Annual Research & Review in Biology

Spike, Flag-leaf and Canopy Diversity of Genotypes across Twelve Different Environments in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

2026-10-06T09:16:06+00:00

This study evaluated spike, flag-leaf and canopy diversity among 60 bread wheat genotypes across 12 environments generated from two locations, two growing seasons and three sowing times. Five traits-spike length (SL), flag leaf area (FLA), spikelets per spike (SNPS), grains per spike (GPS) and canopy temperature (CT)-were assessed using environment-wise genotype means. Genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation and broad-sense heritability were compared, and a separate five-trait Mahalanobis distance and average-linkage hierarchical clustering analysis was conducted for each environment. Mean FLA across environments ranged from 18.05 to 39.49 cm², whereas mean GPS ranged from 34.53 to 57.37. Mean CT ranged from 23.70 °C in E1 to 33.93 °C in E6. Reported PCV values ranged from 17.09 to 29.62% for FLA and from 1.99 to 10.25% for SNPS. Broad-sense heritability ranged from 16.99 to 67.70% for SL and from 4.97 to 96.55% for GPS. Five-cluster solutions also differed among environments, with cluster sizes ranging from 1 to 55 genotypes. The results show that phenotypic diversity for spike, flag-leaf and canopy traits was sensitive to site, season and sowing conditions. Consequently, potentially useful breeding material should be evaluated across environments and selected on the basis of specific trait performance and consistency rather than multivariate distance or single-environment extremes alone.

Effects of the Partial Substitution of Maize with Cassava and Banana Peel Flours on the Growth Performance of Pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus)

2026-10-07T07:05:22+00:00

Aims : To evaluate the effects of incorporating cassava and banana peel meals into pig diets on growth performance.

Study Design : A completely randomised controlled feeding trial.

Place and Duration of Study : Animal Production Research Unit, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Nangui ABROGOUA University, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. The feeding experiment lasted 135 days, from 45 to 180 days of age.

Methodology : Twenty-five 45-day-old Large White piglets, with an initial body weight of 8 ± 2.5 kg, were randomly allocated to five homogeneous groups of five piglets each and were fed one of five experimental diets for 135 days, from 45 to 180 days of age. The diets contained 0–15% banana and/or cassava peel flour: D1 (5% banana peel flour + 10% cassava peel flour), D2 (10% banana peel flour + 5% cassava peel flour), D3 (10% banana peel flour + 10% cassava peel flour), D4 (15% banana peel flour + 0% cassava peel flour ), and D5 (0% banana peel flour + 0% cassava peel flour; control diet).

Results : Crude protein content ranged from 13.60 to 16.08%, while dry matter, ether extract, and ash contents ranged from 85.67–94.33%, 2.87–3.52%, and 10.78–12.98%, respectively. Feed intake did not differ significantly among treatments (3.40 kg/day ; P = .06). On day 180, final body weight differed significantly among diets (P < .001), with higher values in pigs fed D2 (86.9 kg), D4 (87.5 kg), and D5 (86.9 kg) than in those fed D1 and D3 (73.0 kg). Overall average daily gain reached 590 g/day in D2, D4, and D5 (P < .001). Feed conversion ratio also differed significantly among diets (P < .001), with lower values in D4 (2.90), D2 (2.99), and D5 (3.08) than in D3 (3.26) and D1 (3.14).

Conclusion : Diets D2 and D4 supported growth performance comparable to that of the control diet while offering potential for reducing feed costs through the partial substitution of maize with locally available agricultural by-products.

Combined Effects of Sampling Dates, Insecticide Treatment and Cropping System on Bruchids (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae) Oviposition and Egg Parasitism by Uscana lariophaga Steffan, 1954, (Hymenoptera:Trichogrammatidae) in Cowpea Vigna unguicula

2026-10-07T10:06:20+00:00

Background: Cowpea production is affected by bruchid infestation, while the indigenous egg parasitoid Uscana lariophaga contributes to natural mortality of bruchid eggs.

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the combined effects of cowpea Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. phenology, insecticide application and cropping system on the oviposition dynamics of Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) and Bruchidius atrolineatus Pic. and on egg parasitism by the indigenous parasitoid Uscana lariophaga Stef.

Study Design: A 3 × 2 factorial arrangement was used, comprising three cropping systems (cowpea monocrop, cowpea–millet intercrop and cowpea–sorghum intercrop) and two insecticide regimes (untreated control and insecticide-treated), with four independent plots per combination, giving 24 plots in total.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted at Gampela, approximately 20 km from Ouagadougou, in the North Sudanian agroecological zone of Burkina Faso, over two consecutive growing seasons.

Methodology: Field experiments were conducted using cowpea, cultivar KVX 61.1. In each cropping system, insecticide-applied and control plots were monitored. Twenty-five cowpea pods were marked weekly and subsequently examined for bruchid egg laying and eggs parasitised by the indigenous parasitoid U. lariophaga Stef.

Results: Insecticide application significantly reduced oviposition by both bruchid species across cropping systems and years (P < .001). In control monocrop plots, mean oviposition by C. maculatus reached 60 eggs at 71 DAS, compared with 20.75 eggs in treated plots, while B. atrolineatus reached 122 and 24.75 eggs, respectively. Similar reductions occurred in both intercropping systems. Parasitised egg numbers were generally higher in untreated plots and varied with sampling date, cropping system and year.

Conclusion: The 64–71 DAS period was critical for bruchid oviposition. Integrating cowpea phenology and cropping-system configuration into insecticide timing while conserving U. lariophaga may improve integrated management of cowpea bruchids.

Protease-producing Bacillus siamensis D4i Isolated from Helicoverpa armigera Larval Gut: Production Optimization and Growth Modulation by Low-Frequency Ultrasonication

2026-10-13T13:07:19+00:00

Protease-producing bacteria from insect gut microbiota may provide useful enzyme-producing strains for biotechnological applications. This study isolated and characterised a proteolytic bacterium, Bacillus siamensis D4i (GenBank accession PQ481981.1), from the larval gut of Helicoverpa armigera and evaluated culture optimisation and low-frequency ultrasonication. The isolate was selected after screening on skim-milk agar and was confirmed taxonomically through phenotypic and molecular characterisation. Physical and nutritional fermentation variables were screened sequentially using a one-factor-at-a-time approach. Maximum protease production under the tested physical conditions occurred at 37 °C, pH 8.0, 120 rpm, and a 4.5% (v/v) inoculum. Nutritional optimisation identified soybean meal at 1.5% (w/v) and glucose or starch at 1.0% (w/v), together with defined mineral supplementation, as favourable conditions. Under optimised conditions, protease activity reached approximately 400–425 U mL⁻¹, while the time-course experiment recorded 415.92 ± 2.80 U mL⁻¹ at 72 h. Mid-exponential-phase cultures were subsequently exposed to low-frequency ultrasonication at 33 ± 2 kHz and 3.26 W cm⁻² for 0–28 min. Exposure for 2–8 min significantly enhanced biomass and protease production, with the strongest response at 8 min, whereas prolonged exposure for 24–28 min reduced both responses. These findings identify B. siamensis D4i as an insect-gut-derived protease producer and demonstrate a defined, dose-dependent window in which low-frequency ultrasonication can stimulate growth and enzyme production under the tested conditions.

