bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic genetic characterization of the human PKR kinase domain highlights its functional malleability to escape a viral substrate mimic
Authors: Chambers Michael J , Scobell Sophia , Sadhu Meru J
Published: August 2024

Evolutionary arms races can arise at the contact surfaces between host and viral proteins, producing dynamic spaces in which genetic variants are continually pursued. However, the sampling of genetic variation must be balanced with the need to maintain protein function. A striking case is given by protein kinase R (PKR), a member of the mammalian innate immune system. PKR detects viral replication within the host cell and halts protein synthesis to prevent viral replication by phosphorylating eIF2α, a component of the translation initiation machinery. PKR is targeted by many viral antagonists, including poxvirus pseudosubstrate antagonists that inhibit PKR by interacting with the same binding surface as eIF2α. Remarkably, PKR has several rapidly evolving residues at this interface, suggesting it is engaging in an evolutionary arms race, despite the surface’s critical role in phosphorylating eIF2α. To systematically explore the evolutionary opportunities available at this dynamic interface, we generated and characterized a library of 426 SNP-accessible nonsynonymous variants of human PKR for their ability to escape inhibition by the model pseudosubstrate inhibitor K3 from vaccinia virus. We identified key sites in the PKR kinase domain that harbor K3-resistant variants, as well as critical sites where variation leads to loss of function. We find K3-resistant variants are readily available throughout the interface and are enriched at sites under positive selection. Moreover, variants beneficial against K3 were also beneficial against an enhanced variant of K3, indicating resilience to viral adaptation. Overall, we find that the eIF2α-binding surface of PKR is highly malleable, potentiating its evolutionary ability to combat viral inhibition.
Nurses' vaccination acceptance and related factors in the initial stage of COVID-19 vaccination in Korea: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kim Kyoung Ha , Jeong Jae Sim
Published: August 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to identify factors associated with nurses' vaccination acceptance in the initial stage of coronavirus infectious disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination in Korea.Methods: This cross-sectional study collected data from hospital-level or higher medical institutions from May 5 to May 7, 2021 with a total of 368 nurses via an online survey. Multiple regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with vaccination acceptance.Results: The acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination had an average score of 4.28 ± 0.80 out of 7 points. Among the sub-areas of acceptance, the safety of the vaccine exhibited the lowest score (average, 2.80 ± 0.83). The factors related to COVID-19 vaccination acceptance in nurses were age (over 40 compared to under 29) (β = .16, p = .008), experience (more than 11 years compared to under 5) (β = .16, p = .010), the absence of a preferred vaccine (β = -.14, p = .004), and educational background (a master's degree or higher compared to a bachelor's degree or lower) (β = .12, p = .042).Conclusion: In the initial stage of COVID-19 vaccination, nurses believed that the COVID-19 vaccine was important and that people should be vaccinated, but had concerns regarding the safety of the vaccine. Older age, more experience, the absence of a preferred vaccine, and a higher educational background were associated with higher acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination. Therefore, more active education on the necessity and value of vaccination for young people is required at the individual and socio-cultural level, and a sufficient supply of preferred vaccines at the national level is needed.
Traditional agroforestry for food securityandagrobiodiversity-The Angami Naga Nhalie-Teizie binarysystemin Nagaland stateofIndia.
Authors: Singh Akoijam Basanta , Teron Robindra
Published: August 2024

Traditional agroforestry practice of Angami Nagas is the integrated system of cultivating multipurpose local tree species with traditional crops varieties. Nhalie (slash and burn) and Teizie (home garden)are the two major forms of traditional agroforestrywhich are the primary sources of food, medicine, firewood, fodder, cultural needs, livelihoods and other utilities of equal importance. The present study, which was conducted from, March 2016 to November 2019, aims toinvestigate the contribution oftraditional agroforestry to food securityamong the Angami Nagas of Kohima district, Nagaland.Data collection methods included group discussion, semi-structured interview and field observations.Angami agroforestry is the main repository of agrobiodiversity.Agrobiodiversity plays important role in food security of the Angami Nagas. Agrobiodiversity avails of continuous accessibility of diverse foods all the year round. This study documented 32 species under 8 types of crops cultivated in Nhalieand 71 species of food plants from Teizie(homegarden).Nhalie has the potential to augment coproduction of foods and firewood to meet the increasing needs of food and energy security without negative consequences on environment. Pretty good number of wild edibles and conventional crops growing in home gardens contributes towards supplementing food during off season. Well-designed Angami granary and traditional techniques of preservation help to ensure food security by reducing unwanted post-harvest damages.Angami agroforestry not only enhances food and energy security but also infers as a tool for conservation of agrobiodiversity and sustainable development.
Phytochemical properties of guava plants (Psidium guajava): a review.
Authors: Ravinder Singh  , Bhadra Anumita , Singh Rattan Deep
Published: August 2024

