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Farmers’ Purchasing Behaviour and Satisfaction Level about Pigeon Pea Seeds in Kadi Taluka of Mehsana District, Gujarat, India
No full textIndia\u27s agricultural sector remains a key contributor to GDP and food security, with pulses playing a crucial role in sustaining nutrition and rural livelihoods. Among them, pigeon pea (tur/arhar) is a vital crop grown across semi-arid regions. Recognizing the importance of seed quality—contributing 15–25% to total output companies like Saga Seeds are advancing in research and farmer engagement. The present aims to explore socio-economic profiles, seed purchasing behaviour, satisfaction levels, and challenges faced by farmers. A structured survey of 200 respondents revealed that most farmers were aged 41–60, held 1–5 acres of land, and belonged to nuclear families. Seeds were procured through dealers, cooperatives, and company reps, with product quality, yield, and disease resistance being top purchase drivers. Despite promotional outreach, issues like high input costs, pest attacks, and climate variability persist. The study highlights the need for targeted seed strategies, stronger extension services, and region-specific solutions to support sustainable pulse production in Kadi Taluka. Despite promotional efforts, challenges such as high input costs, pest attacks, and climate variability remain. The findings emphasize the need for localized strategies, stronger extension support, and improved access to quality seeds to ensure sustainable pigeon pea cultivation in Kadi Taluka
Evaluation of Complications in Type-II Diabetes Patients at Tertiary Care Hospital : A Cross-sectional Study
No full textHyperglycemia is a hallmark of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, a chronic metabolic disease that can lead to long-term microvascular, macrovascular, and other complications. There are about 74.2 million diabetics in India, accounting for 8.3% of the adult population. Over 50% of people with diabetes are experiencing complications. The objective of the study was to assess the prevalence of type 2 diabetes complications at tertiary care hospitals. For six months, from November 2024 to April 2025, a cross-sectional study was conducted at the SVRRGGH, Tirupati, inpatient general medicine and general surgery department. A specially created proforma was used to gather information on the demographics, microvascular, macrovascular, and other complications of 200 patients. Male patients (56.5%) out numbered female patients (43.5%), according to the study. Type 2 diabetes microvascular complications included retinopathy (13%), neuropathy (15%), and nephropathy (23%), while macrovascular complications were found to be prevalent at 19% and other complications at 30%. The serious consequences of type 2 diabetes mellitus complications are highlighted in this study, especially for middle-aged patients. The study concludes as nephropathy and neuropathy were the most common microvascular problems, and their progression was facilitated by poor glycaemic control and lifestyle choices
Infrastructure and Accessibility Barriers in Public Bus Transportation for Persons with Disabilities: A Systematic Review
No full textBackground: Infrastructure and accessibility barriers in public bus transportation limit the mobility, independence, and safety of people with disabilities. Reliable and inclusive transit is essential for their social, economic, and civic participation. Bus terminals are vital for connectivity, yet many remain poorly designed despite policies and international conventions.
Aims: This review aims to bring together existing research on the barriers people with disabilities face when using public bus transport, especially at bus terminals. It looks at studies from around the world to understand common problems and highlight practical solutions that can make travel safer, easier, and more inclusive for everyone.
Study Design: Systematic Review.
Place and Duration of Study: The review was conducted at the Department of Prosthetics and Orthotics, Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University, Lucknow, from July 2025 to September 2025.
Methodology: A systematic review was conducted through searches on Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus to identify 25 relevant studies published in English between January 2000 and March 2025. Data were collected on structural, social, and operational barriers affecting people with disabilities (PwDs).
Results: Persistent barriers in public bus transport for people with disabilities include lack of ramps, tactile paths, accessible toilets, signage, safe pedestrian routes, and trained staff, mainly affecting elderly and wheelchair users. Among the reviewed studies, around 68% identified physical and structural barriers as the most critical, followed by informational barriers in 20% and policy – or service-related challenges in about 12%. The review adheres to PRISMA guidelines to ensure systematic and transparent reporting. A review of 25 studies shows high-income countries emphasize design and technology, while developing countries like India struggle with basic standards. In Uttar Pradesh, key priorities are infrastructure upgrades, staff training, communication improvement, and policy enforcement through participatory audits, universal design, and assistive technologies for safer mobility.
Conclusion: Implementing these strategies can improve social inclusion, confidence, and satisfaction among people with disabilities and promote equitable urban transport. Including their perspectives in planning is essential, and phased interventions addressing infrastructure, social, and operational challenges offer practical guidance for policymakers and planners
Assessing Farmers’ Adoption and Challenges in Using Online Platform for Ayurvedic Herbs in India
No full textIndia’s rich tradition of medicinal plants has sustained rural economies and health systems, with Ayurvedic herbs playing a central role. Gujarat, with its Agro-ecological diversity and increasing farmer awareness, has emerged as a key state for herbal cultivation. Despite the transformative potential of digital platforms in agricultural marketing, the uptake among small and marginal Ayurvedic herb farmers remains limited. This study investigates the extent of digital adoption and explores the socio-
economic profiles and opportunities and challenges faced by herbal farmers in transitioning to online marketplaces.
