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Providing sufficient, high-quality food without compromising efforts in climate change and environmental pollution control is a long-term imperative for humanity. Livestock product trade may help bridge the gap in micro-nutrient supply; however, its potential environmental impacts remain underexplored. Using data from 200 countries and 77 different livestock commodities from 1961 to 2019, this study uncovers the impact of livestock trade on micro-nutrient productivity per livestock unit and per feed nitrogen input. Our results indicate that livestock trade has improved productivity for all seven studied micro-nutrients over the past 59 years, except for vitamin A. This improvement has led to a substantial reduction in the number of livestock units and feed nitrogen requirements needed to deliver the same amount of micro-nutrients, thereby reducing related greenhouse gas emissions and nitrogen losses globally. Generally, livestock trade has become more optimal and functional in terms of livestock productivity and feed use efficiency, particularly in the most recent decade, although there were slight differences between various micro-nutrients. We recommend continuing and potentially increasing international livestock trade, given the higher efficiency gap between exporting and importing countries; however, this should be structured more appropriately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This publication presents the biochemical components, the botanical characteristics, and the significance of African medlar to human nutrition and developments on the fruits’ uses in biotechnology and the food industry. African wild medlar (Vangueria infausta subsp infausta) is one of the multitudes of underutilised wild edible indigenous fruit trees that grows naturally throughout Southern Africa. Available literature shows that almost every part of the tree, have known nutritional or medicinal benefits. In-depth literature search using keywords (Vangueria infausta subsp infausta, African wild medlar, biochemical constituents, underutilised crops of Africa, human nutrition and recommended daily intake) was used to source credible literature accessible from online sources such as Scopus, ResearchGate, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Science Direct. The degree of relevance to each item linked to the review were used as an inclusion and exclusion criteria for suitable literature and for data analysis purposes. The results of the study reveal that fresh or processed African wild medlar fruit is consumable. The fruit contains significant levels of vitamins, phenols, macro and micro-nutrients, that humans require in both large and small amounts. Due to its richness in biochemical constituents such as flavonoids, phenols, proteins, vitamin C and zinc, African medlar fruit has a potential to meet the human recommended daily intake (RDI), thus can be considered a potential functional food crop. Rural communities in Southern Africa use African medlar fruit as a raw material for value-added products including jam, juice, alcohol-based products, and medication. Therefore, commercialization of this crop could play a pivotal role in accelerating the sustainable development goals SDG 1 (no poverty), subsequently addressing SDG 2 (Zero hunger). The study unearthed a need for further research, in particular empirical studies and highlights a great potential for government interest in entrepreneurial projects of commercialisation and agro-processing of African medlar fruit tree.

Soil applied micronutrient, especially boron (B) and zinc (Zn) can trigger growth, yield attributes, yield and nutritional value of crops including grass pea, however determination of their optimal dose under changing pedo-climatic conditions needs fresh studies. A trial was conducted to study the effect of B (B1 = 0 kg ha-1, B2 = 4 kg ha-1, B3 = 8 kg ha) and Zn (Zn1 = 0 kg ha-1, Zn2 = 1.5 kg ha-1, Zn3 =3.0 kg ha-1) on growth and yield of grass pea (cv. BARI Khesari-5). The response variables included plant height, fresh shoot and root weight, dry shoot and root weight, number of grains and pods plant-1, 100 grain weight, grain yield, biological yield and harvest index. Additionally, B and Zn contents of grass pea were also determined. The B2 treatment recorded the tallest plants (109.70 cm) and 100 grain weight (5.79 gm) which led to maximum grain yield (1.72 t ha-1), biological yield (4.54 t ha-1) and harvest index (37.86 %). The same treatment remained superior by recording the maximum B and Zn contents of 31.55 ppm) and 56.47 ppm, respectively, whereas B1 had the lowest corresponding values. Among Zn doses under investigation, Zn2 remained unmatched by producing the maximum yield attributes, whereas Zn1 could not perform at par to the rest of the treatments. Overall, the interactive effect of B2 and Zn2 surpassed other treatment combinations by exhibiting superior yield attributes which led to the highest grain yield (1.94 t ha-1), straw yield (2.92 t ha-1), biological yield (4.86 t ha-1), harvest index (39.96 %). The same treatment combination gave the maximum B (33.29 ppm) and Zn content (58.70 ppm), whereas B1 andZn1 treatment combination remained inferior to rest of treatment combinations. Based on recorded findings, it could be inferred that coapplication of B (4 kg ha-1) and Zn (1.5 kg ha-1) with recommended doses of other fertilizers hold potential to increase the seed yield and minerals bio-fortification of grass pea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presented experiment on faba bean (Vicia faba L.) began in the winter of 2022-2023 at the College of The presented experiment on faba bean (Vicia faba L.) began in the winter of 2022-2023 at the College of Agriculture, University of Anbar, Anbar, Iraq. The study aimed to determine the effects of foliar application of zinc on the growth and physiological traits of the faba bean genotypes. The experiment had a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with a split-plot arrangement and three replications. The prime plots included three concentrations of zinc, i.e., 0, 30, and 60 mg Zn L-1, while the subplots comprised three different genotypes (American, Dutch, and Spanish) of faba beans. The results revealed that the faba genotypes significantly displayed their latent potential in growth and physiological parameters. The American faba bean genotype proved superior in plant height (37.52 cm), leaf area (1413 cm² plant-1), and zinc concentration in leaves (113.30 mg kg-1 dry matter). However, the Spanish faba bean genotype led to an average leaf chlorophyll content (56.59 SPAD). The zinc foliar application with the highest concentration (60 mg L-1) provided the least number of days to flowering (60.89 days) and also excelled in obtaining the tallest plants (41.13 cm), branches per plant (3.85), leaf area (1337.6 cm² plant-1), the chlorophyll content (52.23 SPAD), and the zinc concentration in leaves (116.58 mg kg-1 dry matter). The interaction of the American faba bean genotype and the highest zinc foliar application (60 mg L-1) significantly affected the plant height, leaf area, and zinc concentration in leaves. The interaction between the Spanish genotype and zinc concentration (60 mg L-1) gave the highest average for leaf chlorophyll content, and the interaction of the Dutch genotype with the highest zinc concentration exhibited a shorter period from planting to flowering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This publication presents the biochemical components, the botanical characteristics, and the significance of African medlar to human nutrition and developments on the fruits' uses in biotechnology and the food industry. African wild medlar (Vangueria infausta subsp infausta) is one of the multitudes of underutilised wild edible indigenous fruit trees that grows naturally throughout Southern Africa. Available literature shows that almost every part of the tree, have known nutritional or medicinal benefits. In-depth literature search using keywords (Vangueria infausta subsp infausta, African wild medlar, biochemical constituents, underutilised crops of Africa, human nutrition and recommended