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Northeastern states of India are known for unique landraces of Capsicum spp. with geographical indications. However, little information is available about these valuable landraces of chillies. Surveys and collections were carried out in niche areas to find out their ecology and diversity through morphological traits and molecular analysis using microsatellite markers. Our result characterized the ecology of niche areas as cool (11.0°C--20.7°C) and humid (>60% relative humidity) climates for dalle-chilli (Capsicum annuum L.); mild-warm (12.2°C--28.6°C) and humid for king-chilli (C. chinense Jacq.); and cool to warm (11.3°C--33.1°C) and humid for bird's eye chilli (C. frutescens L.) during the crop period. The canonical correspondence analysis has shown the significant impact of temperature on the agro-morphological traits and distribution of the landraces in their niche areas. A wide variability was observed for different quantitative traits and yield attributing characters (fruit length, diameter, weight, and yield), showing high heritability (97.0%-- 99.0%), and genetic advance as a percentage of the mean (119.8%--434.0%). A total of 47 SSR markers used for the molecular analysis generated 230 alleles, ranging from 2 (HPMSE-7) to 10 (HPMSE-5), with an average of 4.89 alleles per locus. The average polymorphism information content was also high (0.61) and ranged from 0.20 (HPMSE-7) to 0.85 (CAMS-91). The observed average heterozygosity was lower than the expected value. Analysis of molecular variance has shown significant variation within (69%) and between (31%) of the populations of Capsicum spp. Based on Nei's genetic distance, bird's eye chilli and king-chilli were found to be closer to each other, whereas dalle-chilli, a tretraploid species, was closer to hot pepper (C. annuum). However, the flower size of dalle-chilli was large and found closer to king-chilli in color and differs from C. chinense due to the presence of calyx teeth. For quality traits, landraces king-chilli, dalle-chilli, and bird's eye chilli have shown 2.8, 2.0, and 1.4 times higher average capsaicin and 0.46, 0.25, and 0.22 times higher average oleoresin content over the hot pepper, respectively. The knowledge of ecology and diversity can be used in identifying new areas for production, selection of elite lines, conservation, and crop improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aims of the study are to assess the quality of sleep in recently recovered COVID-19 and long-COVID cases and to determine its associations with fatigue and pain. Methods: Post–COVID-19 cases (n = 201) and controls (n = 206) were assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index questionnaire for sleep quality, Fatigue Severity Scale for fatigue, and Numeric Pain Rating Scale for pain in this observational study. Results: Global Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score was higher (P ≤ 0.001) among cases (5.7 ± 5.1; 95% confidence interval, 5.0–6.4) than controls (2.1 ± 2.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.8–2.4). Normal sleep latency was observed in 56 (27.9%) patients and 164 (79.6%) controls (P < 0.001). Fatigue Severity Scale score was higher (P ≤ 0.001) among cases (16.8 ± 10.2; 95% confidence interval, 15.4, 18.2) against controls (10.9 ± 4.1; 95% confidence interval, 10.3–11.4). The Fatigue Severity Scale scores in mild, moderate, and severe COVID-19 were 14.3 ± 8.1, 22.1 ± 10.8, and 22.8 ± 13, respectively (P < 0.001) and higher in the older (20.7 ± 12.1) and middle-aged (19.6 ± 10.3) than in younger (13.9 ± 8.3) (P ≤ 0.001) cases. The global Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score was positively correlated with the Fatigue Severity Scale (r = 0.755, P < 0.001) and Numeric Pain Rating Scale scores (r = 0.657, P < 0.001). Numeric Pain Rating Scale score correlated with Fatigue Severity Scale score (r = 0.710, P < 0.001). Fatigue Severity Scale and global Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores were higher in the long-COVID group (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Significantly poor sleep quality was observed in post–COVID-19 individuals including long COVID being positively associated with fatigue and pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The present study provides evidence on export advantages of horticultural commodities based on competitiveness, trade balance and seasonality dimensions. Design/methodology/approach: The study delineated horticultural commodities in terms of comparative advantage, examined temporal shifts in export advantages (mapping) and estimated seasonality. Product mapping was carried out using the Revealed Symmetric Comparative Advantage (RSCA) and Trade Balance Index (TBI). Seasonal advantages were examined through a graphical approach along with the objective tests, namely, modified QS-test (QS), Friedman-test (FT) and using a seasonal dummy. Findings: Cucumbers/gherkins, onions, preserved vegetables, fresh grapes, shelled cashew nuts, guavas, mangoes, and spices emerged as the most favorable horticultural products. India has a strong seasonal advantage in dried onions, cucumber/gherkins, shelled cashew nut, dried capsicum, coriander, cumin, and turmeric. The untapped potential in horticulture can be addressed by handling the trade barriers effectively, particularly the sanitary and phytosanitary issues, affecting the exports. Proper policies must be enacted to facilitate the investment in advanced agricultural technologies and logistics to ensure the desired quality and cost effectiveness. Research limitations/implications: Commodity-specific studies on value chain analysis would provide valuable insights into the issues hindering exports and realizing the untapped export potential. Originality/value: There is no holistic and recent study illustrating the horticulture export advantages covering a large number of commodities in the Indian context. The study would be helpful to the stakeholders for drawing useful policy implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crop nitrogen (N) use efficiency has been recognized as a useful indicator to measure the overall progress of the country towards achieving the sustainable development goal. Moreover, national level N use efficiency indicators are essential for improved estimate of global