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Drought is a significant factor that causes yield loss in essential cereal crops such as sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench], necessitating the development of drought-tolerant varieties adaptable to various water conditions. This study aimed to pinpoint drought-tolerant sorghum lines and genomic regions for tolerance by utilizing 216 sorghum accessions in stressed and non-stressed environments at two locations. Genetic diversity was evident among accessions in terms of grain yield under different watering regimes. Drought stress indices such as the stress tolerance index, mean productivity, geometric mean productivity, harmonic mean productivity, yield stability index, and yield index were identified as effective measures for selecting drought-tolerant sorghum. Cluster analysis classified genotypes into four groups based on their association with grain yield, highlighting Acc. #28546 and Acc. #216739 as highly drought tolerant across environments. This study identified 32 and 22 quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) for drought indices and grain yield under stress and non-stress conditions, respectively, at two locations, with five common QTNs linked to multiple drought indices. Colocation analysis revealed that these QTNs were associated with known stay-green-related quantitative trait loci (QTLs), and 47 putative genes near these QTNs potentially influenced drought tolerance traits. It is suggested that accession selection considers multiple indices for robust evaluation. Understanding the identified genes and their functions provides insights into the genetic mechanisms governing plant responses to drought stress, offering prospects for developing improved drought-resistant sorghum varieties through further genetic research., (© 2024 The Author(s). The Plant Genome published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Crop Science Society of America.)

Introduction: The significance of facial aesthetics has been steadily rising, leading people to seek different ways to improve their looks and self-esteem. The study aimed to evaluate the differences in facial satisfaction between participants with straight and convex profiles and the relationship between facial satisfaction and the different styles of self-expression., Materials and Methods: The study was conducted from 110 extraoral profile photos of female participants. The questions in modules for FACE-QTM Aesthetic Appearance of the overall face, Craniofacial appearance of the Jaws, Teeth, Lips, and a survey regarding participants' demographic data and preferred self-expression methods were answered by the participants., Results: Facial Convexity Angle (p = 0.001), Total Facial Convexity Angle (p = 0.001), Nasal Proportion (p = 0.007) were great; lower Third Angle (p = 0.001), Nasolabial Angle (p = 0.010), nasofacial angle (p = 0.001), and lip-chin proportion (p = 0.001) were small in participants with straight profiles. There was no significant correlation between soft tissue measurements and FACE-Q subscale scores., Conclusion: The women with straight profiles preferred hair dyeing and nonsurgical aesthetics. Although the lip appearance was more satisfactory in the participants with a convex profile, they tended to have more piercings, tattoos, and aesthetic surgery., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of in-vivo produced Nisin which is an antimicrobial peptide (AMP) added to adhesive resin on shear bond strength (SBS) and the adhesive remnant index (ARI) of orthodontic brackets., Methods: Bacterial AMP was produced by fermentation and the ideal AMP/Bond concentration and antimicrobial efficacy of the mixture were tested. To evaluate the SBS and ARI scores of AMP-added adhesive resins, 80 maxillary premolar teeth extracted for orthodontic purposes were used and randomly assigned into 2 groups (n = 40). Group 1: Control Group (teeth bonded with standard adhesive resin); Group 2: Experimental Group (teeth bonded with AMP-added adhesive resin). Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS package program and applying the Mann-Whitney U and Fisher's exact tests. P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant., Results: Nisin synthesized in-vivo from Lactococcus lactis (L. lactis) (ATCC 7962) bacteria was provided to form a homogenous solution at an ideal concentration To find the minimum AMP/Bond mixture ratio that showed maximum antimicrobial activity, AMP and Bond mixtures were tested at various concentration levels between 1/160 and 1/2 (AMP/Bond). As a result, the optimum ratio was determined as 1/40. The antimicrobial efficacy of Nisin-added adhesive resin was tested against Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) (ATCC 35,688) and Lactobacillus strains (cariogenic microorganisms). AMP formed a 2.7 cm diameter zone alone, while 1/40 AMP-bond mixture formed a 1.2 cm diameter zone. SBS values of the teeth bonded with Nisin added adhesive (17.49 ± 5.31) were significantly higher than the control group (14.54 ± 4.96) (P = 0.004). According to the four point scale, Nisin added adhesive provided a higher ARI score in favour of the adhesive and tooth compared to the control group (ARI = 3, n = 20)., Conclusions: Nisin produced from L. lactis (ATCC 7962) had greater antimicrobial effects after mixing with adhesive bond against cariogenic microorganisms S. mutans (ATCC 35,688) and Lactobacillus strains. Nisin added adhesive increased shear bond strength (SBS) of orthodontic brackets and ARI scores in favor of adhesive & teeth., Clinical Relevance: Clinicians should take into account that using Nisin-added adhesive resin in orthodontic treatments can provide prophylaxis against tooth decay, especially in patients with poor oral hygiene., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Purpose This study evaluated the color alterations, flexural strength and microhardness properties of two different 3D-printed permanent crown resins. Materials and Methods Samples were produced from two different 3D Print permanent crown resins: Group 1 (Saremco Crowntec; Saremco, Switzerland), Group 2 (P-crown Version 2; Senertek, Turkey). Color changes (ΔE values), flexural strenght and vickers hardness number of the samples were calculated. Data were analyzed with Shapiro-Wilk normality test, Independent-t test, and Mann Whitney-U tests. Significance level was accepted as P<0.05. Results ΔE values for red wine were found to be significantly higher in Group 1 (6.43Å}2.26; P<0.001). The flexural strength values (MPa) of Group 1 were significantly higher than Group 2 in all three solutions (P<0.001). There was no significant difference between the VHN values of the samples kept in wine and coffee solutions (P= 0.271; 0.827). Conclusion 3D printing resins are affected at different levels by coloring solutions. Microhardness and flexural strength of 3D print samples kept in different coloring agents are different.In the use of 3D printing resins, product selection should be made by taking into account the individual factors such as the eating and drinking habits of the patients and the physical properties expected from the sample.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the flexural strength properties of three different aged and nonaged 3D-printed resins built by different 3D printing systems used in dental applications., Materials and Methods: Bars (2 × 2 × 25 mm) were additively fabricated using a 3D printer and different dental crown resins (Saremco Crowntec, Senertek P-Crown V2, and Senertek P-Crown V3) per the manufacturers' recommendations. Each subgroup was divided into aged and nonaged subgroups (n = 10 bars per group). Thermocycling procedures (5° to 55°C; 5,000 cycles) were performed under favorable conditions for the aged subgroups from each material. Flexural strength (MPa) was measured in all samples using a universal test machine., Results: When both aged and nonaged resins are compared, significant differences were found in flexural strength measurements (P < .001). The highest flexural strength was observed in the Saremco Crowntec group, while the lowest flexural strength was observed in the Senertek P Crown V2 group. The flexural strength measurements of Saremco Crowntec and Senertek P Crown V3 displayed no significant difference between their aged and nonaged groups (P > .05), while Senertek P Crown V2 (P = .039) showed significant differences between its aged and nonaged groups., Conclusions: Saremco Crowntec showed the highest flexural strength both in aged and nonaged groups, while Senertek P Crown V2 had the lowest strength. The artificial aging process decreased flexural strength values in all 3D-printed resin groups.