Study of the Morpho-physiological Behaviour of 16 Productive Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis) Genotypes with Varying Sensitivity to Water Deficit during the First Year of Cultivation in a Traditional Growing Zone

2026-10-16T11:42:51+00:00

Identifying genotypes tolerant to water deficit involves subjecting them to stress in a greenhouse environment. It is essential to evaluate the performance of these greenhouse-identified genotypes under natural field conditions—specifically in areas prone to water deficit versus those favourable (traditional) for cultivation. The objective of this study was to assess the morpho-physiological performance of 16 oil palm genotypes—exhibiting varying sensitivities to water deficit—during their first year of cultivation in a region suitable for the crop. A field trial was established at the CNRA La Mé station using a randomised complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates. The experimental layout consisted of three uniform blocks, with each block serving as a replicate containing plants from all 16 genotypes. Mortality was assessed for all 26 plants per genotype in each replicate (78 plants per genotype across the three replicates), whereas 12 plants per genotype per replicate (36 plants per genotype across the three replicates) were selected for the remaining morpho-physiological measurements, including number of leaves produced, plant height, collar circumference, and chlorophyll and nitrogen content. Statistical analyses were performed using R software (version 4.5.0). Results indicated that mortality was below 10% for the majority of the genotypes studied, with the exception of G5T (10.25%); genotype GTT recorded 0% mortality. Genotypes G16S, G22S, and G9S exhibited the greatest heights, whereas G18S showed the lowest. Genotypes G11S, G22S, G21S, and G5T recorded the largest collar circumferences, while GTS recorded the smallest. The rate of leaf emergence was consistent across all genotypes studied. Three genotypes, G14S, G7T, and GTT, exhibited the highest chlorophyll levels, whereas G10S showed the lowest. Two genotypes, G7T and G14S, displayed the highest nitrogen content values. Genotypes G7T, G14S, and GTT emerged as the top performers in terms of morpho-physiological growth. They adapted more rapidly to this favourable growing area, resulting in more reliable vegetative development and a more assured onset of production.

Influence of Breed, Age and Morphometric Parameters on Sperm Quality in Local, Exotic and Crossbred Bulls Raised in Burkina Faso

2026-10-23T06:39:50+00:00

Background: Semen quality is an important determinant of reproductive performance and bull selection in cattle breeding programmes. However, the relationships between breed, age, morphometric characteristics and semen quality in local, exotic and crossbred bulls raised under comparable conditions in Burkina Faso remain insufficiently documented. This study evaluated the effects of breed, age, and morphometric parameters on sperm quality in local, exotic, and crossbred bulls raised in Burkina Faso. Semen from twelve bulls belonging to seven genetic groups was collected using an artificial vagina and then analysed according to standard sperm quality criteria. Biometric parameters (live weight, scrotal circumference, testicular volume, and height at the withers) were also measured to examine their relationships with semen characteristics. The results showed a significant effect of breed on all semen parameters (P < 0.05). Azawak bulls exhibited the highest individual motility (84.17 ± 6.07%) but the lowest ejaculate volume (2.56 ± 0.36 mL), while the Brown Swiss × Azawak and Tarentaise × Goudali crosses recorded the highest volumes. The highest sperm concentrations were observed in Montbéliard × Azawak, Tarentaise, and Azawak bulls. Live weight influenced ejaculate volume and individual motility, while age affected volume, bulk motility, and sperm mortality. Live weight, scrotal circumference, and testicular volume were strongly positively correlated (r = 0.76; P ≤ 0.001), while individual motility was positively correlated with bulk motility (r = 0.51; P ≤ 0.001). The results suggest that sperm quality depends on both genetic background and the morphometric characteristics of breeding stock. Incorporating these criteria into selection programmes could improve reproductive efficiency and genetic dissemination in tropical cattle.

Antibacterial Efficacy of Biogenic Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized using Murraya koenigii against Extremophilic Bacteria from Sandstone Environments

2026-10-24T08:21:11+00:00

Background: Extremophilic microorganisms exhibit distinctive physiological and biochemical adaptations that enable them to withstand and thrive under severe environmental conditions. Consequently, these microorganisms constitute promising sources of bioactive compounds with potential applications in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. The present study investigated the antibacterial efficacy of green-synthesised silver nanoparticles derived from Murraya koenigii (MK-AgNPs) against extremophilic bacterial isolates obtained from sandstone habitats in Keroo Mine, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.

Methodology: The bacterial isolates Pseudarthrobacter phenanthrenivorans strain psychrophillus KE2A (GenBank accession no. PP237444.1) and Geobacillus kaustophilus strain KE3H (GenBank accession no. PP257971.1) were selected for evaluation of antibacterial activity using the disk diffusion method. MK-AgNPs were green-synthesised using an aqueous leaf extract of Murraya koenigii and characterised by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential analysis. MK-AgNP solutions at concentrations of 20–2.5 mg/mL were tested, with the standard antibiotic gentamicin used as the positive control. Significant differences were observed across the selected concentrations (p < 0.05–0.001).

Results: The MK-AgNPs exhibited a surface plasmon resonance peak at 450 nm, spherical morphology (40–55 nm), a Z-average hydrodynamic diameter of 88.03 nm, and a zeta potential of −25.47 mV, indicating moderate colloidal stability. The MK-AgNPs showed significant antibacterial activity against both extremophilic strains. P. phenanthrenivorans KE2A exhibited a concentration-dependent response, with significantly greater activity at 10 and 20 mg/mL than gentamicin (***p < 0.001), whereas G. kaustophilus KE3H showed a dose-independent response, with all tested concentrations showing significantly greater activity than gentamicin (***p < 0.001).

Conclusion: The findings highlight the potential of Murraya koenigii-mediated green-synthesised AgNPs as an antibacterial agent against the tested extremophilic bacteria and provide insights into the use of sandstone-associated extremophiles and nanobiotechnology for potential antimicrobial applications.

Meal Regularity among School-going Adolescents in Bouaké, Côte d'Ivoire: Role of Living Conditions and Association with Nutritional Status

2026-10-26T09:37:37+00:00

Background: Meal regularity during adolescence may be influenced by living conditions, but evidence from secondary schools in Bouaké remains limited.

Aim: To analyse the meal habits of secondary school students in Bouaké (Côte d'Ivoire) in relation to their living conditions and nutritional status.

Study Design: Cross-sectional descriptive and analytical study.

Place and Duration of Study: Lycée Moderne Belleville, Bouaké (Côte d'Ivoire), during the 2023-2024 school year.

Methodology: A total of 314 students aged 11-22 years (172 boys and 142 girls) completed a structured questionnaire covering the intake, frequency, place, timing and composition of their three daily meals. Weight and height were measured. Body mass index-for-age and height-for-age Z-scores were calculated using the 2007 World Health Organization growth references. Determinants were identified by multivariable logistic regression.

Results: Only 46.8% of students ate breakfast every day and 43.6% ate three meals daily. Compared with students reporting good living conditions, those with average or poor living conditions were more likely to skip breakfast (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 4.80; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.34-9.83; P < .001). Lack of money was the main reason among the latter (56.0%), whereas lack of time predominated among students with good living conditions (52.2%). Thinness was more frequent among students eating three meals daily (13.1% vs 4.0%; aOR = 3.65; 95% CI: 1.42-9.38; P = .007). Stunting was less frequent among those eating at least one meal away from home (aOR = 0.56; 95% CI: 0.33-0.97; P = .04).

Conclusion: Irregular meal patterns follow a marked social gradient. School breakfast programmes targeting disadvantaged students are warranted.

Response of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) to Different Bio-stimulants for Enhanced Growth and Productivity

2026-10-26T09:47:10+00:00

A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the response of garlic (Allium sativum L.) to different bio-stimulants for enhancing growth, yield and productivity under the agro-climatic conditions of Jaipur, Rajasthan, at the experimental field of Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jaipur. The experiment comprised ten treatments, viz., control, salicylic acid at 50, 100 and 150 ppm, Ascophyllum nodosum at 3 ml/L, Kappaphycus alvarezii at 3 ml/L, Sargassum spp. at 3 ml/L and vermiwash at 10, 20 and 30 ml/L. The application of bio-stimulants significantly improved growth and yield attributes of garlic over the untreated control. Among the treatments, Sargassum spp. at 3 ml/L (T₆) recorded the highest plant height (64.83 cm), number of leaves per plant (9.96), neck diameter (1.37 cm), number of cloves per bulb (19.01), clove weight (1.65 g), average bulb weight (31.37 g) and bulb yield (20.91 t/ha). The control treatment recorded the lowest values for most of the parameters. The superior performance of Sargassum spp. was attributed to its bioactive compounds and growth-promoting constituents, which enhanced physiological activity, nutrient utilisation and assimilate accumulation, ultimately improving bulb development and productivity. The study indicated that foliar application of Sargassum spp. at 3 ml/L was the most effective bio-stimulant treatment for improving growth, yield attributes and bulb yield of garlic under the prevailing conditions.

