse agro-climatic zones, such as the Indo-Gangetic Plains and the Deccan Plateau, provide strong evidence that these integrated systems can increase soil organic carbon by 45–70%, improve nutrient availability by 35–55%, and boost microbial biomass carbon by 65–95% compared to traditional methods. These strategies also yield substantial improvements in physical soil structure and crop performance. For instance, conservation tillage and residue retention have been shown to reduce soil bulk density by 12–18% while increasing water retention capability by 35–50%. Consequently, crop yields under integrated management systems are 25–45% higher than control plots across major grain, pulse, and oilseed crops. Beyond biological and physical benefits, these systems are economically superior; integrated nutrient management and conservation agriculture typically achieve higher benefit-cost (B:C) ratios, ranging from 1.87 to 2.29, compared to just 1.52 for conventional farming. Ultimately, shifting toward these site-specific, integrated management protocols is essential for reversing the ongoing depletion of essential soil minerals and ensuring a resilient agricultural future for India.

Soil Health and Sustainable Practices in Horticultural Systems: A Global Perspective

Pavan Shukla — 2026-05-16

Soil health is the fundamental cornerstone of sustainable horticultural production, yet escalating global demand has intensified pressure on limited soil resources, leading to the deterioration of physical, chemical, and biological properties. This paper explores soil health dynamics across global horticultural systems, with a particular focus on the Indian context. It analyzes the interplay between soil organic carbon (SOC), microbial biodiversity, and crop productivity across conventional, integrated, and organic management paradigms. Evidence from long-term field experiments indicates that Integrated Nutrient Management (INM)—specifically combining 75% of the recommended mineral fertilizer dose with organic amendments like vermicompost and biofertilizer inoculation—provides the optimal trade-off between productivity and conservation. Key sustainable practices reviewed include: Cover Cropping: Utilizing legumes like Sesbania aculeata to fix 90–130 kg N ha⁻¹ and add significant biomass. Biochar Application: Enhancing SOC sequestration and water-holding capacity through pyrolyzed biomass. Microbial Inoculants: Harnessing Pseudomonas, Bacillus, and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) to facilitate nutrient uptake and pathogen suppression. Mulching: Employing organic and living mulches to regulate temperature and improve moisture retention by up to 50%. The paper further evaluates global policy frameworks, such as India’s Soil Health Card scheme, the EU’s Farm to Fork Strategy, and US NRCS programs. Synthesizing data from over 50 peer-reviewed publications, this work presents a framework for transitioning to knowledge-intensive systems. It highlights emerging frontiers like digital soil mapping, microbiome engineering, and precision nutrient management as essential tools for sustaining ecological health and food security in diverse agro-ecological zones.

Pathogenicity and Integrated Management of Colletotrichum capsici [Syd. (Butler and Bisby)] Causing Anthracnose of Betelvine (Piper betle L.)

Pinki Pinki — 2026-04-24

Disease development is largely governed by physiological and nutritional factors that influence fungal growth, sporulation, and pathogenicity. Excessive dependence on fungicides has raised concerns regarding environmental safety and resistance. Therefore, understanding pathogen biology along with evaluation of botanicals and fungicides is essential for developing sustainable disease management strategies. An in vitro study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of botanicals and fungicides against Colletotrichum capsici, the causal agent of anthracnose of betelvine, using the poisoned food technique. Seven botanicals were tested at 2.5, 5 and 10 per cent concentrations. All botanicals significantly inhibited mycelial growth over the control, with datura showing maximum inhibition of 15.70, 30.09 and 37.17 per cent at 2.5, 5, and 10 per cent concentrations, respectively. At 10 per cent, bryophyllum, neem, tulsi, and garlic recorded 30.75, 22.57, 20.79 and 16.59 per cent inhibition respectively. Seven fungicides were evaluated at 100–1000 ppm. Propiconazole 25% EC caused 100 per cent inhibition at all concentrations. At 100 ppm, copper oxychloride, tebuconazole + trifloxystrobin, and carbendazim + mancozeb showed 87.17, 73.89, and 72.34 per cent inhibition, respectively, while Mancozeb 75% WP recorded 85.61 per cent inhibition at 1000 ppm. Among fungicides, propiconazole 25% EC caused complete inhibition at all concentrations, whereas copper oxychloride and combination fungicides were also highly effective at higher doses. The results support the integration of eco-friendly botanicals with effective fungicides for sustainable management of anthracnose of betelvine.

Road and Bridge Infrastructure in Synchronising Education Outcomes and Economic Development in Rural Zimbabwe: Evidence from Marembera Primary School, UMP Zvataida Ditrict, Mashonaland East Province

Gerald Munyoro — 2026-04-24

Transport infrastructure, particularly roads and bridges, is a critical determinant of rural development, facilitating access to education, markets, and essential services. In Zimbabwe, inadequate transport networks in rural districts continue to constrain school attendance, academic performance, and economic participation. This study examines the role of roads and bridges in synchronising educational and economic outcomes, using Marembera Primary School in UMP Zvataida Rural District, Mashonaland East Province, as a case study. A mixed-methods design was employed, combining household surveys (n=120), semi-structured interviews with teachers (n=10) and learners (n=50), school performance records, focus group discussions, and observational data. Quantitative analysis revealed that mean school attendance declined from 90% in the dry season to 70% during the rainy season due to impassable roads and unbridged river crossings, while regression analysis indicated that improved accessibility increased attendance probability by 18% (R² = 0.42). Attendance was strongly correlated with academic performance (r = 0.61), with higher attendance associated with improved Grade 7 examination outcomes. Economic analysis showed that households with reliable road access reported a 50% higher average monthly income, which enabled greater investment in educational needs. Qualitative data highlighted the mediating roles of teacher absenteeism, limited resources, and institutional capacity in shaping learning outcomes. Findings indicate that transport infrastructure acts as a synchronising mechanism linking education and local economic development, but its impact is contingent on complementary interventions in school resourcing and socio-economic support. The study proposes an integrated rural infrastructure–education–development model, emphasising the need for climate-resilient, context-specific planning. Policy implications underscore that targeted infrastructure improvements, aligned with educational and economic strategies, can foster sustainable rural development in Zimbabwe and similar Sub-Saharan contexts.

Assessment of Hydrological Response and Parameter Sensitivity in the Jonk Sub-Basin Using SWAT-CUP

Anjali Khandekar — 2026-04-24

This study assesses the hydrological response of the Jonk sub-basin using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) integrated with Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques. The model was developed using spatial inputs such as Digital Elevation Model (DEM), land use/land cover, and soil data, along with climatic parameters including precipitation and temperature, while SWAT-CUP was employed for calibration, validation, and sensitivity analysis. The model exhibited satisfactory performance, with calibration results showing good agreement between observed and simulated streamflow (R² = 0.83, NSE = 0.82) and validation results (R² = 0.84, NSE = 0.88), indicating reliable predictive capability. Sensitivity analysis revealed that HRU_SLP.hru, GWQMN.gw, and OV_N.hru are the most influential parameters governing runoff, emphasizing the role of slope, groundwater threshold, and surface characteristics. SWAT-CUP is an effective tool for hydrological model calibration, validation, and uncertainty analysis, enhancing simulation accuracy and supporting sustainable watershed management and water resource planning.

Digital Resilience and Foresight Integration Model (DRFIM) for Strengthening Sustainable Education Systems in Rural Zimbabwe: Insights from Cheunje Secondary School, Murewa Rural District, Mash East Province

Gerald Munyoro — 2026-04-24

Education systems globally are increasingly challenged by rapid digital transformation, environmental uncertainty, and persistent socio-economic inequalities, particularly in rural contexts. In Zimbabwe, these pressures are acutely experienced in marginalized areas where infrastructural deficits, energy instability, and limited digital capacity constrain effective teaching and learning. This study investigates how digital resilience and strategic foresight can be integrated to strengthen sustainable education systems, focusing on Cheunje Secondary School in Murewa Rural District. Anchored in systems theory, anticipatory governance, and digital resilience theory, the study adopts a qualitative case study design to explore institutional responses to disruption. Data were collected from 40 purposively selected stakeholders, including teachers, school leaders, parents, and community members, using interviews, focus groups, observations, and document analysis. Thematic analysis, complemented by foresight-based scenario reflection, was employed to identify key patterns and emerging insights. Findings reveal that digital fragility, energy insecurity, and limited foresight in leadership significantly hinder the integration of digital technologies in rural schools. However, adaptive practices such as mobile-based learning, community partnerships, and informal teacher training demonstrate localized resilience and innovation. The study further highlights strong interdependencies between infrastructure, governance, and energy systems, underscoring the need for holistic approaches to educational transformation. In response, the study proposes the Digital Resilience and Foresight Integration Model (DRFIM), a comprehensive framework that integrates foresight capabilities, digital resilience systems, and adaptive governance to enhance institutional sustainability. The model provides actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners by emphasizing proactive planning, inclusive digital ecosystems, and community engagement. Ultimately, the study contributes to advancing context-sensitive strategies for achieving resilient, equitable, and future-ready education systems in rural Zimbabwe and similar settings.

Assessment of Professional Skill Inventory and Gap Identification among Extension Personnel

Anjali Singh — 2026-04-25

In an effort to identify specific training needs that are frequently overlooked by more comprehensive assessments, this study provides a rough assessment of the skills inventory and skill development requirements of extension professionals. It does this by breaking down advanced digital competencies essential to effective e-Extension services in the Indian context. Professionals with both contemporary digital and technical abilities and strong interpersonal skills are now essential for agricultural extension to be effective. The study was conducted in the Mau district of Uttar Pradesh using an ex post facto research design. Thirty extension workers from government organizations were chosen by purposeful random sampling and given a pre-tested, structured questionnaire to complete. Frequency, percentage, and Pearson's correlation coefficient were used to examine the results. The findings revealed that the majority of respondents were young, well-educated (66.67% were postgraduates; 50% had one year of experience), and had high interpersonal and communication skills (more than 90% reported strengths in listening, counseling, and problem-solving). There are significant gaps in advanced digital competencies, as evidenced by the fact that just 33.33% of respondents could design basic webpages, 20% had a basic understanding of coding, 10% had produced mobile apps, and 100% were unfamiliar with version control systems. Importantly, the study shows that although job experience and education are positively correlated with overall professional skills, they do not significantly reduce advanced digital skill gaps. This highlights a critical disconnect and emphasizes the special need for targeted ICT training separate from general professional development. Overall, the results emphasize the necessity of ongoing, rapid, practical ICT-focused training to build digital capacities and improve the efficacy and applicability of extension programs. This paper is significant because it tackles the increased demand for digital competence among rural extension workers in e-Extension. It identifies critical skill gaps, promotes future training and policy formulation, and serves as a solid framework for additional research on workforce preparedness, technology uptake, and capacity building in extension systems.