Objective: We evaluated the effect of mandibular asymmetry on the trabecular structure of the mandible as measured through fractal analysis (FA)., Study Design: We divided a sample of 105 patients with skeletal class I occlusion, cervical vertebral maturation CS6, and skeletal vertical dimension ratios within normal limits into right asymmetric, left asymmetric, and symmetric groups. We performed FA on 6 bilateral regions of interest on panoramic radiographs of the patients and calculated the mean fractal dimension (FD) for each region. We performed the Wilcoxon signed-rank and paired t tests to compare the significance of differences in FD between sides within each group and between groups for all regions. Statistical significance was established at P < .05., Results: We found statistically significant differences in mean FD values between the right and left condyles of the 2 asymmetric patient groups. The FD was greater in the left condyle of patients with right asymmetry and in the right condyle of patients with left asymmetry. The right condyle had a significantly greater FD in left asymmetric patients than in right asymmetric patients., Conclusions: The results of FA indicate that asymmetry is characterized by an increase in the mean FD of the condyle that is responsible for the asymmetry. Fractal analysis can be a valuable diagnostic technique in distinguishing trabecular differences in the condylar areas of asymmetric individuals., Competing Interests: Declaration of interest None., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Ethiopian subsistence farmers traditionally store their grain harvests, leaving them open to storage pests and fungi that can cause contamination of major staple crops. Applying the most effective strategy requires a precise understanding of the insect species, infestation rates, storage losses, and storage conditions in the various types of farmers' grain stores. This study did a complete literature analysis on post-harvest pest and management measures with a focus on Ethiopia. The most frequent insect pests of stored cereals in this study were weevils ( Sitophilus spp.), the lesser grain borer ( Rhyzopertha dominica ), rust-red flour beetle ( Tribolium sp.), sawtoothed grain beetle ( Oryzaephilus sp.), grain beetle ( Cryptolestes spp.), Indian meal moth ( Plodia interpunctella ), and Angoumois grain moth ( Sitotroga cerealella ). Flour beetles ( Tribolium spp.), sawtoothed beetles ( Oryzaephilus sp.), flat grain beetles ( Cryptolestes pusillus ), and some moths have been identified as common stored product pests of stored oil seed, while bruchid beetles ( Callosobruchus chinensis ) and the moths were reported for pulses. Additionally, the storage pests in Ethiopia under varied conditions caused storage losses of 9-64.5%, 13-95%, 36.9-51.9%, and 2-94.7% in maize, sorghum, chickpeas, and sesame, respectively. To reduce the losses incurred, preventative measures can be taken before infestations or as soon as infestations are discovered. A variety of pest population monitoring systems for harvested products and retailers have been developed and recommended. In this context, reducing post-harvest grain losses is an urgent concern for improving food accessibility and availability for many smallholder farmers in Ethiopia and ensuring the nation's long-term food security.

Objectives: The present study aimed to determine the levels of happiness among dentists and to investigate their associations with emotional well-being and satisfaction with life., Methods: Dentists in Turkey were surveyed with 25 questions on age, gender, place of work, and years of experience, and a five-item life satisfaction scale., Results: A total of 486 dentists completed the survey. Dentists' workplaces and professional titles were associated with their life satisfaction scores. Most dentists (n = 373; 76.25%) reported feeling pressured in their work environment, and the institution where they worked was significantly associated with the degree of pressure ( p  < 0.001). Institution ( p  < 0.001), job title ( p  < 0.001), and work experience ( p  < 0.019) were significant factors in whether they would recommend their profession to others. Dentists' institutions and titles were significantly associated with life satisfaction ( p  < 0.001)., Conclusions: Our findings suggest that dentists in Turkey have a low life satisfaction with respect to that of other professionals and dentists from other countries. In addition, the factors associated with life satisfaction vary., (© 2022 [The Author/The Authors].)

Background: Mother to child transmission is responsible for 90% of child infection with human immune deficiency virus (HIV). Dual contraceptive use is one of the best actions to prevent mother's human immune deficiency virus transmission to her child and partner. This study aimed at assessing the prevalence and factors associated with dual contraceptive use among sexually active women on antiretroviral therapy in Gondar City, northwest, Ethiopia., Methods: An institution based cross sectional study was conducted in Gondar City public health facilities from December 1 to 31, 2018. Systematic random sampling technique was utilized to include 563 study participants. Data were collected by interview using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive analysis was made to compute mean, median and proportion. Finally, multivariable logistic regression model was fitted to identify the factors associated with dual contraceptive method utilization. Analysis was performed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 20., Results: The overall prevalence of dual contraceptive method utilization among sexually active women on antiretroviral therapy was 28.8% (95% CI: 24.9, 32.7). Women aged 35-49 years (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 6.99; 95% CI: 3.11, 15.71)), who lived in urban areas (AOR: 4.81; 95% CI: 2.04, 11.31), attended secondary and above education (AOR: 4.43; 95% CI: 1.92, 10.22), and disclosed HIV status to sexual partners (AOR: 9.84; 95% CI: 3.48, 27.81) were more likely to use dual contraceptive method., Conclusion: In this study, the proportion of women who utilized dual contraceptive method was low. Age, place of residence, educational status and disclosure of HIV status were factors associated with dual contraceptive use. Therefore, providing education about the advantages of disclosing HIV status to sexual partners and strengthening of counseling about the advantages of dual contraceptive use will be helpful in enhancing the use of dual contraceptive method among sexually active women on antiretroviral therapy.

Background: Hematological abnormalities are common in pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) patients, which is one of the major public health problems worldwide. However, there is paucity of information about the hematological profile of PTB patients with and without HIV in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to assess hematological abnormalities of pulmonary tuberculosis patients with and without HIV at the University of Gondar Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia., Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at the University of Gondar Hospital. Sociodemographic data was collected using a pretested, structured questionnaire. Five milliliters of venous blood sample was collected and divided into a 3 ml EDTA tube for complete blood count with the Cell Dyn 1800 hematological analyzer and a 2 ml citrated tube for erythrocyte sedimentation rate determination. Data were entered into Epi Info version 3.5.3 and then transferred to SPSS 20 for analysis. The independent samples t -test was used to compare the mean values of hematological parameters between PTB patients and PTB-HIV coinfected patients., Result: A total of 100 study subjects (50 PTB and 50 PTB-HIV coinfected) were included with a mean age of 31.3 ± 10.3 years for PTB patients and 32.1 ± 9.2 years for PTB-HIV coinfected patients. In this study, there were significantly lower mean values of Hgb ( P = 0.049), platelet count ( P < 0.001), and neutrophils counts ( P = 0.007) among PTB-HIV coinfected patients when compared with PTB patients. Of the PTB infected patients 46% were anemic, 6% leukopenic, 22% neutropenic, 8% lymphopenic, and 8% thrombocytopenic. On the other hand, of the PTB-HIV coinfected patients 60% were anemic, 14% leukopenic, 66% neutropenic, 12% lymphopenic, and 20% thrombocytopenic. ESR value was increased in all patients., Conclusion: This study demonstrated high prevalence of neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia among PTB-HIV coinfected patients. HIV coinfection worsens hematological abnormalities of PTB patients. Assessment of hematological parameters can be used as an indicator in the diagnosis and follow-up of PTB patients coinfected with HIV. We recommended assessment of PTB patients with or without HIV for various hematological disorders such as neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia.