The traditional practice of medicine has been a core of cultures everywhere in the world.Inthisaspect,scientistsandresearchershavebeenlookingfornaturalsources such as plants to study their benefits to mankind. In recent years guava is getting popularduetotheenormousbenefitsrenderedbyitintheinternationaltrade.It deserving rises due to its nutritious significance, besides having various pharmacological applications, including its leaf's antimicrobial effect, the use of fruit and juice from its leaves to treat diarrhea dysentery, diabetes mellitus, and many others. Theuseofitsseedsandbarkis also known. However, due to presence of rich constituents, the guava also is a potentialsourceofantioxidantswhichcanbeusedincosmeticand/ordermatological industryforgeneratingnewformulations.Inreviewalsosuggeststheantifungaland antibacterial property of guava which was estimated against a number of bacterial strains. Methanolic and aqueous extracts from Psidium guajava, were analyzed for the existence of phytochemicals and tested for their antioxidant and antimicrobial activity in this study. The phytochemical investigation has shown that guava leaves' extract is abundant in various secondary metabolites, such as polyphenols. Guava leaves have also been shown to be high in flavonoids, phenols and tannins, while components such as flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins and triterpenes are present in relatively lower concentrations.
Evaluation ofsome heavy metals andphysico-chemical properties of soil under two sampling depths in Gambari Forest Reserve (GFR), Ibadan,Oyo State, Nigeria.
Authors: Salami K.D. , Akinyele A.O.
Published: August 2024

This study was carried out with the aim of determinedthe soil depthvariations in heavy metals and some physico-chemical properties of soil depths sampled inGambari Forest Reserve(GFR). Itwas examined with the purpose of evaluating the environmental impact of human activities on the Forest Reserve. Soil samples were collected randomly from eight plots withinthe forest at two different depth of0-15 and0-30cmwith the aid of soil auger. Systematic sampling design was used to lay two straight line transects, each of 1000 m long and separated by 500m,in the reserve. Four Temporary Sample Plots (TSP) of size 50 m×50 m were laid along each transect at 250 m interval. Furthermore, a 6 × 6 m subplot was laid out at the centre of each plot. Samplesof about 500geach were collected in plastic bags and taken to the laboratory for analysis.The physico-chemical properties were evaluated using standard methods, while metal contents were conducted with flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer following wet acid digestion.Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. The content of metals (mgkg-1) gave the ranges: 3.02-5.92 Cd, 8.69-14.25 Cr, 1.39-1.67 Cu, 5.01-6.83Mn, 13.37-14.25Ni, 3.69-5.89 Pb and 1.59-1.75 Zn, with a variation pattern in order: Ni ˃ Cr ˃ Mn ˃ Pb ˃ Cd ˃ Zn ˃ Cu in both soil depths.With the exception of Cadmium, the degree of pollution varied with, by values that were far less than the upper tolerable limits set by Food and Agriculture Organizationand World Health Organizationfor agricultural soils.Results showthat sand had the highest % in soil of the area (92.34). Bulk densities were at ranges of (1.43, 1.45 and 1.23g/cm3) at the depth of 0-15 and 15-30, respectively. The textural classification for each depth of soil was Sandy-loam with percentages of sand (89.9-86.0), silts (10.94-4.41) and clay (5.68-3.03).Considerable spatial variations in contents were observed for all physico-chemical properties in all part of the study sites. GFRis relative nutritious and contain high amount of heavy metals. Therefore, it recommended that reserve should be enriched with tree and properly protected and monitored from encroachment of bothhuman being and animals.
A geographical analysis of cropping pattern and cropping intensity in Jammu and Kashmir: 1965-66 TO 2010-11
Authors: JAVAID JAVAID AHMAD ANDRABI
Published: August 2024

In the present paper an attempt has been made to analyze spatial-temporal changes in cropping pattern and cropping intensity in agriculture of Jammu and Kashmir. Data were obtained from Statistical Abstract of Jammu and Kashmir. Copping pattern and cropping intensity have been presented in the percentage forms. Results of the study reveal that cropping pattern is much diverse with high level of cropping intensity in agriculture of the state. It has been found that maize is still most cultivated crop in the state, covering an area of 27.4 % to total cropped area during 2010-11. Wheat has been found second most cultivated crop with increasing trend of area. The area under rice and pulses crop has decreased rapidly over the period. Cropping intensity has also continuously increased from 119.70% in 1965-66 to 155.79 % in 2010-11. The highest cropping intensity has been recorded in samba (212.63%) whereas lowest registered in Kupwara (100%) district of the state.
A study on the preferences of tourists visiting Uttar Pradesh for rural-agritourism
Authors: Indora Deepali , Kaintura Sapna , Singh Saumya , Kant Sashi
Published: August 2024