Field-Level Susceptibility of Rice Varieties to The Asian Rice Gall Midge (Orseolia Oryzae) under Natural Infestation in Nalgonda District, Telangana, India

2026-10-26T11:25:40+00:00

Host-plant resistance is the most sustainable option for managing the Asian rice gall midge, Orseolia oryzae. A three-year natural-infestation study (Kharif 2023–2025) evaluated the field-level susceptibility of four rice varieties—BPT 5204 (Samba Mahsuri), MTU 1010 (Cottondora Sannalu), Sheetal (WGL-3962) and KNM 1638 (Siddi)—in Appajipeta and Khajiramaram villages in Nalgonda District, Telangana. Pure-stand observation blocks were maintained under insecticide-free conditions. Silver shoot percentage (SS%) and plant damage were recorded fortnightly and classified using the IRRI Standard Evaluation System (SES) 0–9 scale. BPT 5204 recorded the highest three-year pooled SS% (16.58 ± 1.96%) and plant damage (42.50 ± 4.15%), reaching 28.40% SS at 60 DAT (SES Score 7, peaking at Score 9). MTU 1010 recorded 13.20 ± 1.58% SS (SES Score 7). In contrast, Sheetal recorded 2.42 ± 0.40% SS (SES Score 3, Moderately Resistant) and KNM 1638 recorded 0.77 ± 0.21% SS (SES Score 1, Resistant). Relative to BPT 5204, KNM 1638 and Sheetal reduced silver shoot damage by 95.36% and 85.40%, respectively, keeping infestation well below the 5% economic threshold level. These findings indicate the high vulnerability of popular commercial varieties and the strong field resistance of PJTSAU-recommended cultivars under Nalgonda conditions.

Abundance, Biting Rates, and Molecular Detection of Onchocerca volvulus in Simulium damnosum s.l. in N’Golodougou, Bafing Region, Côte d’Ivoire

2026-10-27T10:43:33+00:00

Aim: This study aimed to assess the abundance, biting activity, and transmission potential of O. volvulus in S. damnosum s.l. in N’Golodougou, Bafing Region, Côte d’Ivoire.

Study Design: A descriptive cross-sectional entomological study.

Place and Duration of Study: Blackflies were collected in western Côte d’Ivoire in February 2025.

Methodology: Adult blackflies were collected using human landing catches over three days at two sites in N’Golodougou: S1 (Field) and S2 (Bridge). Blackfly abundance and hourly biting activity were determined from the collectors’ catches. Vectorial aggressiveness was estimated based on the biting rate per person per day. Molecular detection of O. volvulus was performed by PCR on 15 pools of blackflies.

Results: A total of 2,409 blackflies were collected, including 1,750 (72.6%) at S1 and 659 (27.4%) at S2. Biting activity was predominantly diurnal, with a peak between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. The biting rate was higher at S1 (194.44 bites/person/day) than at S2 (73.22 bites/person/day). None of the 15 pools tested positive for O. volvulus.

Conclusion: N’Golodougou exhibits high abundance and substantial biting activity of S. damnosum s.l., indicating significant exposure of local populations to blackfly bites. However, the absence of O. volvulus detection in the analysed pools does not allow transmission interruption to be concluded. Longitudinal and enhanced entomological surveillance is therefore needed to document the potential for residual transmission in the Bafing region.

Fabrication and Characterization of Tasar Silk Fibroin-Based Scaffolds Derived from Antheraea mylitta

2026-10-27T13:21:09+00:00

Tasar silk fibroin derived from Antheraea mylitta is a natural protein-based material that can be processed into porous scaffolds for biomaterial investigations. The present study aimed to isolate Tasar silk fibroin, fabricate a scaffold through lyophilization, and evaluate its physicochemical and morphological characteristics. Fibroin was isolated from Tasar silkworm cocoons by alkaline degumming using 0.02 M sodium carbonate at 100 °C. The isolated fibroin was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy before ammonium sulphate-assisted purification at 50% saturation. The purified material was then used to fabricate a scaffold by lyophilization. The scaffold was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), hydration and swelling analyses, and in vitro mass-loss assessment. FTIR analysis revealed characteristic protein-associated absorption bands, including a prominent amide I band at 1623.3 cm⁻¹. SEM examination revealed a fibrous scaffold structure with overlapping fibres and porous morphological features. The scaffold exhibited hydration and swelling behaviour during phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) exposure. Under PBS–lysozyme conditions, cumulative scaffold mass loss reached 68.85% after four weeks. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of fabricating Tasar silk fibroin-based scaffolds using the reported processing approach. The combined spectroscopic, morphological, hydration, swelling, and mass-loss assessments provide a basis for further investigation of the material's functional characteristics and potential biomaterial applications.

Effects of Digestate from Cassava Effluent Methanisation on the Physicochemical Parameters of Cassava Roots

2026-10-28T07:37:19+00:00

Anaerobic digestion of cassava-processing effluents produces digestate that could be used as an organic fertiliser, but its influence on the composition of harvested cassava roots requires further examination. This study assessed the effects of cassava-effluent digestate on the physicochemical properties of roots from the Yacé cultivar. A field experiment comprised five treatments: digestate at 75% (v/v), three mineral fertilisers (NPK 20-15-15, NPK 4-3-12 and NPK 7-21-7), and an unfertilised control, arranged in three replicated blocks. Roots were harvested 12 months after planting and analysed for proximate composition, cyanogenic content, antioxidant compounds and mineral elements. Treatment differences were assessed using analysis of variance and Tukey's test. Digestate-treated roots contained 97.83 ± 0.07% total carbohydrates, 4.03 ± 0.03% total sugars and 3.35 ± 0.05 g/100 g fibre on the reported dry-matter basis. Their hydrocyanic acid content was 152.55 ± 1.35 mg/kg fresh matter, compared with 236.25 ± 1.35 mg/kg in control roots. Digestate also yielded higher total polyphenol, flavonoid, potassium, calcium and sodium concentrations than the control. Nevertheless, arsenic, cadmium and lead were detected in digestate-treated roots, and the measured hydrocyanic acid concentration remained substantial. The findings indicate treatment-associated differences in root composition, while underscoring the need to establish the safety and composition of processed products before recommending food use.

Impact of Combined Mineral Fertilizer Application Methods (NPK and Urea) on Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) Cultivation in Zatta, Ivory Coast

2026-10-30T10:02:36+00:00

Background : Information on the response of the ‘Teriman’ variety of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) to combined mineral fertilisation under the field conditions of Zatta, Côte d’Ivoire, is limited.

Aims : The objectives of this study were to optimise okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L., ‘Teriman’ variety) production through combined mineral fertilisation and to evaluate the comparative effects of NPK (15-15-15) and urea (46%) on vegetative growth and yield components.

Study Design : The experimental protocol was based on a completely randomised Fisher’s block design comprising four treatments repeated three times over an area of 153.6 m² : T0 (control without fertiliser), T1 (NPK : 200 kg/ha), T2 (Urea: 50 kg/ha), and T3 (NPK + Urea combination).

Place and Duration of Study : The experiment was conducted in the town of Zatta, located in the Yamoussoukro Autonomous District (Ivory Coast), during the agricultural season leading up to harvest, which began on April 15, 2026.