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and yeasts were enumerated and identified from naturally fermented buttermilk. Isolates were first subjected to chemical tests and then to molecular characterization. Molecular identification involved pure sequencing of 16s rRNA (LAB) and 18s rRNA (yeast) genes. Polymerase Chain Reaction-Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis (DGGE) was used for detection of microbiota composition. Eighty-five LAB and 26 yeast isolates obtained from 16 small-scale dairy farms were isolated and identified. The microbial composition was dominated by strains of Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis, Lactobacillus plantarum and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Molecular techniques enabled not only genetic confirmation but also detection of some uncultivated strains. The presence of diverse strains of LAB and yeasts in NFB indicated a potential for development of different starter cultures to make new dairy products.

Agri-food employment in developing countries holds significant importance due to the vital role of the sector. This study synthesizes existing literature to identify the key challenges of employment in the agri-food sector in developing countries. 17,125 articles were identified in the Scopus database and based on a two-stage systematic review of 173 articles (final database), six principal topics were identified and analyzed: (1) family farms; (2) special characteristics of employment; (3) gender disparities; (4) wages; (5) education; (6) productivity. Each segment provided important results. Family farms were found to be crucial for employment, production, and income generation in developing countries. The special characteristics of employment often involve migration and mobility challenges, while gender inequalities persist due to the special nature of production. Agricultural wages are lower compared to other sectors, further accelerating outmigration. Education plays a key role to adopting advanced production methods, but educated people often find better opportunities outside the sector. Finally, productivity is crucial in income generation and is often driven by mechanization. These six segments are interconnected, with education emerging as a key factor. This study contributes to the existing literature by providing a systematic and comprehensive synthesis of the employment challenges in the agri-food sector of developing countries and providing targeted insights for policymakers to address pressing issues such as gender inequality or low agricultural productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of the enamel plays a critical role in the retention and performance of orthodontic brackets. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effect of resin infiltration pretreatment on the shear bond strength (SBS) of orthodontic brackets. An electronic search was conducted in October 2024 using PubMed, Web of Science (WoS), and Scopus databases, employing the keywords (resin infiltration AND bracket); (ICON AND bracket). The review adhered to PRISMA guidelines and utilized the PICO framework. Of the 143 articles initially identified, 63 underwent screening. Strict inclusion criteria were applied of which the most important were resin infiltration pretreatment, studies conducted on natural teeth and SBS evaluation. This left 19 studies for final analysis. The risk of bias was assessed using the checklist for quasi-experimental studies (Non-Randomized Experimental Studies) developed by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). Among these, 13 studies used human teeth and 13 utilized Transbond XT as the adhesive. Metal brackets were predominantly examined (n = 17). The Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI) was assessed in 13 studies. Importantly, 11 studies concluded that resin infiltration significantly enhances SBS, 8 of which were conducted on human teeth. The meta-analysis revealed significantly higher SBS results when resin infiltrate was applied to healthy enamel. This finding underscores the dual benefits of resin infiltration: increased bond strength and the protection of enamel integrity during debonding procedures. The results suggest that resin infiltration not only improves the mechanical retention of orthodontic brackets but also serves as an enamel-preserving approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The current study intends to establish the pest management approach for smallholder maize farmers on storage pests of maize and determine their current control practices. We administered a questionnaire to maize farmers from the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study found that metal tanks are the farmers most preferred storage facility of maize. The results showed that maize was mostly infested by maize weevils and maize grain moths. Farmers reported managing these pests using chemical pesticides. The extensive usage of this pesticide in protecting stored maize could cause human health-related issues and may result in the development of pest resistance. This study aims to establish the pest management approach for pests of stored maize and determine the current control practices. Semi-structured questionnaires were administered to 77 smallholder farmers from 16 villages at King Sabata Dalindyebo local municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The results revealed that about 50% of the farmers had a formal education, the average farm size was 1 hectare, and they were predominantly cultivating yellow maize. Most farmers (57%) cultivated maize for human consumption, income generation, and livestock feeding. The results also showed that metal tanks tended to be the most preferred (81.82%) storage facility for storing maize. Furthermore, the study found that Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky and Sitotroga cerealella (Olivier) were the major storage insect pests of maize. The storage pests were managed using synthetic pesticides (84.42%), namely aluminium phosphide. This pesticide is a solid formulation for generating gas phosphine for fumigation. The continued indiscriminate use of this pesticide in protecting stored maize in this region could be a health hazard to humans and may result in the development of pest resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Onion is the most important and widely cultivated cash-generating crop in Ethiopia. Onion production is limited by several factors, and its production and productivity are low. Among the many contributing factors, a lack of improved cultivars and improper plant density are the major limiting factors. This study addressed the critical challenges of onion cultivation in Ethiopia, with a focus on the impact of planting density and onion cultivar. Three hybrid onion cultivars and one open-pollinated onion cultivar were evaluated at three testing sites (Koga, Woramit and Woreta) under irrigated conditions in 2021/2022 via a randomized complete block design with three replications. The results of the present study revealed that the growth and yield of onion plants were influenced by the main effects of plant density and onion cultivar across locations. The Russet and Jambar hybrid cultivar, which had a relatively high plant density, exhibited superior performance across all locations. They consistently presented the highest values for bulb diameter, average bulb weight, harvest index, firmness, total bulb yield and marketable bulb yield across all locations. The marketable bulb yield was positively correlated with the bulb weight and bulb diameter of the onion. The Russet (28.09 t ha− 1) and Jambar (26.61 t ha− 1) cultivars presented the highest marketable bulb yields and were generally superior in terms of most of the growth, yield and quality parameters. The highest marketable bulb yield (28.42 t ha− 1) was recorded for the onion cultivars in the higher plant population (666,666 plants ha− 1), in which the spacing was 5 cm × 20 cm × 40 cm between plants, rows and double rows. Accordingly, the use of hybrid onion cultivars (Russet and Jambar) along with higher plant populations (5 cm between plants × 20 cm between rows × 40 cm between double rows) enhances the productivity of onion in the study area and areas with similar agroecology. Since this study was the first of its kind in the study area, it is advisable to consider other hybrid onion cultivars with relatively high plant densities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For sustainable genetic improvement of crops like sorghum, assessing genetic variability and knowing the nature and extent of the association between grain yield and yield‐related traits is a prerequisite. However, there needs to be sufficient information about the genetic variability study as well as yield‐related trait correlation and path coefficient analysis for sorghum accessions, especially those from southern Ethiopia. Hence, this field experiment assessed genetic variability, determined the nature and extent of phenotypic–genetic correlation, and analyzed the path coefficients among 17 quantitative traits. A total of 225 sorghum genotypes were tested using a simple lattice design with two replications at the Jinka Agricultural Research Center during the 2021 cropping season. Based on the analysis of variance, most traits showed highly significant (P 0.001) differences, suggesting genetic diversity between the genotypes. High estimates of GCV and PCV were noted for leaf width (3924.50% and 3924.50%), while the lowest GCV and PCV estimates were obtained for days to flowering and days to maturity. High heritability coupled with high GAM estimates was recorded for plant height, leaf number, leaf length, leaf width, and leaf area. The magnitudes of genotypic correlations were higher than those of phenotypic correlations for most of the studied traits, implying that the traits under study were genetically controlled. Grain yield was positively and significantly correlated with most of the traits at phenotypic and genotypic levels, indicating the presence of a strong inherent association between grain yield and other traits. Phenotypic path coefficient analysis showed that grain filling period and biomass yield exerted a high positive direct effect on grain yield. Genotypic path coefficient analysis revealed that biomass yield, grain filling period, leaf width, and days to flowering had a relatively high positive direct effect on grain yield. However, days to maturity, plant height, leaf number, leaf area, yield per panicle, straw weight, and harvest index exerted a negative direct effect on grain yield. Almost for all the studied traits, genotypic direct and indirect effects were higher than the phenotypic direct and