Axis Journal of Agriculture & Biological Sciences
Focus and Scope The Axis Journal of Agriculture & Biological Sciences (AJABS) is a prestigious, double-blind peer-reviewed academic publication dedicated to the dissemination of innovative research that bridges the gap between advanced biological sciences and practical agricultural applications. Published bi-annually by AXIS EXPLORATION AND ACADEMICS (PRIVATE) LIMITED, AJABS targets a multidisciplinary audience committed to achieving sustainable food systems and enhancing rural livelihoods, with a special emphasis on challenges and solutions relevant to developing regions. Its broad scope encompasses several interconnected key areas: Crop and Soil Sciences: This section features groundbreaking research in genetics, plant breeding, agronomy, soil health, and precision agriculture, aiming to push the boundaries of crop productivity, resilience, and sustainable land management. Animal and Livestock Sciences: Highlighting the critical role of animal production, this segment showcases studies on veterinary sciences, animal nutrition, genetics, and husbandry practices, underlining their importance for food security, income generation, and integrated farming systems. Agricultural Technology and Innovation: Focused on advancing farm-level outcomes, this area presents leading-edge research in agricultural engineering, smart farming technologies, post-harvest management, and biotechnology, emphasizing the enhancement of efficiency and the reduction of losses. Agro-environmental and Climate Sciences: Exploring the vital interface between agriculture and the environment, this part covers climate-smart practices, natural resource management, conservation biology, and agroecology, highlighting their role in building environmental resilience and mitigating climate impacts. Food Systems, Nutrition, and Socio-Economics: With a comprehensive approach to agricultural impact, this section includes studies on food security, nutrition, agricultural economics, extension services, and rural sociology, stressing the importance of community-based innovations and evidence-based policies for holistic development. By encompassing a range of topics from fundamental laboratory research to applied on-farm techniques and broader food system improvements, the Axis Journal of Agriculture & Biological Sciences (AJABS) serves as a vital resource for scientists, practitioners, policymakers, and educators, promoting a deeper understanding and continual advancement in agricultural practices for global food security and sustainable development.
AXIS EXPLORATION AND ACADEMICS (PRIVATE) LIMITED
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WOMEN'S POULTRY REARING COLLECTIVES AND THEIR EFFECT ON HOUSEHOLD NUTRITION AND WOMEN'S SOCIAL STATUS
Background: Women’s involvement in small-scale poultry production has been proposed as a strategy to improve household nutrition and empower women in rural settings. Poultry products, particularly eggs and meat, provide essential protein for child growth, while women’s management of livestock may enhance their decision-making authority and income. Despite these theoretical benefits, empirical evidence on the combined effects of women’s poultry collectives on child nutrition, household income, and women’s autonomy remains limited. Objective: The study aimed to measure the impact of women’s poultry rearing collectives on child protein intake, household poultry-related income, and women’s decision-making autonomy in rural South Punjab. Methods: A community-based analytical study was conducted with 200 households, comprising 100 participant and 100 non-participant households. Data were collected using structured 24-hour dietary recalls, seven-day food frequency questionnaires for children, standardized economic questionnaires for poultry income, and validated multi-domain instruments for women’s autonomy. Continuous variables were analyzed using independent t-tests and ANOVA, while linear regression and Pearson correlation assessed associations between income, autonomy, and child protein intake. Results: Children in participant households had higher mean daily protein intake (34.7 g vs. 27.9 g) than those in non-participant households. Household poultry income was significantly greater among participants (PKR 5200 vs. PKR 1600). Women in collectives scored higher across all autonomy domains, including household purchases, child feeding decisions, asset use, and community participation. Positive correlations were observed between income and autonomy, and between autonomy and child protein intake, indicating synergistic benefits of collective participation. Conclusion: Participation in women’s poultry rearing collectives enhances child dietary protein intake, strengthens household income, and increases women’s decision-making autonomy. These findings highlight the potential of community-based poultry programs as a sustainable intervention to improve nutrition and empower women in rural settings.