Methodology : A randomised block experiment comprising four treatments and three replicates was established over 153.6 m². The treatments were an unfertilised control (T0), NPK at 200 kg/ha (T1), urea at 50 kg/ha (T2) and combined NPK and urea (T3). Plant height, collar diameter, leaf number, fruit number, fruit weight and yield were evaluated. Data were assessed using analysis of variance or the Kruskal–Wallis test at a 5% significance level.

Results : The results indicate that treatment T3 (NPK + urea) significantly increased the number of leaves (an average of approximately 33 leaves compared with approximately 29–30 leaves under the other treatments) (p = 0.016). However, with regard to yield, significant differences were observed (p = 0.001) : Treatment T1 (NPK alone) had the highest yield, at 139.13 g/m², followed by the control T0 (128.93 g/m²), whereas the T3 combination had the lowest yield (82.07 g/m²).

Conclusion : The study concludes that an excess of nitrogen (T3) stimulates vegetative growth at the expense of fruit set. The application of NPK (T1) had the highest observed yield and was therefore the most effective method in this experiment for improving okra productivity in the Zatta region.

Biology of the Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) on Maize, Sorghum and Millet in Burkina Faso

2026-11-02T13:18:46+00:00

Native to the Americas, Spodoptera frugiperda is an invasive pest that was first identified in Africa in 2016, where it is responsible for considerable damage to various cereal crops. This study aims at understanding its biology on the principal food cereal crops in Burkina Faso. These include maize, sorghum and millet. The research was conducted under laboratory conditions at a temperature of 25±1°C, a photoperiod of 12 h light and 12 h dark and a relative humidity of 75±5%. Spodoptera frugiperda was reared on seven varieties of the three crops. For each variety, 160 freshly laid eggs were used in four replicates of 40 eggs each in a completely randomised block design. These eggs were incubated in Petri dishes. Upon hatching, the larvae were placed individually in small 59-ml pots fed exclusively with fresh leaves harvested from 5–7-day-old seedlings of each tested variety. The adults were fed with a 5% diluted honey solution. Egg incubation differed significantly among crops and varieties, ranging from 3.00±0.00 days to 3.16±0.53 days. The average duration of the insect’s larval phase was shorter on maize (14.23±1.93 days) than on sorghum (17.46±1.08 days) and millet (17.68±1.29 days). Adults had an average lifespan of 7.49±2.55 days for males and 8.26±2.36 days for females. The total developmental duration (egg to adult) of the insect pest was 38.18±1.34 days on maize, 42.72±1.15 days on millet and 43.57±1.06 days on sorghum. These results suggest that the host plant strongly influences the development of S. frugiperda. These fundamental findings on the pest’s biology may inform integrated pest management strategies for this pest in Burkina Faso: developing biological control methods, optimising the timing of insecticide applications in the field, and selecting resistant or tolerant varieties.

Nutritional and Enzymatic Changes in Barnyard Millet during Processing

2026-11-02T13:31:23+00:00

The present study was conducted at the Department of Biochemistry, PGI, MPKV, Rahuri, Dist - Ahilyanagar, and aimed to evaluate nutritional and antinutritional changes in barnyard millet under different processing methods and to assess associated enzymatic alterations. The experiment included seven barnyard millet genotypes, KIBMG-22-06, KIBMG-22-08, KIBMG-22-09, KIBMG-22-11, KIBMG-22-12, KIBMG-22-13 and Phule Barti-1(c), and four processing methods: milling (T0), germination (T1), soaking (T2) and roasting (T3). Results revealed significant variation among genotypes and processing methods. KIBMG-22-06 recorded the highest overall mean crude protein content (10.66%), while the highest individual value (10.95%) was recorded in Phule Barti-1 (c) under germination (T1). Germination (T1) recorded the highest mean iron content (7.51 mg/100 g), while KIBMG-22-11 recorded the highest genotype mean (7.45 mg/100 g). Germination (T1) also recorded the highest mean calcium content (21.84 mg/100 g), while KIBMG-22-13 recorded the highest genotype mean (22.18 mg/100 g). Among the antinutritional factors, the lowest phenol content was observed under soaking (T2), at 21.59 mg GAE/g, and KIBMG-22-11 recorded the lowest genotype mean (23.03 mg GAE/g). Germination (T1) recorded the lowest mean phytic acid content (2.85 mg/g), while KIBMG-22-09 recorded the lowest genotype mean (3.10 mg/g). The maximum protease activity (1.17) was recorded in KIBMG-22-13 under germination (T1), and KIBMG-22-13 recorded the highest mean protease activity (0.68 µgm/min/mg protein). Germination (T1) recorded the highest mean α-amylase activity (4.11 µmole/min/g), while KIBMG-22-06 recorded the highest genotype mean (2.77 µmole/min/g). Overall, KIBMG-22-13 was the superior genotype, while germination (T1) was the most effective processing method because it was associated with higher nutritional content and enzymatic activity and lower antinutritional content among the treatments studied.

Dose-Dependent Effects of Dietary Spirulina platensis on Lysozyme, Amylase and Protease Activities in Ompok bimaculatus

2026-11-03T06:49:10+00:00

Dietary Spirulina is increasingly examined as a feed ingredient in aquaculture, but the response of butter catfish to graded supplementation requires species-specific evaluation. This study assessed serum lysozyme activity and intestinal amylase and protease responses in Ompok bimaculatus following a 60-day feeding trial. Five experimental diets contained 0% (control), 10%, 15%, 20% or 25% Spirulina platensis. Serum lysozyme activity was determined using a turbidimetric assay with Micrococcus lysodeikticus as the substrate, whereas intestinal enzyme responses were assessed spectrophotometrically. The measured responses increased progressively with dietary inclusion. At the end of the lysozyme assay, activity was approximately 2 U/mL in the control and 18, 35, 52 and 69 U/mL in the respective supplemented groups. The 25% group therefore showed a 34.5-fold higher lysozyme activity than the control. Calculated amylase concentrations were 1.64, 4.08, 4.95, 6.11 and 7.07 mg/mL across the five dietary groups. The corresponding calculated protease values were 4.71, 8.79, 9.95, 12.36 and 13.37. Among the tested diets, 25% Spirulina produced the highest measured lysozyme, amylase and protease responses. These findings indicate an association between increasing dietary Spirulina inclusion and the measured immune-related and digestive enzyme responses. Because the biochemical measurements do not establish growth performance, nutrient digestibility or disease resistance, further investigation is needed to determine the optimal dietary inclusion level for O. bimaculatus.

Development and Quality Evaluation of Kokum-based Herbal Tea Powder and Probiotic Drink

2026-11-03T11:04:23+00:00

Background: Kokum (Garcinia indica) is an underutilised tropical fruit with considerable potential for developing value-added food and beverage products. Processing kokum into herbal tea powder and probiotic-culture-containing beverages may enhance its utilisation and provide opportunities for product diversification.

Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical properties and drying characteristics of kokum fruit and develop herbal tea powder and a kokum-based drink containing probiotic culture, followed by sensory evaluation of the formulations.

Methods: The physicochemical properties of kokum fruit, including pH, total soluble solids and moisture content, were determined using standard laboratory methods. Kokum rinds were dried in a tray dryer at 60°C. Herbal tea powder was formulated using kokum rind powder, ginger, cinnamon, tulsi and cardamom, while the beverage was prepared using kokum extract, honey and Lactobacillus plantarum culture. Two herbal tea formulations and three beverage formulations were developed. Sensory characteristics were evaluated using a nine-point hedonic scale.

Results: Kokum fruit exhibited a juice pH of approximately 1.5, total soluble solids of 13°Brix and moisture content of 81.33%. Drying resulted in progressive moisture reduction. Treatment 2 demonstrated the highest sensory acceptability among the tested formulations for both products, achieving an overall acceptability score of 9 out of 9. The preferred formulations exhibited favourable scores for colour, flavour, mouthfeel and taste.

Conclusion: The findings demonstrate the feasibility of utilising kokum rind to develop sensory-acceptable herbal tea powder and a culture-containing beverage. However, further investigations into microbial viability, nutritional composition, storage stability and shelf life are necessary before commercial applications can be recommended.