daily intake) was used to source credible literature accessible from online sources such as Scopus, ResearchGate, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Science Direct. The degree of relevance to each item linked to the review were used as an inclusion and exclusion criteria for suitable literature and for data analysis purposes. The results of the study reveal that fresh or processed African wild medlar fruit is consumable. The fruit contains significant levels of vitamins, phenols, macro and micro-nutrients, that humans require in both large and small amounts. Due to its richness in biochemical constituents such as flavonoids, phenols, proteins, vitamin C and zinc, African medlar fruit has a potential to meet the human recommended daily intake (RDI), thus can be considered a potential functional food crop. Rural communities in Southern Africa use African medlar fruit as a raw material for value-added products including jam, juice, alcohol-based products, and medication. Therefore, commercialization of this crop could play a pivotal role in accelerating the sustainable development goals SDG 1 (no poverty), subsequently addressing SDG 2 (Zero hunger). The study unearthed a need for further research, in particular empirical studies and highlights a great potential for government interest in entrepreneurial projects of commercialisation and agro-processing of African medlar fruit tree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrient-dense, acceptable foods are needed in low-resource settings. Rice bran, a global staple byproduct of white rice processing, is rich in amino acids, fibers, and vitamins, when compared to other cereal brans. This pilot study examines the nutritional contribution of rice bran to the daily diets of mother–child pairs in rural southwest Guatemala. Thirty households were screened. Mothers (≥18 years) and children (6 to 24 months) completed 24 h dietary recalls at baseline and after 12 weeks (endline) for diet intake and diversity analyses. During biweekly visits for 12 weeks, households with <5 members received 14 packets containing 60 g of heat-stabilized rice bran, and those with ≥5 members received 28 packets. The macro- and micro-nutrient contributions of rice bran and whole, cooked black beans were included in dietary simulation models with average intakes established between the recalls and for comparison with dietary reference intakes (DRIs). A baseline child food frequency questionnaire was administered. The 27 mothers and 23 children with complete recalls were included in analyses. Daily maternal consumption of 10 g/d of rice bran plus 100 g/d of black beans resulted in all achieving at least 50% of the fiber, protein, magnesium, niacin, potassium, and thiamin DRIs. Daily child consumption of 3 g/d of rice bran plus 10 g/d of black beans resulted in all achieving at least 50% of the magnesium, niacin, phosphorous, and thiamine DRIs. For 15/17 food categories, male children had a higher intake frequency, notably for animal-source foods and coffee. Dietary rice bran coupled with black beans could improve nutritional adequacy, especially for fiber and key micro-nutrients, with broader implications for addressing maternal and child malnutrition in low-resource settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Due to the low amount of rainfall and vegetation and the low use of organic fertilizers, Iran's soils have a low amount of organic matter, which affects the quantity and quality of agricultural products. Sewage sludge is an organic waste that is used as fertilizer in agriculture in some areas and can both improve the physical and chemical properties of the soil and increase the concentration of macro- and micro-nutrients that are essential for plant growth. Maize, Zea mays, is a tropical and subtropical four-carbon plant that is one of the most important grains in the world and has high nutritional requirements. Plant inoculation with symbiotic microorganisms, especially roots symbiotic fungi, could increases the ability of plants to better absorb water and nutrients, fight against environmental stresses, and improve plant growth and health. Therefore, in the present study, the effects of sewage sludge application adjust by inoculation with root endophytic fungi in maize cultivation on the uptake of some micronutrients and phosphorus was investigated. Materials and Methods: A surface soil sample (0 to 30 cm) was prepared from the agricultural farm of Lorestan University. A factorial experiment in the form of a completely randomized design including soil microbial inoculation at three levels (no inoculation, inoculation with Rhizophagos intraradices, and inoculation with Serendipita indica) and sewage sludge (zero and 2 percent; w/w) was performed in three replicates under greenhouse conditions. Maize seeds were grown in 4 kg pots and after 3 months, the concentration of phosphorus, copper, zinc, iron and manganese elements in the shoot and root of the plant were measured. Also, some microbial characteristics (respiration, microbial carbon biomass, and acid and alkaline phosphatase activity) were measured in the soil. Results: The results showed the positive effect of both applications of sewage sludge and microbial inoculation on the concentration of elements in the plant. Biological parameters significantly increased (P<0.05) with the application of 2% sewage sludge: soil respiration (33%), microbial carbon biomass (38%), acid phosphatase (35%), and alkaline phosphatase (6.5%). Also, fungal inoculation significantly increased the concentration of phosphorus and micro-nutrients in the roots and shoots of the plant. There were no significant differences between the applications of the two symbiotic fungi; the only exception was the Zn concentration of root that was higher in treatments inoculated with R. intraradices than in treatments inoculated with S. indica. There was a positive correlation between available phosphorus with soil organic matter, plant biomass, and acid and alkaline phosphatase activity. Conclusion: The results showed the positive effect of using purified sewage sludge at the level of two percent and inoculation of root endophytic fungi in the uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients by the plant, improving plant growth characteristics, and improving soil biological characteristics such as microbial carbon biomass and phosphatase enzyme activity. Inoculation with both symbiosis fungi was similar, but regarding this point that reproduction of S. indica is simpler, so it is recommended as a plant-promoting fungi that could reduce the application of P fertilizers and help the plant to uptake more P from soil. In this research, refined sewage sludge was used in low content (2 %), so it is essential to pay attention to the application of unrefined or higher amounts of sewage sludge that may result in microbial contamination or future problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ylang-ylang (Cananga odorata Hook.f. & Thoms.) is cultivated in many tropical areas of the world for the multiple applications of the essential oil extracted from its flowers. The aim of this work was to determine the concentrations of macro-nutrientes and micro-nutrients in the different ylang-ylang organs in two treatments, without fertilization and with commercial fertilization, based on a nutritional analysis of the soil of a production farm located in Chongón, Guayas, Ecuador. The concentrations of N, P and Mg were significantly higher in the treatment with fertilization (16.82; 2.96; 3.81 vs. 14.63; 2.39; 3.12 g/kg, respectively). Concerning micronutrients, in the treatment with fertilization, Mn, Cu and Mo concentrations were significantly higher (73.00; 13.50; 1.28 vs. 44.96; 9.08; 0.50 mg/kg), while Cl concentration was significantly lower (1692.58 vs. 3488.25 mg/kg). Significant differences were also found in nutrient concentration as a function of organs. The C. odorata N, P, K, Ca, Mg and S extraction is 30.83; 3.46; 12.87; 25.50; 4.85 and 3.35 kg/ha, respectively. Higher concentrations of N, Ca and K are suggested for this crop. These results contribute to the improvement of the quality of fertilization in the ylang-ylang cultivation.