Copyright (c) 2024 Axis Journal of Agriculture & Biological Sciences https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EFFICACY OF PLANT-BASED EDIBLE COATINGS VERSUS SYNTHETIC FUNGICIDES ON TOMATO SHELF-LIFE AND QUALITY
Background: Tomatoes undergo rapid physiological and microbial deterioration after harvest, contributing significantly to postharvest losses. Plant-based edible coatings have gained interest as sustainable alternatives to synthetic fungicides due to their potential to prolong shelf-life and enhance quality without chemical residues. Objective: The study aimed to compare the efficacy of aloe vera and chitosan edible coatings with a synthetic fungicide in maintaining tomato shelf-life and postharvest quality during ambient storage. Methods: A total of 120 tomatoes were assigned equally to aloe vera, chitosan, synthetic fungicide, and untreated control groups. Samples were monitored for 21 days. Measurements included weight loss, firmness, microbial load, color changes, total soluble solids, and sensory quality. Shelf-life was determined based on predefined quality decline thresholds. Data were analyzed descriptively to compare treatment effects. Results: Aloe vera and chitosan coatings reduced physiological deterioration more effectively than the synthetic fungicide. By Day 21, aloe-treated tomatoes exhibited the lowest weight loss (6.8%) and microbial load (1.2 × 10² CFU/g), along with the highest firmness retention and slowest ripening progression. Shelf-life reached 20.3 days with aloe vera and 17.6 days with chitosan, compared with 14.2 days for the synthetic fungicide and 10.1 days for controls. Sensory quality scores followed a similar pattern, indicating better overall acceptability for coated tomatoes. Conclusion: Aloe vera and chitosan coatings offered superior preservation of postharvest tomato quality compared with a synthetic fungicide. Their combined antimicrobial and barrier properties highlight their suitability as natural, residue-free alternatives for sustainable postharvest management.
SCHOOL GARDEN PROGRAMS AND NUTRITIONAL KNOWLEDGE IMPACT ON ADOLESCENT EATING HABITS IN RURAL PUNJAB
Background: Adolescents in rural regions frequently experience limited dietary diversity and high intake of low-nutrient processed foods. School garden programs, combined with nutritional education, offer an experiential approach that may strengthen healthy eating behaviours by enhancing knowledge and exposure to fresh produce. Objective: To assess whether integrating hands-on school gardening with structured nutrition education improves dietary diversity and reduces junk food consumption among adolescents in rural Punjab. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted among 194 adolescents aged 11–15 years in government schools of South Punjab. Participants were allocated into intervention and control groups in equal numbers. The intervention group received twice-weekly gardening sessions and weekly nutrition education for 12 weeks, while the control group continued routine activities. Dietary diversity was measured using a standardized 24-hour Dietary Diversity Score, and junk food intake was assessed with a validated consumption frequency tool. Data were analyzed using paired and independent sample t-tests, and chi-square tests for categorical outcomes. Results: Baseline characteristics were comparable across groups. The intervention group showed an increase in mean dietary diversity from 4.2 to 6.1, while the control group increased from 4.1 to 4.4. Weekly junk food servings decreased from 9.8 to 5.2 in the intervention group compared with a reduction from 10.1 to 9.3 in the control group. Between-group differences at post-intervention were statistically significant for both dietary diversity and junk food consumption. Conclusion: The integration of school gardening with nutrition education produced meaningful improvements in adolescent dietary behaviours. This approach demonstrates practical potential as a sustainable school-based strategy to enhance nutrition in resource-limited rural settings.