Sociodemographic Determinants of Plant Resource Use Patterns and Implications for Floristic Diversity Conservation at Mount Nimba, Guinea

2026-11-03T12:00:55+00:00

Aims: This study examined the sociodemographic determinants of plant resource use patterns among Mount Nimba Massif communities and identified conservation considerations for the local floristic diversity.

Study Design: A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics and plant resource use patterns. A floristic inventory was conducted across 2.5 ha.

Place and Duration of Study: Lola, Guinea, between March 2026 and May 2026.

Methodology: The sociodemographic predictors of use patterns were assessed using two multivariate logistic regression models. β diversity was evaluated. PCoA and NMDS ordinations, together with PERMANOVA, were used to test the statistical significance of floristic groupings. α diversity indices and a rank-abundance curve described local community structure.

Results: The surveyed population was predominantly male (64.3%), largely indigenous (82.5%), and had a mean age of 44.8 +/- 14.0 years; 39.7% had received no formal schooling. Daily use of plant resources was reported by 70.6% of respondents, and 73.8% reported exclusively domestic use. Neither logistic model reached statistical significance (daily use: p=0.870, R²=0.016 ; commercial destination: p=0.715, R²=0.031). No individual covariate reached the 5% significance threshold, although the strongest trends were observed for gender (women: OR=1.62; p=0.325) and allochthonous origin in relation to commercial use (OR = 3.19, p=0.084). The floristic inventory recorded 432 individuals across 25 species, with Aframomum giganteum being the most abundant species (16.7%). The mean Bray-Curtis dissimilarity was high (0.629 +/- 0.120). Sørensen beta diversity (0.426) was dominated by species turnover (78.7%, βsim=0.335), with nestedness accounting for only 21.3%. PERMANOVA was significant (p=0.025, R²=0.231), although PCoA and NMDS ordinations showed no clear separation between plot groups.

Conclusion: The sociodemographic profile did not significantly predict daily use frequency or commercial orientation of plant resources, suggesting widespread dependence on forest resources. Beta diversity was driven by species replacement rather than nestedness. A network-based conservation strategy built on complementary sites is suggested for the peripheral zone of Mount Nimba.

Screening of Castor Genotypes against Reniform Nematode under Microplot Condition

2026-11-04T11:37:07+00:00

Reniform nematode (Rotylenchulus reniformis) is an important constraint in castor production, necessitating the identification of resistant genetic resources. The present investigation was conducted during the Kharif season of 2025 at Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, to evaluate castor genotypes for their response to reniform nematode under microplot conditions. The experimental material comprised 19 entries, including the susceptible check GCH 7. Nematode infestation was assessed 60 days after sowing by staining the roots with acid fuchsin and examining them under a stereoscopic binocular microscope. Genotypes were classified according to the number of female nematodes per plant using the prescribed rating scale. Considerable variation was observed among the evaluated entries, with female counts ranging from 8 to 31 per plant among the parents and hybrids. NAUCI 1, SKI 315, 48-1 and SKI 215 were identified as resistant parental genotypes. Four hybrids, namely DCS 94 × SKI 315, JI 35 × 48-1, SI 8 × PCS 124 and ANDCI 1901 × NAUCI 1, also exhibited resistant reactions. In contrast, JI 512 × SKI 215 and the susceptible check GCH 7 were highly susceptible, recording 31 and 39 females per plant, respectively. These findings identify promising genetic resources for further validation and incorporation into castor breeding programmes targeting reniform nematode resistance.

Forest Loss around Sacred Forests in Central Benin between 1999 and 2024: a Landsat-based Assessment of Land-cover Change and Its Proximate Drivers

2026-11-05T08:16:40+00:00

Sacred forests are customary conservation sites that persist within the agricultural landscapes of West Africa, but their long-term fate under demographic, religious and economic change remains poorly quantified. This study assessed land-cover change within 1-km-radius windows centred on 15 sacred forests in three communes of central Benin (Savalou, Dassa-Zoumè and Glazoué) between 1999 and 2024. Landsat images acquired in December 1999 and November 2024 were classified into forest, cropland, built-up and water classes with a support vector machine, and class transitions were derived by cross-tabulation. Forest area across the windows declined from 21.79 to 6.97 km² (−68%), equivalent to a compound rate of −4.5% per year, and decreased significantly at the site level (Wilcoxon signed-rank test, n = 15, p < 0.001). The net gain in cropland balanced 83% of the net forest loss and the net gain in built-up area 17%, the latter concentrated in the Glazoué sites. Between 51% and 87% of the forest present in 1999 was converted to cropland (gross transition) in the 14 sites with transition data. Only one site, Kpossozoun, showed a net forest gain. Field observations documented grazing, tree felling and charcoal production as additional pressures. These estimates are derived from pixel counts of two classified maps, without area-adjusted confidence intervals, and should be considered indicative; the drivers discussed are inferred from observations and the literature and were not tested statistically. These results indicate that the landscapes surrounding sacred forests are being converted rapidly and are consistent with customary status alone being insufficient to prevent forest loss. Integrating sacred forests into local land-use planning, together with community-based monitoring of land-cover change, is needed to slow further decline.

Enhancing Fibre Yield and Economic Sustainable Returns of Mesta (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) through Integrated Multi Stage Management of Foot and Stem Rot (Phytophthora parasitica var. sabdariffae)

2026-11-05T09:36:23+00:00

Foot and stem rot is an important disease constraint in fibre-producing roselle or mesta (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.). An on-farm assessment in Vizianagaram district, Andhra Pradesh, compared three disease-management programmes during the 2023 and 2024 kharif seasons. The reported treatments were farmer practice without fungicide application (T1), metalaxyl seed treatment followed by mancozeb foliar applications (T2), and metalaxyl seed treatment followed by foliar and root-zone applications (T3). Three participating farms were described for each season. Annual treatment-level mean fibre yields were available for both seasons, whereas treatment-level disease percentages were available for 2023. Arithmetic two-year means for fibre yield were 1,762.5, 2,013.5 and 2,231.5 kg/ha for T1, T2 and T3, respectively. The T3 mean exceeded T1 by 469.0 kg/ha (26.61%), with year-specific differences of 12.63% in 2023 and 42.68% in 2024. Reported disease percentages in 2023 were 6.60% (T1), 3.76% (T2) and 2.40% (T3). Treatment-level pooled financial summaries gave net returns of ₹38,530.5, ₹42,858.5 and ₹57,272.5/ha, respectively; gross-return-to-cost ratios calculated from those summaries were 2.20, 2.29 and 2.72. Although T3 showed the highest descriptive yield and return, missing farm-level data, uncertainty estimates and treatment-allocation details preclude statistical claims about treatment superiority. Further replicated investigation and verification of formulation-specific, legally permitted application protocols are necessary before extension recommendations are made.

Effect of Harvest Time on Total Sugar, Protein, Starch, and Fat Content in the Grains of Four Maize Varieties (Zea mays L.) Grown in Daloa, Côte d’Ivoire

2026-11-06T06:55:34+00:00

Maize (Zea mays L.) is an important crop for food and feed, but determining an appropriate harvest date requires an understanding of changes in grain composition during maturation. This study assessed the influence of harvest timing on total sugars, starch, proteins and lipids in four maize varieties grown in Daloa, Côte d’Ivoire: F1Vn10, KABAMANOJ, LG336 and EV8728. The varieties were cultivated in a randomised-block field experiment and harvested on three successive occasions. The first harvest was conducted 110 days after sowing for KABAMANOJ, LG336 and EV8728 and 120 days after sowing for F1Vn10. Grain samples were analysed using the biochemical determination methods described in the manuscript, and treatment means were compared by analysis of variance followed by the Student–Newman–Keuls test at a 5% significance level. Across all four varieties, total sugar content was highest at the first harvest and declined by the third. EV8728 had a total sugar content of 370.70 µg/g fresh weight at the first harvest. Starch content generally increased with delayed harvesting, whereas protein and lipid contents also tended to be higher at the third harvest. The extent and statistical grouping of these changes differed among varieties and constituents. The findings indicate that harvest timing is associated with variation in grain biochemical composition under the study conditions. Selection of a harvest date should therefore reflect the biochemical constituent of interest rather than assuming a single optimum for all measured components.