Constraints Faced by the Farm Women of Udaipur District in Adoption of Solar Cooker

Priyanka Bhati — 2026-04-27

Background: India has always been a victim of limited energy and the pollution created by the use of fossil fuels to conquer the problems of energy conservation; solar energy is the safest alternative to other cooking fuels. A solar cooker is a device that uses the thermal energy of the sun to cook food.

Objectives: The present study attempted to study the adoption of solar cookers by the farm women, which was distributed under the All India coordinated research project- Women in agriculture, Bhubaneshwar (Odissa) in Udaipur district, Rajasthan, India. Constraints are a component of the research study which has been discussed in this paper.

Methods: The present investigation was done in Udaipur district, Rajasthan. Out of 20 panchyat samiti of Udaipur one panchayat samiti i.e., Badgaon was selected purposively as this area was covering under Nutri Smart Village programme of AICRP on women in agriculture, MPUAT. Out of all panchayat samitis of Udaipur district, Badgown was selected purposively as this area was covered under Nutri Smart Village programme of AICRP on women in agriculture, MPUAT. From the selected panchayat samiti all five NSV adopted were selected purposively. The total sample size of the study was 100 farm women (20 from each village). The researcher employed the personal interview technique to get the necessary data.

Results and Discussion: The results revealed that constraints faced by the respondents was personal constraint (53.83%), operational constraint (53.37%), and financial constraint (6.75%), some other constraints were also found out during the investigation i.e., animal attack (15%), over -cooked food (25%), insufficient amount of sunlight in house (18%), and lack of interest (37%). The findings clearly indicate that farm women require more frequent and well-structured training programs to understand the operational aspects and benefits of solar cookers. Awareness campaigns and regular extension activities are essential to educate them about the health hazards associated with conventional cooking fuels, including respiratory problems and environmental degradation.

Conclusion: To encourage the respondents to adopt solar cookers in future by overcoming the constraints faced by the respondents. Community-based approaches, such as involving self-help groups (SHGs) and local leaders, can further enhance acceptance and diffusion of the technology. With sustained efforts in training, awareness, and support systems, a positive change in the attitude of farm women can be achieved, leading to increased adoption of solar cookers and contributing to a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future.

Effect of Vermicompost on Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Crop Prepared from Different Organic Substrates

Ashok Singh — 2026-04-27

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a major staple crop, and its sustainable productivity depends on balanced use of NPK along with eco-friendly and organic inputs to maintain soil health and avoid nutrient deficiencies caused by excessive chemical use. A field experiment was conducted at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra Bamanwara farm during the rabi season 2025-26 to evaluate the activity of earthworms on different substrates (FYM, Crop residues and kitchen waste) and its effect on the growth of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) A total 8 treatments of different organic substrates were used for to record the activity of earthworms @ 3000 earthworms per bed was released on same time. The prepared vermicompost were applied in the field conditions with three replications. The maximum activity of earthworms was recorded in T₁ (100 % cow dung) followed by T₃ (Cow Dung + Buffalo Dung) and T₂ (100% Buffalo Dung). The lowest activity was recorded T₅(Buffalo Dung + Crop Residues) and T₄ (Cow Dung + Crop Residues) after the Control (100 % FYM). The results revealed that the maximum growth of plants in terms of plant height, no. of tillers and biological yields was maximum in T₁ (100 % cow dung) followed by T₃ (Cow Dung + Buffalo Dung) and T₂ (100% Buffalo Dung) while lowest plant growth was recorded in T₅(Buffalo Dung + Crop Residues) and T₄ (Cow Dung + Crop Residues) after the Control (100 % FYM). Percent increase in the grain yield over the control was 40.91 in T1 (100 % cow dung).

Beyond Economic Growth: A Multidimensional Index-based Analysis of Sustainable Livelihood Security in India

Manoj Kumar Dara — 2026-04-27

Background: Rural India is characterized by significant spatial disparities in economic opportunities, social development, and ecological sustainability, which collectively influence the resilience of livelihood systems. Despite sustained economic growth, rural livelihoods continue to face challenges arising from resource degradation, infrastructural gaps, and uneven access to human and physical capital. This necessitates a multidimensional assessment framework to better understand livelihood security beyond income-based measures.

Aims: The study aims to construct a Sustainable Livelihood Security Index (SLSI) and assess inter-state variations in livelihood security across India, while examining the relative contribution of ecological, economic, and social dimensions in shaping overall livelihood outcomes.

Study Design: The study adopts a quantitative, index-based analytical framework using secondary data and composite index methodology.

Place and Duration of Study: The study covers major Indian states using the most recent available secondary data from national sources.

Methodology: The Sustainable Livelihood Security Index (SLSI) was constructed by integrating three core dimensions; ecological security, economic efficiency, and social equity. Relevant indicators under each dimension were selected based on conceptual relevance and data availability. The indicators were normalized using the min–max method and aggregated to compute dimension-specific indices. The overall SLSI was derived as the arithmetic mean of the three components. The resulting indices were used to assess inter-state disparities and examine the relative influence of each dimension on livelihood security.

Results: The findings reveal substantial inter-state variation in livelihood security, reflecting uneven development across ecological, economic, and social dimensions. States with stronger social development indicators tend to achieve higher overall livelihood security, even when economic performance is moderate. In contrast, states with relatively high economic output often exhibit lower sustainability due to ecological stress and weaker social outcomes. The results further indicate that livelihood security is not determined by any single dimension but by the balanced interaction of all three components.

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that sustainable livelihood security is inherently multidimensional and cannot be adequately captured through economic indicators alone. A balanced integration of ecological sustainability, economic performance, and social development is essential for improving livelihood outcomes. The index-based approach provides a robust framework for comparative analysis and contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of rural livelihood sustainability in India.

Effect of Irrigation and Antitranspirant on Growth and Yield Attributes of Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica L.)

Priyanka Lall — 2026-04-28

Foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.) is a drought-tolerant crop, yet its growth and yield are significantly influenced by water availability and moisture stress conditions. The use of optimized irrigation strategies along with antitranspirants can help reduce water loss and improve crop productivity under limited water resources. The field experiment was conducted at Crop Research Farm, Naini Agriculture Institute, Department of Agronomy, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj during Zaid¸ 2025 on sandy loamy soil. The experiment was laid out in Split Plot Design, replicated thrice, consisting of nine treatments i.e.,I₁AT₀ Irrigation (At 30, 60 DAS) + No Antitranspirant, I₁AT₁ Irrigation (At 30, 60 DAS) + Kaolin 40g/l (Spray at 20 DAS), I₁AT₂ Irrigation (At 30, 60 DAS) + Fulvic acid 1.5g/l (Spray at 20 DAS), I₂AT₀ Irrigation (At 30, 45, 60 DAS) + No Antitranspirant, I₂AT₁ Irrigation (At 30, 45, 60 DAS) + Kaolin 40g/l (Spray at 20 DAS), I₂AT₂ Irrigation (At 30, 45, 60 DAS) + Fulvic acid 1.5g/l (Spray at 20 DAS), I₃AT₀ Irrigation (At 30, 45, 60, 75 DAS) + No Antitranspirant, I₃AT₁ Irrigation (At 30, 45, 60, 75 DAS) + Kaolin 40g/l (Spray at 20 DAS), I₃AT₂ Irrigation (At 30, 45, 60, 75 DAS) + Fulvic acid 1.5g/l (Spray at 20 DAS), 40:20:20 N:P:K kg/ha. The field experiment results revealed that significantly higher plant height (105cm), number of tillers per hill (8.89), plant dry weight (12.55g), panicle length (19.70cm) and number of grains per panicle (1197.04) were observed with the application of four irrigations (I₃) that were at 30, 45, 60 and 75 DAS. Whereas with the application of antitranspirant (AT₂) fulvic acid 1.5g/l spray at 20 DAS, significantly higher plant height (100.88cm), number of tillers per hill (8.90), plant dry weight (12.49g) was observed and significantly higher panicle length (18.16cm) and number of grains per panicle (1147.87) was observed with the application of antitranspirant (AT₁) kaolin 40g/l spray at 20 DAS.

Marketing Efficiency and Price Dynamics of Off-Season Cabbage in Manipur: A Bernoulli–Binomial Approach

M. J. S. L. Naga Durga — 2026-04-28

Background: Vegetable cultivation plays a significant role in livelihood improvement and nutritional security, particularly in hill regions where land resources are limited and market access is often constrained. Off-season cabbage cultivation in Senapati district of Manipur has gained importance due to favorable agro-climatic conditions and higher market demand, making it a key commercial vegetable in the region.

Aims: The study was undertaken to analyze marketable surplus, marketing channels, price spread, marketing costs and margins, and marketing efficiency of off-season cabbage in Senapati district of Manipur.

Study Design: The study followed a descriptive research design based on primary survey data using simple random sampling with proportional allocation.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Mao-Maram and Paomata blocks of Senapati district, Manipur. Four villages namely Makuilongdi, Punanamei, Laii, and Tungjoy were selected. A total of 80 off-season cabbage growers were surveyed during the year 2022–23.

Methodology: Primary data were collected from cabbage growers and market intermediaries using a structured interview schedule. Marketable surplus was estimated using standard surplus concepts. Marketing costs, margins, and price spread were analyzed across different identified marketing channels. Marketing efficiency was measured using standard efficiency indices to compare performance across channels. In addition, marketing and utilization patterns of off-season cabbage were analyzed using a Bernoulli–Binomial probabilistic framework, treating each unit of produce as a binary outcome of sale or retention/spoilage, enabling assessment of channel-wise marketing efficiency and risk in perishable commodity distribution.

Results: The results revealed that a substantial proportion of cabbage production entered the market, indicating strong commercial orientation in the study area. Price spread analysis showed variation in producer’s share in the consumer’s rupee across different marketing channels. Longer marketing channels were associated with higher marketing costs and increased intermediary margins, thereby reducing the producer’s share. The Bernoulli–Binomial framework indicated variability in realization of marketable output, highlighting inefficiencies and risk in perishable vegetable marketing systems.

Concluding Remarks: The study indicates that improving marketing efficiency through shorter supply chains, better market integration, and reduced intermediary costs can enhance producer’s share in the consumer’s rupee. Strengthening market infrastructure and promoting efficient marketing channels can significantly improve returns to cabbage growers in hill regions.