India is an agriculture-based economy but more than a business, agriculture is a vital part of Indian culture and has a huge potential for tourism in rural areas. This study focuses upon preferences of facilities and activities required by tourists visiting Uttar Pradesh for rural tourism. The tourists from urban areas or from abroad can experience rural life through gaining information about sowing and harvesting of various crops, traditional food, handicraft, culture, music and language. The study explored the viability of various rural entertainment, cultural and agricultural activities in developing a tourist’s itinerary. The tourist may be diverted towards rural tourism destinations across the state for sustainable tourism development. This would also result in reducing the financial burden on the rural population of the state resulting in Counter urbanization. This study attempts to examine the desirability of developing rural agricultural tourism sites for domestic tourism across Uttar Pradesh. Aquantitative research approach was utilized by the researchers to acknowledge the activities and facilities which could be offered to tourists as an attraction in such tourism destinations.
Isolation and characterization of actinomycetes from soil samples and screening their antibacterial activity
Authors: Sumathy Victor V. Judia Harriet , Ravi G Savitha R
Published: August 2024

The main objective of the present study was isolation, purification and characterization of Actinomycetes from different soil samples, bioactive compounds produced from Actinomycetes spp, having antimicrobial activity against 6 selected pathogenic strains and degradation of biodegradable plastics. Actinomycetes spp. are the most widely distributed group of microorganisms in nature which is primarily in the soil. Soil samples were taken from different habitats in Chennai. Potential isolates of Actinomycetes colonies were screened and purified. Isolates of Actinomycetes colonies were characterized by morphological, physiological and biochemical tests. These colony isolates were subjected to extraction of bioactive compounds. Antibacterial activity of the purified extract of isolates were evaluated. The colony isolates were tested for antimicrobial activity against 6 selected pathogenic strains. Solvent Phase crude extract and Intermediate Phase crude extract showed strong inhibition of growth of bacterial organisms in Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Streptococcus spp, except Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas spp. Degradation of Biodegradable Plastics have been evaluated against Actinomycetes spp. These colony isolates have antibacterial activity and can be used in the development of new antibiotics for pharmaceutical compounds and also as a biocontrol agent against pathogenic fungi.
An overview of ethnobotanical and pharmacological study of Embelia ribes (baobarang): a potential unani herbal drug
Authors: Siddiqui Nazish
Published: August 2024

Plant, animal and mineral products are used in unani system of medicine as drugs, which is a natural system of healthcare. The fruits of Embelia ribes are used as herbal drug under the name Baobarang. It is a climbing shrub, used as herbal drug not only in unani system of medicine but also in Ayurveda. It possess various medicinal properties but the plant is highly valuable as anthelmintic and it has been discussed as krimighna in Ayurveda classical text, Charaka Samhita. In this review an attempt has been made to discuss its geographical distribution, macro and microscopic properties, powder characteristics as dose, temperament, various pharmacological actions and therapeutic uses. Besides this phytochemistry of the fruits has also been explored to find out the chemical constituents present in the fruits responsible for its physiological properties. The review has also highlighted the need for the use of Baobarang in Unani system of medicine and future prospect for further research.
Contribution of Mathematics to the Development of Sustainable Agriculture in the Cultivation of Ladyfinger
Authors: Megha Abhiman Bhamare  , Krutika Pramod Bodhale
Published: August 2024

Ladyfinger (Abelmoschus esculentus), also known as okra or bhindi, is a widely cultivated vegetable crop with significant culinary and economic importance. This research paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of ladyfinger cultivation practices, encompassing various aspects such as climate and soil requirements, nutritional needs, water management, pest and disease control, weed management, harvesting techniques, and post-harvest practices. By analyzing these factors, the paper offers valuable insights to farmers, researchers, and policymakers for optimizing ladyfinger cultivation and maximizing crop productivity. Additionally, the economic viability and profitability of ladyfinger cultivation are examined, shedding light onthe market dynamics and potential challenges faced by farmers. The research findings underscore the significance of implementing sustainable cultivation practices and emphasize the need for further research and innovation to address emerging challenges in ladyfinger cultivation. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge and serves as a guide for promoting efficient and sustainable ladyfinger production, thereby benefiting both farmers and consumers.
Some observations of zooplankton composition and abundance in river Damodar during winter season.
Authors: Patra Subhendu Bikash
Published: August 2024

The investigation has been made to examine the hydrological condition of the studied area (some physicochemical parameter of water, zooplankton community and its diversity).During the study it was observed that the trend of variation of water temperature was from 15.9ºc to17.5ºc. pH was found to alkaline ranging from 8.5 to 9.1.During the study there was afluctuation in O2levelfrom 3.2 mg/lit. to 5.2 mg/lit.Free CO2 was found to be higher throughoutthe study with a variation from 14 to 18 mg/lit.In the study of Zooplankton,Cladocera and Rotifera were chiefly present comprising mostly of Daphniasp, Rotariasp., Brachionussp.and Cyclopsspp. Besides theae groupsof speciesCopepoda was also present.A total of 10 genera includingone larval form were found during study. Among 10 genera only 5were dominant ( Daphniasp., Rotariasp., Brachionus sp., Mesocyclopssp.and nauplius larvae), within these dominant species the most dominant wereDaphniasp., Rotaria sp.and Brachionus sp.which occur more than three times during study.While the community study was concerned it was foundthatthe species richness ranged from 0.734 to 1.17, Evenness from 0.911 to 0.975and Shannon-Wiener index value was varied between 1.85 and 2.43. The mean values of them were0.924, 0.939and 2.25respectively.
Sustainability and Challenges of rainwater resource exploitationin the rural communities ofOyo State, Nigeria.
Authors: Ogunbode Timothy Oyebamiji , Asifat J.T. , Ogungbile P.O.
Published: August 2024