Conducted across ten districts of Gujarat with a sample of 200 farmers, the study employed structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions to gather quantitative and qualitative data. Analytical methods included percentage analysis, weighted average means, and Garrett ranking.
Findings reveal that most farmers are aged 41–60, have only primary education and operate on small landholdings with limited digital exposure. While awareness of online platforms is growing, adoption remains low due to digital illiteracy, poor internet connectivity, lack of institutional support, and trust issues in digital transactions. Farmers recognize the potential of online platforms for market expansion and better pricing but require targeted training, infrastructural improvements, and policy support. The study highlights the need for an integrated approach to enhance digital participation and improve livelihood outcomes for Ayurvedic herb growers in rural India
The Gut–Immune Axis and Its Multisystem Repercussions: A Systematic Review of the Literature
No full textIntroduction: The gut microbiota plays a central role in modulating the immune system by interacting with immune cells, epithelial barriers, and inflammatory mediators. Growing evidence indicates that microbial alterations impact multiple organ systems through the gut–immune axis.
Aim: To systematically review the scientific literature to identify the multisystem repercussions of gut microbiota on the immune, rheumatologic, ophthalmologic, dermatologic, and gastrointestinal systems.
Methodology: This is a systematic review conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Searches were carried out in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and SciELO between January 2015 and August 2025, using descriptors related to “gut microbiota,” “immune system,” and systemic diseases. Inclusion criteria comprised original human studies, peer-reviewed, available in English, Portuguese, or Spanish. Exclusion criteria included animal or in vitro studies, narrative reviews, editorials, and papers without full text.
Results: The search identified 1,247 records, of which 16 were included in the qualitative synthesis. The gut microbiota influenced regulatory T cell and Th17 differentiation and cytokine production, including IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α. In rheumatology, Prevotella copri was associated with rheumatoid arthritis. In dermatology, dysbiosis was linked to psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and rosacea. In ophthalmology, autoimmune uveitis and ocular Sjögren’s syndrome were associated with microbial imbalance. In the gastrointestinal field, dysbiosis patterns were connected with inflammatory bowel diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, and metabolic disorders such as obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Conclusion: The gut–immune axis plays an essential role in immune regulation with multisystemic impact. Modulation of gut microbiota emerges as a promising therapeutic strategy, although well-designed randomized trials are needed to establish diagnostic and therapeutic protocols
Comparative Assessment of Physicochemical and Microbial Quality of Drinking Water in Ramnagar City, Uttarakhand, India
No full textThe present study aimed to comparatively assess the physicochemical and microbial quality of drinking water from two major sources in Ramnagar City, Uttarakhand—river water and treated municipal supply. Rapid urbanization and increasing anthropogenic activities have placed considerable stress on local water resources, often affecting their safety and potability. In this context, ensuring the quality of drinking water is crucial for maintaining community health and preventing water-borne diseases. Water samples were collected from two sites: one directly from the river that serves as the city’s primary source, and another from the treated household supply (nagarpalika). The samples were analysed for key parameters including pH, turbidity, total dissolved solids (TDS), hardness, chloride, nitrate, and microbial load, following IS:10500:2012 and WHO drinking water quality standards.
Results revealed that most physicochemical parameters of both sources were within permissible limits; however, slight variations were observed in turbidity and hardness between the source and supply water. The microbial count was notably higher in untreated river water, indicating possible contamination due to environmental and anthropogenic factors prior to treatment. Overall, the treated municipal water was found to be comparatively safer and fit for consumption, demonstrating the effectiveness of treatment practices at the local level. The study underscores the importance of periodic monitoring of both source and treated water to ensure sustained water quality, public health safety, and awareness among residents about safe storage and consumption practices
Perceived-Risk and Protective Factors in Suicidal Ideation and Attempt among Students in the Federal Polytechnic Offa Kwara State, Nigeria
No full textBackground: Suicide usually occurs in response to a situation that one views overwhelming. Nigerian university students encounter diverse economic, financial, social, and psychological challenges which could become overwhelming for them. Risk and protective factors give a clear view and targets for intervention in both individuals and communities.