Determinants of Adoption and Marketing Behaviour among Minor Millets Growers in the Central Dry Zone of Karnataka, India

Amrutha Basavaraju — 2026-04-28

The research investigated the factors influencing the adoption of production technologies and marketing practices among minor millet cultivators in the Central Dry Zone of Karnataka. Using an ex-post facto design, data were gathered from 120 farmers in the Tumakuru and Chitradurga districts. Data were collected using a pre-tested structured interview schedule and analysed using frequency, percentage, mean, chi-square, correlation, and regression. The results indicated that variables including age, education, farming experience, income, social participation, economic motivation, knowledge, mass media exposure, and extension contact significantly affected both adoption and marketing behavior. In some cases, though, cosmopolitanism, innovation, and participation in extension programs had little or no effect. A majority of farmers exhibited medium levels of adoption and marketing behaviour, indicating scope for improvement. The findings emphasize the importance of targeted extension interventions, capacity building, and strengthening market linkages. Overall, improving these factors can enhance productivity, profitability, and livelihoods of minor millet growers.

Awareness to Adoption: Factors Shaping Fortified Rice Consumption in Coimbatore’s Public Distribution System

T. Haarshiny — 2026-04-30

Aims: Fortification is a method of adding minerals and micronutrients in food products. The study focuses on awareness level and factors that influence fortified rice purchases through the Public Distribution System (PDS) in Coimbatore.

Study Design: Explorative research design.

Place and Duration of Study: Coimbatore was the study area and this study was conducted between the time period of November 2025 to February 2026.

Methodology: A purposive sample method was used to gather primary data from 130 consumers across five zones of Coimbatore district using a scheduled interview. Factor analysis was employed to identify the primary factors that influence the purchase and consumption of fortified rice.

Results: The findings revealed that nearly 68 per cent of consumers were less aware about the health benefits of fortified rice. Factor analysis identified five major components which includes Nutritional & Health Motivation, Availability & Price Convenience, Perceived Quality & Value, Sensory Experience and Peer & Community Influence which explained 81.88 per cent of the total variation. Nutritional and health motivation appeared as the most impactful factor, emphasizing the role of enhanced micronutrients, immune advantages, and product trust in promoting adoption.

Conclusion: The findings emphasize the necessity of targeted awareness initiatives, sustained affordability and accessibility, improved product quality and sensory attributes, and leveraging community influence to increase consumer acceptance and use of fortified rice, thereby contributing to better nutrition and public health outcomes.

Development and Evaluation of a Microcontroller-Based Precision Cotton Planter for Improved Seed Spacing and Metering Performance

G. Anitha — 2026-05-01

Precision planting plays a vital role in improving crop establishment and optimizing input utilization in modern agriculture. The present study focuses on the development and evaluation of a microcontroller-based electronic control unit (ECU) integrated with a cotton seed planter to achieve accurate seed placement. The system utilizes a DC tachogenerator to sense tractor forward speed and a pulse width modulation (PWM)-controlled DC motor to regulate the seed metering mechanism. Laboratory evaluation was conducted using a sticky belt test setup at different forward speeds (1.5–3.0 km h⁻¹) and time delays (0.5–2.0 s). The results indicated that seed spacing increased with both forward speed and time delay, with optimum spacing close to the theoretical value achieved at 1.5 s delay and 1.5 km h⁻¹, and 1.0 s delay and 2.0 km h⁻¹. The quality of feed index (QFI) reached 100% at a time delay of 1.0 s across all forward speeds (1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0 km h⁻¹), and also at 1.5 s and 2.0 s delays for forward speeds up to 2.5 km h⁻¹. However, QFI decreased at higher forward speed (3.0 km h⁻¹) for longer delays (1.5–2.0 s), indicating sensitivity to operating conditions. The developed system demonstrated improved precision in seed placement, reduced mechanical losses, and enhanced operational efficiency compared to conventional planters. This study highlights the potential of electronic control systems in advancing precision agriculture for small and marginal farmers.

Exploring the Impact of Cooler Zones to Enhance Seed Support for Muga (Antheraea assamensis Helfer) Cultivation

Mahasankar Majumdar — 2026-05-01

To ensure a continuous supply of Disease Free Layings (DFLs) of Muga silk and meet the annual demand of approximately 325-350 lakh DFLs, a seed linkage program has been initiated in the cooler regions of Kalimpong, West Bengal. This initiative aims to provide basic Muga seeds for the traditional rearing regions of the North-East during challenging climatic conditions, particularly during the Aherua (June-July) and Bhodia (August-September) seasons. The rearing and grainage performance in Kalimpong has been analysed based on key economic factors such as DFL to cocoon ratio, hatching percentage, larval weight, cocoon weight, shell weight, and silk ratio. This study indicates that rearing of Antheraea assamensis Helfer in the cooler zones of Kalimpong showcases improved performance, particularly during unfavourable seasons. As reported by Guha et al. (2019), climate change has led to increased temperature gradients that adversely affect muga silkworm rearing. Additionally, significant fluctuations in relative humidity (above 86%) and temperatures exceeding 32-37°C have consistently resulted in crop losses, particularly between June and September, which is crucial for basic seed production (t=13.74, P<0.00001). The findings of the present study highlight the essential role of cooler zones in supporting muga silk cultivation and stabilising seed production systems. Given the strong dependence of muga silkworm biology on environmental parameters, the integration of cooler regions such as Kalimpong into the seed linkage network emerges as a viable climate-adaptive strategy for ensuring the resilience and continuity of muga sericulture.

Integrated PEF–Supercritical CO₂ Technology for High-Purity Astaxanthin Extraction from Haematococcus pluvialis

Hemanth Kumar Manikyam — 2026-05-01

Astaxanthin, a high-value xanthophyll carotenoid with potent antioxidant activity, was efficiently extracted from the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis using an integrated green extraction strategy combining pulsed electric field (PEF)-assisted cell disruption and supercritical CO₂ (SC-CO₂) extraction. The study establishes a sustainable and high-efficiency protocol wherein biomass preconditioning via mechanical pulverization and optimized PEF treatment enabled effective permeabilization of the robust sporopollenin-rich cell wall, thereby enhancing intracellular release of esterified astaxanthin. Subsequent extraction using SC-CO₂ at optimized conditions (450–500 bar, 60–65°C) with acetone as a co-solvent significantly improved solubility and recovery of non-polar carotenoids while preserving thermolabile integrity. The process yielded approximately 350 mL of carotenoid-rich oleoresin from 1 kg of dried biomass. Further purification through chloroform–water liquid-liquid partitioning enabled selective enrichment of astaxanthin in the organic phase, resulting in a high-purity extract. Quantitative analysis using a validated HPLC gradient method (ICH Q2 R1 compliant) revealed an astaxanthin concentration of ~9.9% in the final extract, confirming the robustness, reproducibility, and analytical reliability of the developed method. Compared to conventional solvent-based, microwave-assisted, and ultrasonication techniques, the integrated PEF–SC-CO₂ approach demonstrated superior extraction efficiency, reduced solvent toxicity, and enhanced environmental compatibility. This study highlights a scalable, green, and industrially viable extraction platform for high-purity astaxanthin production, with significant implications for applications in nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and aquaculture. The integration of non-thermal cell disruption with supercritical fluid extraction represents a next-generation paradigm in microalgal bioprocessing. Future perspectives include further process intensification, solvent system optimization, and techno-economic scaling for commercial deployment.

Value Economics of Groundnut Deoiled Cake Flour

U. G. Thakare — 2026-05-04

The global agri-food system faces the dual challenge of ensuring nutritional security while minimizing environmental waste. Oilseed processing generates nutrient-rich by-products such as groundnut deoiled cake, which are often underutilized and primarily used as animal feed despite their high potential for human nutrition. The present study investigated the value addition potential of Groundnut Deoiled Cake Flour (GDCF) obtained from traditional cold-pressed oil mills (Telghana) for the development of shelf-stable food products, thereby supporting circular bio-economy principles. GDCF was incorporated into various traditional and convenience foods including sweetened bars, groundnut chikki, sesame chikki, crackers, chutneys, cookies, cupcakes, toffee, extruded snacks, and chocolate balls at substitution levels ranging from 30% to 50%, with certain formulations utilizing 100% GDCF. Product formulations were optimized through sensory evaluation conducted by a seven-member trained panel using a 9-point hedonic scale. The results demonstrated good sensory acceptability across most products, with overall acceptability scores ranging from 7 to 8.8. A 50% incorporation of GDCF was found optimal for traditional sweets such as chikkis and chutneys, whereas 30% incorporation yielded the best sensory scores for bakery and extruded products including crackers, cookies, cupcakes, and chocolate balls. Economic analysis revealed substantial profitability and value addition, as the utilization of GDCF reduced production costs while significantly increasing market value. The highest value addition was observed in cookies (4882.5%), followed by groundnut chikki (2922.2%), sesame chikki (2694.8%), and chocolate balls (2302.4%). Overall, the study highlights the strong potential of groundnut deoiled cake as a functional ingredient for the development of nutritious and economically viable food products. The utilization of such agro-industrial by-products not only enhances resource efficiency but also creates opportunities for rural entrepreneurship while contributing to sustainable strategies for addressing protein-energy malnutrition.

Antibiotic Residue Management and Quality Control in Livestock-related Products: A Study at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Delhi, India

Jai Parkash — 2026-05-04

The widespread use of antibiotics in livestock production has raised serious concerns regarding antibiotic residues in animal-derived food products such as milk, meat, eggs, and honey. This study evaluates antibiotic residue management practices and quality control measures implemented during 2021–2025 at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Delhi. The research integrates field-level observations, farmer awareness programs, residue monitoring strategies, and regulatory interventions. Findings indicate that irrational antibiotic use, lack of withdrawal period adherence, and inadequate testing infrastructure contribute to residue contamination. However, recent regulatory measures, including stricter bans and farmer training initiatives, have significantly improved quality control. The study highlights the need for integrated surveillance, awareness, and technological interventions to ensure food safety and combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Development and Aesthetic Evaluation of Knitted Garments Blended with Oak Tasar and Viscose Fibres

Surabhi Das — 2026-05-05

In the modern apparel industry, there is a growing demand for sustainable and high-performance fabrics that combine aesthetic appeal with comfort and durability. Fibre blending has emerged as an effective strategy to enhance textile properties and develop versatile materials suitable for contemporary fashion applications. The present research aimed to develop and evaluate knitted garments from oak tasar/viscose (50:50) blends for sustainable western apparel, focusing on aesthetic appeal, mechanical performance, comfort, and color fastness. Consumer preferences, gathered from interviews with male and female college students from the university, favored column silhouettes, V-necklines, full-length dresses, notched collars, bell-bottom trousers, bust-length coats, and synthetic dyes. Twenty-five designs were shortlisted to five by a 10-expert panel, prototyped on a 34-inch dress form, and rated highly (4.6/5) for appearance by 45 respondents. The optimized blend exhibited superior mechanical properties, including bursting strength (~4.9 kg/cm²), drape coefficient (~35%), and abrasion resistance (>1500 cycles). Comfort metrics showed air permeability (~185 cm³/cm²/s), thermal insulation (~15), and stretch recovery (~29%), while color fastness (AATCC standards) showed excellent wash, light, and rubbing ratings for synthetics, compare to naturals. These results confirm the blend's performance and market viability, with future applications in scalable production of eco-friendly activewear, professional attire, and adaptive clothing lines leveraging its durability and comfort.

