bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
-wl-5841-Fertility in the business cycle: The case of India
Authors: Saha Jeet , Iqubal Zafar
Published: February 2025

Previous studies found that fertility is affected by the position of the business cycle. However, such studies in the Indian context have not been done yet. This paper shows how fertility reacts in a business cycle in India. We take the unemployment rate as a proxy variable of the business cycle. Through a NARDL model, we find that although fertility is affected when the unemployment rate rises, a fall in the unemployment rate does not affect fertility. Thus, our finding reveals that the effect of unemployment on fertility in India is permanent. We built both short-run and long-run models and found that in the short run, fertility is countercyclical, but in the long run, fertility is pro-cyclical. These findings about fertility dynamics in India are novel and significant. We also add variables such as inflation and infant mortality rates (IMR) in our models to overcome potential bias. Our findings also suggest that inflation and IMR's effect on fertility are significant. Moreover, their short and long-run effects on fertility are opposite.
(wl-6929)-Rating Systems: A Driver’s Perspective
Authors: Jha Devasmita , Jha Shishir Kumar , Guha Anupam
Published: February 2025

Algorithms are the new managers. Workers are now being evaluated by algorithms, and one such tool is the use of customer-generated five-star ratings by platforms. This article looks at rating systems used by ride-hailing companies - Uber and Ola from three aspects. The first aspect looks at the literature on rating systems; this section explores the origins of the star-based rating systems, their significance today, how they work and what impact does it have on drivers. Second, the article dives into what the companies have to say about the use of rating systems. The last part includes a study that explores how a ride-hailing company driver perceives a rating system. The study aims to answer, how does a ride hailing company driver perceive a rating system? The objective of the study include - to understand the driver’s perspective of the rating systems used by ride hailing companies & the impact the rating systems have on the performance review and deactivation of drivers.
(wl-3872)-Academic Conferences: A Need for Critical Self-reflection
Authors: , Disha
Published: February 2025

In the Indian academic landscape, the perceived integrity and relevance of conferences have come under scrutiny. This paper delves into the nuanced challenges faced by scholars within this framework, exposing a systemic disconnect between conference themes and the authentic research pursuits of scholars. Drawing from personal experiences and general observations, it unpacks the struggles encountered in conforming to thematic constraints, the disillusionment experienced during presentations, and the underlying profit motives shaping conference dynamics. Through the lens of the 'publish or perish' culture and the commodification of academic recognition, the paper calls for a critical reevaluation of the conference model in India, advocating for a more inclusive, merit-based framework that fosters genuine scholarly discourse. This research contributes to a broader understanding of the global phenomenon of conference commodification, urging for systemic reforms to uphold the integrity and purpose of academic gatherings.
BR - wl-1123-Children in Our Development Agendas; Mapping Sustainable Development Goals for Children in India, by Swati Dutta and Khanindra Ch. Das, Singapore: Springer Nature
Authors: Acharya Sarthi
Published: February 2025

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Engage-wl-2561-Gig Work, Climate Crisis, and Urban Infrastructures: Insights from the City of Hyderabad
Authors: T Hazeena
Published: February 2025

The relationship between gig work, extreme climatic events, and urban infrastructures is a compelling realm that needs to be studied carefully in the coming time in a country like India, which has an expanding gig workforce and a growing rate of extreme weather events. The survey report published by Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union and HeatWatch on the gig workers’ experience of extreme heat in Hyderabad is one of the introductory works in this direction, which this essay closely reads. The report provides a ground to push our thinking of gig work in connection with urban infrastructures and reveals the vital role of the state in the matter.
(wl-1355)-Neeche jana – Going down from Lahaul to Kullu
Authors: Mathias Kaaren
Published: February 2025

A couple travel by bicycle through Zanskar, Ladakh and Lahaul for four weeks in October 2024. They spend time with a roadworker crew from Jharkhand preparing to go down (‘neeche jana’) home for Diwali and the winter. They talk to a couple they have known for 15 years living in a high-up village in Lahaul. For the first time in recent memory, everyone in that village also ‘neeche ja rahe hai’ (is going down to Kullu for the winter. ‘Neeche jana’ is a growing phenomenon among nearly all people living in these remote and mountainous communities. This seasonal ‘vertical migration’ down from the high Himālaya underlines the ongoing changes linked with globalisation, roads, education, access to travel and winter accommodation.
(wl 2530)-The 2024 Jharkhand Assembly Elections: Adivasi Consolidation, Politics of Symbolism and Identity
Authors: Lakra Bipasha
Published: February 2025

The 2024 Jharkhand Assembly has completely reversed and countermanded the Lok Sabha outcome. It underscored a victory of effective grassroot-level electoral design, scrupulously casted coalition that unified varied colours of socio-politico voter groups under one political canopy. This phenomenon in electoral politics is not starkly new. However, the time coincides with the opportunity that consolidated Adivasi consciousness, identity, will to reject “fear based rhetorics”, assumed threats from ‘Bangladesh infiltrators’, as well as to decelerate the practise of “Operation Lotus” and greater political polarisation.
Measuring Domestic Migration with High-frequency Data
Authors: Editor
Published: February 2025

