Agricultural Research Updates. Volume 26

Agricultural Research Updates. Volume 26 opens with a discussion about various control methods used in cowpea integrated pest management. Cowpea is one of the most widely adapted and nutritious legumes. The high content of carbohydrates and proteins makes it very important for human consumption. Several pests, especially insects, can cause yield losses ranging from 10-100%. The following study explores the global panorama of the use of chemical herbicides, as well as promising technologies for weed control. The authors also discuss the genetic improvement of plants and biocontrol by innovative methods that can reduce cases of resistance, considering aspects like efficiency, viability and environmental benefits. An exhaustive focus on toxic metals is provided, particularly on analytical methodologies suitable to detect these metals in Camellia sinensis. Various analytical techniques and procedures employed are critically discussed, and special attention is paid to the analytical performance in terms of accuracy and detectability. Following this, the functionalities of lemon peel are investigated, and the effectiveness of applying subcritical water treatment to the insoluble fractions is examined. Lemon peel is usually discarded as industrial waste, despite having a strong flavor and containing abundant oils and fibrous components, largely due to the challenges associated with using its insoluble polymeric components in chemical products. Agricultural production is the main livelihood to a majority of the population and a lead contributor to economy in most sub-Saharan countries. In Kenya, agriculture accounts for 65% of the national exports and 70% of informal employment in rural Kenya. As such, the authors aim to establish key crops and livestock in Kenya, examine constraints and opportunities along the value chain, and review the role of institutions in the agricultural sector.