Despite the fact that rainwater is in abundant supply in the humid tropics, this resource is still being underutilized for domestic purposes when compared with other sources of water. A study was thus conducted to assess the sustainability and challenges facing optimal exploitation of rain water. A survey was conducted in 125 rural communities with at least five rural communities selected from 25 rural Local Government Areas. The results showed that people’s perception of rain water, inadequate storage facilities, availability at home during the rain incidence and seasonality of rainfall were the challenges of effective utilization of rainwater in the rural areas. The study further discovered that rain water is dependable as for domestic uses between the months of April and October while the dependence level of rain water from the months of November and March is about zero.A paired sample T-Test results showed that there is a significant difference between the average monthly water demand and the monthly storable water at 1% level of significance.This impliesthat stored rainwater is not sufficient to cater for the household water demand.Hence,it is suggestedthat exploitation of rain water should be encouraged by boosting the capacity of the rural dwellers so that they can acquire storage facilities that will enhance sufficient storage. Stakeholders can also support this campaign through economic empowerment of the inhabitants in the rural areas so that underground water can be protected for the purpose of rain water exploitation
Modeling the Current and future potential distribution of Arabis alpina using MaxEnt softwarein selected mountains of Ethiopia.
Authors: Bekele Melese , Seifu Amare , Wube Sisay , Tilaye Gebiyahu
Published: August 2024

Theobjective of this study was to model the current and future distributions of the plant species, Arabis alpina,using MaxEnt software. Accordingly,atotal of 70locations datawere used for this investigation. The occurrence record of this species was obtained from herbarium of Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute andGoogle Earthversion 7from highlandareas of Ethiopia. Climate data with a spatial resolution of 30 s (approximately 1 km2), was downloaded from world climate database website.The result of this analysis confirmedthat the average test ofAUC is 0.970. This is an excellent model forthe selected variables since the AUC value was more than 0.90.Thetest of the jackknife indicatedthe current distribution of Arabis alpinawas mainly influenced by Annual Mean Temperature (Bio1) and the Min Temperature of Coldest Month (Bio6) that contributed 74.9% and 17.5% to the MaxEnt model respectively. Regarding the futureclimatic condition the result of this investigation indicated that the average test of AUC was 0.959. The jackknife test wasalso indicatedthe future distribution of Arabis alpinawas mainly influenced byprecipitation of wettest Quarter (bio16) that contributed 95.1% to the MaxEnt model. Generally,the picture of the model of current climatic conditions indicated that Arabisalpinaoccurs in mosthighland areas of Ethiopian butthe model for future climatic condition indicated that this plant will be restricted to few areasof the country.This might me due to climate change, anthropogenic degradation and invasivealien species. In addition,from the picture of the model there might be shifting of habitat from the lower altitude tothe higher altitude .This maybe due to an increase in temperature and decrease in precipitation. Therefore, this study recommends the integration of futureclimate situation into current restoration and conservation policies to protect ecologically sensitive species of the country.
Trichodinid ciliates in two economically important fishes,Rastrelliger kanagurta(Perciformes: Scombridae) andOreochromis mossambicus(Perciformes: Cichlidae) from Kerala, India.
Authors: Suresh Amrutha Shya , Sreekumaran Nair Balamurali Rakhavan Pillai , Unni Arya , Mangalathettu Binumon Thankachan
Published: August 2024

Trichodinid ciliophoransare one of the main groups of fish parasitescausing damage to skin and gills,often leading to the death of the infested fish andare still a poorly studied group in India.A study was undertaken to assess the infestation and distributionof trichodinids from the skin and gills of two economically important fishesin India, RastrelligerkanagurtaCuvier, 1816and OreochromismossambicusPeters, 1852.Dried slides were prepared from the smears andimpregnated with silver nitrate (2%) and morphometriccharacteristics were madeusing photomicrographs produced from theslides.O. mossambicus was found positive for two species, viz., TrichodinamagnaVan As and Basson, 1989 and ParatrichodinaafricanaKazubski and El-Tantawy, 1986.R. kanagurta was found to be infested with Paratrichodina sp. Lom, 1963. Seasonal variations in the rate of parasite infestation were observed in T. magnaand P. africana from O. mossambicusand these parasites showed anincrease during post-monsoon while a decrease during monsoon. No seasonal variation was observed in Paratrichodinainfestation in R. kanagurta. The infection induced excessive mucus secretion, paleness in gills, and multifocal whitish areas and lesions that probably permitted entry of opportunistic bacteria. The present study reportsthe first record ofa Paratrichodina sp.onR. kanagurtaand T. magnaon O. mossambicus.
Effect of metakaolin and alccofine in high strength concrete
Authors: Fathima K.S. , Anjaly M
Published: August 2024