The awareness of the health implication of Covid-19 pandemic marked an increase consumption of various dietary and herbal supplements (DHS) for the deterrence and/or prophylaxis against the novel emerging and infectious disease. However, there is little indication of the usefulness or otherwise of their use in alleviating symptoms of COVID-19. Objectives: To investigate the pattern and determinants of DHS use among the Nigerian population for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Design: Cross-sectional questionnaire survey. Setting: Older adolescents and adults residing in Nigeria. Participants: Participants (n = 645) residing in the Nigeria were recruited from different geo-political zones and various ethnic groups. Primary and secondary outcomes: Prevalence and determinants for the use of different DHS for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 in Nigeria, and sources of information for DHS use. Results: Most participants (425, 65.9%) believed that dietary supplements are necessary during infectious disease outbreak, but a fewer proportion believed that supplements can be used in conjunction with other drugs to treat Covid-19. Vitamin C was the most known (70.0%) and Vitamin A. The least known (0.3%) dietary supplement Approximately half (50.2%) of the study subjects, more than a third (37.8%) and less than a quarter (22.7%) were aware that Folic acid, vitamin D and vitamin E are DS. Herbal dietary supplements mentioned as known by the study participants included Garlic (46.5%), Ginger (44.7%), Tumeric (36.3%), Moringa (40.0%) and Ginseng (26.3%). Citrus fruit as a DS was recognized by fewer (6.5%) study participants and only 1.6% referred to herbal tea as DHS. In all, 571 (88.5%) of the study participants took DHS during the Covid-19 pandemic with males 1.5 times more likely to take DHS than females (χ2 = 3.09, P-value = 0.08, OR = 1.54, 95% CI = 0.95, 2.47) during the pandemic. Participants reported lesser consumption of Selenium (27, 4.2%), Iron (20,3.1%), Zinc (61, 9.5%) and calcium (101, 15.7%) to prevent/treat Covid-19. Majority (271, 42.0%) of the study participants mentioned “health worker” as source of information on DHS while 13% mentioned “Social media”. The sociodemographic determinants of DHS practices used to prevent/treat COVID-19 during the pandemic included older age group of 61–70 years, widows, secondary level of education and not employed. Conclusions: The findings showed widespread use of DHS for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. The use of DHS in this study was mainly guided by health workers with a marginal role of social media and Mass media. These findings call for a more robust consolidative tactic towards DHS to ensure its proper and safe use.

Ylang-ylang (Cananga odorata Hook.f. & Thoms.) is cultivated in many tropical areas of the world for the multiple applications of the essential oil extracted from its flowers. The aim of this work was to determine the concentrations of macro-nutrientes and micro-nutrients in the different ylang-ylang organs in two treatments, without fertilization and with commercial fertilization, based on a nutritional analysis of the soil of a production farm located in Chongón, Guayas, Ecuador. The concentrations of N, P and Mg were significantly higher in the treatment with fertilization (16.82; 2.96; 3.81 vs. 14.63; 2.39; 3.12 g/kg, respectively). Concerning micronutrients, in the treatment with fertilization, Mn, Cu and Mo concentrations were significantly higher (73.00; 13.50; 1.28 vs. 44.96; 9.08; 0.50 mg/kg), while Cl concentration was significantly lower (1692.58 vs. 3488.25 mg/kg). Significant differences were also found in nutrient concentration as a function of organs. The C. odorata N, P, K, Ca, Mg and S extraction is 30.83; 3.46; 12.87; 25.50; 4.85 and 3.35 kg/ha, respectively. Higher concentrations of N, Ca and K are suggested for this crop. These results contribute to the improvement of the quality of fertilization in the ylang-ylang cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A trace element, known as a minor element, is a chemical element whose concentration is very low. They are divided into essential and non-essential classes. Numerous physiological and metabolic processes in both plants and animals require essential trace elements. These essential trace elements are so directly related to the metabolic and physiologic processes of the organism that either their excess or deficiency can result in severe bodily malfunction or, in the worst situations, death. Elements can be found in nature in various forms and are essential for the body to carry out its varied functions. Trace elements are crucial for biological, chemical, and molecular cell activity. Nutritional deficits can lead to weakened immunity, increased susceptibility to oral and systemic infections, delayed physical and mental development, and lower productivity. Trace element enzymes are involved in many biological and chemical processes. These compounds act as co-factors for a number of enzymes and serve as centers for stabilizing the structures of proteins and enzymes, allowing them to mediate crucial biological processes. Some trace elements control vital biological processes by attaching to molecules on the cell membrane's receptor site or altering the structure of the membrane to prevent specific molecules from entering the cell. Some trace elements are engaged in redox reactions. Trace elements have two purposes. They are required for the regular stability of cellular structures, but when lacking, they might activate alternate routes and induce disorders. Therefore, thoroughly understanding these trace elements is essential for maintaining optimal health and preventing disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose A study was carried out on composting pistachio hull aided with chemical fertilizer. Recycling of pistachio wastes is one of the major agricultural way in pistachio producing country.Method The collected pistachio hull was allowed to decompose either naturally through composting or with the addition of chemical fertilizers. Biological and chemical properties with organic matter were monthly measured in both composting methods. The data was analyzed in a completely randomized design. Mean values were compared using Duncan's multiple range test in SPSS software (p < 0.05).Results Increasing chemical fertilizers reduced the microbial density and diversity during the composting, the concentration of the elements in both composting methods increased over time. The EC in both methods decreased over time from 6.95 to 6.17 dSm-1 in natural composting and 6.95 to 4.85 dSm-1 in adding of chemical fertilizers. The C: N ratios of the produced compost was found to be lowered in adding of chemical fertilizers during composting compared with those naturally composting treatment.Conclusion Addition of chemical compounds to the primary wastes could accelerate and improve the decomposition process and lead to faster composting as well as nutritional enrichment and lower C: N ratios, but it reduced microbial density and changed their diversities.