Effect of Aqueous Decoction Extract of Whole Plant of Leptadenia hastata (Pers.) Decne, on Testosterone Propionate-induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Castrated Wistar Rats

2026-11-06T08:09:04+00:00

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is associated with enlargement of the prostate and may adversely affect quality of life. This study evaluated the effects of an aqueous decoction extract of the whole plant of Leptadenia hastata in a testosterone propionate-induced model of benign prostatic hyperplasia in castrated Wistar rats. Thirty rats were castrated and allocated to six groups of five animals. Five groups received testosterone propionate at 3 mg/kg body weight, while the blank control received distilled water. Testosterone-treated animals additionally received either no intervention, flutamide at 1 mg/kg body weight, or L. hastata extract at 100, 400, or 800 mg/kg body weight for 28 days. Prostate and selected organ weights were determined, and malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, and catalase were assessed in prostate homogenates. Testosterone propionate significantly increased the prostate index compared with the blank control. The 800 mg/kg extract significantly reduced the prostate index and decreased prostate malondialdehyde levels compared with the positive control. Treatment with the extract also modified superoxide dismutase and catalase levels. However, the higher extract doses were associated with increased relative liver weight, and changes in kidney weight were also observed. These findings indicate that the aqueous decoction extract of L. hastata influenced prostate enlargement and oxidative-stress parameters in this experimental model. Further studies incorporating histopathological, hormonal, and comprehensive toxicity assessments are required before its potential relevance to benign prostatic hyperplasia can be established.

Reproductive Phenology and Morphometric Variability of the Fruits and Seeds of Parkia biglobosa (Jacq.) R. Br. Ex G. Don According to Provenance Areas in Côte d’Ivoire

2026-11-10T04:38:39+00:00

Background: Non-timber forest products (NTFPs), such as African locust bean (Parkia biglobosa), are strategic resources for food security in sub-Saharan Africa. However, the degradation of parklands and insufficient natural regeneration threaten the sustainability of this resource.

Aims: This study assessed the influence of agroecological factors on reproductive phenology and fruit yield potential of P. biglobosa in Côte d’Ivoire.

Methodology: Phenological monitoring was carried out on 10 individuals in Korhogo over a two-year period, corresponding to two phenological cycles of the species. Concurrently, ten trees of the species in each area of origin (Tiébissou, Niakara and Korhogo) were identified, and five fruit clusters were harvested from each for morphometric analysis. The data were subjected to statistical tests and multivariate analyses, including principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA).

Results: The phenological cycle in Korhogo was relatively stable (123.67 ± 5.11 days; CV = 0.04), although morphological maturity exhibited substantial inter-individual variability (CV = 0.24). Morphometric analysis revealed significant differences among the study areas (p < 0.05). Tiébissou, located within the bimodal pre-forest zone, was characterised by heavier fruits (18.44 ± 4.11 g), greater pulp mass (6.60 ± 2.15 g), and heavier seeds (6.26 ± 1.64 g). PCA and HCA grouped the accessions into three distinct classes, with Class 2 (Tiébissou) comprising individuals exhibiting superior agronomic performance. Strong positive correlations were observed between fruit mass and pulp mass (r = 0.898) and between fruit mass and pulp-coated seed weight (r = 0.992).

Conclusion: These findings indicate that agro-ecological gradients strongly influence the productivity of African locust bean. The Tiébissou morphotype represents a promising scientific basis for future breeding, conservation, and participatory domestication programmes for the species.

Correlation and Path Analysis for Yield and Yield Attributing Character in Garlic

2026-11-10T04:45:01+00:00

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) yield is associated with several morphological, bulb and quality traits. The present study was conducted to assess the associations between yield and quality traits in garlic (Allium sativum L.) using phenotypic and genotypic correlation analyses and path coefficient analysis. Fifteen traits, viz., number of leaves per plant, leaf length, plant height, neck thickness, bulb weight, bulb length, bulb diameter, weight of 10 cloves, number of cloves per bulb, yield per hectare, days required for harvest, total soluble solids, dry matter, titratable acidity and yield per plot, were evaluated. At the phenotypic level, yield per plot showed significant positive correlations with plant height (0.194), bulb weight (0.585), bulb length (0.306), bulb diameter (0.499), weight of 10 cloves (0.358), number of cloves per bulb (0.136), yield per hectare (0.674), TSS (0.117) and titratable acidity (0.213), while neck thickness (-0.335) and days required for harvest (-0.369) exhibited significant negative associations. At the genotypic level, stronger positive correlations were observed with bulb weight (0.843), yield per hectare (0.667), weight of 10 cloves (0.642), bulb diameter (0.480), number of cloves per bulb (0.415), bulb length (0.214), TSS (0.209), dry matter (0.220) and leaf length (0.243). Path analysis revealed high positive direct effects of bulb weight (0.369), bulb length (0.342), bulb diameter (0.310), weight of 10 cloves (0.332), number of cloves per bulb (0.242) and yield per hectare (0.171) at the genotypic level. At the phenotypic level, bulb weight recorded the highest direct effect (0.534), followed by bulb length (0.492), yield per hectare (0.325) and TSS (0.308). The results indicate that bulb weight, bulb diameter, bulb length, weight of 10 cloves and yield per hectare are important selection criteria for improving yield in garlic.

Effect of Micronutrients on Growth, Yield and Quality of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata)

2026-11-10T13:16:44+00:00

This investigation evaluated the effects of eight micronutrient treatments on the growth, yield and quality of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) at the Agricultural Research Farm, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, during the 2025–2026 rabi season. The experiment used a randomised block design with three replications. Treatments comprised an untreated control (T0), individual applications of boric acid at 0.01% (T1), ZnSO₄ at 0.01% (T2) and ammonium molybdate at 0.005% (T3), and their two- and three-component combinations (T4–T7). Treatment T7 (boric acid at 0.01% + ZnSO₄ at 0.01% + ammonium molybdate at 0.005%) recorded the greatest numerical plant height (26.67 cm), head diameter (9.78 cm), head weight (746.02 g), yield per plot (23.87 kg), reported head yield (313.15 q/ha), total soluble solids (7.21 °Brix) and leaf chlorophyll content (55.02 mg/100 g). It also recorded the fewest open leaves per plant (14.8), the shortest time to head initiation (54.09 days) and maturity (79.08 days), and the highest reported net return (₹234,496.7/ha) and benefit–cost ratio (1.66). Although T7 had the most favourable numerical values for these variables, several differences from other combined treatments were below the reported critical differences. These results describe treatment responses under the conditions of this single-site, single-season experiment; wider recommendations require further validation.