SOCIAL NETWORK INFLUENCE ON BREASTFEEDING PRACTICES AMONG ADOLESCENT MOTHERS IN SOUTH ASIA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Background: Adolescent mothers in South Asia face significant challenges in adhering to recommended breastfeeding practices, which are critical for infant survival and development. While social support is known to influence breastfeeding, the specific roles and impact of family and community networks on initiation and duration in this vulnerable demographic are not well synthesized. Objective: This systematic review aimed to analyze how family and community networks impact breastfeeding initiation and duration among adolescent mothers in South Asia. Methods: This study systematically reviewed existing research from 2014 to 2024, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. We searched multiple academic databases for observational or qualitative studies on adolescent mothers in South Asia, specifically exploring how family and community dynamics affect breastfeeding. Two reviewers independently selected studies, extracted data, and assessed bias using JBI tools. Given the diversity of the research, the findings were summarized narratively. Results: Eight studies (n=5,847 adolescent mothers) were included. The evidence consistently identified grandmothers as the most influential social actor. Their support was significantly associated with higher odds of early breastfeeding initiation (AOR 2.45, 95% CI 1.78-3.38) and exclusive breastfeeding for six months (AOR 1.89, 95% CI 1.32-2.71). Conversely, traditional beliefs among grandmothers promoting prelacteal feeds were a major barrier. Spousal support was beneficial but often less directly influential than grandmotherly advice. Conclusion: Family networks, particularly grandmothers, are paramount in shaping the breastfeeding practices of adolescent mothers in South Asia. Public health interventions must adopt an intergenerational, family-centered approach to effectively promote evidence-based breastfeeding practices. Future research should employ longitudinal designs to establish causality and evaluate the efficacy of family-inclusive counseling models.
IMPACT OF VITAMIN D FORTIFIED MILK VERSUS REGULAR MILK ON INSULIN RESISTANCE IN ADOLESCENTS
Background: Insulin resistance during adolescence is a growing concern due to increasing rates of obesity and sedentary lifestyles. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to impaired glucose metabolism and insulin resistance, suggesting a potential role for nutritional fortification strategies. Milk, as a staple food in adolescent diets, provides a practical vehicle for vitamin D fortification. Objective: To determine whether daily intake of vitamin D–fortified milk improves insulin sensitivity among adolescents with early metabolic risk compared to regular milk consumption. Methods: A six-month study in South Punjab followed 132 teenagers, aged 12 to 18, to explore the effects of vitamin D. The adolescents were randomly divided into two groups: one group drank a daily serving of milk fortified with vitamin D, while the other consumed regular milk. Researchers measured their fasting blood sugar, insulin, and vitamin D levels at the start and end of the trial, also calculating insulin resistance. The results were then compared using standard statistical tests to identify any meaningful differences between the groups. Results: The fortified milk group showed a significant increase in serum 25(OH)D levels (18.6 ± 4.2 to 32.4 ± 5.1 ng/mL, p < 0.001) compared to minimal change in the regular milk group (p = 0.08). HOMA-IR decreased notably in the fortified group (2.91 ± 0.35 to 2.21 ± 0.29, p < 0.001), while only slight reduction occurred in controls (p = 0.09). Fasting glucose decreased significantly in the fortified group (p = 0.002). A strong inverse correlation was found between changes in 25(OH)D and HOMA-IR (r = –0.61, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Vitamin D–fortified milk effectively improved vitamin D status and insulin sensitivity in adolescents with early metabolic risk. Fortification represents a feasible, low-cost nutritional intervention to mitigate insulin resistance in youth.