N budget and environmental impact assessment. We made an attempt to calculate the indicators of N use efficiency for rice at national and regional level in India. We utilized the data from research papers (23 no) published in reputed scientific journals and theses (83 no) submitted to different state agricultural universities over a period of 46 years (between 1972 and 2018). The partial factor productivity of N for rice in India ranged from 39.8 to 68.0 kg kg−1 with a national average value of 52.8 kg kg−1. The national average agronomic N use efficiency and nitrogen recovery efficiency (REN) were 18 kg kg−1 and 42.6%, respectively. Conducive agro-climatic condition coupled with improved crop management resulted in higher REN (>50%) in northern zone states of India. Whereas, rain-fed eastern and central zone states have REN<40%. The partial N balance (PNB) in rice ranged from 0.72–1.42 in India. The states with lower PNB need to reconcile their N addition with crop N uptake by adopting N responsive varieties and advanced fertilizer management to prevent environment degradation and economic loss. The findings of this study have significant implications for N budget estimation and policy decisions on hunger, food security and environment at national and global level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The Million Farmers School (MFS) program—also known as Kisan Pathshala was launched to impart training to the farmers by the government of the state of Uttar Pradesh (India) in December 2017. This study estimates the impact of training on agricultural knowledge of the farmers. Design/methodology/approach: The study is based on household survey conducted in Uttar Pradesh (UP), India, during March–May 2019. The authors employed matching methods, the two-stage least square (2SLS)-residual and endogenous switching regression approaches to control for selection bias and endogeneity. Findings: The results suggest that knowledge outcomes are significantly better among participants vis-à-vis non-participants. The results are robust to different model specifications. Further, the benefits are observed across different regions and social groups. Research limitations/implications: The MFS program can go a long way in enhancing agricultural know-how and the farmers' economic well-being, bringing a transformative change in the agricultural landscape of UP. Originality/value: This study is based on a field survey data and analyzes various aspects of the program's impact, design and implementation, and offers implementation advice for greater efficacy in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper attempts to identify the determinants of access to the KCC program and empirically evaluate its impact on farmers' use of agricultural inputs and farm household incomes in eastern India. We have also examined whether the possession of KCC reduces the farmer's dependence for borrowing on moneylenders. The estimation is based on Coarsened Exact Matching (CEM) approach, which is an increasingly popular method of estimating causal effects. The study uses a large survey of rural/farming households in eastern India (Bihar, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal). Findings reveal that access to KCC is strongly associated with the socioeconomic and demographic characteristic of farming households. We find that access to KCC increases farmers' use of the agricultural inputs and households and farm income especially for marginal and small farmers. Finally, access to KCC reduces farmer's dependency on moneylenders for borrowing credits by 25 percent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is fair consensus regarding the importance of creating a supportive internal environment within organizations to encourage entrepreneurial mindsets and behavior. The majority of extant studies have involved large-sized organizations in the Western context. This study aims to extend the understanding of well-established antecedents of corporate entrepreneurship (CE) to small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) in the Indian context, propose a new variable, and test its influence on CE. Partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was applied to a sample of 185 respondents belonging to various managerial levels across different Indian SMEs. The results show a positive and significant relationship between management support, rewards and recognition and organizational values for fostering CE in Indian SMEs. SMEs play a significant role in socio-economic development, and this study can help understand how the benefits of CE can be leveraged to increase SMEs' innovativeness and competitive advantage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated farming system (IFS), comprising various enterprises such as crop, horticulture, dairy, poultry and fishery optimally, uses farm resources to suit small and medium farms of India. In this study, 55 IFSs with different sizes and several enterprises were assessed in terms of their environment impact, eco-efficiency and technical efficiency (TE). The households, which own these IFS, were grouped into four major categories based on farm size viz., marginal (<0.8 ha), small (0.8–1.2 ha), medium (1.2–2.0 ha) and large (>2.0 ha). Among the farm size category, the highest eco-efficiency was recorded for marginal farms, whereas the lowest eco-efficiency was observed for small farms. The highest eco-efficiency was recorded for farm having five enterprises (INR195 kg CO2eq. ha−1) followed by four enterprises (INR190 kg CO2eq.ha−1). Among the enterprises, the highest eco-efficiency was recorded in fruits, whereas the lowest eco-efficiency was observed in dairy. The TE scores estimated using stochastic frontier analysis decreased with increasing farm size and the highest TE score was recorded for marginal farms, whereas medium and large farms recorded the lowest TE scores. The findings indicated the necessity for imparting training and demonstrations and funding support as well as subsidy for larger adoption of IFS to reap higher returns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study was designed to test the hypothesis that exposure to ivermectin in early disease prevents mortality due to COVID-19. A secondary objective was to see if the drug has any impact on the length of hospital stay among the survivors. Methods: It was a