Nutrition and Feeding Management of Indian Major Carp Larvae: A Critical Narrative Review of Digestive Development, Live Feeds and Nursery Practices

2026-10-08T07:52:25+00:00

Seed production of the Indian major carps, catla (Catla catla), rohu (Labeo rohita) and mrigal (Cirrhinus mrigala), underpins freshwater aquaculture across South Asia, yet survival from hatchling to fry frequently remains low, and larval feeding continues to rely heavily on pond-derived zooplankton and inexpensive oil-cake and bran mixtures. This review critically evaluates how digestive development, live feeds, formulated larval diets and nursery management interact to determine early survival and growth in these species. A critical narrative approach was adopted. Multidisciplinary, biomedical and regional scholarly sources were searched for literature on embryonic and larval development, digestive ontogeny, nutrient requirements, live feeds, weaning and nursery practices, supplemented by backward and forward citation tracking and by targeted checks for corrections and retractions. The evidence shows that Indian major carp larvae begin exogenous feeding with a simple, stomachless digestive tract in which alkaline serine proteases, amylase and lipase are measurable from first feeding and rise over the first month. The larvae ingest progressively larger zooplankton as gape increases, and mixed rotifer and cladoceran diets consistently support better growth than single prey types. Pond zooplankton is protein-rich but variable, and deficient in ascorbic acid, whereas controlled enrichment and phospholipid supplementation improve larval performance. Recent trials with nanoparticulate diets suggest that co-feeding outperforms either live or formulated feed alone, but this evidence is concentrated in very few laboratories and includes one retracted companion study. Nursery trials show that fertilisation, feed ration, water depth and stocking density influence fry yield, although field outcomes remain highly variable. The main unresolved questions concern quantitative nutrient requirements across all three species, the functional maturation of the intestine and pancreas as opposed to enzyme presence, and the transfer of laboratory feeding protocols to commercial nurseries. Progress will depend on standardised developmental time scales, multi-site replicated trials, reporting of survival and economic outcomes, and independent replication of recent formulated-diet findings. Current evidence supports practical improvements in nursery feeding but does not yet justify replacing live food in commercial Indian major carp hatcheries.

Bioethanol from Pine Needles: A Critical Review of Feedstock Variability, Conversion Performance and Scale-Up Constraints

2026-10-10T14:10:15+00:00

Pine needles are a potential non-food lignocellulosic feedstock, but their conversion to bioethanol requires more than the demonstration of fermentable sugar release. This critical narrative review evaluates the evidence linking needle identity and collection, pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, fermentation, product recovery and environmental performance. Literature published through 30 July 2026 was assessed using accessible scholarly records and primary studies, with broader lignocellulosic research used only where its transferability could be specified. The strongest direct evidence establishes laboratory-scale ethanol production following chemical pretreatment and enzyme-assisted conversion. It does not establish a generally optimal pretreatment, dependable commercial performance or an environmentally sustainable rate of forest-floor harvesting. Comparisons are weakened by differences between living crown foliage and fallen litter, species-dependent extractives, inconsistent analytical bases, and the conflation of sugar yield, ethanol yield, broth concentration and recovered product purity. Alkali, dilute acid, microwave-assisted processing and solvent-based fractionation offer different combinations of accessibility improvement, carbohydrate loss, inhibition and recovery requirements. Recent advances in solvent recycling and inhibitor-tolerant, pentose-fermenting yeasts are relevant, but most have not been validated with pine-needle hydrolysates. A central finding is that favourable conversion of washed, dilute laboratory substrates cannot substitute for demonstration with concentrated slurries, recycled process liquids and realistic feedstock variability. Sustainable deployment also requires distinguishing standing foliage stocks from annual collectable litter and accounting for nutrient removal, soil protection, collection logistics and alternative biomass uses. The review proposes evidence-based priorities centred on paired mass balances, independent feedstock validation, selective inhibitor management, integrated recovery trials and uncertainty-aware economic and environmental assessment. Pine-needle ethanol is therefore best regarded as a technically demonstrated laboratory pathway whose practical merit remains conditional on whole-process performance and locally justified biomass removal.

Fungal and Bacterial Diseases of Medicinal Plants in and around the Historical Burdwan District, West Bengal, India: Symptoms, Diagnostic Evidence and Integrated Control

2026-10-29T09:05:56+00:00

Medicinal plants cultivated and collected in the historical Burdwan district of West Bengal are vulnerable to foliar blights, vascular wilts and soft rots, yet the distinction between locally verified disease records and reports from neighbouring regions remains insufficiently developed. This critical narrative review examines fungal and bacterial pathogens, together with agriculturally important fungal-like oomycetes, in medicinal crops of regional relevance. Peer-reviewed host–pathogen investigations, Indian plant-disease studies, research on biological and integrated control, and local ethnobotanical evidence were selected and interpreted according to their geographic directness, diagnostic reliability, experimental design and medicinal-quality endpoints. Confirmed reports from elsewhere in West Bengal implicate Colletotrichum siamense and Fusarium incarnatum in different disorders of holy basil and Alternaria alternata in bacopa leaf blight. Studies from other Indian regions describe Alternaria-related ashwagandha leaf spot, pathogen complexes affecting ginger and turmeric rhizomes, and fungal–bacterial interactions in aloe soft rot. The strongest findings concern specific causal associations and mechanisms under documented study conditions; defensible prevalence estimates for Purba and Paschim Bardhaman remain unavailable. Overlapping symptoms and potentially sequential infections make organism-level diagnosis essential before disease-specific interventions are selected. Sanitation, clean propagules, site-adjusted moisture management and traceable planting stock are generally prudent preventive measures. Host resistance and selected microbial antagonists are promising but require crop-, isolate- and environment-specific verification, particularly where experimental antagonists may pose human-health risks. Evaluation of control should consider marketable medicinal organs, constituent profiles and microbiological safety rather than visual disease severity alone. District-level surveillance, diagnostic reference collections and replicated low-risk management trials offer the most credible route from regional evidence to locally valid recommendations.

Meristem Initiation, Persistence and Reconstitution as Developmental Foundations of Life-history Diversity in Vascular Land Plants

2026-10-29T13:40:03+00:00

Meristems create the developmental capacity for repeated organ production, architectural modification and recovery after damage in vascular land plants. Yet the frequently invoked connection between meristem organisation and plant ‘life style’ requires clearer separation of developmental mechanism from ecological consequence. This critical narrative review examines how shoot, root, axillary, intercalary and vascular meristems are initiated, maintained, recruited and reconstituted, and asks how these processes contribute to contrasting life histories and growth forms. Peer-reviewed molecular, genetic, anatomical, palaeobotanical, modelling and ecological literature was selected through targeted scholarly searching and citation-based examination, with emphasis on mechanistic and comparative evidence. A central finding is that stem-cell maintenance, meristem formation, bud persistence and post-disturbance organ regeneration are related but non-equivalent processes. The CLAVATA–WUSCHEL feedback system, auxin-dependent root patterning, KNOTTED-like meristem regulators and peptide-mediated cambial signalling establish persuasive mechanistic examples, although their evolutionary generality varies among vascular plant lineages. Comparative studies of lycophytes and fossils challenge simple narratives of a single ancestral root meristem, while studies of perennial flowering, seasonal dormancy and below-ground bud banks show how meristem persistence can sustain repeated reproduction or disturbance recovery. Causal links from molecular networks to lifetime fitness, however, remain less directly tested than developmental phenotypes. The review proposes an explicitly provisional framework in which meristem establishment, protected persistence, conditional activation and regenerative replacement constitute distinct components of a plant's developmental opportunity set. It identifies major gaps in phylogenetic sampling, cell-lineage resolution, long-term fitness measurement and integration of developmental dynamics with demographic and environmental models. Meristem biology offers a strong explanation for the potential range of plant architectures, but growth habit and ecological strategy emerge from interactions between meristem capacity, resource allocation, disturbance regimes and developmental history rather than from meristem identity alone.

Immune Dysregulation Linking Malaria HIV Infection Immunosuppressive Therapy and Ageing: A Critical Narrative Review

2026-11-05T10:31:13+00:00

Background: Malaria, HIV infection, therapeutic immunosuppression and ageing influence immune function through distinct mechanisms. Their clinical overlap raises questions about infection susceptibility, inflammatory injury and the safety of combined treatment. A coherent synthesis requires distinguishing immune activation from effective protection and mechanistic plausibility from demonstrated clinical benefit.

Objective: To examine evidence connecting these conditions and identify implications for treatment and research, with particular attention to malaria and HIV coinfection, transplantation and interventions targeting immune ageing.