Copyright (c) 2025 Axis Journal of Agriculture & Biological Sciences https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
PEER SUPPORT GROUPS AND NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING FOR PREGNANT WOMEN IN RURAL FARMING COMMUNITIES, A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL
Background: Maternal undernutrition, limited dietary awareness, and psychosocial stress remain persistent challenges in rural farming communities. Integrating peer-based social support with structured nutritional counseling may strengthen maternal health by addressing both informational and emotional needs during pregnancy. Objective: To evaluate the impact of combined peer support groups and nutritional counseling on maternal nutrition, birth outcomes, and postpartum mental health among pregnant women in rural South Punjab. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted over twelve months involving 240 pregnant women allocated to an intervention group receiving bi-weekly peer support sessions and monthly nutritional counseling, or a control group receiving standard antenatal care. Assessments included mid-upper arm circumference, gestational weight gain, 24-hour dietary recall, birth weight, gestational age, Apgar scores, and postpartum mental health using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and GAD-7. Data were analyzed using independent t-tests, chi-square tests, and analysis of covariance. Results: The intervention group demonstrated higher caloric intake (2140 ± 310 kcal vs. 1985 ± 295 kcal), greater gestational weight gain (9.2 ± 2.1 kg vs. 7.6 ± 2.0 kg), and improved mid-upper arm circumference (25.4 ± 2.8 cm vs. 23.9 ± 3.0 cm). Mean birth weight was higher in the intervention group (3065 ± 420 g vs. 2880 ± 450 g), with fewer preterm births. Postpartum depressive and anxiety scores were significantly lower in the intervention arm, indicating notable psychological benefits. Conclusion: Integrating peer support and nutritional counseling enhanced maternal nutritional status, improved birth outcomes, and strengthened postpartum mental well-being. This model offers a feasible and scalable approach for improving maternal health in resource-constrained rural settings.
THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN HOUSEHOLD PROXIMITY TO GLYPHOSATE-SPRAYED CROPS AND THE GUT MICROBIOME COMPOSITION OF FARMING FAMILIES
Background: Glyphosate-based herbicides are the most extensively used weed control agents globally, with growing concerns regarding their environmental and health effects. Although considered safe for humans, glyphosate can influence microorganisms that share the shikimate pathway, including gut bacteria. Chronic exposure through environmental routes may alter the human gut microbiome, an essential regulator of immunity and metabolism. Objective: To investigate whether environmental exposure to glyphosate, determined by household proximity to sprayed agricultural fields, correlates with specific alterations in gut microbiome composition among farming families in South Punjab. Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was carried out over a four-month period with a cohort of 60 adults. Participants were divided into two groups: an exposed group comprising 30 individuals residing within 500 meters of agricultural fields where glyphosate was applied, and a control group of 30 individuals living more than two kilometers from such areas. Concentrations of glyphosate and its metabolite, aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA), were measured in serum samples via high-performance liquid chromatography. To assess gut microbial profiles, fecal samples were subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing utilizing the Illumina MiSeq platform, enabling evaluation of microbial diversity and taxonomic structure. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS software (version 26.0); independent samples t-tests and Pearson correlation coefficients were used for data conforming to a normal distribution. Results: The exposed group exhibited significantly higher serum glyphosate (2.87 ± 0.64 µg/L) and AMPA (0.79 ± 0.25 µg/L) levels compared to controls (0.93 ± 0.41 µg/L and 0.28 ± 0.11 µg/L, respectively; p < 0.001). Alpha diversity indices were lower among exposed participants (Shannon: 3.42 ± 0.51; Simpson: 0.81 ± 0.07) than controls (Shannon: 3.96 ± 0.48; Simpson: 0.88 ± 0.05). Firmicutes abundance was reduced, while Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria were elevated. A significant negative correlation was found between glyphosate levels and microbial diversity (r = –0.58, p < 0.01). Conclusion: Environmental glyphosate exposure was associated with decreased gut microbial diversity and compositional imbalance among farming families. These findings highlight potential health implications of chronic low-level herbicide exposure and underscore the need for sustainable agricultural practices and further human-based microbiome research.