Providing sufficient, high-quality food without compromising efforts in climate change and environmental pollution control is a long-term imperative for humanity. Livestock product trade may help bridge the gap in micro-nutrient supply; however, its potential environmental impacts remain underexplored. Using data from 200 countries and 77 different livestock commodities from 1961 to 2019, this study uncovers the impact of livestock trade on micro-nutrient productivity per livestock unit and per feed nitrogen input. Our results indicate that livestock trade has improved productivity for all seven studied micro-nutrients over the past 59 years, except for vitamin A. This improvement has led to a substantial reduction in the number of livestock units and feed nitrogen requirements needed to deliver the same amount of micro-nutrients, thereby reducing related greenhouse gas emissions and nitrogen losses globally. Generally, livestock trade has become more optimal and functional in terms of livestock productivity and feed use efficiency, particularly in the most recent decade, although there were slight differences between various micro-nutrients. We recommend continuing and potentially increasing international livestock trade, given the higher efficiency gap between exporting and importing countries; however, this should be structured more appropriately.

Iron and zinc malnutrition is a global humanitarian concern that mostly affects newborns, children, and women in low- and middle-income countries where plant-based diets are regularly consumed. This kind of malnutrition has the potential to result in a number of immediate and long-term implications, including stunted growth, an elevated risk of infectious diseases, and poor development, all of which may ultimately cause children to not develop to the fullest extent possible. A determination of the contributions from genotype, environment, and genotype by environment interactions is necessary for the production of nutrient-dense lentil varieties that offer greater availability of iron and zinc with a high level of trait stability. Understanding the genotype and environmental parameters that affect G x E (Genotype x Environment) interactions is essential for plant breeding. We used GGE(Genotype, Genotype x Environment interactions) and AMMI (Additive Main effects and Multiplicative Interaction) models to study genetic stability and GE(Genotype x Environment interactions) for grain Fe, Zn, Al, and anti-nutritional factors like phytic acid content in sixteen commercially produced lentil cultivars over several different six geographical locations across India. Significant genetic variability was evident in the Fe and Zn levels of different genotypes of lentils. The amounts of grain iron, zinc, and phytic acid varied from 114.10 to 49.90 mg/kg, 74.62 to 21.90 mg/kg, and 0.76 to 2.84 g/100g (dw) respectively. The environment and GE (Genotype x Environment interactions) had an impact on the concentration of grain Fe, Zn, and phytic acid (PA). Heritability estimations ranged from low to high (53.18% to 99.48%). The study indicated strong correlation between the contents of Fe and Zn, a strategy for simultaneously increasing Fe and Zn in lentils may be recommended. In addition, our research revealed that the stable and ideal lentil varieties L4076 (Pusa Shivalik) for Fe concentration and L4717 (Pusa Ageti) for Zn content, which have lower phytic acid contents, will not only play an essential role as stable donors in the lentil bio-fortification but will also enable the expansion of the growing area of bio-fortified crops for the security of health and nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poor germination and suboptimal seedling growth constitute as prime factors in lowering the achene yield and seed oil content of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), while chemo-priming with micronutrients might serve as a biological viable strategy provided source and dose optimization are performed. A trial was executed to appraise the comparative impact of seed priming with different doses of micronutrients like boron (B) and zinc (Zn) on sunflower germination and seedling growth traits of sunflower. The experiment was comprised of six treatments of B (0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, 1.6, 3.20 ppm) and Zn (0, 4, 8, 12, 16 and 20 mM) each, while seed germination, root and seedling growth related traits were taken as experimental variables. The results revealed that all treatments remained ineffective regarding seed germination and seed vigour of sunflower, while B and Zn doses of 0.2 ppm and 12 mM respectively, enhanced seedling emergence rate and vigour. The Zn (8 mM) significantly improved root length along with their fresh and dry weights, while all doses of B imparted antagonistic effects on root attributes. Likewise, Zn (8 mM) remained superior for shoot length, fresh and dry weights, while higher doses of B remained contra-productive for shoot growth of sunflower.

Purpose A study was carried out on composting pistachio hull aided with chemical fertilizer. Recycling of pistachio wastes is one of the major agricultural way in pistachio producing country. Method The collected pistachio hull was allowed to decompose either naturally through composting or with the addition of chemical fertilizers. Biological and chemical properties with organic matter were monthly measured in both composting methods. The data was analyzed in a completely randomized design. Mean values were compared using Duncan's multiple range test in SPSS software (p < 0.05). Results Increasing chemical fertilizers reduced the microbial density and diversity during the composting, the concentration of the elements in both composting methods increased over time. The EC in both methods decreased over time from 6.95 to 6.17 dSm-1 in natural composting and 6.95 to 4.85 dSm-1 in adding of chemical fertilizers. The C: N ratios of the produced compost was found to be lowered in adding of chemical fertilizers during composting compared with those naturally composting treatment. Conclusion Addition of chemical compounds to the primary wastes could accelerate and improve the decomposition process and lead to faster composting as well as nutritional enrichment and lower C: N ratios, but it reduced microbial density and changed their diversities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron and zinc malnutrition is a global humanitarian concern that mostly affects newborns, children, and women in low- and middle-income countries where plant-based diets are regularly consumed. This kind of malnutrition has the potential to result in a number of immediate and long-term implications, including stunted growth, an elevated risk of infectious diseases, and poor development, all of which may ultimately cause children to not develop to the fullest extent possible. A determination of the contributions from genotype, environment, and genotype by environment interactions is necessary for the production of nutrient-dense lentil varieties that offer greater availability of iron and zinc with a high level of trait stability. Understanding the genotype and environmental parameters that affect G x E (Genotype x Environment) interactions is essential for plant breeding. We used GGE(Genotype, Genotype x Environment interactions) and AMMI (Additive Main effects and Multiplicative Interaction) models to study genetic stability and GE(Genotype x Environment interactions) for grain Fe, Zn, Al, and anti-nutritional factors like phytic acid content in sixteen commercially produced lentil cultivars over several different six geographical locations across India. Significant genetic variability was evident in the Fe and Zn levels of different genotypes of lentils. The amounts of grain iron, zinc, and phytic acid varied from 114.10 to 49.90 mg/kg, 74.62 to 21.90 mg/kg, and 0.76 to 2.84 g/100g (dw) respectively. The environment and GE (Genotype x Environment interactions) had an impact on the concentration of grain Fe, Zn, and phytic acid (PA). Heritability estimations ranged from low to high (53.18% to 99.48%). The study indicated strong correlation between the contents of Fe and Zn, a strategy for simultaneously increasing Fe and Zn in lentils may be recommended. In addition, our research revealed that the stable and ideal lentil varieties L4076 (Pusa Shivalik) for Fe concentration and L4717 (Pusa Ageti) for Zn content, which have lower phytic acid contents, will not only play an essential role as stable donors in the lentil bio-fortification but will also enable the expansion of the growing area of bio-fortified crops for the security of health and nutrition.

