Volume-11, Issue-5, May 2025

Abstract

Malnutrition is defined as excess or deficit in individual energy or nutrients intake. It is a persistent and multifaceted global public health challenge, with far-reaching implications for individual well-being, societal development, and future generations. Despite global efforts and progress towards reducing malnutrition rates, millions of people, particularly in low-and middle-income countries are suffering from malnutrition. It affects every segment of population irrespective of their age and sex but young and adolescents’ girls are more affected by it. It prevails in the society in its various form like undernutrition includes (stunting, wasting and underweight) and overweight includes obesity or in certain cases both known as double burden of malnutrition. Another form is iron deficiency Anaemia. It is still a big public health issue in India. This demographic is at increased risk due to a combination of socio-economic factors like family income, parents’ education, locality either urban or rural, cultural norms, inadequate dietary intake, gender-based discrimination, lack of access to nutritious food, and poor healthcare facilities. There are other social determinants of health classified into two structural and intermediary. Undernutrition causes mortality and morbidity, whereas overnutrition increases the risk of noncommunicable diseases. Their health issues have a direct impact on the newborn or can result in preterm or stillbirth, as well as maternal mortality. This review also discusses the intergenerational cycle of malnutrition. It is a global issue that necessitates a multi-sectoral strategy incorporating government measures, community participation, and nutrition education programs. Sustainable solutions are necessary to ensure the well-being and development of young girls, contributing to the general progress of the nation.

Keywords: Global Burden, Malnutrition, Nutritional Status, Social Determinants of Health, Double Burden, Anaemia

References

References not available

Abstract

Functional food products rich in bioactive compounds (protein, lipids, vitamins, etc.) are especially demanded and popular in the modern food market. Due to its easy availability and low cost, apple juice production waste, which is produced in thousands of tons in Georgia, can be considered as a promising raw material for the production of functional food. Mycoprotein-enriched, easily digestible, non-toxic biomass was obtained as a result of successive experiments carried out in the biotechnology laboratory of the Durmishidze Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology of the Agrarian University of Georgia. The product obtained by microbial conversion contains Na, P, Ca and Mg, from as macro elements, and also is rich in Zn. The content of raw protein in the biomass is 18%, which fully corresponds to the standards of protein content in chickenfeed for s. The raw fat content in a biomass is 7%. The amount of cellulose in the product corresponds to the standards as well. The product was found to have moderate antioxidant activity (60-70%). Based on all above mentioned, the biomass made on the basis of submerged fermentation of apple juice production waste can be recommended as a feed additive in poultry diet.

Keywords: Apple juice industry waste, Mycelial fungi, Protein-rich biomass, Submerged fermentation, Functional food

References

References not available

Abstract

Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) have emerged as a versatile and nutritionally valuable fungi with significant potential in the food industry. Native to temperate and subtropical regions, these mushrooms have been cultivated globally due to their ease of growth, high yield, and adaptability to diverse agricultural by-products as substrates. Their production involves environmentally sustainable practices, utilizing lignocellulosic waste materials such as straw, sawdust, and husks, thereby contributing to waste reduction and promoting circular agricultural systems. Pleurotus ostreatus is known for its remarkable nutritional profile, including high-quality proteins rich inessential amino acids, dietary fibers, vitamins, and bioactive compounds like β-glucans and polyphenols, which are associated with numerous health benefits such as immune system support, cholesterol regulation, and antioxidant effects. This review highlights the innovative application of oyster mushrooms in the formulation of protein bars, leveraging their functional properties such as binding, texture enhancement, and prolonged shelf stability. The incorporation of these mushrooms into protein bars not only enriches their nutritional value but also aligns with consumer demands for plant-based, nutrient-dense food products. Additionally, the potential of Pleurotus ostreatus in addressing sustainability challenges and catering to modern dietary preferences underscores its relevance in functional food development. By tapping into the nutritional and functional properties of Pleurotus ostreatus, this paper aims to contribute to the advancement of innovative and sustainable food products that align with contemporary health and environmental goals.