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DIETARY INTAKE OF GRASS-FED VERSUS GRAIN-FED BEEF AND PLASMA LEVELS OF ANTI-INFLAMMATORY FATTY ACIDS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Background: The fatty acid composition of beef varies according to cattle feeding practices, influencing its potential impact on human health. Grass-fed beef contains higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Understanding how these compositional differences affect human plasma lipid profiles can help guide dietary recommendations and livestock management practices. Objective: To compare the effects of grass-fed and grain-fed beef consumption on plasma levels of omega-3 fatty acids and CLA in adults from South Punjab, Pakistan. Methods: A cross-sectional study over eight months enrolled 60 adults, with 30 regularly eating grass-fed beef and 30 regularly eating grain-fed beef. Their usual diet was recorded using a standard food questionnaire. We analyzed their fasting blood samples to measure the types of fats (fatty acids) present, using precise laboratory equipment (gas chromatography). Results are shown as averages with standard deviations (mean ± SD). We used statistical tests (independent t-tests) to compare the two groups and examined relationships (Pearson correlation) between how often beef was eaten and the levels of different fatty acids in the blood. Results: Participants consuming grass-fed beef had significantly higher plasma concentrations of total omega-3 fatty acids (76.8 ± 11.2 µg/mL vs. 57.0 ± 9.8 µg/mL, p = 0.002) and CLA (15.4 ± 3.7 µg/mL vs. 10.7 ± 3.1 µg/mL, p = 0.005) compared with the grain-fed group. The omega-6 to omega-3 ratio was lower among grass-fed consumers (4.1 ± 1.1 vs. 6.3 ± 1.5, p = 0.001). Positive correlations were found between beef consumption frequency and plasma omega-3 (r = 0.62, p = 0.001) and CLA (r = 0.58, p = 0.003). Conclusion: Grass-fed beef consumption was associated with improved plasma omega-3 and CLA profiles and a lower omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, suggesting a beneficial influence on anti-inflammatory lipid status.
A TRIAL OF IRON-BIOFORTIFIED PEARL MILLET ON NEUROCOGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT IN ANAEMIC PRESCHOOL CHILDREN IN A RURAL COMMUNITY
Background: Iron deficiency anaemia remains a major public health issue affecting millions of children in low- and middle-income countries, with profound effects on neurocognitive development. Biofortification of staple foods, such as pearl millet, provides a sustainable dietary approach to improving iron intake and reducing the burden of anaemia among vulnerable populations. Objective: To assess the impact of consuming iron-biofortified pearl millet on cognitive performance and haemoglobin concentration in anaemic preschool children living in a rural community of Lahore, Pakistan. Methods: A 12-month randomized controlled trial was conducted among 120 anaemic preschool children (aged 3–5 years). Participants were randomly assigned to receive daily meals prepared from either iron-biofortified pearl millet (Fe-PM, 80 ppm Fe) or conventional pearl millet (control, 25 ppm Fe). Haemoglobin and serum ferritin concentrations were measured at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months using standardized laboratory methods. Cognitive development was assessed using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ-3) and selected subtests from the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence (WPPSI-IV). Data were analyzed using t-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson’s correlation, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The intervention group showed significant increases in haemoglobin (from 9.3 ± 0.8 to 11.5 ± 0.9 g/dL; p = 0.001) and ferritin (from 18.2 ± 5.4 to 34.4 ± 6.8 µg/L; p = 0.002). Cognitive scores improved markedly in communication (+11.2), problem solving (+12.5), and working memory (+12.4) domains (p = 0.001). Positive correlations were observed between haemoglobin gains and cognitive improvements (r = 0.62–0.71). No adverse effects were reported, and compliance exceeded 90%. Conclusion: Iron-biofortified pearl millet significantly enhanced both haematological and neurocognitive outcomes, supporting its potential as a sustainable, community-based strategy to combat childhood anaemia and promote cognitive development in resource-limited settings.