Assessment of Profitability and Level of Livelihood Security among Non-adopters of Integrated Farming System in West Bengal, India

Surkunta Kiran Reddy — 2026-05-05

The primary objective of this research study is to know the livelihood security status of the farmers of Cooch Behar district who are not following Integrated Framing System (IFS). The study was undertaken in six villages of three blocks of Cooch Behar district of West Bengal. A total of 217 farmers were selected using multi-stage purposive cum random sampling procedure, out of which 42 farmers were not following IFS. Data were collected using well-structured questionnaire from September to December of 2021. One dependent variable that is livelihood security and 20 independent variables were selected for the study. The results indicated that most of the farmers (66.68%) were having medium level of livelihood security, followed by equal number of farmers (16.66%) were having low and high level of livelihood security respectively. Majority of the IFS farmers were following the IFS components Crop + fishery (26.29%) and Crop+ Dairy (26.29%) followed by Crop + Dairy + Poultry + Fishery (10.29%) etc.The independent variables family education, annual family income, annual family expenditure, landholding, irrigation status, material possession, information seeking behavior and scientific orientation showed positive and significant relationship and the variables age and family size showed negative but non-significant relationship, with the dependent variable profitability and level of livelihood security. In case of regression analysis r²value is 0.747 and the variables irrigation status and scientific orientation showed positive and significant relationship with the profitability and level of livelihood security. Over all the abstract concludes that majority of the farmers are not secured their livelihoods due to non-adoption of IFS and there are several important variables like family education, income, credit seeking behaviour and scientific orientation etc were reason behind it.

Hydrogeochemical Evaluation of Surface and Groundwater for Irrigation Suitability and Corrosion Potential in a Semi-arid Coastal Region of Western Gujarat, India

Pratik Chavda — 2026-05-05

In semi-arid coastal regions, increasing water demand and salinity intrusion pose significant challenges to the quality and sustainability of surface and groundwater resources. Understanding the hydrogeochemical characteristics of water is essential for evaluating its suitability for irrigation, industrial use, and long-term resource management. This study presents a comprehensive hydrogeochemical and statistical assessment of surface and groundwater quality in the Gir Somnath District and Diu region of Gujarat (GSDD), India. A total of 57 various water samples were systematically collected and analysed for major physicochemical parameters to evaluate their suitability for drinking, irrigation, and industrial purposes. GSDD region’s surface and groundwater is mostly alkaline in nature. However, its composition varies greatly depending on geological formations, evaporation, and human activities. The ionic dominance pattern is Na⁺ > Mg²⁺ > Ca²⁺ > K⁺ and Cl⁻ > HCO₃⁻ > SO₄²⁻ > CO₃²⁻ > NO₃⁻ > F⁻ indicating strong salinity control in coastal aquifers. The irrigation suitability indices and USSL (US salinity laboratory) classification show that most of the samples are either suitable or moderately suitable. However, the presence of salinity and magnesium could potentially harm soil structure and reduce crop yields. Industrial indices indicate a dual tendency of scaling and corrosion, suggesting the need for appropriate water treatment before industrial use. Multivariate statistical analysis and hydrochemical facies (Piper diagrams) confirm that groundwater chemistry is primarily governed by rock–water interaction, ion exchange processes, and salinity impact. This study of the GSDD region reveals that its surface and groundwater resources exhibit moderate suitability for various applications. However, it is very important to use sustainable water management strategies and salinity control measures to prevent deterioration and make sure that these water resources will be useful for a long-term stability.

Energy Efficiency of Various Buildings and their Comparison

Neelanshi Dhakar — 2026-05-05

Background: Energy constitutes a fundamental driver of economic growth, wealth creation, and social development, with buildings accounting for a substantial proportion of global energy consumption and consequently exerting significant environmental impacts.

Aims: The study aims to identify the important factors that affect the energy efficiency in various types of buildings and to compare the energy efficiency of various types of buildings so that buildings can be classified as energy efficient, neutral or energy inefficient based on quantitative comparison.

Study Design: Analytical and simulation-based comparative study of residential and institutional buildings supported by manual heat-loss calculations and building energy simulation using EQUEST software.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Civil Engineering (Structural Engineering), College of Technology and Engineering, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture & Technology (MPUAT), Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, between 2024 and 2026.

Methodology: Three primary buildings were selected (1300 ft² single-storey, 1200 ft² three-storey and a 44500 ft² E-shaped institutional building) along with a 100 ft² square reference unit. Annual electricity consumption and demand were simulated using EQUEST freeware building energy analysis program considering parameters such as floor area, number of floors, shape of floor and direction of windows. Comparative manual heat-loss calculations (q = UAΔT) were performed for buildings of varying size (10'×20', 20'×50', 40'×50', 50'×50') and varying shape (circle, square, rectangle, parallelogram, triangle). For each major design parameter, the percentage contribution to overall energy efficiency was estimated.

Results: EQUEST software simulations yielded efficiencies of 35.77%, 34.46%, 55.5% and 74.05% for the 1350 ft² single-storey, 1200 ft² three-storey, 44500 ft² E-shaped and 100 ft² square buildings respectively. As area increases, efficiency decreases because energy consumption increases while demand remains relatively stable. The 10'×20' standard building was 4 times, 9 times and 11.5 times more efficient than the 20'×50', 40'×50' and 50'×50' buildings respectively. Among shapes, circular plans exhibited 214% higher efficiency than square standard. Rectangle with minimum dimension 10' showed 100% efficiency. Triangle and small rectangles (10'×5') showed negative efficiency (−50%). Window orientation (north-east) contributed 1.46% efficiency gain. Sealed windows/doors contributed 1.75-fold efficiency, solar water heaters 1.81-fold, building insulation 1.84-fold, star-rated appliances 25-fold, fixture upgrades 1.80-fold, ventilation 1.95-fold, smart technology 1.70-fold, cool roofs 1.85-fold, eco-friendly materials 1.77-fold, landscaping 1.75-fold and alternative energy 1.71-fold.

Conclusion: Building size and shape are the most weighted factors for energy efficiency without which a building cannot be efficient. Heat loss is the major factor of energy efficiency and temperature is a salient factor of heat loss. Orientation, insulation and ventilation have major roles in efficiency. Buildings with positive efficiency are energy efficient and good for occupant health. Installation of energy-efficient systems contributes to sustainable development goals and aligns with India's commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 35% by 2030.

Modification of Sex Expression and Floral Characteristics in Zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L.) through Foliar Application of Plant Growth Regulators

Ravneet Kaur — 2026-05-05

Ethephon (2-chloroethylphosphonic acid) is one of the most widely utilised ethylene-releasing plant growth regulators in cucurbit production. When applied as a foliar spray at the two- to four-leaf stage, it decomposes within plant tissues to release Ethylene. This process suppresses the development of staminate (male) flowers while promoting the initiation of pistillate (female) flowers at lower nodal positions. A field experiment was conducted at the experimental field of the Department of Agriculture, Khalsa College, Amritsar, India, during the Rabi season of 2018–2019 (more precisely late Rabi–Zaid transition season) to evaluate the effect of foliar application of ethephon and maleic hydrazide at varying concentrations (50, 100, 150 and 200 mg L⁻¹) on sex expression, floral characteristics of zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L.) cv. Dark Green. The experiment was conducted in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with nine treatments and three replications. Parameters assessed included sex ratio (male-to-female flower ratio), days to first flower opening, days to 50% flowering, number of fruits per plant. Results demonstrated that ethephon at 200 mg L⁻¹ (T4) produced the lowest male-to-female flower ratio (0.67), compared with 3.32 in the untreated control, indicating a pronounced shift in sex expression towards femaleness. T4 also recorded the minimum days to first flower opening (16.11 days) and to 50% flowering (20.15 days). Number of fruits per plant was significantly superior (4.09) under T4. Maleic hydrazide at lower concentrations (50–100 mg L⁻¹) showed moderate feminising effects on sex ratio, whilst higher concentrations (150–200 mg L⁻¹) had limited positive influence on yield. These findings suggest that ethephon at 200 mg L⁻¹ is the most effective treatment for modifying sex expression towards femaleness and improving fruit yield in zucchini under sub-tropical Punjab conditions.

Oil-Oil Correlation of the North-Central Niger Delta Basin: Implications for Production, Exploration and Petroleum System Modelling

Inyang Oyo-Ita — 2026-05-06

The Niger Delta Basin is a prolific hydrocarbon province, traditionally considered to host a single petroleum system largely derived from terrestrial organic matter; however, recent studies indicate the presence of multiple petroleum systems and distinct oil families across the basin. Despite its importance, detailed organic geochemical data and oil–oil correlation studies for the North Central Niger Delta remain limited. This study aims to characterize organic matter source, lithology, maturity, depositional setting and biodegradation, determine whether or not one or more source rocks was or were responsible for the accumulation of the oils in the reservoirs, and elucidate oil charge history, geochemical variability and exploration potential.