The slowdown in migration in the post-pandemic period does not bode well for growth.
A thinking on Quantum Physics and common sense
Authors: Artemi Carlo
Published: February 2025

The author attempts to answer the questions there are in the title of this paper. These questions are questions that scientists and philosophers have been asking themselves for many decades since Quantum Mechanics was formulated to explain the phenomena of the atomic and subatomic world. First of all a short  but complete historical review of the transition between Classical Mechanics and Quantum Mechanics there is. It is preceded by some of the methodological premises that fit a certain vision of science. Then the author examines the issues and debates that have occurred on aspects of quantum mechanics such as realism, non-locality and probabilism (in contrast to determinism of Classic Mechanics). In doing this author llustrates the foundations of the various interpretations of quantum mechanics which, in an attempt to resolve these problems, have been given. The absurdities, and conflicts with the common sense, of quantum mechanics are shown to be largely apparent. In doing this, we examine the analogies of classical physics, as well as those of everyday life. Recent experimental results are taken into consideration. It is concluded that Quantum Mechanics presents elements of rupture more with Classical Physics than with the everyday experience.
P.I. Bartenev and I. E. Zabelin: Publisher and correspondent communication as an instrument of the editorial policy of the Russkii archiv
Authors: Kovrigina Lyubava Mihailovna
Published: February 2025

The subject of this article is the communication between Peter Ivanovich Bartenev and Ivan Egorovich Zabelin as one of the tools of the editorial policy of the historical and literary journal "Russkii archiv". From 1863 to 1912, Bartenev was not only the publisher, but also the editor of this magazine. He received most of the materials for publication from correspondents with whom he conducted extensive correspondence. An important role was played by the personal relationship of the authors with the publisher, on whom the publication of the material sent to the editorial office depended. Ivan Egorovich Zabelin was one of the numerous correspondents of the Russkii archiv. Using the example of his relationship with Peter Ivanovich Baretnev, one can consider how the process of communication between the editor and the authors who published their research in the journal under study took place. The methodology of this research is based on historicism. A combination of chronological, analytical, historical and biographical methods was used in the work. The novelty of the work consists in studying unpublished letters from Peter Ivanovich Bartenev to Ivan Egorovich Zabelin from the OPI, which allow us to conclude that Bartenev's personal communications play a crucial role in his efforts to attract historical materials for the Russkii archiv. The preserved correspondence reflects the process of interaction between the publisher and the author at different stages of cooperation. The establishment of strong business and sometimes friendly ties allowed Bartenev to initiate publications himself. This article also highlights in detail the participation of Ivan Egorovich Zabelin in the controversy about the heroes of the Time of Troubles, which began on the pages of the periodical press. To answer his opponent, the historian turned to Bartenev to have his work published in the Russkii archiv.
Betula utilis (Bhojpatra): A potent herb with its traditional uses, phytochemistry, clinical application, pharmacology, and toxicology
Authors: Loshali Aanchal , Tripathi Garima , Bawa Sandhya , Aeri Vidhu
Published: February 2025

Betula utilis D. Don, (B.utilis) commonly known as the Himalayan silver birch or Bhojpatra, is a long-lived member of the Betulaceae family and grows in the subalpine zones of the Himalayan region at elevations ranging from 2,700 to 4,500 m. This species of Betula genus holds significant value in traditional and folk medicine, particularly in Ayurvedic medicine, where its bark has been used to cure various illnesses, such as blood and ear infections, pneumonia, convulsions, skin ailments, and many more. Phytochemical investigations reveal that B. utilis is abundant in triterpenoids, flavonoids, phenols, vitamins, and essential oils, among other compounds. Pharmacologically, the species exhibits a wide range of activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, hepatoprotective, anti-psoriatic, anti-obesity, anti-urolithiasis, anticonvulsant, anti-HIV, and antioxidant properties. This study summarizes research on the botanical taxonomy, phytochemistry, pharmacological properties, and ethnomedicinal uses, of B. utilis that was published between 1968 and 2024. Furthermore, toxicological studies are also discussed to provide insights into the safety profile of this species, an essential consideration for its therapeutic applications. To retrieve literature, search engines, including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, were used. This comprehensive review provides detailed information on the traditional uses, phytochemical composition, pharmacological activity, and toxicological aspects of B. utilis by integrating traditional knowledge with current findings. These reviews aim to serve as a valuable resource for researchers to guide future investigations.
Application of Leech Therapy in Alleviating Residual Limb Pain Following Distal Foot Digit Amputation: A Case Report
Authors: Yadav Yogesh , Asutkar Sheetal
Published: February 2025