indirect effects, indicating that the studied traits had a genetically inherited relationship with grain yield. Grain yield in sorghum can be improved through indirect selection for traits such as plant height, leaf number, leaf length, leaf width, and biomass yield. In general, the observed variability and the information obtained from this study can be used for the genetic enhancement of sorghum thereby developing high‐yielding varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effects of physical and chemical soil degradation on crop productivity in the Korekore Watershed. The watershed was categorized into level, sloping, and steep slope gradients. Within each slope gradient, one cultivated land managed with soil and water conservation and one cultivated land without soil and water conservation were selected. Selected soil physicochemical analyses were performed on 18 disturbed and undisturbed soil samples and were taken from the top 0–20 cm depths from each cultivated land with three replications. The soil degradation index (SDI) was evaluated based on the percent changes in soil properties of cultivated land without soil and water conservation to that of the cultivated land managed with soil and water conservation. The crop productivity index was determined by analyzing the percentage growth rate and its standard deviation. Soil bulk density and moisture content improved undercultivated land managed with SWC practices. Significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) soil organic carbon (SOC) content (2.02%), total N (0.12%), available P (4.69 ppm), and exchangeable K (1.33 cmolc/kg) were observed in cultivated land managed with SWC as compared to cultivated land without SWC measures. The value of the SDI (+243.9%) for the watershed has demonstrated that soil degradation has improved and soil and water conservation measures had a significant impact on crop yields. The average crop yield rate (CYR) (30%) was found to be lower than the estimate provided by the central statistics agency in Ethiopia. A higher CYR was observed in cultivated land managed with soil and water conservation practices. It can be concluded that physical and chemical soil degradation significantly impacts crops unless counterbalanced by soil and water conservation measures. Therefore, it is recommended to implement well‐integrated watershed management practices to improve soil quality and enhance crop productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lablab is one of the conventionally grown multi-purpose crops that originated in Africa. It is an annual or short-lived perennial forage legume which has versatile uses (as a vegetable and dry seeds, as food or feed, or as green manure) but is yet to receive adequate research attention and hence remains underexploited. To develop new and highly productive lablab varieties, using genomics-assisted selection, the present study aimed to identify quantitative trait loci associated with agronomically important traits in lablab and to assess the stability of these traits across two different agro-ecologies in Ethiopia. Here, we resequenced one hundred and forty-two lablab accessions, utilised whole genome genotyping approaches, and conducted multi-locational phenotyping over two years. Results: The selected lablab accessions displayed significant agro-morphological variation in eight analysed traits, including plant height, total fresh weight, and total dry weight. Furthermore, the agronomic performance of the accessions was significantly different across locations and years, highlighting substantial genotype-by-environment interactions. The population genetic structure of the lablab accessions, based on ~ 500,000 informative single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), revealed an independent domestication pattern for two-seeded and four-seeded lablab accessions. Finally, based on multi-environmental trial data, a genome-wide association study (GWAS) identified useful SNPs and k-mers for key traits, such as plant height and total dry weight. Conclusions: The publicly available genomic tools and field evaluation data from this study will offer a valuable resource for plant breeders and researchers to inform a new cycle of lablab breeding. With the aid of these tools, the breeding cycle will be significantly reduced and livestock farmers will have access to improved lablab varieties in a shorter time-frame. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cereal grains are frequently attacked by microorganisms and insects during storage and processing, which negatively affects their quality, safety, and market value. Therefore, protecting stored grains from microbial contamination is crucial for food industries, farmers, public health associations, and environmental agencies. Due to the negative impact of synthetic gray chemicals, antimicrobial plant-based essential oils (EOs) can serve as alternative, safer, environmentally friendly preservatives that can prolong the shelf life of cereals. However, high volatility, low solubility, hydrophobicity, and quick oxidation limit their practical applicability. Using nanotechnology for the nanoencapsulation of EOs into polymeric matrices allows sustained release and ensures targeted delivery without significantly altering the organoleptic attributes of cereals, making EOs a new-generation green preservative. This ultimately overcomes the challenges of practical applications. The application of nanoencapsulated EOs in grain storage provides an effective and novel defense against microbes, insects, and other contaminants. Hence, the current review thoroughly examines the preservative potential of nanoencapsulated EOs in terms of antimicrobial and insecticidal efficacy for protecting stored cereal grains. It also highlights the challenges encountered during application and the safety concerns of using nanoencapsulated EOs in protecting cereal grains during post-harvest storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthracnose and grain mold are two of the most significant diseases of sorghum, a versatile crop that plays an important part in the daily lives of millions of inhabitants, especially in the drier tropical regions. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of four agronomic traits in selected sorghum germplasms on the two diseases using Spearman's ρ test to identify significant pairwise correlations. Both anthracnose and grain mold scores were significantly and negatively correlated with seed weight and germination rate. The grain mold infection score also demonstrated negative correlations with plant height (Spearman ρ = −0.61 and p-value = <0.0001) and panicle length (Spearman ρ = −0.27 and p-value = 0.0022). In this investigation, principal component analysis and clustering variables analysis revealed that seed weight and germination rate exhibited a directional alignment, suggesting a positive association. Similarly, panicle length and plant height clustered together, suggesting a shared variation pattern. Additionally, a support vector machine and random forest models effectively predicted the germination rate based on the studied traits, highlighting the potential of machine learning in understanding complex trait relationships in sorghum. This work provides insights into the relationship between agronomic traits and disease resistance, thus contributing to sorghum improvement efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flowering time is one of the traits strongly influencing grain yield. In barley, the flowering time is mostly determined by the photoperiod, vernalization, and timely rainfall. As Ethiopia is located near the equator, the photoperiod and vernalization have a minimum effect on barley, but rainfall and temperatures are major challenges. In this study, 260 Ethiopian barley accessions were evaluated for flowering time at four different locations in Ethiopia in three years. Additionally, a set of 196 accessions was evaluated in climate chambers with corresponding environmental parameters. According to the results, the sum of the daily temperature of growing days strongly influenced the flowering time. The mean flowering time of the warmer Melkassa location was 15, 7, and 4 days earlier than of the cooler Holetta location and the less warm Debrezeit and Dera locations, respectively. On the other hand, the flowering time in the climate chamber was delayed by 52 and 37 days than that at the Melkassa and Holetta locations, respectively; its lowest average daily temperature (18 °C), compared to Melkassa (28.0 °C) and Holetta (22.1 °C), might be the reason. GWAS identified MTAs on chromosomes 5H at 571.62 to 572.54 Mb as strongly associated with the flowering time at warm locations (Melkassa, Dera, and Debrezeit); MTAs on chromosome 2H at 25.1 and 29.3 Mb turned out to be associated with the flowering time at Holetta and in the climate chamber, respectively. Important factors that influence the flowering times of Ethiopian barley landraces and associated SNP markers are identified in this study, which might be useful to consider in future barley breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Farmers' innovation and selection of barley varieties were studied in the Tigray Region in northern Ethiopia. Two districts each in the central and southern zones and three districts in the eastern zone of Tigray were randomly selected for this study, which sought to understand the current status of local barley varieties and to measure their relative preference by farmers. Household surveys were conducted covering 240 households to elicit farmers' views on the values, constraints, and opportunities of growing local varieties of barley. This was supported by focus-group and informal discussions with elders, key informants, and women's groups. Case studies were made of local farmers whom the community recognized as barley breeders. Twenty-four barley varieties and their major descriptors were recorded. Seed and varietal-selection criteria depended on the environmental and varietal characteristics. Investigation of intrahousehold decision making indicated that, while men tended to decide on the type of variety to grow, seed storage and processing were exclusively the responsibility of women. Farmers undertook preharvest and postharvest selection, giving emphasis mainly to earliness and spike characteristics. The distinct varietal-selection and seed-renewal procedures revealed their potential for use in further plant breeding. The case-study analysis of farmer-developed varieties provided knowledge that, if combined with scientists' knowledge, could lead to identification and development of valuable cultivars with a wide potential for use in semiarid areas of Tigray and other parts of Ethiopia.