Geochemical evaluation was conducted on thirteen crude oil samples (BW1–BW7 and ND1–ND6) collected from the North‑central Niger Delta basin. API gravity of the study oils was determined using a thermal hydrometer and Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry tool was applied to assess organic matter (OM) source, thermal maturity, depositional environment and biodegradation level. Parameter cross‑plots performed with Microsoft Excel 4.6 were used to establish oil–oil correlations within the basin. Sterane cross‑plots (C28/C27 αββR versus C27/C29 αααR), C27–C29 sterane distributions and the 1‑methylphenanthrene/9‑methylphenanthrene ratio reveal a mixed OM origin (Type II/III kerogen) for both BW and ND oils, with some BW samples dominated by marine algal input and most ND samples showing stronger terrestrial influence. Saturated biomarker maturity ratios (C29 versus C30 αβ/(αβ + βα) hopanes) indicate attainment of the early oil window, while aromatic indices (MPI‑3 and calculated %R_o) suggest medium to high maturity. Dibenzothiophene/Phenanthrene versus Pristane/Phytane and API gravity versus Pristane/Phytane indicate that a few BW oils were deposited in fluvio‑deltaic settings under oxic conditions. Other BW samples originated from marine shale–lacustrine environments under anoxic conditions, whereas most ND oils were sourced from marine carbonate and marl facies deposited in an oxic setting. Pr/n-C17 versus Ph/n-C18 suggests non‑to‑mild biodegradation for BW oils and moderate to high biodegradation for ND oils, attributed to fault‑controlled migration and mixing histories.

Study on the Impact of Price Changes and Trading Volume on the Investment Performance of Sovereign Gold Bonds in the Indian Stock Exchange

R. Sukanya — 2026-05-08

Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs), introduced by the Government of India and issued by the Reserve Bank of India, constitute a notable financial instrument designed to reduce reliance on physical gold while providing investors with a secure, interest-bearing alternative linked to gold prices and traded in secondary markets for enhanced price discovery. The study investigates the impact of price changes and trading volume on the investment performance of Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) in the Indian secondary market. Using 200 observations from the National Stock Exchange and Bombay Stock Exchange, the analysis applies descriptive statistics and correlation techniques to evaluate volatility, return behavior, and liquidity. Results reveal that absolute price changes (CHNG) are highly volatile with a mean of 43.75 and a large standard deviation of 101.96, while percentage returns (%CHNG) are relatively stable, averaging 2.52% with lower variability (SD = 1.51). Trading volume shows extreme inconsistency, with a mean of 68.65 and wide dispersion (SD = 213.45), reflecting irregular liquidity. Correlation analysis indicates a weak but significant negative relationship between trading volume and percentage change (r = −0.221, p = 0.002), and a moderate positive relationship between trading volume and absolute price change (r = 0.535, p = 0.000). These findings suggest that while SGBs provide stable percentage returns and government-backed security, they remain subject to volatility in absolute price movements and limited liquidity, making them more suitable for long-term conservative investors than short-term speculative trading.

Optimizing Sugarcane Detrashing: Design, Evaluation, and Predictive Modeling of a Mechanical Detrasher

Kishore Nalabolu — 2026-05-09

The evaluation of the developed whole-stalk sugarcane detrasher was conducted under various operational conditions to assess its effects on residual trash, detrashing efficiency, and overall performance. The detrasher was equipped with feeding and detrashing components powered by a 0.5 hp electric motor. Six distinct treatments (T1-T6) were examined, varying the speed ratio between the feeding and detrashing rollers and the speed of the feeding roller. One-way ANOVA revealed significant differences (p < 0.001) among the treatments for all three response variables. Trash left percentage ranged from 12.80 ± 2.74% (T2) to 30.20 ± 3.69% (T5), detrashing efficiency varied from 69.80 ± 3.19% (T5) to 87.45 ± 3.16% (T4), and output ranged from 0.82 ± 0.05 t h^-1 (T6) to 1.42 ± 0.19 t h^-1 (T1). Tukey's test identified distinct performance categories, with T4 demonstrating high efficiency, minimal residual trash, and a satisfactory output. Random Forest (RF) and Gradient Boosting (GB) regression models were employed to predict the response variables based on the operational parameters. GB outperformed RF in terms of efficiency (R² ≈ 0.89, RMSE ≈ 2.682%, MAE ≈ 1.543%) and residual trash (R² ≈ 0.90, RMSE ≈ 2.507%, MAE ≈ 1.391%), whereas RF slightly surpassed GB in predicting the output (R² ≈ 0.795, RMSE ≈ 0.101 t h^-1, MAE ≈ 0.073 t h^-1). The results suggest that ensemble tree-based methods provide an accurate framework for data-driven monitoring in agro-industrial detrashing applications and offer a foundation for advanced process control in the field.

ICT-enabled Agricultural Extension Services in South Gujarat: Constraints and Suggestions

Harsh Parmar — 2026-05-11

Background: Agricultural extension services in India significantly rely upon Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to bridge the gap between knowledge from researchers and farm-level application.

Aim: The present study assessed the constraints to ICT-enabled agricultural extension services in South Gujarat and seek suggestions from agricultural extension personnel to strengthen ICT-enabled agricultural extension services in South Gujarat.

Methodology: A purposive sampling technique was used to select a sample size of 210 extension personnel drawn from KVKs and line departments across all seven districts of the region. Data were collected through personal interviews using a pre-tested interview schedule, with open-ended questions, and analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results: Results revealed that inadequate ICT infrastructure in rural areas, insufficient training of extension personnel and high cost of internet plans and smartphones were the three most critical constraints. Extension personnel suggested provision of affordable internet connectivity through government schemes, regular ICT training programmes at district and block levels and development of locally relevant digital content in regional languages as ways of strengthening ICT-enabled agricultural extension services in South Gujarat.

Conclusion: There is need for agricultural extension administrators to adopt an integrated approach covering infrastructure development, capacity building, content localization, institutional coordination and policy support for strengthening ICT-enabled agricultural extension in South Gujarat.

Formulation of Nutraceutical Detoxifying Capsules from Goji Berry, Lemon, and Watermelon Using Spray Drying and Microencapsulation Techniques

S. Yashaswini — 2026-05-11

Aims: The present study aimed to develop nutraceutically enriched detoxifying pills using spray-dried and microencapsulated powders of goji berry (Lycium barbarum), watermelon (Citrullus lanatus), and lemon (Citrus limon). The objectives were to preserve bioactive compounds, improve storage stability, and formulate a convenient oral dosage form with enhanced nutraceutical potential.

Study Design: A laboratory-based experimental investigation involving physicochemical analysis of fruits, spray drying of fruit juices, microencapsulation using suitable wall materials, and formulation and evaluation of detoxifying pills.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in the Food Processing Laboratory, Department of Agricultural Engineering, East West College of Engineering, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, during the academic year 2024–2025.

Methodology: Dried goji berries and fresh watermelon and lemon fruits were cleaned and processed to extract juices. Watermelon and lemon juices were obtained using mechanical and citrus juicers, respectively, while goji berries were soaked, blended, and filtered. Physicochemical properties were evaluated using standard analytical methods. Initial moisture content of juices was 75.2% (goji berry), 81.78% (lemon), and 95.23% (watermelon). The pH values were 5.68, 4.76, and 5.81, respectively, while total soluble solids were 2 °Brix (goji berry), 8 °Brix (lemon), and 7 °Brix (watermelon). Maltodextrin was used as the wall material. The homogenized feed solution was spray-dried at an inlet temperature of 160 °C, outlet temperature of 80 °C, and feed flow rate of 5–10 ml/min. The resulting microencapsulated powders were blended in fixed proportions and filled into HPMC (size 00) capsules.

Results: Spray drying produced free-flowing microencapsulated powders with low residual moisture contents of 4.00% (goji berry), 3.80% (lemon), and 2.16% (watermelon), indicating improved shelf stability. Lemon powder exhibited higher acidity, contributing to better microbial stability, while goji berry and watermelon powders retained antioxidant potential. The formulated detoxifying pills showed uniform appearance and structural integrity. Capsule dimensions were consistent, with an average length of 24.60 mm, breadth of 7.18 mm, and thickness of 7.91 mm. Cost–benefit analysis showed a favorable ratio of 1:1.25, confirming techno-economic feasibility.

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that spray-drying microencapsulation effectively preserves bioactive compounds and produces stable detoxifying pills with good physical quality, nutraceutical value, and potential for commercial application.

Influence of Nitrogen Fertilization under different Cultural Practices on Growth, Yield and Nutrient Uptake of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)

Roop Singh Dangi — 2026-05-12

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is an important food crop in India, and its productivity is largely influenced by nitrogen management and intercultural practices. Nitrogen plays a critical role in crop growth and tuber yield, while intercultural operations improve soil conditions but are often constrained by labour scarcity. Therefore, optimizing nitrogen application under different cultural practices is essential for improving yield and profitability of potato cultivation. A field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2016–17 at ICAR–Central Potato Research Institute, Regional Station, Gwalior, using potato variety ‘Kufri Surya’ in a split-plot design with two cultural operations (hoeing and no hoeing) and four nitrogen levels (0, 75, 150 and 225 kg N ha⁻¹), replicated three times. Growth attributes were not significantly influenced by treatments, except higher plant height at harvest with 225 kg N ha⁻¹ under no-hoeing. Tuber yield increased significantly with nitrogen application, with the highest yield (24.81 t ha⁻¹) recorded at 225 kg N ha⁻¹. Cultural operations significantly enhanced tuber nitrogen uptake, while higher nitrogen levels reduced potassium uptake. Maximum net return (Rs. 78,419 ha⁻¹) and benefit: cost ratio (2.03) was obtained with hoeing combined with 225 kg N ha⁻¹. Application of 225 kg N ha⁻¹ is recommended for achieving higher yield and profitability under no-hoeing conditions, while 150 kg N ha⁻¹ is adequate where hoeing is practiced.

Optimizing Growth and Productivity of Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.) through Integrated Nutrient Management Strategies

Anil Kumar Gauttam — 2026-05-12

Green gram (mung bean) is a short-duration, drought-tolerant pulse crop from the Fabaceae family, widely grown in Southeast Asia for its high nutritional value and suitability in multiple cropping systems. A field experiment was conducted during the kharif season of 2025 at the Agronomy Research Farm, School of Agricultural Sciences, Jaipur National University, Jaipur, Rajasthan to evaluate the effect of integrated nutrient management practices on growth and yield attributes of green gram. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications comprising ten treatments involving different combinations of Recommended dose fertilizer, vermicompost and PSB. The results revealed that the maximum plant height (56.83 cm), number of branches per plant (6.18) and dry matter accumulation (15.65 g plant⁻¹) were recorded under 100% RDF + vermicompost @ 2.5 t ha⁻¹ + PSB (T₁₀), which remained statistically at par with T₉, T₇ and T₈ and exhibited increases of 39.5%, 41.7% and 61.7% over the control (T₁), respectively. However, plant population at 20 DAS and at maturity was not significantly influenced by the nutrient management practices. Phenological traits were also improved with maximum days to 50% flowering (36.83 days) and physiological maturity (64.87 days) under T₁₀, showing increases of 16.00% and 13.55% over control. Similarly, yield attributes were highest under 100% RDF + vermicompost @ 2.5 t ha⁻¹ + PSB (T₁₀), including pods per plant (27.96), pod length (7.83 cm), seeds per pod (9.89), test weight (36.68 g) and seed yield per plant (5.74 g), with increases of 54.48%, 79.18%, 86.96%, 24.51% and 82.80% over control, respectively. Thus, integrated application of 100% RDF + vermicompost @ 2.5 t ha⁻¹ + PSB (T₁₀) proved most effective for improving growth, productivity and sustainability of green gram under semi-arid conditions.