hospital-based retrospective case-control study conducted at a tertiary teaching hospital in India. All patients with a diagnosis of COVID-19 who were admitted between 1st April and 15th May 2021 and received inpatient care were included. Important variables like demographic details, dates of admission and discharge or death, symptoms at the time of admission, comorbidities, severity of illness at the time of admission, whether ivermectin was administered or not during the course of the illness and other treatments received as part of the standard of care were retrieved from the medical records. Results: Of the 965 patients who received inpatient care, 307 died during their hospital stay while 658 were successfully discharged. The proportion of cases treated with ivermectin was 17.26% among the non-survivors (53/307) and 17.93% among the survivors (118/658). The effect was statistically insignificant (crude OR = 0.954; 95% CI: 0.668–1.364, P = 0.80). Among the survivors, the median length of stay was 11 days for patients who received ivermectin (IQR: 7–15) as well as for those who did not (IQR: 7–16). Conclusion: This study did not show any effect of ivermectin on in-patient mortality in patients with COVID-19 and there was no effect of the drug on the length of hospital stay among the survivors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To analyse and report various aspects of lateral skull base surgery by describing the incidence and demographic variables, diagnostic and management challenges, surgical choices along with complications and their management and the long term morbidity and survival outcomes in our experience of 15 years. Retrospective review of complete records of all cases operated for lateral skull base tumors at a tertiary care teaching institution in India between timespan of 15 years from 2003 to 2018 was undertaken. 53 cases were selected and analysed. Those having follow up of less than 6 months were excluded. Outcomes were assessed in terms of incidence of types of tumors, benign or malignant, age and sex variation of the patients, staging status at presentation, status of facial and other lower cranial nerves pre-operatively, surgical techniques with complications if any, recurrences and survival. Of 35 benign tumors, tympanojugular paragangliomas were most common. Average age for these was 53 years with 19 females and 14 males. All were non-functional. Tinnitus and hearing loss were most common presentations. Class B2 and C1 tumors were most commonly encountered and the ITF A approach was most commonly used. Hearing loss and Facial palsy were commonest complication post-operatively. There were 2 recurrences. 18 malignancies were observed. Most were stage IV at presentation. Otorrhea and otalgia were most common presenting symptoms followed by hearing loss. 5 year survival was 55%. Successful treatment of lateral skull base lesions requires a multimodality therapy with team approach. Surgical resection is the primary management choice with variable approaches. ICA status related to the tumor is the most important consideration. Malignancies require more aggressive treatment for obtaining clear margins along with pre/post-op chemoradiation. Good results with acceptable complications can be obtained even with advanced tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive fungal rhinosinusitis was seen to rise to epidemic levels after the 2nd wave of ongoing Covid pandemic, especially in tropical countries, maximally in India. A similar trend is being observed for cases who have recently recovered from dengue virus infection. Post dengue invasive fungal infection is a new presentation and any associations between it and Covid pandemic need to be studied in detail to help prepare for any complications. 3 patients presented to the out-patient department of E.N.T at a tertiary level teaching hospital in East India with complains similar to rhinosinusitis. These patients were then evaluated and diagnosed to be infected from Mucormycosis and Aspergillosis fungal sinusitis after which they were managed with surgical debridement and systemic antifungal therapy. All had a recent history of recovery from Dengue virus infection and a possible association could be suspected. 3 patients presented with complains of pain over upper jaw with orbital swelling and loss of vision developing over a period of 24 days. Two of them had ulceration of hard palate. They were then subjected to Contrast MRI along with CT scan of the Paranasal sinuses which depicted pansinus involvement with intracranial extension in two patients. These were then planned for diagnostic nasal endoscopies along with biopsies which turned out to be Invasive fungal sinusitis in the form of Aspergillosis and Mucormycosis. All the 3 patients had recent history of recovery from Dengue virus infection and did not have any other co-morbidities. Covid Associated Mucormycosis (CAM) is a well-known entity now but no reports of Dengue associated Invasive fungal sinusitis are yet reported. Whether this new phenomenon has anything to do with the interactions between dengue virus and coronavirus is not known at present and needs to be studied in detail so appropriate management protocols can be formulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Low birth weight (LBW) is associated with infant mortality and is a challenging multifaceted global health concern especially for developing countries. It is also a common health indicator to assess the health conditions of neonates. In terms of short and long term consequences, LBW plays an important role in inferring infant and childhood morbidities such as mental retardation, learning disabilities, inhibited growth, and cognitive delays. To estimate the prevalence of LBW infants and determine the maternal socio-demographic factors associated with them. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was done among postnatal mothers with singleton live births in a rural area of North Karnataka, India from January 2016 to December 2016. Based on the sample size, data was collected from 337 participants via interviewing them either in the hospital or at home by using a predesigned and pretested semi-structured questionnaire. Weight of the infant was recorded from the mother's medical records and other variables were also assessed. Percentages were used for descriptive statistics and the chi square test was used to determine association. Results: Low birth weight prevalence was 21.1%. Various factors like teenage pregnancy, maternal occupation, type of family, amount of sleep at night, maternal substance abuse, and exposure of the mother to passive smoking were significantly linked to LBW, while association with other factors such as maternal education and socio-economic status were not statistically significant. Conclusion: Although the prevalence of LBW is lower than some of the studies done earlier in other parts of the country, it is still more than the national average of 18.6%. Interventions are needed to reduce the socio-demographic risk factors by improving the literacy status of women, delaying marriage, and providing good family support and care to the expectant mothers. Also, there is a need to encourage the utilization of health services to ensure total antenatal care registration and institutional deliveries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has decimated the lives and livelihoods of people worldwide. The impact of COVID‐19 has been especially devastating for low‐income families in rural areas of India. Soon after the nationwide lockdown was announced, food insecurity became pervasive in rural areas, as many families relied on daily wage work to fund necessities. By providing cash transfers and additional foodgrains, Indian policymakers acted swiftly to reduce the financial impact on family income and consumption. This paper investigates the factors affecting rural families' participation in the cash transfer program and the effect of government cash transfers on food insecurity. Results indicate that India's government cash transfer program decreased moderate food insecurity by 2.4% and severe food insecurity by about 0.92% [EconLit Citations: O12, I31, I32, I38]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims &Objectives : To compare the clinical characteristics/profiles of the patients in first and second waves of COVID-19 in India and correlate these characteristics with risk of in-hospital mortality. Design:Observational analytical study with longitudinal follow-up. The clinico-epidemiological and laboratory profile of patients admitted in the second wave of COVID-19 will be noted at the time of admission, and they will be followed-up during their stay in the hospital to record their outcome status. Medical records will be used to record the data of COVID-19 patients admitted in the first wave. Setting: A tertiary care centre in Bihar, India Participants:All patients who are COVID-19 positive based on positive RT-PCR test of oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal swab and admitted to AIIMS, Patna during the study period. Outcome measures: The difference in clinic-epidemiological profile of patients admitted in AIIMS Patna during the first and second wave of COVID-19 and thus we attempted to discover the effects of multiple factors such as vaccination and mutant viruses on the profile of the 2nd wave.We could also correlate the outcome status of the patient with their clinic-epidemiological profile. Results:Females were relatively more commonly affected in the second wave. Contact history was significantly higher in the second wave. Comorbidities and clinical features were mostly similar although generalized weakness and fatigue was more common in the second wave. ARDS and septic shock were less frequent in the second wave although overall mortality was slightly higher. Azithromycin, HCQ use was discontinued whereas pulse methylprednisolone started to be used frequently. Remdesevir and tocilizumab use was rationalized. HFNC and NIV were better utilized in the second wave. Mucormycosis outbreak complicated the second wave. Out of 42 individuals who were partly immunized (fourteen days after 1st dose to symptom onset), 28 patients survived. Conclusion: The rapid upsurge of cases in the second wave led to COVID affecting previously less affected strata of the population as well as higher overall mortality, although the better training of healthcare workers and understanding of the disease helped offset some of these problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid growth of soybean cultivation in the world augurs well for achieving SDG2 of promoting sustainable agriculture, ending hunger, achieving food security, and improving nutrition. India started promoting soybean cultivation in the 1970s to combat dietary protein deficiencies and augment smallholders' incomes. However, soybean yield remains low and plateaued at one ton per hectare for the past three decades. This paper leverages a large primary dataset and explores the speed of soybean varietal change by applying survival functions and analyzing determinants of varietal turnover time employing a dynamic framework and harnessing duration analysis. The results show that adopting leading soybean varieties has reached saturation and that policy intervention can have an immediate impact. The weighted average age of soybean varieties in farmers' fields is relatively high at 15.6 years, implying a slower varietal change rate. The lack of improved varieties with desirable traits, poor information flow, and growers' preference for traits beyond yield-hamper faster varietal substitution. Further, analysis indicates regional variations in driving the speed of varietal replacement. The findings have significant implications for spurring soybean yields through investments in varietal development, leveraging modern molecular methods for long juvenility and photo-insensitivity, disseminating information, and institutional changes enabling the private sector participation in crop breeding. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: New varieties of paddy are constantly being developed in India in order to sustain yield gains in the face of biotic and abiotic stresses. In this study, the authors attempt to identify the drivers for adoption of new varieties of paddy in India; the authors also estimate the impact on yield of the adoption of new paddy varieties. Design/methodology/approach: Survey data consisted of the reported information from approximately 20,000 paddy farmers in India. The study employs Cragg's double-hurdle model to study the probability and intensity of adoption of new varieties; we use regression discontinuity design to estimate the change in yield due to adoption of new varieties. Findings: The authors' findings indicate that the adoption of new varieties of paddy in India varies significantly within and between regions; further, the adoption of new varieties is affected by a number of socioeconomic and demographic factors; the authors also find that the adoption of new varieties increases yield significantly. Research limitations/implications: These are observational data and not based on the experiments. The authors relied on farmers' memory to recall the information. Originality/value: The authors suggest the formulation of strategic policies that can cater to the needs of regions and states that are lagging behind in the adoption of new paddy varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper is an attempt to understand the pattern of credit among agricultural households in Eastern India and to identify the correlates of their access to institutional credit for policy imperatives. Design/methodology/approach: The study uses unit-level data from the All-India Debt and Investment Survey of the 59th and 70th rounds of the National Sample Survey Office for the years 2002–2003 and 2012–2013. Cragg's double-hurdle model and the Heckman selection model are used to estimate the determinants of access to and the amount of institutional loans taken by households. These models also account for potential selection bias in the findings. Findings: The study reveals that access to credit is strongly associated with the socioeconomic and demographic characteristics of agricultural households. However, about half of the farmers in the eastern states of India lack access to institutional credit despite the government's attempts to include them in the ambit of formal financial services. Thus, strategies for developing agriculture in Eastern India must include efforts to bring small and marginal farmers under the coverage of institutional credit. Research limitations/implications: These data are based on the responses given by the sample households and not the experimental data. The data pertain to the year 2013. Originality/value: The findings emphasize that strategies for developing agriculture in Eastern India must give special push to enhance small and marginal farmers' access to institutional credit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the COVID‐19 pandemic resulted in about a 24% decline in India's GDP during the April–June 2020 quarter, the nation's agricultural sector, somewhat surprisingly, seems to have done remarkably well. This paper examines whether the public transfer program Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY), announced immediately after the lockdown, benefited farmers in dealing with the COVID shock. Overall, 95% of the smallholders received support from at least one of PMGKY's four components. Direct cash transfers had significantly more impact than in‐kind transfer schemes. The result shows that farmers receiving cash transfers under PM‐KISAN, one component of PMGKY, were more likely to invest in buying seeds. In contrast, farmers receiving cash transfers under PM‐UY, another piece of PMGKY, were more likely to invest in fertilizer and pesticides. Finally, smallholders who received benefits from all four components of PMGKY were more likely to invest in purchasing seeds, fertilizer, and pesticides. Findings suggest the fungibility of public cash transfers from the recent PMGKY scheme is significant in alleviating credit constraints and increasing future investments in modern inputs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To be inclusive, economic development in India must focus on eastern India, which has a high population growth rate, population pressure, high incidence of poverty, small landholding size in agriculture, and underdeveloped rural infrastructure. Employment diversification towards the non-farm sector in eastern India from 1993–1994 to 2011–2012 shows considerable variation by income group and farm-size. The effects of diversification—whether driven by pursuit of higher income or distress—are stratified. Estimates based on instrumental variable regressions suggest that all types of non-farm employment improve the economic well-being of households. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eastern India is among the most backward regions of the country with underutilized agricultural potential. Diversification towards high-value crops can be a promising strategy to enhance farmers' economic welfare in the region. The present study analyses the major determinants and impact of crop diversification towards high-value crops on farmers' economic welfare in the region using large farm household-level data and advanced matching estimation methods. The findings reveal that cultivation of high-value crops plays a significant role in enhancing farm income, consumption expenditure and reducing poverty. Growers need to allocate at least 40% area for highvalue crops to have significant income enhancement and poverty reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background  Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a disorder of unknown origin, characterized by features of raised intracranial pressure (ICP). Existing literature is inconclusive about the role of transcranial Doppler (TCD) in the management of IIH. Objective  To study the TCD changes in IIH patients, pre- and post-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage. Materials and Methods  This was a prospective study, conducted between July 2017 and December 2019, in a tertiary care referral center in South India. Sixteen consecutive patients, suspected to have IIH, underwent magnetic resonance imaging ofthe brain, a baseline TCD, and lumbar puncture with CSF drainage and pressure monitoring. Post-CSF drainage, TCD was repeated and mean flow velocities, peak systolic velocities, end-diastolic velocities, and pulsatility index (PI), in the middle cerebral artery (MCA), vertebral artery, and basilar artery (BA) were noted. Thirteen patients had elevated CSF pressure, and fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for IIH. These patients were included in the final analysis and pre- and post-CSF drainage TCD blood flow velocities and PI were compared. Results  The mean age of study participants was 29.92 ± 6.92 years. There was a significant reduction in the cerebral