Journal of Basic and Applied Research International

Influence of Biofertilisers on Mulberry Productivity: A Review

T. Bhuvaneshwari — 2026-04-06

Organic sources of nutrients, particularly when integrated with beneficial microbes, have shown potential to improve soil fertility and crop productivity while reducing dependency on synthetic inputs. Mulberry (Morus spp.) is the exclusive food plant of the domesticated silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) and constitutes the biological and economic foundation of the global sericulture industry. Intensive cultivation practices dependent on synthetic fertilisers have progressively degraded mulberry garden soils, diminishing leaf yield, nutritive quality, and long-term crop sustainability. Biofertilisers — preparations containing live or dormant beneficial microorganisms — have emerged as eco-friendly, cost-effective alternatives that underpin sustainable mulberry cultivation. This review synthesises research published between 1995 and 2025 on the influence of nitrogen-fixing bacteria (Azotobacter, Azospirillum, Beijerinckia), phosphate-solubilising microorganisms (PSM), arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), cyanobacteria, and other plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) on the growth, leaf yield, and biochemical quality of mulberry. Evidence consistently demonstrates that biofertiliser application improves vegetative growth parameters, enhances macronutrient and micronutrient uptake, raises leaf moisture, protein, sugar, and amino acid contents, and reduces dependence on chemical inputs by up to 50–75%. Downstream benefits to silkworm rearing — including improved larval growth, cocoon weight, shell ratio, filament length, and raw silk quality — have been documented across multiple agro-climatic zones. Integrated nutrient management (INM) approaches combining biofertiliser consortia with reduced doses of chemical fertilisers or organic manures consistently outperform either strategy in isolation. Key challenges include inconsistent field performance, limited strain standardisation, inadequate shelf-life formulations, and low farmer awareness. Future research priorities include multi-location field trials, development of stable formulations, and elucidation of the molecular mechanisms governing biofertiliser–mulberry interactions. This review provides a comprehensive reference for researchers and practitioners engaged in sustainable sericulture nutrient management.

Community Structure of Testate Amoebae in Soil and Tree Moss of Tropical Evergreen Forests in the Western Ghats, Kerala, India

Bindu Lajapathi — 2026-03-11

The community structure and species composition of Testate amoebae inhabiting in two different microhabitats (soil and tree moss) with a tropical forest biome in Western Ghats viz., Mannavan shola and Pambadum shola was investigated in this article. A total of 63 species were recorded in the two locations and two substrate types. The ANOSIM and ANOVA of total species richness show generally similar patterns where there is a significant difference between tree bark samples from the two sites and there being no difference in the soil samples between two sites. This is the first study of Testate amoebae diversity in the tropical wet evergreen forests of southern India and from these observations it is possible that testate amoeba in tree moss can be used as a good indicator of anthropogenic stresses in these southern evergreen forests of India.

Steaming Up in Hassan Ewes and Its Impact on Growth Performance of Lambs under Confined Rearing System

G. Nataraju — 2026-03-18

A study was carried out to assess the impact of steaming-up on the growth performance of lambs in Hassan ewes. Supplementary feeding during advanced gestation in sheep will influence the growth of the foetus thereby improving the neo natal lamb performance. To assess this, the present experiment included a total of 18 ewes belonging to Hassan breed, which were randomly allotted into two groups. Group I (G-I) (n=9) were fed as per ICAR (2013) recommendations, and Group II (G-II) (n=9) were fed a ration exceeding ICAR standards during the last 45 days of gestation (Steaming-up). Uniform managemental practices and confined rearing of animals was practiced throughout the study period. Birth weight (kg) of the lambs and subsequently, every fortnightly body weight (kg) of lambs was recorded, during the pre-weaning period (90 days of age) and the average daily gain (g/d) was calculated. The survivability of the lambs was also assessed in the study. The average lamb birth weight was 2.45 ± 0.13 and 2.62 ± 0.15 for G-I and G-II, respectively, which did not differ significantly whereas, a significant (p<0.05) difference in body weight was observed between groups during the pre-lambing period, however, it remained non-significant during the initial pre lambing period. The average daily gain (ADG) of pre-weaned lambs in G-I and G-II, showed significantly (p<0.05) higher difference and the survivability of lambs recorded in G-I was 88.88 per cent whereas, the same in G-II was 100 per cent. Steaming-up showed a beneficial impact on the growth of lambs under confined rearing practice of Hassan sheep.