Nutrient-dense, acceptable foods are needed in low-resource settings. Rice bran, a global staple byproduct of white rice processing, is rich in amino acids, fibers, and vitamins, when compared to other cereal brans. This pilot study examines the nutritional contribution of rice bran to the daily diets of mother–child pairs in rural southwest Guatemala. Thirty households were screened. Mothers (≥18 years) and children (6 to 24 months) completed 24 h dietary recalls at baseline and after 12 weeks (endline) for diet intake and diversity analyses. During biweekly visits for 12 weeks, households with

Persistent food insecurity in the global south has triggered calls for sustainable development worldwide. Moreover, more than a quarter of the world's population suffers from micronutrient deficiencies or hidden hunger. The population bulge, declining soil fertility and inadequate/inappropriate use of farm inputs in Sub-Saharan Africa place it in a precarious position. Multi-nutrient fertilizer blends have been mooted as a key innovation in closing yield gaps and boosting food and nutrition security. This study assessed the extent of multi-nutrient fertilizer blends utilization and yield response across agroecological zones and their on-farm profitability under Kenyan smallholder farmer conditions. We collected data through a detailed household survey conducted in eight counties in Kenya representative of high, medium, and low productivity zones using a sample of 1094 smallholder farmers. Multi-nutrient fertilizers increased maize yields significantly (P

The deficiency of micronutrients in soil caused by Eucalyptus has been investigated at three sampling sites in Pattoki, Punjab, Pakistan. Eucalyptus absorb more water and nutrients than the other trees usually absorb. One Eucalyptus tree absorbs the water of about 100 trees. Eucalyptus makes the soil nutrient deficit. The major problem is that Eucalyptus are affecting the soil moisture and the nutrients of the soil. The objectives of the study, a point-centered quarter sampling technique was used to collect the soil samples. Which were taken at the depth of 36. The main biological activity lies in these organic horizons (0-30 cm). Soil sample analysis demonstrated that the soil pH of the concerned study area was alkaline. The micronutrient contents (B, Zn, OM and P) were highly deficient in all selected sites. Moreover, significantly higher concentrations of Ca were identified in the study area. The linear regression model was applied to validate the relationship between variables. The study showed that sole cultivation of Eucalyptus tends to lower soil fertility and therefore, detailed investigation of nutrient dynamics and their effects on soil quality is a dire requirement. Cultivation of Eucalyptus only has a propensity to lower soil fertility by depletion of important soil nutrients (B, Zn and P). Based on results, it is recommended to interplant Eucalyptus with other leguminous plants and in addition to good agronomic practices such as the use of nitrogenous and phosphate fertilizers to replenish the nutrient availability and biological activity in the soil associated with Eucalyptus planting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the study, we cultivated basil, beet, and mustard microgreens under different lighting treatments from light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and evaluated the contents of mineral nutrients. Microgreens grew under blue 447, red 638 and 665, far-red 731 nm LEDs, or the same spectrum but with partial substitution of 638 nm red with green 520 (BRG), yellow 595 (BRY), or orange 622 nm (BRO) LEDs (16 h photoperiod; total photon flux density of 300 μmol m −2 s −1). BRG, BRY, or BRO lighting had distinct effects on mineral contents among the microgreen species. BRG increased the content of mineral nutrients, especially in mustard and beet. In all microgreens, Ca and P were associated with BRG; in beet and mustard, Zn and Mg were associated with BRG; in basil, Zn was associated with BRY and Mg with BRO treatments. A broader photon spectrum increased Fe (up to 2.9–fold), K:Ca, P:Mg, and P:Zn in basil, and Fe:Zn in microgreens. We conclude that the partial replacement of red with green light was the most effective at enhancing the mineral nutrient content of microgreens, although responses varied among the crops studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In ecological sciences, animal diets are often simplified to 'resources' or 'caloric quantities'. However, in the present study, we investigated the optimal foraging strategy of Atlantic cod Gadus morhua when both macro‐ and micro‐nutritional requirements are accounted for. Proteins cannot be synthesized from fatty acids, so the proteins for gonad development must come from other dietary sources. In addition, micronutrients are required in smaller quantities. For example, for cod, arachidonic acid (ARA) acts as a micronutrient precursor for prostaglandins, which is important for reproduction. We formulated a dynamic state‐dependent model to make predictions about optimal diet choice and foraging behavior. We applied the model to a case study in the strait between Denmark and Sweden. The model predicted that energy acquired from dietary protein should be twice that acquired from lipids, with a small increase in the lipid requirements when gonads are growing. The model also predicted that the 'energy sparing effect of lipids' made it beneficial to engage in risky foraging activity to supplement a lean diet with a little bit of fat. When we constructed the model to also optimize ARA uptake, the cod consumed relatively more ARA‐rich crabs in the months prior to spawning, despite the otherwise poor energetic value of this prey. In support of the model predictions, field observations indicated that lipid stores reached a peak shortly after the arrival of the lipid‐rich migrating herring and the fatty acid signal of these herring were evident in the liver of nearly all cod. Three month later, only half of the cod contained the herring‐derived fatty acid signal, supporting the predicted shift in prey type prior to spawning. From these model predictions and field observations, we conclude that, also in the wild, nutritional requirements can be at least as important as pure energy acquisition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was carried out at the Department of Agronomy Experimental Farm, Faculty of Agriculture, Assiut University, during the growing seasons 2017/18 and 2018/19 to study the impact of foliar spray by some Nano Micro-nutrients on grain yield and quality of three cultivars of bread wheat. Randomized complete block design (RCBD) was used in this experiment in three replications using strip plot arrangement. The bread wheat varieties i.e., Sids-1, Sids-12, and Gemmeaza-11 were arranged vertically, while foliar sprays with tap water (solvent as a control) and