High strength concrete is defined as concrete with characteristic cube strength above 40 MPa. The applications of high strength concrete are bridges, aqueducts, dams, high rise buildings etc. This work involves the comparative study of various mineral admixtures such as alccofine and metakaolin on high strength concrete. Alccofine is a new generation micro fine concrete material which is beneficial with respect to workability as well asstrength. The desirable properties of Metakaolin make it mostly preferred additives in high strength concrete. In thisstudy,cementispartiallyreplacedwithalccofine,metakaolinat5,10and15%. The mechanical properties like compressive strength, flexural strength and split tensile strength are evaluated and compared. The strength properties are maximum for the concrete mix with alccofine.
Proposal of construction materialflow index for multi-storey residential buildings
Authors: Babu Sruthi Suresh , Eldhose Sahimol
Published: August 2024

Besides water, construction materials are indeed the major flows that enter the sites. Administrationand movement of these supplies are the challenges experienced on sites nowadays due to thescarcity of materials, delays in terms of availability, inefficient transport facilities, damage andwaste and limited space for storage. Effective flow of material is very critical for maintaining aproductive and cost efficient location. Poor disposal and haulage during site operations is animportant issue that jeopards the efficiency of construction projects. Unsatisfactory handling,storage and management of materials on work sites will seriously hinder the performance of theproject. In construction site, a new approach is therefore required to analyze the flow of materials.The project deals with the identification of optimum material flow factors identified from literaturereview and analysed for index generation by developing formula for index. This includes measuresof material movement, its consumption and excess disposal of waste. The proposed constructionflow index (CFI) is a composite indicator that illustrates the repetitive construction projectefficiency of the output flow. The CFI is a powerful instrument for assessing the efficiency andeffectiveness of construction projects and monitoring the movement of supplies. An index isgenerated for the quantitative analysis of the material flow at work sites in this project.
The influence of CBRvalue on the cost of optimal flexible pavement design
Authors: Baskaran Venkatesh , Subash Raj C , Subbu Sankar V.R. , Blessy K.
Published: August 2024

Road transport would be arteries for the economy pulse. As a developing nation, India focuses on connecting all partsof thecountry through this road network. Flexible pavement is generally preferred for the road with low to medium traffic conditions. The flexible pavement design depends on the CBR of subgrade soiland design traffic for the selected road specified in IRC 37-2018. The study is limited to the road link at Tirunelveli City paved with a bituminous surface course with a granular base and sub-base between South Bypass road Junction near New bus stand –NH 44 service road intersection. Effective subgrade CBRvalue consideredfrom 9% to 15% inthe study area. The traffic volume detail and vehicle classification were collected with the help of an automatic vehicle classifier called MetroCount. The design starts with selecting a trial profile by considering CBR and MSA from the appropriate catalog. The stress and strain were estimated at critical locations of pavement by performing Structural Analysis in IITPAVE software. The optimal design is achieved by altering the layer thickness to minimize the gap between actual and allowable strain. An increase in CBR value decreases the thickness of the functional layer of pavement. Cost estimation has arrived from rate analysis for various work items as per IRC specification and schedule of rates. Similar studies were identified in evaluating the construction cost corresponding to different design methods. This study concluded that improvement in 1 % CBR saves about 1 to 2% of overall construction cost in optimal design.
A study on the present status of fish in a perennial wetland (Beel) of Central Assam, India
Authors: Boruah Lakshyasree , Das Zuganta Jyoti , Kausar Afifa
Published: August 2024

The permanent wetlands of Assam, known as Beels, are crucial in regulating the functions of natural ecosystems and harbor coveted Bioresources such as fish.  On the majority of occasions, these wetlands provide essential nutrition in the form of varieties of fish species while generating primary and secondary sources of employment and income to sustain the livelihood of large socio-economically vulnerable sections of society. However, fish diversity is slowly decreasing in most wetlands over time, primarily due to anthropogenic stresses. For conservation measures, ichthyofaunal diversity is a good indicator of the health of the aquatic ecosystem. We studied the Ichthyofaunal diversity and its prospectus in one such wetland of central Assam (Morigaon), known as Kuji Beel. We recorded a total of 35 inhabited fish species the Beel and most of them belong to the order Cypriniformes followed by Siluriformes, Channiformes, and Perciformes. We also identified certain invasive species, particularly common carp, which become the dominant species in a short period at the cost of the drastic exhaustion of three native fish species, such as Barali, Pabda, and Chitala, falling into the IUCN classification of vulnerable to near-threat. The Mahaldar of the Beel and local fishermen also confirmed a significant decline in fish diversity and availability over the last decade, regardless of species. This reduction in diversity and availability can be attributed mainly to four reasons: (i) Destructive fishing like indiscreet fishing and killing of juvenile and brood species during the peak breeding season,  (ii) The use of different types of fishing gear, the mesh of which is small enough to hold fry, (iii) Loads of sediment deposition and siltation along with pollution (agro-chemical) from cultivation practices in the vicinity, and (vi) Uncontrolled growth of aquatic plants such as water hyacinth and increased biological oxygen demand, hampering the growth of fish species. Finally, we have suggested appropriate conservation measures to maintain fish diversity whilst preserving the rich fish population of Kuji Beel and other similar permanent wetlands of Assam.
Standardization and Optimization of Process Parameters for Manufacturing of Yak Milk Paneer
Authors: Ingudam Bidyasagar  , Shilpa Wangkheimayum  , Raigar Rakesh Kumar
Published: August 2024