Cultivar-Level Micromorphological Delimitation of Piper nigrum Using SEM-Based Palynological Analysis

T. Alexander — 2026-03-23

Black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) is an economically important spice crop in tropical regions, yet cultivar-level palynological differentiation remains poorly explored. The present study investigates the qualitative and quantitative pollen morphometrics of six Panniyur cultivars (Panniyur 1 to Panniyur 6) cultivated in the southern Western Ghats of Kerala, India, using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) integrated with multivariate statistical analyses. Pollen samples collected during the flowering season (May - June) were processed through standard acetolysis and SEM preparation protocols. Qualitative observations revealed conserved spheroidal to subspheroidal, inaperturate pollen grains with microreticulate exine ornamentation across all cultivars. However, quantitative measurements of polar axis, equatorial diameter, exine thickness, lumina diameter, muri thickness, and ornamentation density demonstrated significant inter-varietal variation (p < 0.05), except for the P/E ratio. Descriptive statistics indicated greater variability in exine architectural traits compared to overall pollen size. Principal Component Analysis explained 97.2% of cumulative variance, with exine thickness and ornamentation density contributing most strongly to cultivar separation. Hierarchical cluster analysis (Ward’s method) grouped cultivars into two major clusters, while Discriminant Function Analysis achieved complete classification accuracy under the applied model. The congruence of univariate and multivariate results highlights the diagnostic potential of exine micro-architecture for cultivar-level discrimination. The study underscores the value of SEM-based quantitative palynology as a supplementary tool for varietal authentication and taxonomic refinement in Piper nigrum.

Diversity of Moss-Dwelling Testate Amoebae from Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, Bihar, India: A Preliminary Survey

V. M. Sathish Kumar — 2026-03-27

The presence of moss-dwelling testate amoebae at the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, Bihar has not been reported in literature before. The current study represents the first documentation of testate amoeba in this conservation area. Testate amoebae are single-celled protists that are characterized by being encased by external tests of chitin (shells) and are commonly known to be a good bioindicator due to their strong susceptibility to environmental variations. In November 2024, as part of faunal survey, moss samples were collected from soil by scraping with a spatula into polythene bags and brought to the laboratory for further processing by the non-flooded petri dish method then prepared permanent slide mounts and examined using microscopes equipped with camera attachment for image capturing and species-level identification to determine the diversity of testate amoeba living in moss microhabitats in the sanctuary. The study showed 13 species belonging to 6 genera and 6 families. The results are the first report of testate amoebae in Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, Bihar and have demonstrated the ecological importance of moss as an important microhabitat in sustaining testate amoeba diversity as they respond rapidly to environmental changes.

A Faculty-Level Quality Assurance Management Information System Developed Using the Modified Waterfall Model

Rudianto Artiono — 2026-03-28

Background: Online platform-based educational technology support is also utilized to ensure the accessibility and sustainability of the system. After implementation, continuous monitoring and evaluation are carried out to ensure the effectiveness of the system, accompanied by the development of user competencies through training and mentoring so that the full potential of the system can be optimally utilized.

Aims: This study aims to develop a Quality Assurance Management Information System at the faculty level as a concrete effort to optimize the quality of higher education management.

Study Design: The output of this research is a quality assurance information system

Place and Duration of Study: Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri Surabaya, From January 2024 to December 2024.

Methodology: The method used in developing a quality assurance management information system at the faculty level will use the Modified Waterfall Method. The steps taken in this method will return to the previous step to test whether the steps developed are in accordance with what was planned or expected.

Results: The output of this research is a quality assurance information system called BENJAMIN MAKSI (Electronic Basis for Accreditation Quality Assurance), which is designed to support the quality assurance and accreditation process in a systematic and sustainable manner. The system design was developed using a database table-based Entity Relationship Diagram (ERD) approach, adapting the Excel template structure into a relational database schema. Each user category, such as the head of the study program, the Quality Assurance Unit, and the accreditation team or task force, was given access rights through a login mechanism to fill in, manage, and download accreditation data in accordance with their respective authorities.