flow velocities in bilateral MCA, after CSF drainage and normalization of ICP. Flow velocities in posterior circulation and PI in MCA, PCA, and BA showed an insignificant reduction. Two patients, who did not show any reduction in flow velocities after CSF drainage, developed optic atrophy on follow-up. Conclusion  TCD-derived systolic blood flow velocities can be used in the management and follow-up of patients with IIH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High nitrogen (N) rate often leads to low yield of rice due to lodging and mutual shading. This study was conducted to ascertain whether silicon (Si) could enhance yield response of rice to higher N rate by enhancing rigidity of plant parts and improving photosynthesis. The effects of Si and N on crop growth, photosynthesis, N use efficiencies and yield of rice were investigated during wet season (June to November) in sub‐humid tropical region of India. An increasing trend in crop growth rate with Si at all levels of N was observed. Silicon reduced the flag leaf angle making the leaf more upright and enhanced flag leaf N content. Leaf chlorophyll concentration and single leaf photosynthesis rate were higher with Si compared to without Si at flowering stage. Both N and Si significantly affected panicle number and grain filling. Application of 200 kg SiO2 ha−1 and 100 kg N ha−1 produced the highest number of panicle per square meter, filled grain per panicle and yield. Significant yield increases ranging from 8.2–16.9% were observed with Si compared to without Si. Both N and Si treatments had significant effects on N uptake and N use efficiency. Agronomic N use efficiency and N recovery efficiency were higher with Si compared to without Si. The highest physiological N use efficiency was recorded with 200 kg SiO2 ha−1 and 80 kg N ha−1. Silicon may enhance yield response of rice to higher N rate by improving source (photosynthetic) capacity and sink (reproductive organ) strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India's rice production has come under pressure from a number of biotic and abiotic stresses, resulting in a significant deceleration in its productivity growth in recent years. Hybrid rice technology is considered a sustainable option for boosting productivity growth. The adoption rate of hybrid rice technology, however, has remained sluggish. This paper, using data from a large-scale, nationally representative survey of farm households, identifies causes of low adoption of hybrid rice technology and subsequently assesses the impact of low adoption on crop yield. Our findings demonstrate that in India, hybrid rice is often grown on relatively poor soils, resulting in greater costs for irrigation as well as for other inputs, such as fertilizers, essential for growth. Although hybrid rice technology appears to be scale neutral, farmers' poor access to information on its biochemical traits and agronomic practices, as well as poor access to financial resources, hampers scaling up its adoption. More important, our findings reveal that the relative yield advantage of hybrids over open-pollinated modern varieties is not large enough to incentivize rapid adoption of hybrid rice technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stock market returns and the capital flow of funds in the mutual funds have been universally understood to be interlinked. The prevailing more and more contribution of the mutual funds in the stock market, on the one hand, and the profound impact of rising stock market returns on getting higher investments in mutual funds, on the other, have undoubtedly made the relationship between share market and mutual fund flows to be of prime significance for the key participants and other stakeholders of both the markets. In this published research paper, the academic researcher attempts assessing the prominent presence of any association between the stock market returns and mutual fund assets under management in India by employing the multiple regression analysis. It has been reasonably concluded that there is no significant evidence of the presence of any such relationships in Indian markets during the period of study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of error analysis in second language instruction is discussed. Error analysis is seen as an effective aid to second language remedial teaching if errors are treated as evidence of learners' strategies, and analyzed in terms of their significance. A rule-oriented analysis explains why errors are made and implies what ought to be done to equip the language learner with better strategies. Priority is given to errors that cause hindrance to communication, but it is argued that "local" errors that are stigmatized or considered "foreign" by the native speaker should not be ignored. Theories about native language learning and second language learning are considered. (SW)

Poverty in India has been declining consistently over the years, yet it is home to 172 million poor people. Most of India's poor are concentrated in rural areas and are dependent on agriculture. This poses a serious challenge to the exploration of potential pathways that could effectively eradicate poverty and accomplish the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. We estimate the effects of various types of investment in rural areas in accelerating agricultural productivity and reducing rural poverty, and find differential impacts of investments and subsidies across low-, middle-, and high-income states. Private investment in minor irrigation, public investments in agricultural research and development, and subsidies on irrigation and electricity have the highest marginal returns in low-income states. Further, the payoffs from additional spending in promoting agricultural income are also higher in low-income states, suggesting targeting these locations with strategic investments and subsidies to improve agricultural productivity and reduce poverty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Past studies have reported serious levels of food insecurity and under-nutrition existing in the eastern belt of India. This study specifically examined the food consumption pattern, levels of nutrition intake and nutrient intake gap of sample households in 12 villages of Eastern India based on data collected during the agricultural year 2011-12. The results point to