Keywords: Oyster Mushroom, Nutritional Properties, Functional Food, Protein Bar

References

References not available

Abstract

Maize is grown widely in Lesotho as a staple crop for the nation and is accepted in cultural dishes. Its productivity is low necessitating importation from neighboring South Africa. Low productivity is attributed to low germination rate and poor stand in the field. The objective of the study is to identify the most potent chemical compounds that enhance high germination and seedling growth rate of maize. The study was conducted at the National University of Lesotho domiciled in Maseru, Lesotho. The experiment was performed in the laboratory of Department of Crop Science. Complete Randomized Design with PANNAR Seed Company maize cultivar of PAN 12 and four priming chemical compounds varied in amounts and duration immersed in the solutions. Chemical compounds were Indole Butyric Acid, Calcium chloride, Sodium chloride and Copper sulphate, while distilled water was control. Seed germination and seedlings parameters measured were germination rate, germination percentage, germination index, radical length, plumule length, plumule fresh weight and dry weight, radical fresh weight and dry weight, and coleoptile length. Data from parameters were subjected to perform Analysis of Variance and least significant differences. Results showed no significant difference among concentrations of Indole Butyric Acid on all parameters. Three other chemical compounds revealed significant to highly significant differences. Priming maize seed with Calcium chloride for a duration of 18hrs to 24hrs increased seed germination and seedling growth rate significantly. Similarly, varying concentrations of Calcium chloride compound used showed significantly different responses on measured parameters of maize seed. Moreover, results on copper sulphate indicated that the higher the concentration of copper sulphate the lower , the maize seed germination and seedling growth rate. In conclusion, maize seed primed with water generated better results compared Sodium chloride, Calcium chloride and Copper sulphate based on sequence of potency.

Keywords: Maize, PAN 12, seed germination, seedling growth rate, seed priming, Lesotho

References

References not available

Abstract

The research proposes a novel approach combining deep feature extraction using machine learning and traditional machine learning techniques to classify 12 agricultural pests. Individual features were extracted through AlexNet, GoogLeNet, and feature fusion; afterwards, they were classified using K-Nearest Neighbors, Support Vector Machine, and Random Forest. GoogLeNet achieved 86.21% accuracy with SVM, while the fused features achieved 82.03% with Random Forest. The proposed method makes good use of deep learning with feature representation and classical models for accurate and computationally efficient pest identification in agricultural applications.

Keywords: Pest Classification, Googlenet, Alexnet, Deep features, SVM

References

References not available

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a common metabolic disease that is frequently associated with obesity and insulin resistance. Dietary fiber greatly improves glycemic control, cholesterol management, and weight regulation, even while drugs are necessary. Because of their solubility, viscosity, and gel-forming qualities, soluble fibers—like psyllium, black cumin, flaxseeds, basil seeds, and guar gum—have a beneficial effect on metabolic health. Based on clinical studies, fiber supplementation improves waist circumference, BMI, and glucose levels in a variety of populations, including individuals with type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, and pregnant women. Reduced incidence of diabetes, fasting glucose, HbA1c, body weight, and cholesterol are highlighted by randomized controlled trials. Viscose and soluble fibers improve metabolic health by delaying the absorption of glucose. One easy and efficient way to avoid diabetes is to incorporate fiber into your diet. The purpose of this study is to assess the therapeutic effectiveness of dietary fiber supplements in the management and prevention of diabetes.

Keywords: Diabetes, Supplements, Dietary Fiber, Types of Fiber Supplements, Management