Personal Profile of Students Enrolled in the Rural Awareness Work Experience Program in Agriculture University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India

Payal Choudhary — 2026-05-12

In India, at least two-thirds of the working population earn their livelihood through agricultural work. Students studying agriculture must possess both theoretical and practical understanding of the field. The Randhawa Committee (1992), which recommended the Rural Agricultural Work Experience (RAWE) program to convey high-quality, hands-on and production-focused education for agriculture degree programs, endorsed that. The research was carried out at Agriculture University, Jodhpur to evaluate the students' views on the Rural Awareness Work Experience Program. Three institutions, specifically the College of Agriculture Jodhpur, Sumerpur and Nagaur, were chosen and all the respondents enrolled in the final year of the B.Sc. Ag. (Hons.) program for the academic years 2022-2023 were intentionally selected due to other constituent colleges were still in the planning stage of their establishment in the session of 2022-23. Data were gathered using a structured questionnaire. The profile of the students revealed that out of 165 students, most of the students were male, belonged from rural areas, academic performance ranged from 7.01-8.00 OGPA. Majority of the respondent’s parent had secondary & senior secondary education, were engaged in agriculture and had medium level of family income. The study also revealed that majority of respondents had moderate level of leadership quality, achievement motivation, extension contact and mass media use during the whole period of RAWE program.

Assessment of Zonal Inequalities in Oral Health Status among Students of Trans-Ekulu Girls’ Secondary School, Aguowa Community, Enugu, Nigeria

Okoronkwo Samuel Chinonyerem — 2026-05-13

Introduction: Early awareness of oral health is critical for the prevention of dental caries, periodontal diseases, and other oral health conditions. Among adolescents, various factors—such as oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, access to dental care, and socioeconomic influences—play a significant role in shaping oral health outcomes. This developmental stage is particularly important, as behaviors established during adolescence often persist into adulthood. Consequently, this study focuses on students within the secondary school age group, as they represent an appropriate population for evaluating oral health patterns.

Purpose: This study aimed at assessing zonal Inequalities in Oral Health Status among Students of Trans-Ekulu Girls’ Secondary School, Aguowa Community, Enugu, Nigeria

Methods: A cross-sectional study design was conducted involving sample of 168 students residing in Aguowa Community (Zone A&B) selected from a total School population of 950 using a stratified sampling approach. Data were collected using interview/oral examinations recorded in data sheet. Descriptive statistics were generated using SPSS version 23.0, and results were presented in table of frequency, percentages and also in standard dental indices—Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT), Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI), and Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified (OHI-S). However, the inferential analysis was done using Chi-square statistical tool at significance level, p ≤ 0.05.

Results: The participants of this study were both Junior and Senior Secondary School age groups from Aguowa community which were subdivided in Zone A&B. Analysis revealed that students from Zone A-resident of Aguowa exhibited better oral health outcomes, particularly lower DMFT scores. Although both Zones displayed signs of gingival inflammation and gingivitis, but Zone B-residents had poorer plaque control. Chi-square analysis (χ² = 8.04, p = 0.05, 95% CI) showed a statistically significant association between students’ area of residence and their oral hygiene practices.

Conclusion: The results show that students in Aguowa Community—particularly in Zone B—have poorer oral health than those in Zone A. While this may reflect differences in population distribution, it also suggests disparities in access to oral health resources, education, and services, highlighting the need for more equitable interventions.

Vermiremediation of Heavy Metals Using Native Earthworm Species of Assam, India

Bijaylakhmi Goswami — 2026-05-13

Rapid urbanization and changing consumption patterns have intensified municipal solid waste (MSW) generation, posing a significant global management challenge. Traditional disposal techniques like landfilling and incineration present serious environmental hazards, such as greenhouse gas emissions and contamination of soil and water. An environmentally beneficial substitute that improves soil fertility and controls heavy metal contamination is vermicomposting. The effectiveness of four native earthworm species of Assam—Amynthas diffringens, Perionyx excavatus, Perionyx annulatus, and Drawida nepalensis—in breaking down MSW was evaluated in this study, which was carried out in Guwahati, Assam during 2023–2024. The experiment followed a completely randomized design with five treatments, each replicated five times, comprising four native earthworm species and an unamended control. The results showed that vermicomposting increased vital nutrients like phosphorus (0.48–0.70%), potassium (0.61–0.92%), calcium (0.34–0.96%), magnesium (0.02–0.15%), and sulfur (0.32–0.81%) while significantly lowering organic carbon to 181.47–250.62 g/kg and the C:N ratio to 14.9–23.08 from 38.6 in control. In addition, the process elevated the heavy metal concentrations of cadmium (0.66±0.04 mg/kg), chromium (46.00±6.2 mg/kg), lead (38.32±7.1 mg/kg), and nickel (29.00±6.3 mg/kg), but also diminished their mobility relative to the control treatment lacking earthworms. All vermicomposting treatments resulted in lower available cadmium (not detectable), chromium (16.61 mg/kg), and lead (3.91 mg/kg), thereby reducing their environmental mobility and phytotoxic potential. Amynthas diffringens demonstrated the highest efficacy among the tested species, with superior nutrient transformation and maximum reduction of heavy metal bioavailability. The study demonstrated the capacity of earthworms to reduce heavy metal bioavailability through concurrent bioaccumulation and metal-organic complex formation. This enables the use of vermicompost produced from MSW in agricultural fields and mitigates the danger posed by heavy metals by increasing their immobilization.

Design and Simulation Based Structural and Thermal Analysis of a Pilot Scale Bio Based Grease Reactor

Pulla Nagajyothi — 2026-05-13

The growing need for environmentally friendly lubricants has spurred the development of bio-based grease production technology. In accordance with ASME guidelines, a pilot-scale grease reactor was built using SS304L material and pine needle oil as a renewable base fluid. In order to demonstrate efficient temperature control and durability at a cost-effective level, this design strives for low construction costs, ease of operation, and appropriateness for small-scale production. The study was conducted in August 2022 and November 2023 at Gobind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Department of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering. The reactor's features included a dual impeller made up of a 45° pitched turbine blade and a traditional anchor agitator, as well as a tori spherical bottom dome for effective mixing and structural stability. SolidWorks 2021 and Ansys R19.2 were used for structural and transient thermal analyses in order to guarantee mechanical integrity, structural strength, and uniform temperature distribution from the vessel to the liquid. Heat distribution and energy efficiency are improved via an exterior casing and peripheral heating coil. It has been determined that because the material SS304L can withstand the loads, its stress and strain values are ideal for producing pilot-type reactors. The design showed the strongest resistance to heat and external loads. It was determined that, at an approximate cost of Rs. 47522, low construction costs, ease of operation, suitability for small-scale production, and effective temperature control and durability are achieved.

Growth Performance of Pleurotus ostreatus and Pleurotus djamor on Different Agar Media under Laboratory Conditions

Niha Nousheen — 2026-05-13

Pleurotus species are widely used in mushroom cultivation and fungal biotechnology due to their rapid mycelial growth, efficient lignocellulosic degradation, and adaptability to diverse substrates. The present study was conducted to comparatively evaluate the mycelial growth behaviour of Pleurotus ostreatus and Pleurotus djamor on different culture media under controlled laboratory conditions. Three commonly used media, namely Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), Malt Agar (MA), and Water Agar (WA), were used to assess differences in radial growth, colony morphology, growth progression, and contamination susceptibility. The experiment was carried out using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with six treatment combinations maintained in triplicate. Observations related to mycelial growth were recorded on Day 1, Day 3, and Day 5 of incubation. Among all treatments, Pleurotus ostreatus grown on Potato Dextrose Agar exhibited the fastest radial expansion, dense mycelial network, and uniform colony development, followed by Pleurotus djamor on the same medium. Malt Agar supported moderate growth for both species, whereas Water Agar showed comparatively sparse and slower mycelial development due to limited nutrient availability. The overall growth trend observed in the study followed the order PDA > Malt Agar > Water Agar. A consistent observation across all media was the comparatively superior growth performance of P. ostreatus over P. djamor, indicating species-specific differences in nutrient utilization and growth adaptability. Nutrient-rich media such as PDA and Malt Agar also exhibited comparatively higher contamination incidence, whereas Water Agar showed minimal contamination throughout the incubation period. The study highlights the significant influence of media composition on fungal growth behaviour, colony establishment, and contamination susceptibility in Pleurotus species. Although the investigation was limited to laboratory-scale evaluation on agar-based media, the findings provide useful baseline information for fungal growth optimization, maintenance of pure cultures, and future applied cultivation studies involving oyster mushrooms.

Morpho Statistical Assessment of Length Weight Correlations (Lwr) and Fulton's Condition Factor of Flying Barb, Esomus Danrica (Hamilton, 1822), from The Neora River Stretch in Lataguri (The Belt of Gorumara Wildlife Sanctuary), West Bengal, India, With a Special Focus on Seasonal Analysis

Debarghya Maji — 2026-05-14

Background: Length–weight relationship and Fulton’s condition factor are widely used indicators in fisheries science to assess fish growth patterns, health status, and environmental conditions. These parameters help understand population dynamics and ecological status of freshwater fish species. However, seasonal variations in these relationships remain underexplored for many river systems in India, including the Neora River.

Aims: An emphasis on morphometric relationships, this study provides firsthand data on the length-weight relationship (LWR) and condition factor (seasonally) of the Flying barb,Esomus danrica (Hamilton, 1822) (family: Danionidae), from the Neora riverine zone (the Gorumara wildlife sanctuary) in West Bengal, India.