serious levels of nutrient intake deficit in the sample villages, though with notable disparities in its level of incidence. Major socio-economic and demographic variables that determine the calorie deficit status of the households were identified, the knowledge of which is important while planning interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Dynamic cervical cord compression as the pathogenetic mechanism of Hirayama disease has been recently evaluated on dynamic magnetic resonance imaging of cervical spine. Objectives To study clinical, radiological and electrophysiological profile of patients with Hirayama disease. Materials and Methods This was a prospective study of 17 cases of Hirayama disease carried out at SMS hospital, Jaipur, from June 2016 to October 2017. Results In our study, predominantly male (94.1%) patients were affected and average age of onset was 23.1 years. Unilateral involvement was seen in 71% cases (n = 12). Brisk deep tendon reflexes and dysesthesia, not characterstics of Hirayama disease, were found in 3 patients (18%) and 2 patients (12%) respectively. Long neck was found in our study in 7 patients (41%). On dynamic cervical spine MRI, anterior shifting of posterior cervical dura on flexion, asymmetric cord flattening and loss of cervical lordosis were found in 82% patients. Nerve conduction study was abnormal in 14 patients (82%) and electromyographic evidence of neurogenic affliction was present in all patients in involved segments (C5-T1). Conclusion Hirayama disease, a benign variant of motor neuron disorder can be diagnosed with increasing sensitivity with use of dynamic cervical MRI spine study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to assess the functioning of the Public Distribution System (PDS) in Bihar—a state in India faced with multiple challenges of poverty, malnutrition, and hunger and known for rampant inefficiencies in the PDS. The results, based on analysis of the National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO) data and the microlevel evidences obtained from the Village Level Studies, indicate a positive turnaround in the functioning of PDS in the state. Apart from a marked improvement in cereal consumption and calorie gains across rural and urban areas, the outreach of PDS expanded with significant enhancement in participation by the weaker sections of the society. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2004-2005, to study the effect of weed control measures and sulphur levels on growth, yield and profitability of Indian mustard [Brassica Juncea (L.) Czren & Coss]. Treatments of the experiment consisted of six weed control measures [weedy check, hand weeding at 30 DAS, Oxyflurofen @ 0.125 kg a.i./ha (PPI), Fluchloralin @ 1.0 kg a.i./ha (PPI), Metribuzin @ 0.175 kg. a.i./ha (PE) and Pendimethalin @ 0.75 kg a.i./ha (PE)] and four levels of sulphur viz. 0,15,30 and 45 kg/ha. The weed control using Metribuzin resulted in minimum weed competition because of least weed density and weed biomass production thus producing significantly higher crop LAI, dry matter, siliquae/plant, test weight and seed yield (q/ha) over other weedicides. Application of sulphur @ 45 kg/ha increased number of siliquae/plant, test weight (g), seed yield (q/ha), straw yield (q/ha) and oil content (%). Fertilization of 45 kg S/ha produced the highest seed yield of 19.23 q/ha in comparison to 13.29 q/ha realized in control. Among weed control treatments, maximum net returns and B:C ratio of Rs. 24830 /ha and 3.78 were achieved under Metribuzin. Application of 45 kg S/ha gave maximum net returns (Rs. 255599 /ha) and maximum B:C ratio of 3.89. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: India, which is in the mid latitude region, has extremly hot summers on its plains. In Northern and Central region of the country the maximum day temperature often goes beyond 45°C. The temperature inside the buildings, which generally have horizontal RCC roof, is unbearable without air conditioning. The steep rise in the cost of electricity has driven architects and builders to use passive cooling techniques in the construction. In this paper we examine the present methods that use an insulation layer to reduce the heat flux entering the living space bringing out their merits and demerits. Further we present an innovative approach in roof design that incorporates a layer of fly ash pieces which works as a porous insulation layer. The method has been implemented in a residential building in Delhi (28.380N). The experimental results demonstrate that the layer provides excellent insulation and it also shows structural stability. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study investigates the status, estimates the cost, and identifies the determinants of compliance with food safety measures in milk production in India. The study is based on the cross section primary data collected at the farm level in 3 states of India, namely, Bihar, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh, in the year 2007. These states capture the geographical and institutional diversity of milk production and marketing in the country. The study shows that the status of compliance with food safety measures at the dairy farm level is not encouraging and a lot of efforts are needed to bridge this gap. The adoption intensity of food safety practices shows wide inter- and intraregional variations. This intensity depicts a positive relationship with herd size. The additional cost of compliance with food milk safety measures reveals an inverse relationship with herd size. The adoption intensity of food safety practices has been found to be influenced by the dairy farmers' characteristics. Herd size, education level, expertise in dairying, and integration of dairy farmers with modern milk supply chain have positive influence on the adoption intensity of food safety practices at the farm level. The positive relationship between adoption intensity of food safety measures and farmers' realization of milk price would influence farmers for greater adoption of these measures. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Wilson's disease is an inborn error of copper metabolism, which is potentially treatable. This prospective study reports 21 cases of Wilson's disease from north-west India having various clinical, biochemical and radiological features. The study highlights that the juvenile forms showed predominantly dystonic features with high frequency of seizures, while elderly group of patients showed predominantly cerebellar features. The absence of family history and relative lack of previous hepatic involvement may lead to the delay in diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CVOID-19 induced significant economic and social disruptions in India. Rural households, including smallholders, were affected by loss in migrant income, livelihood and farm and non-farm incomes. During this lockdown, the Indian government enacted several emergency legislations to provide direct and indirect relief to workers and households. India's COVID-19 social assistance package, namely, PM-GKY, announced in March 2020, was designed to provide immediate relief to the vulnerable population. The PM-GKY provided cash direct benefit transfers (DBT) and in-kind supports (IKS) through existing schemes. This study examines the impact of India's government assistance package (known as Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana or PM-GKY), announced immediately after the COVID-19 lockdown, on the procurement of agricultural inputs for the upcoming farming season. The study uses a quasi-experimental method and survey data from 1,789 smallholder households in three northern Indian states (Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh). The result suggests that the fungibility of funds received under the government transfer package was significant in alleviating credit constraints and increasing agricultural investments in agricultural inputs. The farmers who received benefits from the PM-GKY scheme spent significantly more on the procurement of seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. The disbursement of cash transfers in the three states showed that emergency relief packages had reached the vulnerable sections of Indian society. Overall, 89-94% of households benefited from direct cash transfers. Perhaps lower transaction costs, minimal leakages, and immediate delivery make a strong case for direct cash transfers. The above advantages facilitate the provision of relief to a large proportion of vulnerable sections of Indian society in a short period. • Impact of India's government assistance on the farming inputs. • Use a quasi-experimental method and rural survey data. • We find fungibility of funds received under the government transfer package. • Cash transfers helped farmers buy more seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted at Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack, Odisha, India in the dry seasons of 2015 and 2016 to assess the water vapor flux (FH2O) and its relationship with other climatic variables. The FH2O and climatic variables were measured by an eddy covariance system and a micrometeorological observatory. Daily mean FH2O during the dry seasons of 2015 and 2016 were 0.009–0.092 g m−2 s−1 and 0.014–0.101 g m−2 s−1, respectively. Seasonal average FH2O was 14.6% higher in 2016 than that in 2015. Diurnal variation for FH2O showed a bell-shaped curve with its peak at 13:30–14:00 Indian Standard Time (IST) in both the years. Carbon dioxide flux was found higher with rise in FH2O. This relationship was stronger at higher vapor pressure deficit (VPD) (20 ≤ VPD ≤ 40 and VPD > 40 hPa). The FH2O showed significant positive correlation with latent heat flux, net radiation flux, photosynthatically active radiation, air, water and soil temperatures, shortwave down and upwell radiations, maximum and minimum temperatures, evaporation, and relative humidity in both the years. Principal component analysis showed that FH2O was very close to latent heat flux in both the years (Pearson correlation coefficient close to 1). The two-dimensional observation map of the principal component F1 and F2 showed the observations taken during the vegetative stage and panicle initiation stage, and flowering stage and maturity stage were closer to each other. It can be concluded that the most important climatic variables controlling the FH2O were latent heat of vaporization, net radiation, air temperature, soil temperatures, and water temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We evaluate a large-scale model of agricultural advisory services, known as Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) or Farm Science Centers, introduced by the Government of India. • The study evaluates the direct and spillover effects of frontline demonstrations and capacity-building programs conducted by KVKs, and then, examines gains in the speed of diffusion at the aggregate. • The study shows that the impact is larger for KVK beneficiaries, substantial gains also arise for network beneficiaries. • The study underscores the importance of conducting interventions at frequent intervals to influence adoption on aggregate. We evaluate a large-scale model of agricultural advisory services, known as Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) or Farm Science Centers, introduced by the Government of India to facilitate smallholder adoption of new agricultural technologies. The study first evaluates the impact of frontline demonstrations and capacity-building programs conducted by KVKs and aimed at promoting a new wheat variety (HD-2967); it then examines gains in the speed of diffusion at the district level. The study's second objective is to estimate the spillover effects of KVKs through social networks. The study identifies network beneficiaries based on a "networks within sample" approach. The study uses a matched difference-in-differences approach and sample of 1496 wheat farmers in Uttar Pradesh, India. The finding shows that frontline demonstrations and capacity-building programs positively impact the adoption of HD-2967. The magnitude of the impacts is larger for KVK beneficiaries, but substantial gains also arise for network beneficiaries. The study underscores the importance of frequently conducting interventions to influence adoption on aggregate at the district level. From a policy perspective, the study offers new insights for strengthening outreach and extension services designed to facilitate the transfer of agricultural knowledge and information, emphasizing frontline demonstrations, capacity-building programs, and spillovers in extending the scope of KVKs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]