Residual Limb Pain (RLP) poses a significant challenge in post-amputation care and often necessitates multimodal pain management. Here, a 55-year-old male patient with RLP was managed with Jalaukavacharan (leech therapy). The patient had previously undergone amputation of the terminal fingers and toes of the right foot and had inadequate pain relief with Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), prompting him to seek Ayurvedic treatment. Leech therapy was administered daily to the amputated area for seven days, and follow-up assessment was conducted on day 14 using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The patient’s VAS pain scores decreased significantly, from 8/10 at baseline to 0 on day 14, underscoring the potential of Jalaukavacharan as an effective complementary approach for pain reduction in RLP. The clinical implication of this case lies in demonstrating the feasibility and impact of Jalaukavacharan for managing persistent post-amputation pain, offering an alternative that aligns with the patient’s comfort and preferences. This report contributes to the limited evidence supporting Ayurvedic treatments in pain management and underscores the need for further studies with larger sample sizes to evaluate its broader applicability and effectiveness.
Some Inequalities via Functional Type Generalization of Cauchy-Bunyakovsky- Schwarz Inequality
Authors: Ege Inci , Pasaoglu Guldeniz
Published: February 2025

The Cauchy-Bunyakovsky-Schwarz inequality and its various refinements are very important in mathematical analysis. In this work, we first introduce an inequality of the form $$\left[f^{(n)}(x)\right]^2 \leq k(x) \sum_{k=0}^m a_k f^{(m-k)}\left(\frac{p}{r} x+q\right) \sum_{k=0}^l b_k f^{(l-k)}\left(\left(\frac{2}{r}-\frac{p}{r}\right) x-q\right)$$ and by using a functional type generalization of the Cauchy-Bunyakovsky-Schwarz inequality we get some inequalities for derivatives of a one-parameter deformation of the Gamma function to satisfy the introduced inequality. Also, we show that the established results are generalizations of some previous results.
Potential for Commercialisation of Value-Added Products: A Case Study of Banana Value Addition in Embu, Tharaka-Nithi and Meru Counties in Kenya
Authors: Mwove J. , Orwa J. D. , Kiramana J. K. , Isutsa D. K. , Abucheli G. O. , Njoki J. W. , Irungu F. G. , Koech E. , Nyariki I.
Published: February 2025

Despite being Kenya's leading fruit crop, contributing 35.6% of total fruit production, the minimal value addition in bananas significantly limits their potential as a vital source of income for many growers. This study assessed the extent to which value addition is done for bananas in Kenya, as well as explored the potential for commercialization of banana-value-added products. It was done in Embu, Tharaka-Nithi, and Meru, which are banana-rich counties in Kenya. A structured questionnaire was administered to 509 respondents to collect data, which was subjected to χ2 and logistic regression analyses. Results revealed that majority (63.3% and 79.1%) of the farmers were female and over 40-years-old, respectively. A proportion of 27.1% had not completed primary education, 38.1% had completed primary education, and 24.2% had completed secondary education. The length of time spent on banana farming varied significantly by county (χ2 = 40.9, P<.001), with Tharaka-Nithi having the highest proportion (63.0%) with over 30 years. Similarly, contribution of bananas to household income differed significantly by county (χ2 = 48.6, P<.001), with 54.6% of Meru farmers reporting 76-100% contribution. The uptake of value addition was significantly (P<.001) low (2.4%). Value addition was only reported in Tharaka-Nithi (5.9%), where products included crisps (0.6%), flour (0.8%), ripened (0.8%), and roasted (0.4%) bananas. The dry products have long shelf-life, earn farmers more income than fresh produce, and are commercialisable through direct marketing, shops, supermarkets, and niche institutions. Age (P=.772), education level (P=.536), and gender (P=.335) did not significantly influence uptake of value addition. Nonetheless, males were 2.09 times more likely to add value, as compared to females. Farmers who had acquired secondary and tertiary education were 1.76 and 1.67 times more likely to add value, as compared to those who had no formal education. A significant association was found between counties and responses on whether processing facilities and quality control training were incentives for increased value addition (χ2 = 21.7, P=.006), with Embu showing the strongest agreement (77.6%). These results highlight the need for targeted interventions such as establishment of processing facilities, training on banana processing and quality control, addressing infrastructural challenges, and creating better market access, to promote value addition in the banana value chain.
The Role of Religiosity, Service Quality and Financial Technology on Saving Intention among Students in Indonesia
Authors: Hardiansyah Septian Dwiki , Handayani Erna , Purnadi  , Innayah Maulida Nurul
Published: February 2025