THERAPEUTIC GARDENING FOR DEPRESSION REDUCTION AMONG FEMALE HOME-BASED WORKERS IN URBAN PERIPHERIES
Background: Women engaged in home-based work in urban peripheries often face elevated risks of depression due to social isolation, economic stress, and limited access to mental health resources. Nature-based interventions, such as therapeutic gardening, have been proposed as strategies to improve emotional wellbeing and strengthen social connectedness, but rigorous evidence in low-resource urban contexts remains scarce. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of structured horticultural activities in reducing depressive symptoms and enhancing social connectedness among female home-based workers. Methods: A six-month randomized controlled trial was conducted in South Punjab involving 120 women aged 18–55 years engaged in home-based employment. Participants were randomized into an intervention group (n=60) receiving ten weeks of structured therapeutic gardening sessions, and a control group (n=60) continuing routine activities. Depression was measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and social connectedness was assessed using the Social Connectedness Scale-Revised (SCS-R). Data analysis included paired and independent t-tests, along with ANCOVA to adjust for baseline differences, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Participants in the intervention group showed significant reductions in depression scores (mean change −5.8) compared to minimal changes in the control group (−0.8; p=0.001). Social connectedness increased markedly in the intervention group (mean change +11.4) versus controls (+1.2; p=0.001). Adjusted analyses confirmed significant intervention effects, with mean differences of −4.9 for PHQ-9 and +9.8 for SCS-R. Session attendance exceeded 85%, indicating high feasibility and participant engagement. Conclusion: Structured therapeutic gardening effectively improves mental health and social connectedness among female home-based workers in urban peripheries. The intervention provides a practical, low-cost, and culturally acceptable approach to supporting mental wellbeing in resource-limited urban settings.
Depression, Female, Gardening, Home-based Work, Mental Health, Randomized Controlled Trial, Social Connectedness
A RANDOMIZED TRIAL OF SELENIUM-BIOFORTIFIED WHEAT CONSUMPTION ON THYROID FUNCTION AND MOOD IN SUBCLINICAL HYPOTHYROID ADULTS.
Background: Subclinical hypothyroidism is frequently associated with inadequate selenium status, which may impair thyroid hormone metabolism and influence mood regulation. Food-based strategies such as selenium-biofortified wheat offer a feasible approach to improving micronutrient intake without reliance on supplements. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of selenium-biofortified wheat consumption on thyroid function and mood outcomes in adults with subclinical hypothyroidism. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted among adults with mildly elevated TSH and normal FT4 levels. Participants were assigned to consume either selenium-biofortified wheat or non-biofortified wheat for 12 weeks. Primary outcomes included serum selenium, TSH, FT4, and FT3. Secondary outcomes included depressive symptoms and state and trait anxiety scores. Measurements were obtained at baseline and week 12. Results: Serum selenium concentrations increased substantially in the intervention group, rising from 72.1 µg/L to 118.4 µg/L, compared with a modest increase in the control group. TSH levels decreased more markedly in the biofortified group (5.12 to 3.98 mIU/L) than in controls. Small but consistent improvements in FT4 and FT3 were observed only in the intervention group. Mood outcomes reflected similar patterns, with the biofortified group demonstrating greater reductions in depressive symptoms and anxiety scores than controls. No serious adverse events occurred, and adherence was high in both groups. Conclusion: Selenium-biofortified wheat enhanced selenium status, improved key thyroid biomarkers, and contributed to better mood outcomes in subclinical hypothyroid adults. These findings support the potential of food-based selenium delivery as a practical and sustainable strategy for improving thyroid-related and psychological health indicators.
Anxiety; Depression; Selenium; Subclinical Hypothyroidism; Thyroid Function; Wheat; Wheat Biofortification
IMPACT OF A HIGH-POLYPHENOL ROOIBOS TEA INTERVENTION ON POSTPRANDIAL LIPEMIA AND ENDOTHELIAL FUNCTION IN ADULTS WITH METABOLIC SYNDROME
Background: Metabolic syndrome is associated with impaired postprandial lipid metabolism and endothelial dysfunction, both of which contribute to increased cardiovascular risk. Nutritional strategies rich in bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, have been suggested to improve these post-meal metabolic disturbances. Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), a herbal tea high in unique polyphenols, has demonstrated potential antioxidant and vascular benefits, yet controlled human trials evaluating its postprandial effects remain limited. Objective: This RC trial was designed to investigate whether the daily intake of rooibos tea, a beverage rich in polyphenols, could beneficially alter post-meal lipid levels and vascular function in individuals diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Methods: The study involved 60 adult participants with metabolic syndrome, randomly allocated into two groups of 30. One group consumed high-polyphenol rooibos tea daily, while the other received a control drink. Following the consumption of a standardized high-fat meal on assessment days, blood was drawn from fasting participants and again at several time points afterward to measure triglyceride levels. Vascular endothelial function was assessed via flow-mediated dilation of the brachial artery. Statistical evaluation of the data included paired and independent t-tests, along with repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) to compare outcomes between the two groups. Conclusion: Daily high-polyphenol rooibos tea consumption effectively improves postprandial lipid metabolism and endothelial function in adults with metabolic syndrome. These findings support its potential as a practical dietary strategy to reduce cardiometabolic risk and promote vascular health.