References

References not available

Abstract

Afield study was conducted during rabi season 2022-23 and 2023-24 at the Department of Agriculture, Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University, Fatehgarh Sahib on Influence of Integration of inorganic nutrient sources with organic manures on growth and yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design in three replications with 14 treatments. The values for growth attributes such as plant height (81.66 cm), leaf area (6.14 m2), dry matter per meter row length (302.48 g)and no. of tillers per meter row length (124.33) were recorded maximum under T 9 (100 % RDN through chemical fertilizer + 25% RDN through poultry manure) for both years. This was statistically at par with treatment T (100 % RDF (125 kg ha-1)), T (100 % RDN through chemical fertilizer + 25% RDN through FYM) and T (75 % 2 5 7 RDN through chemical fertilizer + 25% RDN through poultry manure). On the contrast, the lowest values were observed under treatment T (control) for growth attributes. Similarly, the yield attributing characters viz., no. of spikes, spike length, total no. 1 of grains and 1000 grain weight were maximum under T and also at par with treatment T and T . The lowest values were 9 2 7 observed under treatment T (no nutrient source) forgiven parameters. This study revealed that integration of organic nutrient 1 sources with inorganic sources showed better results for mentioned growth and yield attributes of wheat crop.

Keywords: Wheat, FYM, Poultry manure, Biogas Slurry, Nitrogen

References

References not available

Abstract

Mahua (Madhuca indica), a member of the Sapotaceae family, is an important economic tree from India. Mahua flowers were rich in bioactive compounds such as carbohydrates, minerals-calcium,iron, antioxidants, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. Mahua flowers are nutritional and have medicinal properties. The paper reviews the Mahua flower'snutritional qualities and health-protective functions in the paracetamol-induced liver damage in the Wistar rat models. Traditional application records indicated that Mahua flowers have anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and anthelmintic properties, and help against the causative agents like bronchitis, diabetes, eczema, and digestive disorders. Mahua seeds arenutritionally significantas a good source of proteins, fats, fiber, different sugars, carbohydrates, and minerals. Mahua methanol extracts have been proven hepatoprotective and non-toxic and can be used to treat liver diseases.

Keywords: Mahua flower, Nutritional properties, Health Benefits, and Hepatoprotective properties

References

References not available

Abstract

Vitamin D deficiency constitutes a widespread public health issue, especially among college students whose lifestyles frequently restrict sun exposure and dietary consumption of this essential nutrient. This review investigates the awareness of Vitamin D among college students in Lucknow, a swiftly urbanizing metropolis in North India, by a systematic analysis of global and regional studies. This research identifies substantial knowledge gaps by synthesizing data from many contexts and applying them to Lucknow’sdistinct socio-cultural and environmental backdrop, despite a foundational awareness of Vitamin D'ssignificance. Elements including academic discipline, gender, dietary practices, and availability of health education influence awareness levels, revealing significant differences among demographics. The paper examines the ramifications for health promotion, identifies obstacles to knowledge diffusion, and suggests customized interventions to bridge these gaps. This report provides a detailed analysis, highlighting the immediate necessity for specific educational interventions to reduce Vitamin D insufficiency risks among college students in Lucknow.

Keywords: Vitamin D, awareness, knowledge, college students, public health, health education, deficiency

References

References not available

Abstract

The quality of seeds is a fundamental factor in ensuring agricultural productivity and food security. Traditional seed quality assessment methods, such as manual inspection and laboratory-based testing, are often time-consuming, labor-intensive and prone to human error. To overcome these limitations, modern agricultural technologies have increasingly integrated Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance seed quality evaluation. AI-driven models, including deep learning and computer vision techniques, have demonstrated high accuracy in detecting seed defects, predicting germination potential and classifying seeds based on various parameters (Kundu et al., 2021). Additionally, IoT-based smart sensors enable real-time monitoring of critical environmental factors such as humidity, temperature and storage conditions, ensuring optimal seed preservation (Kler et al., 2023). The fusion of AIand IoT facilitates automated, high-throughput and non-destructive seed quality testing using hyperspectral imaging, near-infrared spectroscopy and cloud-based analytics. While these advancements offer numerous benefits, challenges such as high implementation costs, data security concerns and the need for technical expertise hinder widespread adoption. This review demonstrate that integrating IoT-driven sensing with advanced AImethods offers a scalable, objective solution for seed certification, with potential extensions to disease detection, phenotypic trait analysis, and adaptive sorting in commercial processing lines.