Conclusion: This research successfully developed a web-based Quality Assurance Accreditation Management Information System at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Surabaya State University. The developed system, BENJAMIN MAKSI (Electronic Quality Assurance Accreditation Database), is designed to support the management of quantitative accreditation data and Program Performance Reports (PPR) in accordance with the national accreditation instruments. The development of this system provides a concrete solution to improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and integration of quality assurance management at the faculty level. The development of this system provides a concrete solution to improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and integration of quality assurance management at the faculty level. Finally, further research can focus on measuring the impact of the system's use on improving the effectiveness of quality assurance and quantitative accreditation achievements of study programs.

The Study of Physicochemical Properties, Microbial Activities and IR Spectral Analysis of Zn (II) - Cyclophosphamide Complex

Sanchita Jain — 2026-03-31

The synthesis and analysis of metal-drug coordination complexes, such as those involving Zn(II) and cyclophosphamide, offer significant insights into medicinal chemistry. The present study investigates the complex formation of Cyclophosphamide with Zn(II) metal ion using polarographic, spectroscopic, and antimicrobial analyses. The method is using for analysis of cyclophosphamide complex is physiochemical and microbial culture. The results are showing, infrared spectral analysis further supported complex formation, as the P=O stretching band shifted from 1275 cm⁻¹ to 1285 cm⁻¹ and the C–O stretching band from 1200 cm⁻¹ to 1215 cm⁻¹ in the Zn(II) complex, indicating coordination through the P=O group. Based on polarographic, amperometric, analytical, and IR spectral data, a probable structure of the Zn(II)–Cyclophosphamide complex was proposed. The synthesized complex exhibited antibacterial activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus subtilis with inhibition zones of 15 mm, 13 mm, and 18 mm respectively, while no activity was observed against Escherichia coli. The enhanced antimicrobial activity may be attributed to increased lipophilicity of the metal complex, facilitating better penetration into microbial cell membranes. The increased lipophilicity of the metal complex, which makes it easier for the complex to penetrate microbial cell membranes, may be responsible for the enhanced biological activity. As a result, the produced Zn(II) Cyclophosphamide complex may find use in the creation of antibacterial medicines that are more potent.

Exploring and Analysing the Dependency of Youth on Artificial Intelligence: A Sociological Perspective

Akshay Kumar — 2026-04-06

Today’s Digital world has changed our way of living, thinking, expression and behaviour. With the increased use of technology, we see numerous technological advancements, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the most effective tools used by youth.

The present study adopts a mixed-methods research design, combining quantitative and qualitative approach that examines youth’s dependency on artificial intelligence (AI). The target population for the present study includes youth aged 15-30 years. The study adopts non-probability sampling methods, specifically purposive sampling and convenience sampling, for the responses. A total of 100 respondents have been taken for the quantitative survey. The variables and measures used during the study include independent, dependent, and controlled. The independent variables consist of frequency, time spent, and purpose of using AI (education, decision making, entertainment). The collection of data is done using a structured questionnaire consisting of closed-ended and Likert-scale, dichotomous scale to know the AI usage and dependency level. The analysis of quantitative data is done using descriptive statistics consisting of frequencies, percentages, and mean scores. The chosen area for the study is Shiv Jyoti International School, Ranpur, Maharishi Arvind Public School, Ranpur and Jai Minesh Adivasi University, Ranpur. The study took two months for completion (December 26, 2025 to February 28, 2026).

76 per cent of respondents (15-22 years) think that artificial intelligence is more intelligent than humans, while 70 per cent of respondents (23-30 years) also found that AI triggers the way of thinking. 46 per cent of respondents (15-22 years) feel AI dependency, while 48 per cent deny. 48 per cent of respondents (15-22 years) found that AI can enslave humans, and 60 per cent of respondents (23-30 years) refused.

The over-reliance on technology has made youth habitual over digital devices, and when they come across any problem, be it personal advice, emotional support, or everyday decision making, they seek online answers and rely on them, which makes them virtually dependent.

Linking Tree Growth with Yield Attributes through Regression Approach Using Mature Trees of Mahua (Madhuca longifolia var. latifolia Roxb. A. Chev.)