In the current study, the physicochemical and sensory quality of yak milk paneer (cottage cheese) were studied and also aimed to determine the optimum processing condition by using the response surface methodology technique. The nineteen experiments were generated in design expert software, the  calcium chloride (0-0.20%), Citric acid (0.5-2.5%) and coagulation temperature (72-90°C) were taken as independent variables while the moisture, yield, texture, sensory score, titratable acidity was taken as a response for the optimization process. The coefficient of determination, R2 values for moisture, yield, texture, sensory score, titratable acidity was found to be greater than 0.80. Optimization by the application of the desirability function method resulted in a quantity of calcium chloride, citric acid and coagulation as 0.13%, 0.50% and 78.42°C, respectively. The yak milk and milk products are a sustainable income source of high-altitude region peoples so the optimized process conditions of yak milk paneer may help to small scale processors to improve the quality and yield of products.
Development of reconstituted nutrispread by incorporation of date seed based composite powder
Authors: Santhosh Sandhra , Nandana Anil  , Fathima Muheenudheen  , Adithya Babu
Published: August 2024

With growing concern there is a need to develop reconstitutable powder to produce different nutrient rich recipes. Therefore, the present work was undertaken to develop Reconstituted Nutrispread by utilization of Date seeds and Fig using tray dryer and study their influence on functional properties. The raw materials were dried using tray dryer and blended to create a homogeneous mixture, to which finely powdered coconut sugar was added to serve as a sweetener and binder. The mixture was further ground and sifted to achieve a smooth and consistent texture. The final product was a reconstituted date seed spread available in powdered form, which could be used in various ways, such as a spread or as an ingredient in different recipes. By utilizing raw materials such as dates, figs, almonds, and coconut sugar, this product is a healthier substitute for conventional spreads. Sample were analysed for Iron, Protein and Antioxidants. The results revealed that it contains 7.45g of iron, 15.59% of protein, 0.55% of fat.
Keywords: Reconstitution, date seeds, iron, by-product utilization, sustainability, fig, tray dryer.
Effect of seasonal changes on the herbage composition of Stylosanthes hamata Taub cv. Verano and Centrosema pascuorum Mart. Ex. Benth in the NIGERIAN sub-humid zone
Authors: Anthony Omeregie
Published: August 2024

A study was conducted in the Nigerian sub-humid zone to find out the effect  of seasonal change on herbage crude protein and mineral composition of verano stylo and Centro. Consequently, plant samples were obtained between September in the establishment year (wet season) through July in the succeeding year (dry season) for analysis. Highest crude protein (CP) and mineral contents were found in the herbage in the wet than in the dry season. The CP levels of centro was most different of the time lower than that of verano in the dry season. There was no appreciable difference  in P concentration during the dry season but Centro had considerable higher P during the rainy season. Micro-nutrients content in the forages were quite variable with season. Crude protein, P and Cu were the most limiting nutrients, particularly, in the dry season, based on recommended critical level requirements. Feed supplementation would then become necessary for improved animal production in the zone, particularly in the dry season.
The climate change scenario in Nigeria: local perceptions and the way forward
Authors: Oyebamiji Ogunbode Timothy
Published: August 2024

The contributions of all and sundry are salient to the global efforts in mitigating climate change-associated challenges. While global communities are rallying round to discuss the effects of climate change with millions of dollars being sunk into the process of mitigation, it is so unfortunate that the perceptions about the climate change menace is quite unwelcomed. The implications of such attitude manifest in the attitude towards the causative actions being noticed which seemed to be unabated, most especially in developing countries. This brief communication examines the case of local perception on climate change in Nigeria and the way forward. Education and enlightenment on the reality of climate change and its manifestations are desirable at both local and international levels by relevant stakeholders.
Chemical analyses of salt-substitutes derived from phelo and its role in the health care system of the local indigenes
Authors: Engtipi Moromi , Raju N.L.
Published: August 2024