Aims: This study intends to examine the influence of religiosity, service quality, and financial technology on saving intention.
Study Design: This study uses a quantitative descriptive method, which is a research design that is organized to provide a systematic description of scientific information derived from the subject or object of research. This study uses primary data obtained through a questionnaire in the form of a Google form. All questionnaire items in this study were measured on a Likert scale of 1 to 5. This study used a purposive sampling technique, where the sampling technique used by the researcher is in accordance with the characteristics that match the researcher.
Place of Study: The population is students of Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto. The sample determination in this study is students who save at Islamic banks.
Methodology: This study refers to Roscoe's theory and decided to use 120 samples. Data processing with the SmartPLS 3 application uses the Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS) technique. The hypothesis of this research is H1: Religiosity has a positive effect on saving intention, H2: Service quality has a positive effect on saving intention, and H3: Financial technology has a positive effect on saving intention.
Results: The finding indicates service quality and financial technology positively affect on Saving Intention, while religiosity does not affect on Saving Intention. However, this contradicts research by (Musyaffa and Iqbal, 2022; Maharani et al., 2021), which stated that service quality has no effect on saving Intention, research conducted by (Satriawan, 2022), which found that financial technology has no effect on Saving Intention, and research by (Ahmadi and Siswanto, 2023; Khofifah et al., 2023; Maryanto et al., 2022) which stated that religiosity has a positive effect on saving intention.
Conclusion: This research has theoretical and practical implications. Theoretical implications try to look deeper into how religiosity, service quality, and financial technology together influence students' Saving Intention in Islamic banks. For practical implications for Islamic banks, the results of this study can be a reference in increasing the number of customers and the quality of Islamic banks. The contribution of the study is useful for supporting the growth of Islamic finance and increasing its appeal to the younger generation.
Leadership and Healthcare Management Needs and Inclusion in the Undergraduate Medical Education Curriculum in Nigeria
Authors: Oninla Samuel Olorunyomi , Wolvaardt Elizabeth , Oninla Olumayowa Abimbola , Olagunju Funso Abidemi
Published: February 2025

Background: Leadership and management skills are considered essential for high-quality patient care at all levels of the health system. This study aimed at identifying the leadership and healthcare management (LHM) needs of junior medical doctors (JMDs) and possible modes of inclusion into the undergraduate medical education (UME) curriculum.
Methodology: This study is a cross-sectional study with stratified random sampling technique. It was conducted at the College of Health Sciences and Teaching Hospital of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Osogbo, Nigeria and State Specialist Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria, between November and December 2018. Seventy-four (74) Nigerians comprised of medical students, junior doctors, nurses, administrators, lecturers, and hospital/college of health sciences executives (stakeholders) were assessed. Participants completed an eight-item self-administered leadership and healthcare management questionnaire with a Likert scoring scale of 1 to 5. Statistical analyses were carried out using the IBM SPSS Software, with significant p-value put at P<.05.
Results: Seventy-four (74) participants were studied, 45 males and 29 females. Out of 35 skills/competencies listed, three inclusions: Patient Safety, Judgment and Decision making, and Legal Issues in Medical Practice, were unanimously rated important or very important by all study participants. Participants slightly preferred that LHM be taught in the clinical years, and 12 weeks duration of training was the most popular choice. Among the commonly suggested methods of training, only the use of didactic lectures had statistical significance (c2 = 25.767; P = .01). The preferred trainers were the Hospital/College of Health Sciences-based management experts (c2 = 22.308; P = .03). The top envisaged barriers/challenges were time constraints and a lack of LHM lecturers. Overwhelmingly, the study participants agreed that LHM training will benefit JMDs and improve healthcare delivery.
Conclusion: The study has revealed very strong support for LHM training and identified the LHM competencies/skills needed by JMDs in Nigeria. More work is needed to refine this essential inclusion in the UME curriculum.
Decades of Growth: Analyzing the Impact of Technological Advancements on Sustainable Development in Indonesia
Authors: Sasrawan I Putu Hedi , Purnamasari Ni Kadek Rahayu , Yasa I Made Putra
Published: February 2025

This research analyzes the impact of technological developments on sustainable economic growth in Indonesia. Internet penetration and electrification ratio are used as technology proxies because they are General Purpose Technologies (GPTs). Data was taken from the World Bank from 1995 to 2021. Analysis was carried out using the Error Correction Model (ECM) to see long-term and short-term impacts. The research results show that internet penetration has a significant influence on Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the long term, while electrification does not show a significant influence. The short-term impact of these two variables on GDP is also not significant. These findings indicate that technology adoption, particularly the internet, yields greater long-term benefits than short-term gains. This suggests that infrastructure investments, particularly in internet expansion, require time before their full economic impact is realized. Therefore, policymakers should prioritize and accelerate the development of internet infrastructure, recognizing its delayed but substantial contribution to sustainable economic growth.
A Review on Antibiotic Resistance in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Patients Undergoing Dialysis
Authors: Ain Noor-Ul- , Muzammil Ayesha , Aslam Rana Muhammad Nabeel , Ali Husnain
Published: February 2025

Antibiotic resistance is a worldwide health threat, especially within high-risk groups, including chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients who are on dialysis. These patients are at high risk for developing the infections because of altered immunity, frequent contact with healthcare facilities, and invasive procedures and owing to these nosocomial infections these patients suffer from additional challenges. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics in this population additionally increases their risk of multidrug-resistant (MDR) infections, which place notable challenges on clinical management. This review aims to identify the burden and consequences of antibiotic resistance among CKD patients on dialysis, with an emphasis on need for robust infection control measures especially at healthcare setups, targeted surveillance programs, and innovative approaches to mitigate this life threatening antibiotic resistance in CKD patients undergoing dialysis. By addressing these challenges, this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue and identify possibilities for improving the health outcomes in these high-risk groups.
Evaluation of Boron Levels for Improving the Growth and Yield of Wheat Crop (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Dwivedi Anshuman , Kumar Vinay , Dwivedi Deepak Kumar
Published: February 2025