Approach: This critical narrative review draws on the targeted web-assisted retrieval of primary biomedical publications and authoritative guidance. Historical cohort findings are considered alongside pharmacokinetic trials, longitudinal ageing studies and contemporary clinical recommendations. The review does not claim exhaustive retrieval, pooled effect estimation or formal certainty grading.

Synthesis: HIV-associated immune impairment is associated with greater malaria morbidity in historical cohorts, while malaria can transiently increase circulating HIV RNA. Antiretroviral treatment and preventive measures modify these relationships. Drug interactions can alter antimalarial and transplant immunosuppressant exposure independently of immune status. HIV-related inflammation and epigenetic ageing overlap with features of immune ageing, but biomarker changes do not establish a uniform acceleration of organismal ageing. Low-dose mTOR inhibition illustrates the dependence of immune effects on dose and context, with early signals of benefit followed by a negative phase 3 respiratory-illness endpoint.

Conclusion: The strongest actionable evidence supports sustained HIV suppression, malaria prevention, prompt diagnostic testing and careful management of drug interactions. A combined assessment of exposure, pathogen control, immune function and organ reserve offers a useful research framework, but requires prospective validation in populations where these risks coexist.

Predatory Heteropteran Bugs as Potential Tools in Integrated Pest Management: A Review

2026-11-06T06:48:48+00:00

Predatory true bugs provide an important but unevenly realised opportunity for biologically based management of arthropod pests. Species within Anthocoridae, Miridae, Geocoridae, Nabidae, Reduviidae and predatory Pentatomidae attack economically consequential prey, yet their efficacy depends on prey identity, crop architecture, alternative foods, trophic interactions and exposure to pesticides. This critical narrative review evaluates the circumstances under which predatory Heteroptera function as reliable components of integrated pest management, rather than treating predatory capacity alone as evidence of crop protection. Targeted searches of accessible scholarly indexes and agricultural literature identified experimental studies, field assessments, ecological analyses and relevant reviews published within a defined historical window. Evidence is organised around functional traits, crop-specific performance, zoophytophagy, intraguild interactions, establishment, pesticide compatibility and implementation criteria. The most persuasive practical evidence concerns minute pirate bugs in thrips management and certain mirid assemblages used against whiteflies and tomato leafminers in protected crops. Damsel bugs, big-eyed bugs, assassin bugs and predatory stink bugs extend the range of potential applications, but large-scale replicated evidence is less consistent for several species and production systems. Plant feeding by omnivorous mirids illustrates a central tension: it can favour persistence and activate plant defences, but, in certain predator–prey contexts, causes economically relevant crop injury. Combinations of predators can provide complementary prey coverage or harmful intraguild effects, and laboratory toxicity rankings do not necessarily predict field compatibility. Future programmes should prioritise economically interpretable outcomes, locally adapted predator identities, explicit non-target assessment and multi-season comparisons against realistic pest-management alternatives. Predatory bugs are therefore best regarded as functionally diverse, context-dependent biological control agents whose deployment requires ecological matching and measurable decision rules.

Integrated Bioanalytical and Pharmacokinetic Approaches for Antibody–Drug Conjugates: A Critical Review of Emerging Trends, Persistent Challenges and Future Perspectives

2026-11-09T13:45:09+00:00

Antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) couple the target selectivity of a monoclonal antibody to the cytotoxic potency of a small-molecule payload, and the modality has matured from a single early approval to more than a dozen marketed products across haematological and solid tumours. Their defining analytical and pharmacokinetic feature is that an ADC is not a single chemical entity but a heterogeneous and dynamic mixture of species that differ in drug-to-antibody ratio (DAR) and that change continuously in the circulation through payload deconjugation, linker cleavage and antibody catabolism. This review critically examines how bioanalytical measurement and pharmacokinetic (PK) interpretation have co-evolved to address that complexity, and argues that the two disciplines are most usefully treated as one integrated problem rather than as sequential technical steps. The literature is synthesised around the definition of the measurable analytes, the relative strengths of ligand-binding assays, hybrid immunocapture liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and intact or native mass spectrometry, the in vivo characterisation of DAR and biotransformation, and the progression of PK modelling from empirical multi-analyte descriptions through target-mediated disposition models to multiscale and physiologically based frameworks. Convergent evidence supports several conclusions, including the dominant influence of linker and conjugation-site chemistry on systemic stability and the value of simultaneously quantifying total antibody, conjugated species and unconjugated payload. Substantial disagreement remains over which analyte best predicts efficacy and toxicity, how deconjugation should be parameterised, and how intratumoral distribution should inform dose. Reported relationships are frequently molecule-specific, and generalisation across payload classes is weakly supported. The analysis identifies priorities for standardising analyte nomenclature, strengthening the measurement-to-model link, and generating the mechanistic data required for dose optimisation under contemporary regulatory expectations. The modality now demands bioanalytical and PK strategies that are explicitly designed together from early discovery.

Hornbill-on-Hornbill Predation: A Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis) Preying on a Juvenile Malabar Grey Hornbill (Ocyceros griseus) in the Southern Western Ghats

2026-10-12T12:52:53+00:00

The Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis) is predominantly frugivorous but may take animal prey, particularly during the breeding period. Direct observations of avian prey handling, especially involving another hornbill species, remain scarce. This short communication documents an unusual interaction observed on 28 April 2026 in the Nelliyampathy reserve forest, Palakkad District, Kerala, in the southern Western Ghats. At approximately 12:30 h, a male Great Hornbill was observed holding the carcass of a juvenile Malabar Grey Hornbill (Ocyceros griseus) while perched on a Ficus sp. tree. The Great Hornbill repeatedly tossed and struck the carcass, dislodging feathers, and continued manipulating it for approximately 15 min. No clear ingestion of tissue or transport of the carcass was observed. A female Great Hornbill remained on another branch of the same tree during the interaction. A monitored Great Hornbill nest containing a nestling was located approximately 500 m from the observation site, although the observed birds could not be individually linked to that nest. The behaviour is consistent with carcass handling or prey processing, but the circumstances leading to the juvenile’s death were not observed; therefore, active predation cannot be confirmed. This observation broadens the documented range of unusual interspecific interactions involving Great Hornbills and highlights the value of continued field monitoring for clarifying the occurrence and context of avian prey use.

Systematic Review of Ethnobotanical Research Methods in West Africa: A Bibliometric and Methodological Overview of Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches

2026-10-10T13:54:24+00:00

Background: Ethnobotanical reports combine interviews, inventories, interpretation and botanical investigation, but these procedures support different inferences. A methods-focused synthesis should distinguish data collection from qualitative analysis, quantification and genuine integration.

Objective: To describe and appraise qualitative and quantitative ethnobotanical methods documented in eligible West African field reports and provide a bounded descriptive bibliometric overview.

Methods: An unregistered review protocol used 28 ranked live-web discovery queries on 15 July 2026, with publisher, repository and author-posted retrieval. Original journal reports published from 1 January 2000 to 15 July 2026 were assessed through a single reviewer workflow. Domain-based MMAT appraisal, source-specific extraction and narrative synthesis were undertaken; there was no meta-analysis or independent human review.

Results: Of 81 returned records, 52 remained after deduplication; 37 full reports were sought, nine were not retrieved, and 26 were included after two assessed exclusions. The reports represented 25 provisional study families, 19 journals and fieldwork in all 16 eligible countries. There were 22 English and four French reports. Operational classification identified 22 quantitative descriptive, two qualitative and two mixed-methods reports. Sampling units, index denominators and the distinction between reported practice and demonstrated outcome constrained comparison. Explicit integration was visible in studies linking everyday observation or locally generated values to quantitative interpretation.

Conclusions: The corpus supports a distinction between elicitation, analysis and justified inference rather than a hierarchy based on sample size or numerical complexity. Priorities include transparent units, sampling, integration, botanical traceability and knowledge governance. Bounded retrieval, unavailable reports, single-workflow appraisal and incomplete metadata/status clearance limit regional generalisation and preclude clinical endorsement.