Keywords: Seed quality, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) sensing, Deep learning, Smart sensors and Hyperspectral imaging

References

References not available

Abstract

Global climate change has increase the frequency and severity of extreme weather conditions including heavy rainfall followed by subsequent flooding. Soil pH is one of the most influential chemical parameters that have an impact on directly affecting the nutrient availability status, microbial activity and overall plant health. During the flooding period of paddy crop the soil pH for initially < 6.5 it was increased to approximately 7.0. Rice cultivated under continuous flooded conditions when soil pH became varied from 6.1 to 6.5 throughout the crop growth period. Agricultural crops such as rice benefit from mild increases of soil pH in submerged conditions to enabling improved nutrient solubility and reduced aluminum toxicity. In this contrast, crops like maize, wheat and legumes are inhibited the growth and nutrient uptake under flooded soil due to shifting of soil pH environments. Future research and development must focus on deeper understanding and management of these soil chemical shifts to ensure resilient cropping systems.

Keywords: Agriculture, Climate change, Flooding, Nutrient, Soil pH and Rainfall

References

References not available

Abstract

As the poultry industry moves toward antibiotic-free production systems, identifying effective alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters has become a priority. Copper, an essential trace mineral, has gained attention for its antimicrobial properties and potential to enhance poultry performance. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of high copper hydroxychloride supplementation on the performance and egg quality of laying hens during the early production phase. A total of 400 Hy-line laying hens at 16 weeks of age were randomly assigned to two dietary treatments: a control group receiving a basal diet with 180g/T Virginiamycin (AGP) and a test group supplemented with IntelliBond copper at 216g/T (IBC). The trial lasted for 24 weeks including a 4-week adaptation period, with performance parameters including hen-day egg production, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, egg weight, egg mass, and egg quality traits monitored throughout. Results showed no significant differences in egg production rate or feed intake between treatments. However, hens fed the IBC-supplemented diet exhibited a significantly improved FCR, heavier eggs, and greater egg mass. Additionally, IBC supplementation enhanced yolk weight and yolk color without affecting eggshell quality, albumen height, or the incidence of defective eggs.

In conclusion, IBC offers a reliable alternative to AGPs inlaying hen diets. It improves feed efficiency and egg quality, particularly yolk color, while maintaining egg integrity and production performance, making it a valuable strategy for sustainable, antibiotic-free poultry production.

Keywords: Antibiotics, Copper hydroxychloride, Egg production, Egg quality

References

References not available

Abstract

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea), a winter season leafy vegetable, is widely consumed due to its high nutritional value, involving Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and iron. Enhancing the productivity and nutritional quality of spinach through eco-friendly practices has become an essential component in the context of sustainable agriculture. One such promising approach involves the use of biochar, an organic carbon-rich material which produced through the pyrolysis of organic biomass. Apart from soil application, biochar can also be used as a seed biopriming agent to enhance germination rate, seedling vigor, and stress tolerance in crops. This study is designed to evaluate the combined and individual effects of biochar used as a seed biopriming agent and soil amendment on the growth and yield parameters of spinach. The field experiment was conducted at the Amity Institute of Organic Agriculture in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with six treatments as biochar at 2%, 5%, and 10% (v/v) in both seed priming and soil application, seed priming alone, soil application alone, and a control without biochar.

Keywords: Biochar, spinach, sustainable agriculture, biopriming

References

References not available

Abstract

Chilling hour (CH) accumulation is a critical climatic factor influencing dormancy release and flowering synchronization intemperate fruit crops. In this study, the spatial variability of chilling hours across Meghalaya, a northeastern hill state of India, has been assessed to evaluate the agro-climatic suitability for seven temperate fruit crops: apple, apricot, kiwi, persimmon, blueberry, peach, and walnut. Using ERA5-Land hourly gridded temperature data (9 kmresolution), average annual CHaccumulation was calculated over a 20-year period (2003–2023). The state was stratified into seven chilling hour zones based on cumulative CHthresholds relevant to crop-specific chilling requirements, determined in consultation with the Department of Horticulture, Government of Meghalaya.