H. T. Hegde — 2026-04-09

Mahua is an important timber and Non-Timber Forest Products of India that provide environmental, nutritional and socioeconomic security among the rural people. Many tribal communities, recognizing this tree as religious and aesthetic importance. Flowers, fruits and seeds and their products are of commercial importance. In fact, as per FSI report, Mahua is one of the top ranked species of trees outside forest based on total growing stock. The present study aims to understand the relationship between growth and yield parameters among medium to old aged trees of Mahua, and to develop a regression equation for estimation of volume of standing Mahua trees. Accordingly, trees located in Limbarpada, Sidumber and Pipalkhed natural stands in South Gujarat have been used for recording biometric observation. Result shows that a strong positive association between growth and yield attributes was recorded in Mahua. Diameter at breast height (DBH) correlated strongly with tree height, mid diameter, basal area, volume, biomass and carbon stock. Similar relationship was also recorded between DBH with crown diameter and crown length. Further, regression equations using linear, power, logarithm and quadratic models were tested; among them, power model: V= aD^b was found to be the best fitted equation. Hence, it is suggested to use volumetric equation i.e., V= 0.00009*D^2.4663 (R² = 0.939 & RMSE of 0.830) for estimation of medium to old aged Mahua trees. The volume generated from this equation can be used for estimation of biomass and carbon stock of Mahua trees.

Role of Environmental Impact Assessment in Wildlife Conservation Outside Protected Areas in the Face of Development Interventions

Mirembe Dan — 2026-04-10

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) evaluates environmental impacts of proposed projects and policies to identify, predict, and mitigate their potential negative effects. In Uganda, home to exceptional biodiversity with over 18,783 recorded species of flora and fauna, ranks among the top ten (10) biodiverse countries globally. Despite robust legal framework, legislative conflicts may undermine protection of species outside protected areas. This study assessed the role of EIA in conservation of wild fauna outside the protected zones in Orom East Sub-County, Karega District, Uganda. The project area was delineated, habitats with potential impacts were mapped, relevant literature was reviewed, and direct observations, track-and-sign surveys, and acoustic monitoring were conducted. The surveys identified sixty-one (61) distinct species across the following six taxonomic classes: insecta (Formica spp, Acrididae, Stomoxys spp, Simuliidae, Papilio spp), Aves (Apalis k, Ploceus s, Colius s, Lamprotornis a, Columba l), Reptilia (Stigmochelys p, Python s, Bitis a, Bitis g, Naja h), Amphibia (Sclerophrys g, Amietia a, Phrynobatrachus spp), Mammalia (Lepus spp, Phacochoerus a, Loxodonta a, and Papio a). The Shannon Diversity Index was 2.05, indicating a well-balanced and fairly diverse ecological community. Potential impacts of the project development (habitat loss and fragmentation, pollution, invasive species introduction, barriers to mobility, alteration of water flow, mortality, disturbance, and stress) were assessed as minor. Nonetheless, to mitigate cumulative long-term effects of ecosystem disruptions, population declines, the study recommends habitat restoration, creation of wildlife corridors, pollution control and waste management, invasive species management, enhanced monitoring and adaptive management, community engagement and education, collaboration with conservation authorities, and regular audits and reporting of mitigation effectiveness.

Effects of Dietary Olive Oil (Olea europaea) Supplementation on Growth Performance and Haematological Parameters of Juvenile Clarias Gariepinus

Muhammad, Abubakar — 2026-04-11

This study assessed the impacts of dietary Olea europaea (olive) oil on the growth performance and haematological parameters of juvenile Clarias gariepinus. Five dietary treatments with three replicates each were randomly assigned to 150 juveniles whose mean weight ranged from 10.22 to 11.78 g. The juveniles were fed experimental diets for 56 days. A commercial diet (control), a basal diet devoid of olive oil, and basal diets supplemented with 10 g/kg, 20 g/kg, and 30 g/kg of olive oil comprised the treatments. One-way ANOVA was used to examine growth performance and haematological parameters. Growth indices and some haematological parameters showed significant differences (P < 0.05) between treatments. Fish fed the commercial diet performed better in terms of growth, while moderate level of olive oil inclusion enhanced certain physiological indicators, indicating that the diet significantly influenced their overall health and growth performance compared to other treatments. The findings therefore demonstrate that dietary supplementation of olive oil affects growth performance and haematological parameters of C. gariepinus with moderate levels of inclusion exhibiting positive physiological outcomes. Olive oil can thus be a promising source of natural lipids in aquafeeds and an alternative to synthetic growth promoters in aquaculture nutrition.