The impact of human pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) on the bioenergetic metabolism of circulating immune cells remains elusive, as does the resolution of these effects with TB treatment. In this study, the rates of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and glycolysis in circulating lymphocytes and monocytes of patients with drug-susceptible TB at diagnosis, 2 months, and 6 months during treatment, and 12 months after diagnosis were investigated using extracellular flux analysis. At diagnosis, the bioenergetic parameters of both blood lymphocytes and monocytes of TB patients were severely impaired in comparison to non-TB and non-HIV-infected controls. However, most bioenergetic parameters were not affected by HIV status or glycemic index. Treatment of TB patients restored the % spare respiratory capacity (%SRC) of the circulating lymphocytes to that observed in non-TB and non-HIV infected controls by 12 months. Treatment also improved the maximal respiration of circulating lymphocytes and the %SRC of circulating monocytes of the TB patients. Notably, the differential correlation of the clinical and bioenergetic parameters of the monocytes and lymphocytes from the controls and TB patients at baseline and month 12 was consistent with improved metabolic health and resolution of inflammation following successful TB treatment. Network analysis of the bioenergetic parameters of circulating immune cells with serum cytokine levels indicated a highly coordinated immune response at month 6. These findings underscore the importance of metabolic health in combating TB, supporting the need for further investigation of the bioenergetic immunometabolism associated with TB infection for novel therapeutic approaches aimed at bolstering cellular energetics to enhance immune responses and expedite recovery in TB patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is Ethiopia's leading infectious killer disease. The war in the Tigray region of Ethiopia has resulted in the disruption of TB care services. Prediction models are recommended to aid the diagnosis of TB in resource-limited settings. However, the development of such decision-support tools without the participation of end users may not be successful. To inform the tool development, we described barriers to diagnosing TB and identified applicable and desirable parameters for the proposed tool. Methods: We conducted a qualitative study between February and June 2023 in two cities in Tigray, Northern Ethiopia. We conducted 12 in-depth interviews and four focus group discussions with healthcare workers (HCWs). Interviews were translated, coded, and analyzed to identify predefined and emergent themes during the thematic analysis. Results: Healthcare workers used symptoms, risk factors, signs, and investigations to diagnose TB. However, failure to ask about antibiotic use, the absence and non-affordability of investigations, and patient load were barriers affecting the diagnosis of TB. Most of the classic TB symptoms and their duration were sorted as very important, simple, reliable, generalizable, and desirable indices. In addition, a trial of antibiotics, being chronically sick-looking, having HIV, having a contact history with a TB patient, and an erythrocyte sedimentation rate fulfilled the above criteria. Conclusions: In the TB diagnostic process, HCWs account for a variety of data, but they prefer the classic symptoms of TB to heighten their clinical suspicion. Antibiotic trials and some risk factors were also considered reasonable. However, when HCWs have a heavy workload and a shortage of investigations, they experience a suboptimal TB diagnostic process. Hence, appropriate context consideration and care providers' preferences for parameters will inform tool development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Plant Protection & Pathology is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Genotype–environment interaction (GEI) information is essential in plant breeding programs. The objectives of this study were to select high‐yielding and stable yellow‐fleshed sweet potato (YFSP) genotypes in different environments and identify the favorable environment for testing. The trials were conducted in four different locations in West Java, Indonesia, using randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The results showed that yield was the primary source of variation, accounting for 46.947% of the total variation, followed by GE effect (29.938%) and genotype (23.115%). Additive Main Effect and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) Stability Value (ASV) analysis showed Prai (838) and high‐yielding KMDR were the genotypes with the most stability performance in all environments. Parametric and nonparametric stability analysis showed that Prai (838) produced high yields with stability performance in all environments. AMMI showed that Prai (838) and 264 were stable in all environments. Genotype + genotype by environment (GGE) biplot analysis identified Prai (838), 8(11), and Rancing, of which 8(11) and Rancing were the best performing vertex genotypes in Jatinangor. Prai (838) was the stable genotype in all stability analyses used. AC Putih was categorized as having a high level of stability (73.663%) according to coefficient of variability (CVi) with the sustainability index (SI) ranked first. Stable genotypes can be recommended as new genotypes, while Jatinangor can be used in favorable environment for testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Onions are among the most important cash crops in developing countries, including Ethiopia. However, its production and productivity are very low, which is associated with inappropriate fertilization and the use of low-yielding varieties. Therefore, the present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of the nitrogen fertilizer rate on the growth, yield, and quality of hybrid onion varieties in northwest Ethiopia. The experiment was conducted at three locations (Koga, Woreta, and Woramit) during the 2021/2022 cropping season under irrigated conditions. The treatments consisted of three hybrid onion varieties (Russet, Jambar, Red Coach) and one open-pollinated onion variety (Bombay Red) and four nitrogen rates (0, 41, 82, and 123 kg ha-1), which were laid out in a randomized complete block design with a factorial arrangement of 4*4 in three replications. The results of the present study revealed that onion growth, yield and quality were influenced by the nitrogen fertilizer rate and onion variety across all locations. Compared with the open pollinated Bombay Red variety, the hybrid varieties (Russet and Jambar) performed well in terms of bulb diameter, bulb weight, total yield, marketable bulb yield, and pungency. Nitrogen fertilizer applied at a rate of 82 kg ha-1 resulted in the highest growth and yield parameters of onion. The Russet and Jambar varieties recorded the highest marketable bulb yields of 26.50 t ha-1 and 24.57 t ha-1, respectively. Onion varieties treated with the highest nitrogen fertilizer dosage of 123 kg ha-1, particularly the Bombay Red variety, exhibited the longest duration to reach maturity. Onion plants supplied with 82 kg ha-1 nitrogen presented the highest marketable bulb yields, with a value of 26.77 t ha-1. Too much nitrogen above 82 kg ha-1 leads to decreased yield; hence, excess nitrogen is lost to the environment. Furthermore, the Jambar and Russet hybrid varieties and the application of 82 kg ha-1 nitrogen fertilizers provided the highest net benefit. The hybrid varieties Jambar and Russet and the application of 82 kg ha-1 nitrogen fertilizer can be recommended for onion production in the study area and areas with similar agroecosystems. Since this study is the first of its kind, considering other hybrid onion varieties and optimizing agronomic practices such as spacing and phosphorus fertilizer are also recommended in future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the socio-dental approach, the integration of normative oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and behavioral propensity measures should be considered when assessing treatment needs and planning oral services. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the relationship between oral health impacts attributed to malocclusion and normative and self-perceived orthodontic treatment needs in adolescent patients and to determine the clinical, sociodemographic, and behavioral factors affecting their OHRQoL. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted using a convenience sample size of 105 adolescent patients aged 11–14 years who were referred to the Orthodontics Clinic in the Faculty of Dentistry, Istanbul. Data were collected using clinical examinations and a self-reported questionnaire, including the condition-specific Child Oral Impact on Daily Performances (CS-COIDP) attributed to malocclusion and sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral factors. The index of complexity, outcome, and need (ICON), gingival index, and Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth index was used to assess oral health status. Descriptive statistics and bivariate and multivariate regression analyses were used for the data analyses. Results: A total of 70 patients (66.7%) reported at least one impact. Furthermore, 47% of the adolescents had very difficult and difficult complexity grades. The most affected performances were "emotional (52.4%) and smiling (40%)". No significant differences were found in the total CS-COIDP scores according to caries experience; however, the gingival status was associated with the total OHRQoL. Lower tooth brushing frequency, increased malocclusion complexity, and subjective treatment need were the most important predictors of worse OHRQoL, accounting for 39.3% of the variance in the scores. (R2 = 0.422; p < 0.001) Conclusions: Oral health professionals should consider oral behaviors, malocclusion complexity, and subjective treatment need when planning orthodontic treatment plans. Integrating ICON, CS-COIDP, and behavioral assessment will help identify adolescents who should be prioritized for treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fermented milk products play a vital role in the diets of Ethiopians. They are produced from either spontaneous fermentation or back‐slopping methods at the household level, in which lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and yeasts predominate. As a result, the processing steps are not standardized and overall safety is still of public health relevance. Therefore, quality and safety improvement, standardization of traditional manufacturing practices, and commercialization of products to a wider market are important. Hence, this systematic review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the microbiology of traditional Ethiopian fermented milk products, including ergo (spontaneously fermented whole milk), dhanaan (fermented camel milk), ititu (concentrated sour milk or spontaneously fermented milk curd), ayib (traditional cottage cheese), qibe (traditional butter), arrera (defatted buttermilk), and hazo (spiced fermented buttermilk). We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and searched relevant databases and search engines, including the Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and ResearchGate. Furthermore, the pertinent literature was checked individually and identified. Dairy fermentation provides shelf‐life extension and improves the organoleptic quality of products. Nonetheless, the aforementioned Ethiopian fermented foods may be contaminated with Escherichia coli 0157: H7, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., or Staphylococcus aureus due to inadequate processing and handling practices. This systematic review also revealed that these traditional milk products lack consistent quality and safety due to poor hygienic preparation techniques, non‐controlled fermentation, and limited knowledge or awareness of small‐holder dairy farmers. Therefore, the use of suitable procedures including good hygienic practices and controlled fermentation is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to assess the production performance of faba beans, quantify the yield gap, and measure the adoption levels of improved varieties to map the actors and identify the major constraints of the faba bean seed value chain. The paper was based on primary data collected from a random sample of 168 farmers. The adoption rate of improved faba bean seed at the household level in the study area was 23%. It was low, primarily due to a lack of access to improved seeds (59.5%) and a lack of knowledge about the availability of improved varieties (23%). Improved seed users had a 13% higher average yield than non-users and received an 11% premium market price for better seed quality, uniform appearance, and larger beans. Furthermore, the econometric analysis revealed that family size and extension contact significantly influence farmers' use of improved seed. Adoption was positively and significantly associated with extension contact at the p <.001 level and inversely correlated with family size (p <.05), thereby indicating that larger families were less likely to adopt. Farmers' saved seed was their most important source of planting material. The formal seed industry only supplies about 2.2% of the total faba bean seed. Hence, farmer-to-farmer seed exchange, own-saved seed, community-based seed production, scaling activities, seed producer and marketing cooperatives, and farmer-to-farmer seed exchange were the main sources of faba bean seed. The main limitations to faba bean production were disease, limited availability of improved seeds, frost, and damage caused by pests. The study recommends promoting improved varieties, improving access to extension services, strengthening and improving the informal seed system, and linking and integrating all the actors in the chain. The institutional linkage and intensive communication among all the stakeholders are also important for technology scaling up and farmers' easy access to improved seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is a major grain crop farmed in Ethiopia throughout the long rainy season (Meher) and the short rainy season (Belg) of the year. Barley genotypes were subjected to multi‐environment experiments in six different settings to identify stable genotypes and estimate the impact of genotype × environment interaction (GEI) on grain production. In each area, the field experiment was conducted from mid‐July to January during the primary cropping season of 2021. Three replications of a randomized complete block design were used to set up the trials. According to the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) study, genotype (18.19%), GEI (22.98%), and environment (58.83%) all had an impact on the major treatment sum of squares. The more variance attributed to the environments is a sign of environmental diversity. Given that the two interaction principal component analysis (IPCAs) accounted for 76.94% of the interaction sum of squares, they were sufficient for cross‐validation of the grain yield variance explained by GEI. In contrast to the GGE biplot approaches, which indicated genotypes G12, G3, and G9 as stable and high‐yielding genotypes throughout the environments, the AMMI stability value identified genotypes G3, G12, and G9 as high yielding with stable performance across environments. In general, the GGE biplot and AMMI analysis models demonstrated that genotypes G12, G3, and G9 were stable and yielded well, making G3 acceptable for cultivation in a wider range of environments and G12 and G9 suitable for release. Core Ideas: The environment explained the greatest portion of the variation in grain yield in this study (58.83%), followed by the GEI (22.98%) and genotype (18.19%).Environment Bule is more effective at discriminating genotypes and is representative of the test environments.additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) and GGE biplot models identified high yielding and stable genotypes.GGE biplot and AMMI models demonstrated that genotypes G12, G3, and G9 were stable and high yielding.G3 acceptable for cultivation in a wider range of environments and G12 and G9 suitable for release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yam (Dioscorea spp.) is a main staple tuber crop in Nigeria and the West African region. Its performance is determined by genotypes and also the environment of growth. This study assessed the agronomic performance and yield stability of elite white yam (Dioscorea rotundata) genotypes across diverse Nigerian environments. A total of 25 genotypes were evaluated at three locations in two consecutive growing seasons, 2022 and 2023, for fresh tuber yield, disease resistance, and tuber quality traits. The genotype's performance and stability for the measured traits were assessed using various analytical tools such as additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) and multi-trait stability index (MTSI). The AMMI analysis revealed significant differences among the genotypes and across the environments for all traits (p < 0.001, p < 0.01). The PCA revealed that the first two principal components (PC1 and PC2) explained a substantial portion of the total variation (49.84%). The MTSI identified four clones: G18, G19, G24, and G16 as promising candidates for improved yam production in Nigeria with high and stable performance for the multiple traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the utilization of buttermilk, a by-product of butter production, in ice cream. Butterfly pea flower, which provides natural coloring and antioxidant properties, was added to buttermilk for investigating its improving effect on the techno-functional and sensory attributes of ice cream. Ice cream mixes were prepared with varying buttermilk concentrations (0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, 100%) as the first factor of the research. In addition, the effect of fermentation was also investigated as the second factor of the experiment. The ingredients included buttermilk, milk, cream, sucrose, dextrose, locust bean gum, butterfly pea flowers, and vanilla extract. The preparation involved the extraction of the butterfly flowers, fermentation in case of the fermented samples, homogenization, pasteurization, freezing, and hardening. Quality attributes such as dry matter content, pH, color, rheological properties of the ice cream mixes, overrun, melting properties, and ice cream hardness were analyzed to determine the maximal substitution level of milk by buttermilk without compromising ice cream quality. Our results explore the impact of buttermilk content and fermentation on the techno-functional properties of ice cream. As buttermilk concentration increased, dry matter content decreased, ranging from 34.4 g/100 g at 0% buttermilk to 31.9 g/100 g at 100% buttermilk. pH levels were lower in the fermented samples, decreasing from 6.5 in the non-fermented to 4.6 in the fermented samples. L* decreased with higher buttermilk content, while a* and b* values increased slightly. The butterfly pea flower provided a blue hue across all samples; the blue hue increased by 20% with a higher buttermilk content. Increasing the buttermilk concentration led to a 40% decrease in the yield stress and consistency coefficient, indicating a less viscous mix. The flow behavior index slightly increased, suggesting a more Newtonian-like flow at higher buttermilk levels. Overrun decreased with a higher buttermilk content, from 45% at 0% buttermilk to 30% at 100% buttermilk, indicating reduced air incorporation. The meltdown rate increased with a higher buttermilk content, meaning the ice cream melted more rapidly. The hardness of the ice cream decreased as buttermilk concentration increased, from 15 N at 0% buttermilk to 10 N at 100% buttermilk. The fermented sample groups were on average 44% harder than the non-fermented sample groups. The findings suggest that up to 100% of buttermilk can effectively replace milk in ice cream formulations without compromising quality, providing a sustainable and health-beneficial use for this dairy by-product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The object of this study is the technological operations of primary hemp stalk processing, factors that intensify the retting process, and stalk crushing. The task addressed was the identification of technical and technological solutions that would enable intensification of the production processes for hemp retting. Based on the research results, it was established that placing the flattened stems in natural and polypropylene bags, compared to cellophane bags, accelerates the preparation time of retted stalks in a vertical position by 1.19 times, and in a horizontal position by 1.38 times. The retting time for horizontally placed crushed stalks with weekly moistening twice a week is 2.16 times shorter than for uncrushed ones. It was determined that the process of crushing pre-prepared and cured stalks, whether in a vertical or horizontal position, allows for a significant reduction in retting period by 2.14 times, and for freshly cut stalks – by 1.27 times. The intensity of the reflected light flux changed in the case of reaching the retting phase for unflattened stems with their vertical placement from the initial 32.0 lux to 18.0 lux. In flattened stems under the conditions of their vertical placement – from 50.7 to 16.3 lux, respectively. In the case of horizontally placed crushed stalks, the light intensity at the retting phase was 20.3 lux. The lowest fiber breaking load value of 5.0 daN was established for the retted stalks obtained from freshly cut flattened stems in a vertical position, as well as in non-flattened stems in the vertical (7.0 daN) and horizontal (3.5 daN) positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chickpea is a key pulse crop grown in the spring in dryland regions. The cold resistance potential of chickpeas allows for the development of genotypes with varying sowing dates to take advantage of autumn and winter rainfall, particularly in dryland regions. In this study, we assessed grain yield, plant height, 100-seed weight, days to maturity, and days to flowering of 17 chickpea genotypes in five autumn-sown dryland regions from 2019 to 2021. Additionally, the response of selected chickpea genotypes to cold stress was examined at temperatures of -4 °C, 4 °C, and 22 °C by analyzing biochemical enzymes. Results: Mixed linear model of ANOVA revealed a significant genotype × environment interaction for all traits measured, indicating varying reactions of genotypes across test environments. This study reported low estimates of broad-sense heritability for days to flowering (0.34), days to maturity (0.13), and grain yield (0.08). Plant height and seed weight exhibited the highest heritability, with genotypic selection accuracies of 0.73 and 0.92, respectively. Moreover, partial least square regression highlighted the impactful role of rainfall during all months except of October, November, and February on grain yield and its interaction with environments in autumn-planted chickpeas. Among the genotypes studied, G9, G10, and G17 emerged as superior based on stability parameters and grain yield. In particular, genotype G9 stood out as a promising genotype for dryland regions, considering both MTSI and genotype by yield*trait aproaches. The cold assay indicated that − 4 °C is crucial for distinguishing between susceptible and resistant genotypes. The results showed the important role of the enzymes CAT and GPX in contributing to the cold tolerance of genotype G9 in autumn-sown chickpeas. Conclusions: Significant G×E for agro-morphological traits of chickpea shows prerequisite for multi-trial analysis. Chickpea's direct root system cause that monthly rainfall during plant establishment has no critical role in its yield interaction with dryland environment. Considering the importance of agro-morphological traits and their direct and indirect effects on grain yield, the utilization of multiple-trait stability approches is propose. Evaluation of chickpea germplasm reaction against cold stress is necessary for autumn-sowing. Finally, autumn sowing of genotype FLIP 10–128 C in dryland conditions can led to significant crop performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millspaugh] is a widely grown pulse with high seed protein content that contributes to food and nutritional security in the Indian subcontinent. The majority of pigeonpea varieties cultivated in India are of medium duration (<180 days to maturity), which makes it essential for breeders to focus on the development of stable high-yielding varieties. The diverse agroecological regime in the Indian subcontinent necessitates an efficient multi-environment study by taking into consideration genotype (G) × environment (E) interaction (GEI) that has a significant impact on traits like grain yield (GY) in developing high-yielding and widely adaptable varieties. In the present study, 37 pigeonpea genotypes were evaluated during the 2021 rainy season at ARS Badnapur, ARS Tandur, BAU Ranchi, GKVK Bengaluru, and ICRISAT Patancheru. The GEI was significant on the grain yield (p < 0.01), and hence, genotype + genotype × environment (GGE) and additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) biplots along with AMMI stability value (ASV) and yield relative to environmental maximum (YREM) statistics were used to identify stable high-yielding genotypes. The interaction principal component analysis 1 and 2 (IPC1 and IPC2) explained 40.6% and 23.3% variations, respectively. Based on the rankings of genotypes, G37 (ICPL 20205), G35 (ICPL 20203), G8 (ICPL 19404), G17 (ICPL 19415), and G9 (ICPL 19405) were identified as ideal genotypes. Discriminativeness vs. representativeness identified GKVK Bengaluru as an ideal environment for comprehensive evaluation of test genotypes. However, ICPL 19405 was identified as the potentially stable highyielding genotype for further testing and release across the test environments based on its mean grain yield (1,469.30 kg/ha), least ASV (3.82), and low yield stability index (YSI) of 13. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Wild edible plants (WEPs) are usually considered to constitute all plant resources that are neither cultivated nor domesticated but are used as nutritional supplements by local people. WEPs play a vital role in ensuring food and livelihood security for countless families and communities around the world. The objective of the study was to assess and document wild edible plants used by communities in the Arsi Robe district as food. Methods: Semi-structured interviews, market surveys, and guided field walks were employed as data collection tools. The data were analyzed using preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, and Jaccard's similarity index. Results: The present study revealed various types of wild edible plants consumed by local communities in the Arsi Robe district of the East Arsi Zone. This could be justified by the documentation of 36 different wild edible plants in the study area. These WEPs belong to 31 genera and 25 families. Most of the growth forms of the edible wild plants in the district were shrubs (16, 44.44%) and trees (14, 38.88%). Amaranthus caudatus and Bridelia micrantha are the most preferred WEPs in the study area. The finding of the study also revealed that Lepidotrichilia volkensii and Premna schimperi are among the novel WEPs that had not before been documented as food items in other areas. Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata, Ficus sycomorus, Cordia africana, and Ficus sur are species with multiple uses. Agricultural expansion, charcoal production, the construction of different materials, making agricultural tools, deforestation, and other factors were the top prioritized threats affecting the abundance and diversity of wild edible plants. Conclusion: Along with the sustainable utilization and conservation of the existing WEPs of the study district, priority should be given to the urgent collection, domestication, and cultivation of multiuse wild edible plant species such as Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata, Ficus sycomorus, Cordia africana, and Ficus sur in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Climate change is inevitable owing from modern-day chemical agriculture, exerting detrimental impacts on sustainable crop production. Global agriculture is now facing serious threats from biotic stresses like weeds, pests, diseases, etc. These stresses not only hamper growth and production but also reduce crop quality. Exclusive reliance on synthetic inputs to tackle biotic stresses has created resistance, resurgence, residues, etc., leading to environmental pollution. Although plants adopt defensive mechansims, such biotic stresses need to be addressed properly with various eco-friendly organic farming approaches. Suitable modification and adoption of various organic agronomic practices (manual, mechanical, cultural, and biological) such as soil solarization, crop rotation, intercropping, tillage, sowing time and method, nutrient, water and intercultural operations, organic formulations, selection of resistant/tolerant varieties, etc., can mitigate the negative impacts of biotic stresses to a high extent resulting in uplift in crop production as well as the quality of produce. Microorganisms not only alter soil health positively for high crop production but also alleviate biotic stresses through bio-stimulant properties. Various indigenous technical knowledge approaches show great promise to tackle biotic stresses further. Short conclusion: Adequate research, integration of multiple technologies, build-up of awareness, etc., are the keys for successful organic plant protection under changing climate scenario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examined the impact of social, demographic, and economic factors on the economic empowerment of rural women in agricultural activities in Ethiopia's Dire Dawa region, using a mixed-methods research approach. The research team collected data from a sample of 419 women engaged in agricultural activities and used the proportional odds model and the partial proportional odds model to identify the factors associated with economic empowerment. The study found that age, property ownership, and education and training had a negative effect, while social networks and media had a positive effect on economic empowerment. The results also showed that women aged 40 and above had a lower likelihood of being economically empowered and lack of property ownership and limited contact with extension agents hurt economic empowerment. The study recommended improving women's access to credit, land ownership, and training opportunities to promote gender equity and women's economic empowerment in the agricultural sector in Ethiopia. This study contributes to the literature by using a mixed-methods approach that integrated qualitative data with quantitative data, which has not been used before in Ethiopia. The findings provide important implications for policymakers and development practitioners in promoting gender equity and women's economic empowerment in the agricultural sector. The study highlights the need to address the challenges that women face in achieving economic empowerment, including limited access to credit, training, and land ownership. By improving access to these resources, policymakers and development practitioners can create an enabling environment that fosters women's economic empowerment and promotes gender equity in Ethiopia's agricultural sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Totally 300 demonstrations were initiated in four districts (Dharwad, Belagavi, Bagalkot and Vijayapur) of northern Karnataka, but 50 farmers terminated the demonstrations half way due to use of the produce for consumption or marketing of produce. Hence, the inferences were drawn from 250 successful demonstrations. Immediately after the harvest, the seeds should be dried properly and stored. For cereals, as a preventive measure, to reduce the pest infestation, mix sweet flag rhizome powder @ 1 per cent (100 g/q) or neem seed powder @ 2 per cent (200 g/q) in case of cereals such as sorghum, maize, wheat and paddy. For pulses, as a preventive measure, to reduce the pest infestation, mix sweet flag rhizome powder @ 1 per cent (100 g/q) or smear groundnut oil @ 5 per cent (500 ml/q) in case of pulses such as bengal gram, red gram, cowpea and green gram. For oilseeds, as a preventive measure, to reduce the pest infestation, mix sweet flag rhizome powder @ 1 per cent (100 g/q) in oilseeds such as groundnut, sunflower and soybean. These give protection against storage pests for a period of six months. As curative measure, in the infested seeds/grains of cereals or pulses, place Aluminium Phosphide tablets (@ 3 tablets per tonne tied in the muslin cloth) in the middle of the stack in the storage structures under airtight conditions for seven days. After this, open the gunny bags and air dry for 48 hours and sieve the produce to remove dead insects and store/use further. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smallholder livestock farming is a crucial component of African economies, particularly south of the Sahara, sustaining millions of farmers and bolstering food security continent‐wide. Our study investigates into the effects of climate change on smallholder livestock farmers in northern Ethiopia's Raya Alamata district, investigating how farmers are adapting to evolving conditions. A field survey encompassing 177 households within three rural communities, coupled with statistical analysis, revealed that droughts strike once every three seasons, causing water and forage shortages, rangeland deterioration and a surge in livestock diseases and deaths. In seasons marked by dryness and heat, the incidence of livestock illness increased markedly, and daily milk yield per cow plummeted from 4 to 1.66 litres. In response, local farmers have transitioned from open grazing to stall‐feeding, heavily dependent on costly market‐bought feeds. Other significant adaptive measures include providing shelter, bathing livestock during heatwaves and practicing transhumance. To enhance resilience to these issues, we advocate for improved environmental conservation, better access to climate data and resources, better animal health care, and subsidized and readily available feed. Our research underscores the profound adversities confronting smallholder livestock farmers in northern Ethiopia due to climate change, implications that extend to food security and the economic equilibrium of the area and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Firat Universitesi Sağlik Bilimleri Tip Dergisi is the property of Firat Universitesiu, Saglik Bilimleri Enstitusu and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)