Study Design: Log W = Log a + b Log L was used to establish the length-weight relationship, and K n =100*W/L 3 was the condition factor (K_n). We examined morphometric traits and total length (% of TL) of freshwater fishes from the Neora River (near the Gorumara wls) seasonally in West Bengal, as well as flying barb fish, which are economically important as food and ornamental fish. Place and Duration of Study: Between January 2025 and February 2026, fish samples were taken seasonally (according to IMD) at intervals of 10 to 20 days from a range of the Neora River, freshwater wildlife zones in Lataguri (Dooars) in West Bengal.

Methodology: The relationship between a fish’s body length and total weight is often explained by the length-weight relationship (LWR) equation, which is typically expressed as W = aL ^b , where W is weight, L is length, and a & b are species-specific constants.

Results: Findings demonstrated that the Danionidae family had negative allometric development (b < 3), meaning that their length increased more quickly than their weight. Seasonally, the correlation coefficient (r) and condition factor (K_n) have values between post-monsoon to winter, i.e., (r=0.966; male, r=0.962; female; K_n =1 male and K_n = 1.003 female),(r=0.987; Male, r=0.968; female; K_n =1.02 male and K_n = 1 female),(r=0.945; male, r=0.973; female; K_n =0.98 male and K_n = 1.01 female) and (r=0.987; male, r=0.993; female; K_n =1.02 male and K_n = 1.19 female).

Conclusion: The Neora River in West Bengal, India, is the subject of fishery research, stock assessment, conservation, and fish condition evaluation.

Field Screening of Rice Genotypes against Asian Rice Gall Midge, Orseolia oryzae (Wood-Mason)

S. Malathi — 2026-05-14

The Asian rice gall midge [Orseolia oryzae (Wood-Mason)] is a major endemic pest in the Warangal region of Telangana, India, causing significant yield losses in rice. The present study was conducted during Kharif 2017 at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Warangal, Professor Jayashankar Telangana Agricultural University, Telangana to evaluate 53 rice genotypes along with five checks in an augmented design for resistance against gall midge under delayed planting conditions to ensure adequate pest pressure. The entries were assessed based on per cent plant damage and per cent silver shoot incidence. The susceptible check TN-1 recorded high infestation levels, with 91.9 per cent plant damage and 11.7 per cent silver shoots, confirming sufficient pest pressure. Among the resistant checks, Aganni and Abhaya exhibited moderate resistance, while RP 2068-18-3-5 and Kavya showed moderate susceptibility based on silver shoot damage; however, all checks recorded high plant damage (30.0–90.0%), indicating the virulent nature of the local gall midge population. None of the test genotypes exhibited resistance based on plant damage and silver shoot criteria. However, 20 genotypes were identified as moderately susceptible among which IET 24741, JGL 28921, RDR 1160, SKL 07-11-177-50-84-12-188, WGL 1161 exhibited relatively lower levels of plant damage and silver shoot damage under high gall midge pressure. The absence of resistant genotypes under high pest pressure highlights the need for continuous screening and incorporation of diverse resistance genes to develop durable gall midge-resistant rice varieties suitable for endemic regions like Warangal.

Comparative Evaluation of Growth Performance of HD-K75 Pigs under Organized Farm and Field Conditions

Bhaskar Jyoti Chutia — 2026-05-14

Pig farming plays a vital role among the tribal population of northeastern region. Out of the different pig breeds HD-K75 variety is very popular among the farmers due to its better growth performance. It is a new variety developed by ICAR-AICRP on pigs, Khanapara, Guwahati. The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the growth performance of HD-K75 pigs under different system. Twenty-one weaned piglets of HD-K75 variety were selected from organized farm and another twenty-one from unorganized pig farm in the peri-urban area of Guwahati city were selected. The body weight and linear body measurement of the experimental animals were measured with the help of weighing balance and flexible tape, respectively at monthly interval. The average body weight of HD-K75 pigs at 2 months of age was 13±0.27 and 8.67±0.23 kg respectively, under organized and unorganized farming systems while, at 7 months of age it was 70.84±0.45 and 60.09±0.34 kg, respectively. The average daily BWG of pig under organized and unorganized farming system was 0.41±0.01 and 0.29±0.01 kg; 0.46±0.01 and 0.40±0.01 kg, respectively during 2-3, and 6-7 months of age. The linear body measurements were significantly (P<0.05) higher in pigs reared under organized farming system. The study revealed that the growth performance of HD-K75 pigs was better under organized farming system. Therefore, management practices followed in the organized farm should be implement in the field conditions.

Effect of Irrigation Scheduling under Different Crop Establishment Methods on Yield Attributes, Yield and Economics of Wheat

Saurabh Pratap Singh — 2026-05-14

Wheat productivity and profitability are strongly influenced by appropriate crop establishment techniques and efficient irrigation scheduling under conditions of increasing water scarcity and delayed sowing. The current study examined the impact of irrigation scheduling under various crop establishment techniques on wheat yield characteristics, yield, and economics during the Rabi season 2022–2023 at the Agronomy Research Farm of Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour Bhagalpur (Bihar). Three crop establishment techniques; conventional tillage wheat sowing (T₁), zero tillage wheat sowing (T₂) and wheat sown on furrow irrigated raised bed (T₃) in the main plot were used in the split plot design experiment and three IW/CPE ratio-based irrigation scheduling levels are used in subplots as 4 cm irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE (I₁), 5 cm irrigation at 1.0 IW/CPE (I₂), and 6 cm irrigation at 1.2 IW/CPE (I₃) which was repeated three times.The findings demonstrated that the various crop establishing techniques have a major impact on yield attributes of wheat like the number of effective tillers m^-2, number of grains spike^-1, and 1000-grain weight however the length of the spike was not affected significantly among various crop establishment methods. Significantly higher grain yield, straw yield, and biological yield were achieved under the conventional tillage method of crop establishment which resulted in higher gross return and the net return obtained under this method of crop establishment, however, the maximum value of benefit-cost ratio was recorded under zero tillage. The irrigation depth of 5 cm irrigation at 1.0 IW/CPE ratio produced considerably more effective tillers, grain yield, straw yield, gross return, and net return than treatment I₁ and was shown to be statistically at par with I₃ among various irrigation scheduling levels.

Information Management Behavior among Small and Marginal Maize Farmers in Bihar, India

Afsana Rozi — 2026-05-14

Maize (Zea mays L.) is an important source of food, feed for animals, and industrial material. Information Management Behaviour (IMB) of farmers include how they look for, assess, retain, utilise, and share information. Despite the significant contribution of maize cultivation to Bihar’s agricultural economy and the increasing emphasis on information-driven farming, there remains a critical gap in understanding how farmers actually manage agricultural information at the grassroots level. The present study aims to analyze the IMB of maize farmers in Bihar. An exploratory research design was adopted for the investigation. Among the 38 districts of Bihar, two major maize-producing districts, Muzaffarpur and Samastipur, were purposively selected based on their significant contribution to maize production. A sample of 120 respondents was drawn, with 30 farmers selected from each village using appropriate sampling procedures. Primary data were collected through personal interviews using a structured schedule. The collected data were systematically analyzed using statistical tools such as correlation coefficient and multiple regression analysis with the help of IBM SPSS. The results of the study revealed that the majority of maize farmers in Bihar exhibited a moderate level of IMB, with 56.67 percent of respondents falling under the medium category, followed by 23.33 percent in the high category and 20.00 percent in the low category. The findings offer important implications for policymakers, agricultural institutions, and extension agencies to design need-based, farmer-centric information dissemination strategies. Strengthening these systems can improve farmers’ knowledge, support better decision-making, and ultimately enhance agricultural productivity and resilience in Bihar.

Ultrasound Assisted Pectin Extraction from Persimmon Pomace: Yield and Quality Characteristics

M. Ranjani — 2026-05-14

Persimmon pomace, an abundant by-product generated during fruit processing, represents a promising yet underutilized source of pectin and carotenoids. In this study, pectin and carotenoids were extracted from persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) pomace, and the influence of ultrasound-assisted extraction on pectin yield and physicochemical properties was systematically evaluated. A full factorial experimental design was employed to investigate the effects of temperature (50–60 °C), pH (1.5–2.0), extraction time (30–45 min), acid type (citric and nitric acids), and extraction method (conventional vs. ultrasound-assisted). All process variables significantly affected pectin yield (p < 0.001), with ultrasound-assisted extraction exhibiting the strongest positive effect. Among the tested conditions, the combination of ultrasound treatment and nitric acid resulted in the highest pectin yield, highlighting a significant interaction between extraction method and acid type. Ultrasound treatment significantly enhanced pectin yield, equivalent weight, methoxyl content, and degree of esterification, while maintaining acceptable anhydrouronic acid content (>63%), indicating good purity and functional quality. Notably, the degree of esterification increased from low- to high-methoxyl range following ultrasound treatment, expanding the potential applications of the extracted pectin. In addition, ultrasound-assisted extraction improved carotenoid recovery from persimmon pomace, with total carotenoid content ranging from 2.78 to 3.26 µg g⁻¹. Overall, the results demonstrate that ultrasound-assisted extraction is an efficient and sustainable approach for enhancing the recovery and functionality of pectin and carotenoids from persimmon pomace.

Fish Marketing Dynamics in the Modern Fish Market of Ludhiana, Punjab, India

Sarbjeet Kaur — 2026-05-14

Efficient fish marketing has critical role in resolving issues of food security and sustainable livelihood, hence, this study was intended to provide details of such key characteristics on prevailing domestic fish marketing dynamics of the modern fish market in Ludhiana. The information with respect to current fish market trends, including infrastructure facilities, species composition, seasonal availability, price index, waste management and consumer preference for fish, was collected at every two months interval by direct observation and interviews through developed questionnaire. The market was functional throughout the year, from where a total of 38 fish species were recorded, of which 80.35% was sourced from capture fisheries. Based on species composition, 46.66% of the recorded fish species came from capture fisheries resources of Punjab, while 62.5% of the recorded species were sourced from other states. Besides, approximately, 5-10 tons of fishes transported to different states, like- Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Haryana and Assam, on daily basis. Among consumers, the higher demands for boneless fishes were observed, mostly during winters/specific occasions. Though this modern fish market has significant role in supplying fish, several challenges have also been observed, including inappropriate waste management and lack of cold storage facilities. Therefore, the findings of the present study can serve as resourceful database that can be further utilized for planning and upgrading the domestic fish market related strategies and to improve the post-harvest management practices.

Integrated Nutrient Approach: Role of Potassium and Zinc in Yield and Quality Optimization of Cluster Bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.)