Today salt is the most desired and routinely added major food ingredient used in many food preparation and food processing technologies as well as in many therapeutic purposes. The taste of salt or saltiness is universally accepted by the human society since time immemorial. There are many literatures describing about the modern human civilizations obtaining salt from different sources to satisfy their gustatory senses. Likewise the Karbi tribe, a hilly tribe of Assam, India, have been observed practicing extraction of a liquid condiment as salt-substitute from different plants and plant parts since time immemorial. The extracted condiment is known as Phelo in the region and it provides a unique flavour and many essential minerals to the local diets. But at present it is observe that such salt-alike condiment extraction practice is vanishing from this region because of replacement of these local condiments with the commercially available refined salts and soda powder. Therefore the present study was an attempt to help uncover the forgotten salt resources and transform these liquid condiment used as salt-substitute to a solid form and also highlight its therapeutic potentialities. Today many man-made harmful food ingredients and food additives causing many deleterious health issues are the main cause of concern among the people, so the present study will provide a new herbal salt-substitute with an up-to-date nutritional information which is very natural and safe for human consumption.
Potential of Azolla pinnata for phytoremidiation of sewage waste water
Authors: Singh Jeetendra , Soni S.K. , Yadav Pragati
Published: August 2024

Phytoremediation offers an attractive and cost-effective way for the treatment of wastewater. Azolla, an aquatic pteridophyte is an excellent member for phytoremediation of wastewater and industrial effluents. In this study, we investigated the ability of Azolla pinnata for the improvement of water quality parameters like pH, TDS(Total dissolved solids), EC(Electrical conductivity), and Salinity in  STP water collected from Khasra 359 Shantinagar site, Dayalbagh, Agra. Verification of the phytoremediation capability of A.pinnata was done. STP water was collected, each tub filled with 8 L of STP water and inoculated with 50g, 100g 150g of fresh A.pinnata in separate tubs respectively along with a control. The experimental setup was left undisturbed and Azolla was allowed to grow for 3 weeks. After 3 weeks of growth, a water sample was collected from each tub. pH, TDS, EC salinity of the STP water was taken before and after treatment with A.pinnata along with the control. The pH, salinity, TDS EC of the water sample decreased in an orderly manner from the initial analysis to after treatment and with increasing concentration of Azolla inoculated. The values of different parameters were found to be decreased significantly.
Geographical analysis of cropping pattern in Kashmir valley, India.
Authors: Singh Amarjeet , Hajam Ferooz Ahmed , Ahmed Rayees , Ahmed Pervez , Singh Harmeet , Khan Ruyida
Published: August 2024

Agriculture is the primary source of economy in Kashmir Valley, as the majority of the population, almost 70%, exists on it. The Valley is separated into three geographical zones: flood plains, Karewas, and mountains. Additionally, the land utilization pattern reveals the cultivable area, gross cropped area, and cropping intensity. The primary objective of this article is to document fluctuations in agricultural patterns throughout the Kashmir valley using a seven-year reference period from 2013-14 to 2018-19. The current research is grounded on secondary data. The district was used as a unit of analysis for the cropping intensity pattern in the study area. The study reveals that cropping patterns in Kashmir Valley have shifted dramatically during a seven-year period. Variation in height, soil, and climate has significantly impacted agriculture methods throughout the districts of Kashmir valley. The district-level analysis reveals that Kupwara, Baramulla, Shopian and Bandipora districts have the least cropping intensity. While Anantnag, Pulwama, and Ganderbal have a high level of crop intensity.
Inequality and social welfare status of paddy rice processors in Nigeria’s Jigawa State
Authors: Sanusi Sanusi , B.S Sani
Published: August 2024

This research empirically determined the social welfare status as well as factors causing income disparity among paddy rice processors in Jigawa State of Nigeria using a cross-sectional survey data obtained through a well-structured questionnaire coupled with interview schedule from a total of 200 processors (67 millers and 133 par-boilers) meticulously selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Besides, the collected data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Empirically, it was established that income disparity across the target categories was low; however, market-wise, the market structure of the par-boilers and millers in the supply value chain was perfect and oligopolistic markets respectively. Nevertheless, based on the overall, the market structure of the processors in the supply value chain exhibited the characteristics of a perfect market. Furthermore, it was inferred that income disparity owes majorly to decline labour productivity across the target categories while poor social network and complacency attitude towards innovative marketing tools as a causal factor of income disparity are only common to the par-boilers. Moreover, it was established that macro-polices viz. food inflation and tax reforms negatively affected social welfare of the processors. Therefore, the study advice policy makers to provide social safety nets and adopt realistic economic barometers in order to ensure the sustainability of the rice supply value chain in the study area.
Screening of aflatoxin B1 and M1 in feed, commercial, and desi chicken eggs using high-performance thin layer chromatography
Authors: K. M. Gourikrishna  , Chandrashekhar Unakal  , S.P. Preetha
Published: August 2024