Objective: The broad objective of the study was to investigate the perceived risk and protective factors of suicidal ideation and attempt among students in the Federal Polytechnic Offa.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted using a six-stage sampling technique, a total of 236 respondents were selected. Data on knowledge was analyzed using 18-point knowledge scale, a score of >11 was classified as a good knowledge and a score of <10 was classified as having poor knowledge. Data on perception was equally analyzed using 22 point perception scale, a score of >11 was classified as a good perception and a score of <10 was classified as having poor perception. Lastly, data on prevalence was analyzed using a four-point scale. A total mean score was estimated for each respondent. A mean score of 2.5 to 4.0 was classified as a high prevalence while a mean scores below 2.5 was considered a low prevalence. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test at p < 0.05.
Results: Ages of the respondents ranged from 15–30 years with a mean of 21.2±2.8 years. About 50.4% of the respondents were within the age of 15–19 years, and 53.4% were females. Moreover, 86.4% identified “Relationship breakups, shame, loss, defeat, humiliation, or threat” as risk factors, while 85.6% noted “Academic failures,” and 83.1% reported “Experiences of sexual violence or abuse.” Protective factors included “Being calm when faced with difficulties by relying on problem-solving abilities” (92.4%), “Practicing moral sanctions against suicide” (91.9%), and “Getting emotional help and support from family and friends” (83.1%).
Conclusion: When the risk factors are decreased, the tendency to have a thought or attempt suicide is generally decreased and increasing protective factors generally also decreases risk, therefore an holistic and multi-sectoral strategies that strengthen protective factors such as, resilience skills that increase awareness of reasons for living and problem-solving capabilities in individuals as well as promoting the development of supportive family and school environments are recommended
Graphene History, Technical Applications and Production: A Brief Review
No full textThe review paper gives a brief overview of the historical use of carbon materials like graphite and charcoal and graphene and its production.
It reviews the application of graphene for industrial application such as energy storage, electronics, biomedical, and environmental fields, including and sustainable methods for producing graphene from waste products, addressing both the need for advanced materials and the growing problem of plastic pollution. It reviews various graphene production techniques such as catalytic carbonization, flash joule heating, and solid-state chemical vapor deposition for the production of graphene
Effect of Cadmium Chloride Administration and Restraint Stress on Kidney Antioxidants in Female Wistar Rats
No full textHeavy metals, such as cadmium, are toxic, and the kidney is one of their major target organs. Restraint stress, on the other hand, is a model of chronic stress used to mimic human psychological stress. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of restraint stress and cadmium administration on kidney antioxidants in female Wistar rats. 24 female Wistar rats (180-220 g) were randomly divided into 4 groups (n=6): Control (CTL), Restraint stress alone (RSS), Cadmium alone (CCC), Cadmium + Restraint stress (RSC). Body weights of all the rats were monitored. The experimental groups were subjected to cadmium chloride 100 mg/kg orally and restraint stress for 30 minutes daily using wire mesh for 21 days. Twenty-four hours after the last cadmium chloride and restraint stress exposure, all rats were anesthetized and sacrificed. The kidneys were excised, homogenized and analyzed for antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase), lipid peroxidation (Malondialdehyde). The result obtained showed a significant (p˂0.05) decrease in the renal Superoxide dismutase, body weight in Restraint stress alone and Cadmium alone groups when compared to Control. There was a significant (p˂0.05) decrease in the renal catalase in Cadmium group when compared to control. In renal glutathione peroxidase, there was a significant (p˂0.05) decrease in Restraint stress alone and Cadmium alone groups when compared to Control. Furthermore, there was a significant (p˂0.05) increase in malondialdehyde in Restraint stress alone and Cadmium alone groups when compared to Control. Also, malondialdehyde showed a significant (p˂0.05) increase in Cadmium + Restraint stress group when compared to both Restraint stress alone and Cadmium alone groups. Nitric oxide was significantly (p˂0.05) decreased in Cadmium alone group when compared to Control. This study concludes that kidney exposure to cadmium and restraint stress decreased body weight and antioxidant defense capacity, increased lipid peroxidation which may result into adverse renal effects
Effects of Steam Curing on Fly Ash-Based Concrete Performance: A Review
No full textSteam curing is a method used to increase the strength of concrete at an early stage. Steam curing is based on applying hot water vapor at a certain temperature, and determining its constant temperature time and maximum temperature according to the characteristics, cost and production cycle of the target concrete. As a kind of cementing material, fly ash is more and more used in concrete. This study summarizes the previous literature on the effect of steam curing system on the performance of fly ash based concrete. The increase of fly ash content has obvious negative effects on the early compressive strength, splitting tensile strength and elastic modulus of concrete, while the early high temperature curing can significantly improve the early mechanical properties of fly ash based concrete. Concrete exposed to steam curing at low temperatures of 45°C to 80°C and for longer periods of time within a 24-hour cycle can achieve better concrete performance. By studying the effect of steam curing on fly ash base concrete, a suitable curing scheme is developed and applied in practical engineering