Iron, Manganese, Zinc, Iron + Manganese, Iron + Zinc, Manganese+ Zinc and Iron + Manganese + Zinc in Nano form at 200 ppm concentration were distributed horizontally. In both seasons, the foliar spray treatment with certain micronutrient nano-particles had a significant impact on grain yield, flour percentage, coarse bran percentage, wet gluten percentage, and dry gluten percentage. As a result, wheat plants sprayed with Fe + Mn + Zn had the greatest average values of the previous traits. Furthermore, the cultivars studied had a substantial impact on the majority of the traits studied. In addition, in both seasons, the Sids-1 cultivar produced the greatest mean values of the most investigated traits. In both the 1st and 2nd seasons, the interaction between some micro-nutrients, nano-particles, and cultivars had a significant (P ≤ 0.05) and highly significant (P ≤ 0.01) impact on fermentation time. In this approach, the Sids-12 cultivar, which was sprayed with Mn+Zn in the 1st season, and the same cultivar when sprayed with Mn or Fe+Zn in the 2nd season, yielded the most elevated mean values of fermentation time (37.00 and 36.50 minutes within the two seasons). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The breeding of livestock raises substantial environmental concerns, especially the efficient management of nutrients and pollution. This research is designed to assess the potency of char and modified char in diluting nutrient concentrations in livestock wastewater. The characteristics of graphene oxide, struvite, and calcium-modified char were inspected, defining their efficacy in both batch and bed-column investigations of nutrient sorption. Various factors, including sorption capacity, time of contact, ion levels, a decrease in ion levels over time, and sorption kinetics, have been considered, along with their appropriateness for respective models. The first evaluation of the options concluded that 600 °C char was better since it exhibited higher removal efficiency. Modified char sorption data at 600 °C was used to adjust the models "PSOM, Langmuir", and "Thomas". The models were applied to both batch and bed-column experiments. The maximum phosphate sorption was 110.8 mg/g, 85.73 mg/g, and 82.46 mg/g for B-GO, B-S, and B-C modified chars respectively, in the batch experiments. The highest phosphate sorption in column experiments, at a flow rate of 400 μl/min, was 51.23 mg per 10 g of sorbent. This corresponds to a sorption rate of 5.123 mg/g. B-GO and B-S modified chars showed higher sorption capacities; this was observed in both the batch and bed-column studies. This displayed the capability of graphene oxide and struvite-modified chars for efficient ion and nutrient uptake, whether in single or multi-ion environments, making them a very good candidate for nutrient filtration in livestock wastewater treatment. Additionally, B-GO char enhanced the sorption of phosphate, resulting in augmented seed germination and seedling growth. These results reveal that B-GO char can be used as a possible substitute for chemical fertilizers. [Display omitted] • Higher efficacy in nutrient ions sorption by 600 °C pyrolyzed temperature char and different modified char variants • B-GO and B-S modified chars confirmed excellent performance in both batch and gas bubble-bed column investigations. • B-GO amplifies phosphate sequestration and accelerates seed germination/growth. • B-GO has the potency to function as an eco-friendly alternative for chemical fertilisers. • Highly effectual nutrient filtration in livestock waste by modified chars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted in the fields of the College of Agriculture - University of Anbar for the season 2020/2021, the experiment included two factors. The first the date of seed collection and on three dates 115/5,15/6,15/10, which took the following symbols (S1, S2, S3) and the second factor is the treatments of spraying plants with the following Licorice only / 2.5 g. L-1, SUPER DOCSON/1.20ml. L-1, Salicylic Acid/1g/5L-1, Licorice + SUPER DOCSON/2.5g. L-1 +1.20 ml. L-1, licorice + salicylic acid / 2.5 g. L-1+1 g \ 5 L-1, SUPER DOCSON + salicylic acid/1.20 ml. L-1 + 1g/5L-1, licorice + SUPER DOCSON + salicylic acid/2.5g.L-1 + 1.20ml.L-1 +1g/5L-1 and regular urea fertilizer/5g.L-1. Which took the following symbols (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8). The results showed The autumn date (S3) was significantly excelled on the rest of the dates, it gave the highest percentage of dry matter, 3.696%, percentage of carbohydrates 6.031% and seeds yield of 3.758 kg ha-1. There is a significant effect on the effect of the date of harvesting the crop on the total germination rate. The autumn date (S3) gave the highest germination rate of 11.966% and T2 treatment gave the highest total germination rate of 10.566% and the interaction had no significant effect on the germination rate. There are significant differences in the date of harvesting the crop on the percentage of total germination after heat stress, where the third date gave the highest value of 3.126%, Interaction between the study parameters, there was no significant effect on this trait. there are significant differences in the date of harvesting the crop on the percentage of total germination after cold stress, where the third date gave the highest value of 6.268% compared to the other dates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrological and geochemical analyses of Ubibia-Awalo Inland Valley were carried out to evaluate the study area's hydrogeological characteristics and nutrient fluxes to ascertain its potentials for optimal utilization for enhanced agricultural activities. Fourteen (14) piezometers were installed at different points within the inland valley and were monitored for groundwater fluctuation for about two months. Similarly, the ionic concentrations of the soil nutrients, as well as the water retention capacity, were studied. Results revealed that the study area is underlain mainly by clay/shale materials with high retention capacities (20–60%), low water content (0.01–0.09 cm/hr), and ionic fluxes which lie between 0.001–0.008 mg/hr. The micro-nutrient concentrations range in value from 2–17 mg/kg, 140 – 517.3 mg/kg, and 52–474.2 mg/kg for manganese, zinc, and iron, respectively, while the macro-nutrients range from 339–971 mg/kg, 255–640 mg/kg, and 12,000–448,000 mg/kg for magnesium, sodium, and calcium, respectively. The major nutrients' concentrations, including total nitrogen, available phosphorous, and potassium, vary from 11,000–25,600 mg/kg, 53.2–277.2 mg/kg, and 450–1950 mg/kg, respectively. These high values are attributable to the use of fertilizer for farming within the study area and soil biochemical transformation of nutrients under waterlogged conditions. The high water retaining capacity when combined with the low nutrient flux drives the low rate of available water penetration through the