Endothelial Function, Flavonoids, Metabolic Syndrome, Polyphenols, Postprandial Lipemia, Rooibos, Triglycerides
EFFICACY OF A NOVEL LOW-ALLERGEN, HIGH-OLEIC PEANUT CULTIVAR IN REDUCING SKIN PRICK TEST REACTIVITY IN SENSITIZED CHILDREN
Background: Peanut allergy is a persistent and potentially severe condition in children, with limited strategies for safe tolerance induction. Traditional avoidance and oral immunotherapy approaches present challenges including risk of adverse reactions. Bioengineered peanuts with reduced allergenic protein content and enhanced oleic acid levels offer a potential approach to modulate immune responses while minimizing risk. Objective: To determine whether daily consumption of a novel low-allergen, high-oleic peanut cultivar can safely reduce skin prick test reactivity in peanut-sensitized children and promote early immunological tolerance. Methods: A randomized controlled study was conducted in South Punjab involving 60 children aged 5–12 years with confirmed peanut sensitization. Participants were allocated to either the intervention group, receiving daily portions of the bioengineered peanut for eight weeks, or a control group maintaining standard avoidance. Skin prick tests were performed at baseline and at the end of the intervention. Wheal diameters were measured and adverse events were monitored. Parametric statistical analyses were applied to evaluate within- and between-group differences. Results: The intervention group exhibited a significant reduction in mean wheal diameter from 7.8 ± 1.9 mm to 4.9 ± 1.6 mm (mean change −2.9 ± 1.1 mm), whereas the control group showed minimal change from 7.6 ± 2.0 mm to 7.2 ± 1.8 mm (mean change −0.4 ± 0.9 mm). Mild adverse events occurred in a small proportion of children in the intervention group and were self-limiting. No severe reactions or withdrawals were observed. Conclusion: Daily consumption of the low-allergen, high-oleic peanut cultivar significantly reduced skin prick test reactivity in sensitized children with minimal adverse events. These findings suggest that bioengineered peanuts may provide a safe, practical strategy for early immunological tolerance induction and may complement existing allergy management approaches.
Allergy, Children, Immunotherapy, Peanut, Sensitization, Skin Tests, Tolerance
A RANDOMIZED TRIAL OF ANTHOCYANIN-RICH PURPLE-FLESHED POTATOES ON VASCULAR FUNCTION AND DNA METHYLATION IN ADULTS WITH HYPERTENSION.
Background: Hypertension accelerates vascular aging through endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and adverse epigenetic alterations. Anthocyanin-rich foods have been linked to cardioprotective effects, yet evidence from whole-food interventions assessing both vascular and epigenetic outcomes remains limited. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of daily consumption of anthocyanin-rich purple-fleshed potatoes on endothelial function and DNA methylation markers associated with cardiovascular aging in adults with hypertension. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted among adults with primary hypertension who were allocated to either an anthocyanin-rich purple-fleshed potato intervention or a control diet for six weeks. Flow-mediated dilation and pulse wave velocity were assessed as indicators of vascular function. Global and gene-specific DNA methylation, including LINE-1 and NRF2 promoter methylation, were quantified to evaluate epigenetic shifts. Inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers were measured to support mechanistic interpretation. Results: Participants consuming purple-fleshed potatoes demonstrated a notable improvement in endothelial function, reflected by an increase in flow-mediated dilation and a reduction in arterial stiffness compared with controls. Significant epigenetic changes were observed, including increased LINE-1 methylation and reduced NRF2 promoter methylation. Biochemical markers showed decreased oxidized LDL and C-reactive protein, along with higher nitric oxide metabolites, indicating reduced oxidative stress and improved vascular signaling. No adverse metabolic effects occurred during the intervention. Conclusion: Daily intake of anthocyanin-rich purple-fleshed potatoes improved vascular function and produced favorable epigenetic modifications related to cardiovascular aging. These findings support the potential of anthocyanin-dense whole foods as practical dietary strategies for promoting vascular health in adults with hypertension.