The experiment comprising of six levels of boron, i.e., 0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 kg ha-1 was conducted to investigate the effect of different levels of boron on growth and yield of wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.)] cv. HUW 234. The treatments were laid out in randomized block design with three replications. The results revealed that plant height, tillers plant-1, ear length (cm), fertile spikelets ear-1, grains ear head-1 and 1000 seed weight, were increased significantly up to 2.0 kg ha-1boron. Maximum plant height was recorded with T4 (2.0 kg B ha-1) and was at par with T5 (2.5 kg B ha-1). T4 and T5 were significantly superior over lower doses and control. Thus, effect of boron was significant for all the growth and yield attributing parameters.
Aflatoxin Contamination in Cereals and Animal Feeds in Bomet County, Kenya: A Food Safety and Public Health Concern
Authors: E.K. Kemoi , Onyangore F.O. , C.C. Bii.
Published: February 2025

Aflatoxin is a type of mycotoxin originating from fungi that contaminates human food and animal feeds, causing serious health effects in humans and animals.  The study aims to determine fungal infestation and mycotoxin contamination of human food and animal feeds for public health initiatives in Bomet County. A quarter of a kilogram of ninety-one samples was taken randomly from each household and agro vets shops sampled during the study in brown bags to Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) laboratory in a deep freezer before laboratory investigation by culturing on mycological media. Fungi classification was based on morphological features. Mycotoxin detection was done using the ELISA-based EnviroLogix QuickTox Kit and the positive samples, was subjected to High-performance Liquid Chromatography analysis for QC purposes. Fusarium spp., Aspergillus spp., Alternaria spp., Mucor spp., Rhizopus spp., Penicillium spp. and, Xeromyces spp. were isolated from cereals and animal feed. Of all the samples analyzed 34.1% were positive for aflatoxins and 17% of the samples analyzed were exceeding the acceptable levels. AFB1 and AFB2 were the most commonly identified, the largest proportion of Aflatoxins ranges from 0 µg/kg to 480 µg/kg. According to the European Union's acceptable limits, amounts of aflatoxin detected in some foods were unsafe and not fit for human consumption. The presence of aflatoxins in staple foods poses significant health risks, including hepatocarcinogenic effects, and has economic implications for food security. Pre-harvest and post-harvest practices can be applied to prevent or minimize aflatoxin levels in food, such as Crop protection, drying of cereals, sorting moldy or damaged Kernels, storing food in a dry place, use of fungicides and even use of gamma rays to radiate crops.
Isolation and Identification of Mycoflora from Fruits and Vegetables in Chitradurga Local Market, Karnataka, India
Authors: M. R Sampathkumar, , B. H Ramesh, , V Basavaraj, , Y. B. Balraj,
Published: February 2025

Aim: This study aimed to isolate and identify the mycoflora associated with fruits and vegetables from local markets in Chitradurga, Karnataka, India, to assess fungal diversity, determine potential post-harvest pathogens, and evaluate their impact on food quality and safety.
Study Design: The study will be conducted in various local markets of Chitradurga, Karnataka, India, where fruits and vegetables are commonly sold, and further research work done in the laboratory.
Methodology: infected fruits and vegetables were collected from local markets in Chitradurga, surface-sterilized, and inoculated onto Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) for fungal isolation. The isolated fungi were identified based on morphological characteristics and microscopic examination.
Results: In this study, 43 fungal pathogens from 7 different genera were isolated from 23 fruit and vegetable samples, collected from the local Chitradurga market. The fungal isolates were identified at the species level based on the morphological characteristics of fungal colonies or hyphae, spore features, and reproductive structures. Aspergillus spp., Rhizopus spp., Mucor spp., Colletotrichum spp., Alternaria spp., Fusarium spp., and Penicillium spp. Were found to be major disease-causing organisms in fruits and vegetables in the local market of Chitradurga.
Conclusion: The study revealed diverse mycoflora associated with fruits and vegetables in Chitradurga local markets, identifying potential spoilage and pathogenic fungi. Effective post-harvest management strategies are essential to minimize fungal contamination and ensure food safety.
Sensory Evaluation and Haematopoietic Potential of Fermented Sorghum Fortified with Sorghum bicolor Leaf in 2,4-Dinitrophenylhydrazine –Induced Anaemia in Rats
Authors: O. A. Marcus-Bello, , O. Y. Adeniran, , M. O. Bello,
Published: February 2025