soil. Therefore, the low values of the ions indicate that the clay is adsorbing greater proportions of the ions, which are subsequently released for plant growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field trial was conducted to determine the influence of foliar application of nitrogen, potassium, magnesium and zinc on growth, yield components, yield and fiber quality of Bt. cotton at the Cotton Research Institute, Multan during summer seasons of three consecutive years (2017, 2018 and 2019). The trial was arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) comprising of 10 treatments with three replications. In this experiment ten treatments were used; T1 = Control, T2 = 2% urea (2 kg urea /100 L of water per acre), T3 = 0.2% KNO3 (200 g KNO3 /100 L of water per acre), T4 = 0.3% MgSO4 (300 g MgSO4 /100 L of water per acre), T5 = 0.2% ZnSO4 (200 g ZnSo4 /100 L of water per acre), T6 = 2% urea + 0.2% KNO3 (2 kg urea + 200 g KNO3/100 L of water per acre), T7 = 2% urea + 0.3% MgSO4 (2 kg urea + 300 g MgSO4/100 L of water per acre), T8 = 2 % Urea + 0.2% ZnSO4 (2 kg urea + 200 g ZnSO4/100 L of water per acre), T9 = 0.2 % KNO3 + 0.3% MgSO4 + 0.2% ZnSO4 (200g KNO3 + 300g MgSO4 + 200 g ZnSO4 /100 L of water per acre) and T10 = 2 % Urea + 0.2 % KNO3 + 0.3% MgSO4 + 0.2% ZnSO4 (2 kg urea + 200 g KNO3 + 300g MgSO4 + 200 g ZnSO4 /100 L of water per acre). The results of pooled data revealed that T10 at 60, 75 and 90 days after sowing (DAS) produced significantly higher plant height (150 cm), number of bolls/plant (29.8), boll weight (3.3 g) and seed cotton yield (3976.9 kg/ha) which was statistically at par with T9 at 60, 75 and 90 DAS. Seed cotton yield was 1 to 11% higher in foliar application of nutrients as compared to control. Ginning out-turn and other fiber characteristics like staple length and fiber strength were also improved by foliar use of potassium and zinc. It was concluded that T10 increased seed cotton yield up to 18% as compared with control and also improved fiber characteristics like staple length and fiber strength. In future, foliar application of nutrients would enhance fertilizer use efficiency and cotton productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is considered a high nutritional value legume crop, due to its high content of total carbohydrates, crude protein, nutrients, and vitamins. Therefore, it is interest and requirement to the use of new microbial genera for biological fertilization for improving the nutritional value, and productivity of chickpea crops. The dual biofertilizers Mesorhizobium ciceri with irradiated Streptomyces alfalfae strain XY25, andwith non-irradiated S. alfalfae strain XY25 with the addition of activation nitrogen fertilizer were investigated compared to full dose of chemical fertilization.Moreover, the relation betweenirradiated S. alfalfae strain XY25 and non-irradiated S. alfalfae strain XY25 with the addition of full NPK chemical fertilizers, in the winter of 2019/2020 was studied. The experiment design was a complete randomized block (RCPD) in triplicate. The results showed that the dual biofertilizers Mesorhizobium ciceriwith irradiated and non-irradiated S. alfalfae strain XY25 had positive effect onmicrobial soil enzymes,dehydrogenase, phosphatase and nitrogenase.Also, theyincreased the plant's content of phytohormone, micro-elements (Zn, Fe and Mn), phosphorus, potassium, total carbohydrates, and crude protein. All previous improvements due to dual biofertilizers were positively reflected on seed production and the dry weight of 100 seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Litterfall is a critical link between vegetation and soils by which nutrients are returned to the soils, thus the amount and pattern of litterfall regulates nutrient cycling, soil fertility and primary productivity for most terrestrial ecosystems. We quantified, analyzed and compared macro- and micro-nutrients return through litterfall in organic and conventional cocoa agroforestry systems in Suhum, Ghana. We further assessed the contribution of shade tree species to litterfall and nutrient dynamics. The annual pattern of litterfall was affected by seasonality, with a major peak in the dry season and minor peaks during the rainy season. In terms of annual fractional litterfall, mean leaf litter from shade tree species was significantly higher (50 %) in organic systems (5.0 ± 0.5 Mg ha−1 yr−1) compared to conventional systems (3.3 ± 0.6 Mg ha−1 yr−1). Whereas cocoa leaves (45.0 %) were the predominant fraction of annual litterfall from conventional farms, both shade leaves (40.0 %) and cocoa leaves (39.4 %) dominated litterfall from organic farms. The return of primary macro-nutrients (P and K), secondary macro-nutrients (Ca, Mg and S) and micro-nutrients (Mn, B, Cu, Zn and Mo) via litterfall varied significantly with season, and annual return of nutrients were similar in organic and conventional cocoa systems. Shade tree leaf litter accounted for 30–47 % of annual macro- and micro-nutrient return (except Ni and Zn) in organic cocoa systems versus 20–35 % in conventional cocoa systems. The results emphasize the complementary role of the different shade tree species which compose organic and conventional cocoa systems in nutrient recycling. We conclude that organic management of cocoa agroforestry systems ensure nutrients return similar to those receiving synthetic fertilizer inputs, highlighting its potential to support cocoa production.

Soil samples were collected during 2018 from a long-term field experiment on soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]- wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) system continuing since 1972 at Birsa Agriculture University, Jharkhand. The samples were analysed for available major and micro nutrient and biological properties at IARI, New Delhi. The treatments consisted of control, 100% N, 100% NP, 50% NPK, 100% NPK, 150% NPK, 100% NPK + FYM and 100% NPK + Lime. Highest grain yield of wheat was obtained with 100% NPK + FYM followed by 100% NPK + Lime. Whereas, in soybean, 100% NPK + Lime treatment recorded the highest yield, followed by 100% NPK + FYM. The highest available N (218 kg/ha) was found under 150% NPK, which was statistically similar to 100% NPK + FYM. Moreover, highest Bray-P (169 kg/ha) and available K (161 kg/ha) was observed in 100% NPK + FYM and 150% NPK treatment respectively. The DTPA extractable Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu were recorded in the range of 13.9-41.8 mg/kg, 31.1-60.6 mg/ kg, 0.64-1.94 mg/kg and 0.71-1.28 mg/kg, respectively under different nutrient management practices. Treatment 100% NPK + FYM recorded the maximum contents of available micronutrients. Acid phospho-monoesterase (AMP) activity and microbial pools such as microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and microbial biomass phosphorus (MBP) were also found to be highest in 100% NPK + FYM treatment.