Banti — 2026-05-15

Background: Clusterbean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) is a important crops in India's arid and semi-arid regions, grown for seed, manure, fodder and vegetables uses. Clusterbean is a major cash generating crop because its seeds contain galactomannan, which is kept in the endosperm and has industrial uses. Various kinds biotic and abiotic stress effect the crop at different stages of growth, resulting in decreased yield and growth.

Aim: The study was conducted to examine the influence of varying potassium and zinc application levels determine on clusterbean development, yield parameters and quality.

Methods: The research was conducted during the kharif season of 2022 at Crop Research Farm, SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The experiment included ten treatment combination of potassium and zinc arranged in a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications.

Results: Application of potassium and zinc significantly improved growth parameters, yield components and quality parameters such as cellulose, lignin and gum content. The combination of 25 kg ha^-1 potassium and 20 kg ha^-1zinc recorded the highest plant height, nodulation, dry biomass, seed yield, stover yield and quality.

Conclusion: Economic analysis revealed that this treatment also produced the highest net returns of Rs. 54118.66 ha^-1 and B:C ratio (2.32). Optimal application potassium 25 kg ha^-1and zinc 20 kg ha^-1 enhances the productivity, quality and profitability of cluster bean cultivation.

Design of Models and Approaches for Commercialization Strategy of Armored Catfish (Pterygoplichthys spp.) in Fishing Cooperatives in Southeastern Mexico

Karina González-Izquierdo — 2026-05-15

Aims: This study aimed to design a strategic framework for the commercialization of armored catfish (Pterygoplichthys spp.) as raw fillet in fishing cooperatives in Southeastern Mexico, integrating organizational, technical, commercial, and sustainability components.

Study Design: The research followed a design science research approach focused on the development and validation of a conceptual strategic model without direct field intervention.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was contextualized in the state of Tabasco, Mexico, considering approximately 150 fishing cooperatives involved in armored catfish capture activities. The research was conducted between 2024 and 2025.

Methodology: The strategy was developed through the integration of scientific literature, conceptual frameworks related to economy, cooperative management, and technical considerations for fish processing and commercialization. The model was validated through expert evaluation by a panel of seven specialists in fisheries, sustainability, food processing, and cooperative management using an iterative feedback process.

Results: The proposed model integrates five interconnected components: organizational strengthening, technical processing, financial structure, commercialization strategy, and sustainability integration. Expert evaluation indicated high relevance, feasibility, and adaptability of the model for fishing cooperatives operating in socio-ecological contexts affected by invasive species. The results also highlighted the importance of WhatsApp-based training and artificial intelligence-supported infographics as accessible mechanisms for improving knowledge transfer in rural communities. Previous practical training experiences involving more than 80 cooperative members demonstrated the technical viability of filleting armored catfish and reinforced the practical applicability of the proposed framework. Socially, the model may contribute to alternative income generation, strengthening cooperative organization, and promoting sustainable rural development through the productive utilization of an invasive species.

Conclusion: The study provides a structured and replicable strategy for transforming an invasive species into an economic opportunity. The model contributes to sustainable fisheries development by linking environmental management, value-added commercialization, and community-based capacity building. Future research should focus on pilot implementation and longitudinal evaluation of the model in real cooperative contexts.

Drying Induced Changes in Engineering Properties of Cherry and Parchment Coffee

T. N. Sandeep — 2026-05-16

Engineering properties of coffee are important for the efficient design of drying, handling, storage, and processing equipment in post-harvest operations. This study investigated the effect of drying on the physical and frictional properties of arabica and robusta coffee cherries and parchment coffee at the Central Coffee Research Institute, Adigebylu village, Koppa taluk, Chikkamagaluru district, Karnataka, India. Significant variations (P = 0.05) were observed due to coffee species and moisture content. Fresh arabica cherries exhibited larger dimensions, with mean length, width, and thickness values of 15.50 ± 0.05 mm, 13.40 ± 0.42 mm and 11.94 ± 0.09 mm, respectively, compared to robusta cherries. Drying significantly reduced the dimensional characteristics of both coffee species. The volume of arabica cherries decreased from 1338.18 ± 21.01 mm³ to 757.92 ± 121.08 mm³, while robusta cherries showed a reduction from 1059.29 ± 12.09 mm³ to 704.39 ± 73.04 mm³ after drying. Sphericity decreased from 87.35 ± 0.96% to 79.01 ± 3.43%, whereas the shape index increased from 1.23 ± 0.02 to 1.42 ± 0.09 in arabica cherries. Thousand bean weight and bulk density also declined considerably following drying, while porosity increased markedly. Similar trends were observed in parchment coffee samples, where volume decreased from 441.98 ± 12.45 mm³ to 268.36 ± 32.91 mm³. The observed changes in size, density and flow properties indicate the significant influence of moisture reduction on the engineering properties of coffee. These findings provide essential information for the design and optimization of coffee drying, handling, processing, storage, and transportation equipment.

Impact of Organic Manure and Inorganic Fertilizer on Improving Nutrients and Production in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Rajasthan, India

Ravin Singh — 2026-05-16

Barley is an important rabi cereal crop cultivated in Rajasthan under semi-arid conditions where soil fertility and water availability are often limited. Integrated use of organic manure and inorganic fertilizers is considered essential for improving soil nutrients, sustaining crop productivity, and enhancing barley yield in nutrient-deficient soils. A field experiment was conducted in Rabi season during 2024-25 and 2025-26 to study the Shri Khusal Das University Hanumanghar Rajasthan to Impact of Organic Manure and inorganic Fertilizer on Improving Barley (Hordeum vulgare) Crop Production in Rajasthan, India. The results revealed that significantly higher values were recorded under the application of 100% recommended dose of fertilisers (RDF) ha⁻¹ compared with the other fertility levels; however, the results remained statistically at par with 50% RDF ha⁻¹ during both years of experimentation. The maximum accumulation of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in grain and straw, as well as the total nutrient uptake, was observed under these treatments. Furthermore, the combined application of these fertility treatments significantly enhanced N, P, and K content in grain and straw, together with total nutrient uptake, compared with inoculation using Azotobacter alone during the course of the investigation. The data further indicated that the highest available soil N, P, and K contents were recorded under the application of 100% RDF, which was significantly superior to the application of 50% RDF throughout the experimental period. These findings suggest that balanced fertiliser application improves nutrient availability in the soil and enhances nutrient assimilation and translocation within the crop, thereby contributing to improved crop productivity and soil fertility status. In addition, the germination process has been reported to improve the mineral composition of barley, particularly with respect to calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and phosphorus (P). Germination also significantly reduces crude fat, ash content, and flour yield characteristics, while enhancing the nutritional quality of barley through improved bioavailability of essential nutrients. In addition, germinated barley flour demonstrated elevated levels of total flavonoids and enhanced antioxidant activity, reflecting notable improvements in its nutritional properties. These findings suggest that germination serves as an effective bioprocessing approach for improving the nutritional quality, functional attributes, and storage stability of barley flour.

Analysis of Cost, Return and Profitability of Mustard Cultivation across Different Farm Sizes in Rajasthan, India

Ankita Sahu — 2026-05-16

Background: In Indian agriculture, mustard is one of the most important Rabi (winter) oilseed crops and plays a crucial role in enhancing farmers’ income and ensuring edible oil security. Existing studies on mustard cultivation in Rajasthan largely provide broad or isolated analyses (such as cost or productivity), with limited district-level, micro-level research. Comprehensive studies integrating cost, returns, profitability, marketing efficiency, and production constraints remain scarce.

Aim: The aim of the study is to analyse the cost, returns, and profitability of mustard cultivation in Rajasthan, India.

Study Design and Area: A cross-sectional descriptive and analytical study was conducted in Kotputli-Behror district of Rajasthan during the Rabi season, 2023–24.

Methodology: Primary data were collected from 90 mustard farmers through an interview schedule. Farmers were classified into small (<2 ha), medium (2–4 ha), and large (>4 ha), with 30 respondents in each category. Standard cost concepts (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2) were used to estimate costs, while profitability and benefit–cost ratio assessed economic viability. Major cost components included labour, seeds, manures, fertilizers, machinery, irrigation, and fixed costs.

Results: Mustard cultivation was found to be input-intensive. The cost of cultivation increased with farm size, with large farms incurring the highest costs due to greater use of labour, machinery, and inputs. However, the cost of production per quintal was lowest on medium farms, indicating better efficiency. Large farms recorded the highest gross income and net returns, followed by medium and small farms. Benefit–cost analysis showed that large farms performed better over lower cost concepts, while medium farms exhibited relatively higher efficiency over comprehensive cost measures.

Conclusion: Mustard cultivation is economically viable across all farm sizes. Large farms achieve higher absolute returns, whereas medium farms demonstrated better cost efficiency. Improving resource-use efficiency, access to inputs, and irrigation—especially for small and medium farmers can further enhance productivity and income, highlighting mustard’s strong potential for sustainable agricultural growth.

Genetic and Parental Environmental Influences on Callous-Unemotional Traits of Twins in Childhood

Annu Panghal — 2026-05-16

Despite growing interest in the developmental origins of callous-unemotional (CU) traits, limited evidence exists from non-Western contexts on the relative contributions of genetic and parental environmental factors. The present study addresses this gap by examining the genetic and environmental architecture of CU traits among twins during early childhood. A descriptive and analytical twin research design was employed in the Hisar district of Haryana state. The sample comprised 50 twin pairs (N=100) aged 6–9 years, including monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic (DZ) twins identified through snowball sampling. Data were collected from parents using the Inventory of Callous-Unemotional Traits (ICU) and the Alabama Parenting Questionnaire (APQ). Statistical analyses included descriptive measures, z-test, chi-square test, and heritability estimation using Falconer’s formula. The results revealed significant mean differences between MZ and DZ twins in callousness (Z = 2.28*) and overall CU traits (Z = 2.59*), indicating higher levels among monozygotic twins, whereas differences in uncaring (Z = 1.21) and unemotional (Z = 0.06) traits were non-significant. The heritability estimate (h² = 78.0%) suggests a strong genetic basis for CU traits, with environmental factors accounting for 22.0% of the variance. Furthermore, significant associations were observed between CU traits and inconsistent discipline (χ² = 9.95*), corporal punishment (χ² = 7.89*) and overall parental environment (χ² = 5.61*) and found the role of adverse parenting practices. The study contributes novel empirical evidence from a rural Indian context, emphasizing the interaction of genetic predispositions and modifiable environmental factors. The findings underscore the need for targeted, family-based interventions aimed at reducing harsh and inconsistent parenting to mitigate CU traits during early childhood.