Results revealed that 55.33% of the state receives <100 CHannually, rendering these areas unsuitable for most temperate crops. However, higher-elevation districts such as West Khasi Hills and East Khasi Hills exhibit favorable chilling regimes, supporting the potential cultivation of low-and moderate-chill crops. Suitability analysis indicates that peach (CH >100) has the highest spatial suitability (45.25%), followed by blueberry (150–600 CH; 33.04%), kiwi and persimmon (CH >200; 28.98% each), apple and apricot (CH >300; 21.52% each), and walnut (CH >600; 4.00%).

The study provides the first comprehensive chilling hour-based agro-climatic zoning for Meghalaya and presents a scalable framework for site-specific temperate horticultural planning in subtropical highland regions. The findings support the horticulture department of the state in decision-making for varietal selection, land-use allocation, and horticultural diversification under changing climate scenarios.

Keywords: Chilling hours, temperate fruits, agro-climatic zoning, GIS, Meghalaya, suitability assessment

References

References not available

Abstract

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea), is an important cool season vegetable crop which is widely consumed due to its high nutritional content and eco-friendly techniques has a great role in enhancing the productivity and nutritional quality of spinach in context of human health and sustainable agriculture. Among different organic amendments, seaweed is an important organic extract which can be utilized effectively as biofertilizer in improving the vegetative growth in Spinach. The present study was carried out at Amity Institute of Organic Agriculture, Amity University Noida, UP to study the potential of seaweed extract, a bio stimulant on growth parameters in Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.). Seaweed is an organic bio-stimulant, which is rich in vitamins, amino acids and phytohormones. The field experiment was conducted at the Amity Institute of Organic Agriculture in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with six treatments as 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 ml were tested for its stimulative potential of plant growth.

Keywords: Spinach, Seaweed extract, Biostimulant, Sustainable Agriculture

References

References not available

Abstract

Plastic pollution, though traditionally examined within aquatic and urban contexts, is now recognized as arising terrestrial threat to sensitive forest ecosystems. In the biodiversity-rich montane forests of the Western Ghats, India, particularly Wayanad, plastic waste is disrupting ecological processes vital to the survival of endemic wild orchid species. This five-year field-based study explores the influence of accumulated plastic debris on orchid microhabitats, with an emphasis on its interference in orchid–mycorrhizal symbioses—critical relationships required for orchid seed germination, nutrient absorption, and long-term survival.

Systematic sampling across orchid-dense forest zones revealed that discarded polybags, plastic wrappers, and synthetic packaging materials significantly altered substrate conditions. Soil analyses demonstrated reduced water percolation, compromised aeration, and chemical leachates from plastics that skewed soil pH. Most importantly, microbial assays revealed a marked decline in viable mycorrhizal spore density in plastic-contaminated plots, correlating with poor orchid seedling emergence and higher mortality rates.

Microscopic observation of orchid root systems showed weakened or absent mycorrhizal colonization in areas of plastic accumulation, suggesting a direct impact on symbiotic functionality. Orchids growing in plastic-free control zones showed stronger pseudobulb formation, better chlorophyll content, and a higher rate of root-fungal interaction. These disruptions are of particular concern as many orchid species in the Western Ghats exhibit narrow habitat specificity and obligate fungal dependence.

The study concludes that plastic waste, even in minimal quantities, can have cascading ecological consequences on fragile plant–fungus networks that underpin forest resilience. Given the ecological importance and conservation priority of orchids, the findings call for immediate intervention through habitat-specific plastic exclusion strategies, community-led waste clean-ups, and the incorporation of mycorrhizal inoculation protocols in orchid restoration projects.

By demonstrating a previously underexplored linkage between plastic pollution and subterranean symbiotic processes, this research highlights the urgent need to integrate plastic mitigation into broader biodiversity conservation frameworks in forest ecosystems.

Keywords: Plastic waste, epiphytic orchids, mycorrhizal fungi, soil health, habitat degradation, Western Ghats, Wayanad, orchid germination, forest pollution, biodiversity conservation

References

References not available