Food fortification is a well-known technique used to address micronutrient deficiencies in susceptible populations. S. bicolor leaf (SBL) is usually employed as colouring additives in many food preparations but its haematopoietic potential has not been fully explored. This study therefore, investigated the acceptability of fortified S. bicolor formula and its haematopoietic potential in anaemic rats. SBL obtained from market was pulverized into powder, out of which 0.5 g and 0.75 g of pulverized SBL were supplemented into fermented sorghum and made into thick pap, respectively. Questionnaire was designed to access organoleptic acceptability of the pap. Anaemia was induced in rats using 2,4-diphenylhydrazine (40 mg / kg) for the first two days after which the rats were fed with different proportion of fortified S. bicolor formulas from day 3 to day 15. Haematological parameters of the fortified S. bicolor- treated rats were compared to the non-treated group, and the group treated with multivitamin (orheptal) as a standard drug. The organoleptic property of the fortified formula was rated 75% overall in terms of acceptability compared to 85% of the unfortified control sample. The PCV level increased significantly in the treated groups (40%) compared to the untreated group (33%), RBC of all the treated animal groups increased significantly (6%) and Hb (12%). S. bicolor leaf enriched-pap has haematopoietic capabilities and can be an affordable remedy for anaemia. Therefore, it is recommended as functional food for anaemic patient. Conducting clinical trials and production of appealing Sorghum-based food products is hereby suggested.
Eco-friendly Management of Pink Stem Borer (Sesamia inferens Walker) in Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana Gaertn) in Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: R Saritha , M Visalakshi
Published: February 2025

Finger millet (Eleusine coracana Gaertn) is a nutri-cereal, known for its unique nutritional properties and climate resilience.  In India, among various insect pests infesting finger millet, pink stem borer causes extensive damage to the crop in the peninsular India throughout the year and across the country. In the present scenario of growing importance of sustainable and eco-friendly agriculture, exploring effective and environmentally safe novel insecticides and microbial pesticides needs to be prioritized for management of pink stem borer in finger millet. Field studies were conducted at regional agricultural research station, Anakapalle, Andhra Pradesh to evaluate a novel eco-friendly insecticide, a botanical and few microbial pesticides for their efficacy against pink stem in finger millet during 2019-20 and 2020-21. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. All the treatments were imposed as two foliar sprays at 15-20 days after sowing and again at 35-40 days after sowing and cumulative incidence of dead hearts and white ears were recorded up to 60 days after sowing. The cumulative data from the two consecutive years of study, revealed that emamectin benzoate @ 0.4 gl-1 is most effective in managing pink stem borer (2.5 per cent dead hearts and 2.8 per cent white ear heads), giving higher yield (29.4 quintals per hectare) and also achieving higher benefit cost ratio of 3.25. Among the botanicals and microbial pesticides tested, M. anisopliae @5 gl-1and B.bassiana @5 gl-1 proved to be the best at reducing the dead hearts to 3.9-4.3 per cent and white ear heads to 4.2-4.7 per cent. The cost economics reinforced the superiority of M. anisopliae and B. bassiana by obtaining benefit cost ratios of 3.08 and 2.98, respectively.
Microplastic Contamination in Agricultural Soils Across India: A Systematic Review
Authors: Anand Viplav , Sheel Rimjhim
Published: February 2025

Microplastic contamination in India has been extensively studied in aquatic ecosystems, yet its implications for agricultural soils remain insufficiently addressed. This research paper bridges this gap by analyzing data from 73 studies published between 2020 and 2024, synthesizing findings on microplastic contamination across diverse ecosystems in India and assessing their potential impact on agricultural land. Microplastic contamination in India has been extensively studied in aquatic ecosystems, yet its implications for agricultural soils remain insufficiently addressed. While most studies focus on microplastics in beaches, rivers, lakes, and ponds, only a limited number directly investigate agricultural soils, highlighting a significant research gap. Key contamination sources identified include irrigation with polluted water, atmospheric deposition, industrial discharge, inadequate waste management, and agricultural practices such as plastic mulch use. In Northern India, extensive irrigation networks sourcing water from the Ganga, Yamuna, and Sutlej rivers pose significant risks of microplastic infiltration into farmland. Western India experiences high contamination due to industrial effluents, urban plastic waste, and irrigation practices. In Southern and Eastern India, coastal agricultural regions face risks from marine and estuarine microplastic pollution, potentially affecting soil and crop health. Additionally, Northeastern India shows potential threats due to microplastic-laden water bodies and atmospheric deposition near agricultural lands. By identifying high-risk zones and knowledge gaps, this study provides a foundation for future research aimed at mitigating the growing threat of microplastic pollution in India’s agricultural sector. Addressing these challenges is crucial for ensuring soil health, food security, and environmental sustainability.
Response of NPK on Onion (Allium cepa L.) Yield
Authors: Singh Navdeep , Singh Gurdeep , Yadav Ashok Kumar , Grover Jadish , Saini Piyush , Chahal Amanpreet Singh , Pathania Rahul , Kaur Ramandeep , Dhar Shri
Published: February 2025

To increase onion productivity, an experiment was conducted at the experimental farm of the Department of Horticulture, GKU, Talwandi Sabo (Punjab) during the Rabi season of 2022-2023. The experiment was designed using a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with eighteen treatment combinations and three replications, with three levels of nitrogen (20, 40, and 60 N kg/ha), three levels of phosphorus (15, 20, and 30 P kg/ha), and two levels of potassium (20 and 30 K kg/ha). The observations were recorded plant height at harvest stage (cm), number of green leaves per plant at harvest stage, leaf length at harvest stage (cm), equatorial diameter (cm), polar diameter (cm), Bulb survival percentage (%), Marketable yield per plot (kg) and total yield per hectare (tons). The plant height 61.21 cm at harvest stage and number of leaves 17.56 at harvest stage, maximum leaf length at harvest stage 49.34 cm, equatorial diameter 8.34 cm, polar diameter 6.88 cm, bulb survival percentage 95.01%, marketable yield per plot 4.50kg and total yield per hectare 12.76 tons was recorded by T10 (40: 20: 30 Kg/ha) treatment. Therefore, application of 40: 20: 30 Kg/ha NPK gave the highest yield 12.76 tons and recommend for onion producer.
Genetic Variability and Breeding Potential for Yield and Quality Enhancement in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Harika P. , Reddy B. Rupesh Kumar , Gayathri N.K , Fareeda G.
Published: February 2025

Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) displays notable genetic variability in morpho-physiological traits among its genotypes, with polygenic control influencing key characteristics such as kernel yield and dry matter production. Significant phenotypic and genotypic variations exist, with higher phenotypic coefficients suggesting environmental influences on traits like pod and kernel counts. This information is valuable for breeders aiming to mitigate environmental influences while enhancing genetic potential. High heritability for yield-related traits indicates additive gene action's role, crucial for breeding efforts. This is particularly encouraging for groundnut breeding, as it suggests that selection for improved yield traits can be effective in future breeding programs. In terms of seed quality, groundnut genotypes show variability in traits such as seed size, oil, and protein content. These traits, controlled by both maternal and nuclear genetics, exhibit correlations that offer potential for simultaneous improvement. The identification of superior genotypes, especially those with high oleic acid content, is promising for enhancing oil quality and crop improvement. The high oleic acid trait is highly desirable for oil quality and has the potential to meet the growing demand for healthier edible oils, thus offering promising prospects for crop improvement. Overall, understanding these traits is vital for developing groundnut varieties with improved yield and quality characteristics.
Prevalence and Pathological Characteristics of Septic Eye Affections in Dogs: A Clinical Study
Authors: Patil Roshani , Verma Yamini , Swamy Madhu , Dubey Amita , Jatav Maneesh , Das Babita , Shakya Poonam
Published: February 2025

Aims: To study the prevalence and pathology associated with septic eye affections in dogs of Jabalpur region.
Place and Duration of Study: Veterinary Clinical Complex (VCC), College of Veterinary Science and A.H., Jabalpur and in private pet clinics of Jabalpur for period of seven months spanning from April 2024 to October 2024.
Methodology: A total of 992 dogs were screened for eye affections. Amongst these, clinically 153 dogs had various eye affections and were included in the study. Eye swabs were collected aseptically from dogs suspected of having eye infections for bacterial isolation, identification and antibiotic sensitivity test (AST). Bacterial cultures were also subjected for molecular confirmation of the bacterial species.
Results: Septic eye affections were observed in 70 dogs, with a prevalence of 45.75%. Male dogs (71.43%) and young dogs (up to 3 years) (44.28%) were more prone, with the Labrador Retriever breed most commonly affected, followed by non-descript breeds. A significant decrease in hemoglobin, packed cell volume, total erythrocyte count, monocytes and platelets was noted. The highest frequency of septic eye affections was recorded as conjunctivitis (35.71%). The most commonly isolated bacteria from septic eye affections were Staphylococcus spp. (57.69%), followed by Escherichia coli (11.53%). All Staphylococcus spp. and E. coli isolates tested positive for the genus-specific 16SrRNA gene using species-specific primers in PCR. Gentamicin, Chloramphenicol Amikacin and Erythromycin exhibited the highest sensitivity against all gram-positive bacteria, whereas Amoxiclav, Tetracycline, and Norfloxacin showed the highest sensitivity against all gram-negative bacteria.
Conclusion: Conjunctivitis (35.71%) was found to be the most common septic eye affection and Staphylococcus spp. was highest among all the bacteria isolated from septic eye affections.
Effect of Nano Fertilizers on Yield, Nutrient Uptake, Soil Nutrient Status and Fertilizer Use Efficiency of Bt Cotton
Authors: SAJJAN G. , SHASHIKUMAR C. , SUNIL C. M. , NAVI SHIVARAY , YOGANANDA S. B.
Published: February 2025