The present study is on Acacia seyal gum (ASG), which is an exudate from Talha tree. It provides a rich source of polyphenolics compounds that are used traditionally in folk medicine. The study aims to determine the antioxidant capacity (AC) and functional groups of ASG and Prebio-T-commercial (PTC) samples. The methanol crude extracts of both ASG and PTC have fractioned into chloroform (CHF), hexane (HF), acetone (AF) and methanol (MF) using solvent-solvent portion. Both ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) assays for each fraction examined. Crude methanol extracts (CME) and its active compositions also analysed carefully using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) technique. The findings presented a wide variety of functional groups provided by the FTIR spectra (eights bands approximately. Regarding cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), the methanol crude extracts values are 888.6±4.57 mg TE/100g extract, for PTC as compared to 474.3± 2.23 mg TE/100g of extract for ASG. However, both methanol and acetone fractions revealed significantly (p ≤ 0.05) high FRAP values ranged between 599.8±7.5 and 741.8±5.8 mg TE/100g fraction; for PTC and ASG, respectively. While CUPRAC showed insignificant (p ≥ 0.05) same values 356.1±2.62 mg TE/100g of fraction; for MF of both PTC and ASG respectively. Therefore, in this study, methanolic fractions (MFs) are found to be more effective than acetone fractions (AFs), except for CHF and HF. Finally, the antioxidant activity of the active fraction has provided some evidence regarding its functional groups which may have used in traditional medicine.

The nutrient concentration of most crops depends on factors such as amount of water, growing environment, sunlight, and soil types. However, the factors influencing nutrient concentration of African horned cucumber fruit are not yet known. The objective of the study was to determine the effect of different water stress levels, soil types, and growing environments on the nutrient concentration of African horned cucumber fruit. Freeze-dried fruit samples were used in the quantification of β-carotene and total soluble sugars. The results demonstrated that plants grown under the shade net, combined with severe water stress level and loamy soil, had increased total soluble sugars (from 8 to 16 ◦Brix). Under the shade-net environment, the combination of moderate water stress level and loamy soil resulted in increased crude protein content (from 6.22 to 6.34% ◦Brix). In addition, the severe water stress treatment combined with loamy soil, under greenhouse conditions, resulted in increased β-carotene content (from 1.5 to 1.7 mg 100 g−1 DW). The results showed that African horned cucumber fruits are nutrient-dense when grown under moderate water stress treatment on the loamy or sandy loam substrate in the shade-net and open-field environments [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the current study was to determine certain mineral components in edible tissue in different species of fish from Greater Zab River, Erbil Governorate-Kurdistan Region-Iraq. A total of 180 fish namely Capoeta trutta, Chondrostoma regium and Leuciscus cephalus were collected from Gali Balinda, Bn Khiveta, Galiesule, Pirsal and Bekhme between July and November 2019. After removal of eviscerated, deboned, head and fins, fish were washed with purified water and muscle samples were collected above the lateral line between the dorsal fin and the caudal fin, then dried for important and non-essential metals examination at 75°C for 48 h. Results showed that levels of K, Na, P, Ca, Cd and Hg in the edible tissue of Chondrostoma regium fish were significantly higher than in the Capoeta trutta and Luciobarbus esocinus fish, whereas the edible tissue in Capoeta trutta exhibited the highest mean values for lead, barium and arsenic. In all species, the highest concentrations of K, Na, and Mg were recorded in Gali Balinda, whereas the highest concentration of P and Ca were recorded in Pirsal during studied period. According to the results, the government should have environmental policies to improve, keep and enrich the water quality assessment in Greater Zab River. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research work, we propose macronutrients incorporated slow-release based nano-fertilizer using nanozeolite as a carrier. A simple chemical approach was used to synthesis the proposed nanozeolite composite fertilizer (NZCF). To gain an insight into the properties, morphology and structure of the synthesized NZCF, it was further characterized by different techniques such as powder XRD, FT-IR, SEM, and TG/DTA. A considerable enhancement of the quality and the water retention capacity of the soil was observed as a result of applying the proposed NZCF when compared with a commercial fertilizer. Furthermore, the swelling ratio and the equilibrium water content of NZCF were compared to the commercial fertilizer and their effect on plant growth was observed. Slow-release studies were carried out for both NZCF and the commercial fertilizer. The results of these studies reveled that NZCF possessed a long-term release pattern of the macronutrients and that showed a great potential for promoting plant growth. Hence, the prepared nanocomposite fertilizer can be safely used as an environment-friendly source of nutrients to enhance plant growth.

Background: Micronutrients are necessary for proper growth and development of the human body, though required in small amounts. Dietary intake of these micronutrients by lactating women is essential for their own health as well as children's overall growth and development. objective of present study is to assess the adequacy of dietary B-group vitamins intake during lactation and to find out the factors associated with their inadequate intake., Design and Methods: It was a analysis of data from prospective cohort study for 10 months carried out among 340 Scheduled Tribes mothers in 10 clusters in Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, India. Data collection was done using a 24 h dietary recall questionnaire. A p -value less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant., Results: All the mothers ( n  = 340) were not having adequate intake of Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Pyridoxine, Pantothenic acid, Biotin and Folic acid. Methyl cobalamin intake was inadequate in 37.5% mothers ( n  = 136). The mean intake of Vitamin B12 was 40.98 + 42.8 (SD) µg/day. Age at marriage, location and parity were significantly associated with inadequate intake of Vitamin B12., Conclusions: The current diet pattern of mothers of vulnerable groups might affect the growth and development of the infant. We strongly recommend for supplementation of B-group vitamins to pregnant and lactating women in India., Competing Interests: The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article., (© The Author(s) 2024.)