Anthocyanins; Cardiovascular Aging; DNA Methylation; Endothelial Function; Hypertension; Oxidative Stress; Vascular Stiffness
MOBILE-BASED AGRICULTURAL ADVISORY SERVICES AND THEIR IMPACT ON SMALLHOLDER FARMERS' CLIMATE ADAPTATION PRACTICES
Background: Smallholder farmers in climate-vulnerable regions increasingly rely on digital advisory tools to improve agricultural decision-making. Mobile-based agricultural advisory services have emerged as an accessible platform for delivering timely information that may support the adoption of climate-resilient farming practices and enhance household food security. Objective: To evaluate the influence of mobile-based agricultural advisory services on the adoption of climate-resilient practices and household food security among smallholder farmers in South Punjab. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 400 smallholder farmers selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, use of mobile advisory services, adoption of climate-resilient practices, and household food security. Validated checklists and standardized food security scales were applied. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, chi-square tests, logistic regression, and linear regression, assuming normal distribution of continuous variables. Results: Among participants, 52.0% reported using mobile advisory services. Users demonstrated higher adoption of drought-tolerant varieties (72.4%), soil conservation (63.8%), smart irrigation (41.3%), and integrated pest management (58.1%) compared with non-users. Mean household food security scores were also higher among users (31.6 ± 4.3) than non-users (26.8 ± 5.1). Logistic regression indicated that users were significantly more likely to adopt climate-resilient practices after adjusting for socio-economic factors. Adoption scores showed a positive association with food security outcomes. Conclusion: Mobile-based agricultural advisory services contributed to improved adoption of climate-resilient practices and better household food security among smallholder farmers. Integrating digital platforms into agricultural support systems may strengthen climate adaptation efforts in vulnerable farming communities.
A COMMUNITY-BASED INTERVENTION INTEGRATING KITCHEN GARDENING AND NUTRITION EDUCATION FOR RURAL WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT
Background: Rural households in South Punjab continue to face persistent food insecurity, limited dietary diversity, and restricted socio-economic opportunities for women. Integrated community-based interventions that combine household food production with nutrition education offer potential pathways to address both nutritional and empowerment needs. Objective: To evaluate the impact of a kitchen gardening and nutrition education intervention on household food security, dietary diversity, and women’s socio-economic autonomy. Methods: A community-based quasi-experimental study was conducted among 210 women, with 105 in the intervention group and 105 in the comparison group. The intervention included training on kitchen gardening techniques and structured nutrition education. Data were collected at baseline and at six months using standardized tools assessing household food security, dietary diversity, and autonomy. Statistical analysis included paired and independent t-tests, chi-square tests, and multivariable regression, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Household food security improved substantially in the intervention group, with food-secure households increasing from 17.1% to 39.0%. Dietary diversity scores rose from 4.8 to 7.1, compared with a marginal increase in the control group. Women’s autonomy indicators also improved, including decision-making scores (12.3 to 18.6), mobility (10.1 to 14.4), and resource control (9.8 to 13.7). Changes in the comparison group were minimal across all indicators. Conclusion: The integrated intervention demonstrated significant improvements in food security, dietary diversity, and women’s autonomy. Kitchen gardening, when paired with nutrition education, presents a practical and sustainable strategy for strengthening household well-being and supporting women’s empowerment in resource-limited rural settings.