Aims: Foliar application of nano fertilizers aims to reduce the need for conventional fertilizers. Nano fertilizers enhanced crop growth, yield and quality by improving nutrient uptake. They enable precise nutrient delivery that aligns with the crop's growth stages, while their increased surface area facilitates faster metabolic reactions. This, in turn, boosts photosynthesis, leading to greater dry matter production and higher yields. Foliar application of nano fertilizers during the flowering, boll initiation and boll development stages meets the nutrient requirements of the plant, resulting in improved productivity and quality. By combining conventional fertilizers with nano fertilizers in a balanced manner, it is possible to achieve higher crop productivity in a sustainable way.
Place and Duration of Study: A field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2023 at AICRP on Cotton, Haradanahalli farm, Chamarajanagar.
Study Design and Methodology: The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three replications comprising three levels of conventional fertilizers in main plot viz., 50%, 75% and 100% RDNP and four dosages of nano fertilizers in subplot viz., nano urea @ 2 ml L-1 and 4 ml L-1, nano DAP @ 2 ml L-1 4 ml L-1, respectively sprayed at 40, 60 and 80 DAS.
Results: The results revealed that among different levels of conventional fertilizers, application of 100% RDNP noticed significantly higher total number of bolls (47.3 plant-1), good opened bolls (42.2 plant-1), seed cotton yield (1453 kg ha-1) and stalk yield (2562 kg ha-1). The same treatment recorded higher nutrient uptake (120.96, 37.27, 97.48 kg NPK ha-1, respectively). And soil nutrient availability (203.14, 57.66, 153.75 kg N P2O5 K2O ha-1, respectively). Significantly higher fertilizer use efficiency was noticed with 50% RDNP (15.86 kg N kg-1, 31.53 kg P kg-1), whereas higher potassium use efficiency was recorded in 100% RDNP (19.37 kg K kg-1). Among the nano fertilizers, application of nano DAP @ 4 ml L-1 at 40, 60 and 80 DAS resulted significantly higher total number of bolls (46.7 plant-1), good opened bolls (41.9 plant-1), seed cotton yield (1420 kg ha-1), stalk yield (2497 kg ha-1) and nutrient uptake (116.91, 37.37, 96.57 kg NPK ha-1, respectively), similar trend was observed with fertilizer use efficiency also. where, foliar spray of nano urea at 2 ml L-1 recorded higher available nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium content in soil with 194.41, 54.48 and 152.48 kg ha-1, respectively.
Enhancing Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity in Cloud Environments through Infrastructure as Code
Authors: Abieba Olumese Anthony , Alozie Chisom Elizabeth , Ajayi Olanrewaju Oluwaseun
Published: February 2025

This paper explores the transformative impact of Infrastructure as Code (IaC) on disaster recovery and business continuity in cloud environments. Infrastructure as Code is defined as the practice of managing and provisioning infrastructure through machine-readable code, facilitating automation, consistency, and scalability. The relevance of IaC in disaster recovery is highlighted, demonstrating how it enhances operational efficiency and resilience by automating key processes such as backup, failover, and restoration. Furthermore, the paper discusses the importance of business continuity, emphasizing IaC’s role in maintaining and quickly restoring critical services. The advantages of using IaC tools and practices to enforce continuity plans are examined, alongside a set of best practices for successful implementation. Ultimately, the paper concludes that adopting Infrastructure as Code is essential for organizations seeking to enhance their disaster recovery and business continuity strategies in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
Can AI Reduce Bias in Tenant Screening? An In-Depth Analysis for the US Market
Authors: Goel Krupa
Published: February 2025

Tenant screening in the U.S. rental market currently involves credit scores, criminal background checks, and rental history, which perpetuates historical prejudice against black and Hispanic tenants. Such methods continue to reinforce discrimination because of cultural disparities as well as previous unhealthy disparities in the distribution of wealth, justice, and renting. With a growing number of complaints about rental discriminative acts, there is a new hope that AI can help curb discriminative practices in the rental sector. Instead of focusing on race-based proxies, such as applicant's credit scores, the AI-based screening tools can look at a broader range of data, such as utility payments, stability of income, and previous employment records. However, it has to be doubted that the devices work appropriately with the data they were trained on since biased input results in biased output, so AI at least requires high-quality and diverse training data. Some AI systems' nature is also objectionable because they work more like a 'black box.' Despite the mentioned benefits, such as objectivity, efficiency, non-discrimination, and the like, there are also limitations, such as data bias, compliance issues, and black-box algorithms. The simple ways to approve the implementation involve incorporating various datasets, regular audits, reporting processes, and human supervision. Specific practical examples provided by Zillow, TurboTenant, and TenantCloud show that AI can make tenant screening less prejudicial. Where AI regulation is being discussed by such federal bodies as the FTC and the HUD, the collaboration of tech firms with civil rights organizations will be essential for designing truly equal and non-discriminatory AI. The potential for AI as a tool for tenant screening in the future must be overseen for having the potential to make the housing market fair and impartial if the existing ethical codes and the current laws are put into practice correctly.
Leveraging Industry Speaker into Active Learning Opportunities to Increase Student Engagement
Authors: Jen Leong Siok , Rasaratnam Pawani T.
Published: February 2025

Industry guest speaker has been invited in many educational settings to share their real-world experience with students, yet there is little understanding on how it can be leveraged to increase student engagement. Student engagement is a concept receiving strong attention in higher education due to its association with a number of positive academic outcomes. The purpose of this research is to design active learning strategies into traditional guest lectures to make it more engaging.  It hopes to address the research question on “How can industry speakers be leveraged to increase student engagement in higher education?”. A total of 92 participants were surveyed at an undergraduate Year 1 Business Degree programme using quantitative research method where self-administered online survey was used to measure the learning activities designed in terms of engagement. The finding indicated that activities like Kahoot gamification and infographics when used correctly with lecturer support such as providing feedback and motivation can help in the overall engagement of the guest lecture that could provide a valuable educational experience. The results of this study provided important implications for educators seeking to enhance student engagement through industry guest speakers.