Background: Egg consumption in India has increased due to dietary and lifestyle changes. Thus, there is a need to screen for any contamination hazardous to public health. The objective was to evaluate the presence of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and aflatoxin M1(AFM1) in feed and egg samples collected from commercial and desi farms in and around Chennai. Method: To determine the compartment where aflatoxin (AFT) accumulates, egg samples were fractionated into three: whole, yolk, and albumen. Matrixes were screened for AFB1 and AFM1 residues using the AOAC method and quantified using high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC). Result: Eighty percent of the feed samples from desi chicken farms and 86.67% from commercial farms were positive for AFB1. The highest value of AFB1 was 152.75 ppb in commercial feed samples, which was more than the MRL (20 ppb) by the European Union (EU). Five percent of the commercial and 11.67% of the desi chicken whole egg samples were positive for AFB1. Other samples (yolk and albumen) were below the detection limits. AFB1concentration was more in egg samples collected from commercial chicken farms. Further stringent measures, control, and monitoring programs must be considered to reduce AFT levels in Chennai.
Keywords: laying hens, egg production, feedstuffs, mycotoxins, residual effect, albumin, yolk.
A review of soil pollution, causes, and health effects
Authors: Sahdev  , Kuldeep
Published: August 2024

Soil pollution is the biggest problem of today. When the chemical, biological and physical properties of the soil change, its quality is affected and the soil becomes polluted. Today the cause of soil pollution is Natural and Anthropogenic Soil Pollution. In which industrial activity, agricultural activities, mining, Waste disposal, deforestation, oil, Radioactive Wastes, Acid Rain, Coal Ash, Microplastics, Indiscriminate use of pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, etc. are prominent. Due to changes in soil properties, groundwater is getting polluted here. Soil pollution affects kidney damage, liver, headache, nausea, fatigue, eye irritation, skin rash, etc. human health. Soil pollution control on Reusing of materials, Recycling and recovery of materials, Reforestation, Solid Waste Treatment, Public Awareness, Soil Erosion, Production of Natural Fertilizers, Ban on Toxic Chemicals, Reducing chemical fertilizer and pesticide use. The causes of soil pollution, control, and their effects on health have been described in this review.
Nutrient profile, antioxidant activity and property analysis of selected edible flowers.
Authors: Devatha S.M. , Raajeswari P.A.
Published: August 2024

Edible flowers have gained more attention in this era due to their bioactive compounds and mostly available in all seasons. They are less consumed and underutilized when compared to the green leafy vegetables due to lack of nutritional and medical knowledge that is yet to be scientifically documented. The study is a imprint to investigateproximate, microbial load, antioxidant activity, functional and optical properties of the selected edible flowers namely agathi, hibiscus, moringa and rose in dry basis. Fully blossomed flowers were collected from a same location in spring season and shade dried. Hibiscus and rose were dried for lesser duration than other flowers and agathi flower yieldmore quantity after drying. Ash content of the flowers was between eight to nine per cent. Agathi flower were rich in carbohydrate, protein and Vitamin C, whereas moringa flower were rich in calcium and iron. DPPH radical scavenging activity of the aqueous extracts of flowers powder 95 per cent of inhibition at different concentrations. FT-IR analysis offlowers powder showed the presence of triglycerides and polysaccharides. Hibiscus flower showed more darkness with reddish shade and moringa flower exposed the least dullness. This study proves that all the selected four edible flowers contains quantifiable amount of nutrients and antioxidant activity. Due to the richness of color and antioxidant activity these edible flowers can be incorporated as natural colorant and preservative as well. It can be added to increase the sensory attributes, nutritive value of any product from bakery to conventional dishes either in liquid or powder form as such or in combination to enhance the product and can be included in special diet plans without much affecting the nature of the product.
A comprehensive review of non-alcoholic fatty Liver disease in a dyslipidemia.
Authors: Changlani Dr Sagar , Dr. Mrs. Mrinal A Nerlekar
Published: August 2024

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), also known as metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), is characterized by hepatocyte abnormal buildup of triglycerides and other lipids. This frequent illness can advance from simple steatosis to steatohepatitis and, ultimately, end-stage liver disease. MAFLD is linked to problems with systemic energy metabolism, such as insulin resistance and atherogenic dyslipidemia. The Scope Of Review: The liver is the primary organ in lipid metabolism because it secretes very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) and internalizes fatty acids and lipoproteins. This review article highlights new findings on hepatic lipid synthesis, VLDL generation, and lipoprotein internalization in the context of MAFLD, as well as lipid exchange between adipose tissue and the liver. Major Conclusion: Triglycerides and other fats build up in the liver cells to cause fatty liver. The balance between the delivery and elimination systems determines the number of fatty acids in the liver. Inflammation of the liver and liver cell death has been linked to fatty liver in certain cases (steatohepatitis). The liver normally contains a specific quantity of fat, but when exposed to certain pathological circumstances, the balance between fat production and utilization may be disrupted. NAFLD dyslipidemia is characterized by elevated blood triglycerides, elevated tiny, dense low-density lipoprotein (LDL non-type A) particles, and decreased HDL cholesterol. In many areas of the globe, including the United States, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver condition. According to population-based abdominal imaging studies, at least 25% of American people have fatty livers. The total frequency of NAFLD in the general population in India is near to 40%.