Diversity of Treehoppers (Hemiptera: Membracidae) from the Jawadhu Hills, Tirupathur District, Tamil Nadu, India

S. Prabakaran — 2026-04-11

This study provides a wide-ranging list of Treehoppers species (Hemiptera: Membracidae) from the Thirupathur district of Tamil Nadu in India. The main aim of the study was to assess the diversity and abundance of Treehoppers across a range of ecosystems, including agricultural landscapes and forest ecosystem. Samples have been collected in several plants from various habitats across the hills using hand‑picking, insect nets, and Winkler‑type sampling, and preserved in 70% ethyl alcohol. in this ecosystem. A total of 20 species is recorded, all belonging to the subfamily Centrotinae, distributed across four tribes (Boccharini, Gargarini, Leptocentrini, and Oxyrhacini). The assemblage is dominated by the tribes Gargarini (3 genera, 6 species) and Oxyrhacini (1 genus, 6 species), each contributing three‑fifths of the total species‑richness. The checklist includes several regionally distributed taxa such as Leptocentrus taurus, Oxyrhachis tarandus, and Gargara madrasensis, as well as relatively restricted or endemic species such as Lanceonotus mukkaliensis and G. madrasensis, underscoring the Jawadhu Hills as a Centrotinae micro‑hotspot within the Eastern Ghats. The findings provide the first systematic inventory of Membracidae for this region Prabakaran et al. (2017)., highlight the importance of the Jawadhu Hills for treehopper conservation, and call for future studies on host‑plant associations, seasonal abundance, and phenology to refine our understanding of membracid diversity in the Eastern Ghats.

Transaminase Enzyme Activity Changes Attributed to Daily Administration of the Aqueous Extract of Azadirachta indica in Wistar Albino Rats

Ebele Ijeoma Azaka — 2026-04-15

Liver diseases and hepatotoxicity remain major global health concerns, often resulting from exposure to xenobiotics, drugs, infections, and environmental toxins; which frequently lead to disruption of hepatocyte membranes, causing leakage of intracellular enzymes such as ALT and AST into the bloodstream. This study evaluated the effects of daily administration of aqueous leaf extract of Azadirachta indica on transaminase enzyme activity in Wistar albino rats. Eighty-four rats were randomly assigned into four groups in triplicate containing 7 rats each: control and three treatment groups receiving 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg body weight of the extract, respectively. Following the treatment period, serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were determined using standard biochemical methods. Results showed that ALT levels decreased across treated groups compared to control, with the lowest value observed at 400 mg/kg, although the differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). In contrast, AST levels exhibited a significant reduction (p < 0.05), particularly at the highest dose (600 mg/kg). The findings suggest that aqueous extract of A. indica exerts a modulatory effect on liver enzymes, potentially indicating hepatoprotective activity without inducing hepatic toxicity. These results support the traditional use of neem and highlight its potential role in maintaining liver enzyme homeostasis. However, further studies are required to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and long-term safety of its continuous use.

A Systems Theory Perspective on Leadership: The Symbiotic Relationship between Nature and Nurture

Paul Andrew Bourne — 2026-04-06

Leadership has historically been examined through the nature-nurture debate, with scholars arguing over whether it is primarily the result of biological inheritance or environmental conditioning. However, contemporary interdisciplinary research suggests that leadership is better understood as an emergent property of complex human systems rather than a purely individual attribute. This study examines leadership as a sub-system of the human system through systems theory and Durkheim’s concept of organic solidarity, arguing that leadership is a symbiotic relationship between nature and nurture, with neither independently determining leadership outcomes. Employing a meta-analytical framework, the current study integrates quantitative findings from behavioural genetics and leadership research with qualitative sociological and organisational studies to construct a comprehensive systems-based model of leadership development and function. Behavioural genetic studies indicate that leadership traits exhibit moderate heritability, with some leadership dimensions showing genetic influence of approximately 30% to 60%, suggesting that biological predispositions play a role in the emergence of leadership. However, sociological and organisational research demonstrates that leadership effectiveness is shaped by environmental conditions, education, organisational culture, emotional intelligence, and institutional structures, reinforcing the importance of nurture in leadership development. Using systems theory, leadership is conceptualised as a regulatory and adaptive sub-system within the broader human social system, functioning to coordinate specialised roles in complex societies characterised by interdependence, a condition Durkheim (1893) described as organic solidarity. The current study concludes that leadership cannot be explained solely by biological determinism or environmental conditioning but must be understood as a systemic phenomenon emerging from the interaction between individual predispositions and social structures.