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Introduction: Substance-use disorders (SUDs) are a public health problem. The Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) and National Family Health Survey (NFHS) provide evidence of high usage. Hence, the National Mental Health Survey (NMHS) WB data were analyzed to estimate the prevalence, pattern, disability burden, and service utilization of SUD. Methodology: The usual NMHS methodology was used. Four districts were selected, and thereafter, a multistage random sampling was done. The validated Bengali version of the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) and other instruments like the Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND), disability, and health care utilization modules were used. Results: A total of 2,646 eligible members (age >18 years as per 2011 census) were interviewed. It was found that alcohol use as per MINI at least 3 drinks of alcohol within 3 hours on 3 or more occasions was 3.9%, and the weighted prevalence of alcohol-use disorder (AUD) and tobacco-use disorder (TUD) was 3.04% and 14%, respectively. The AUD and TUD prevalence was lower than the national prevalence, yet they were more prevalent in urban areas than in the national trend. The ratio of women to men suffering from AUD in WB (1:5) was one of the highest in the country (all India average 1:18). Also, the treatment gap of 89.2% was more than the national average. Discussion: SUDs are an important public health problem in the state of WB, which requires further research, particularly among women, comorbid psychiatric disorders, and in urban areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pharmacogenomic (PGx) factors significantly influence how patients respond to antipsychotic medications This systematic review was performed to synthesize the clinical utility of PGx-assisted treatment versus standard of care in schizophrenia. Methods: PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from inception till June 2024 that had compared the clinical utility of PGx-assisted intervention as compared to the standard of care in schizophrenia. The primary outcome was safety, and the secondary outcomes were efficacy and medication adherence. Pooled standardized mean differences (SMD) along with a 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated (random-effects model) wherever feasible. Results: A total of 18,821 studies were screened, and five were included for review. All the RCTs had a high risk of bias. Four studies included the commonly used antipsychotics. Three studies reported negative outcomes (safety, efficacy, and medication adherence) and two reported positive outcomes (safety) using different scales. In the meta-analysis, there were significant differences in the total Udvalg for Kliniske Undersogelser Side-Effect Rating scale score [SMD 0.95 (95% CI: 0.76–1.13), p < 0.001); I2 = 0%] and the total Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale score [SMD 10.65 (95% CI: 2.37–18.93), p = 0.01); I2 = 100%] between the PGx-assisted treatment and standard of care arms. However, the results were inconsistent, and the certainty of evidence (GRADE criteria) was very low. Conclusion: Current evidence on the clinical utility of PGx-assisted treatment in schizophrenia is limited and inconsistent and further evidence is required in this regard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Assessment of the severity of substance use disorders (SUDs) in a culture-sensitive manner can help gauge the current condition of the substance user and assess change with time. The present study aimed to develop a scale for the assessment of the severity of SUDs in the Indian clinical context. Methods: Based upon the review of literature on previously available instruments and a consultative meeting of experts, a clinician-rated scale was developed that finally comprised 41 items. A briefer 5-item scale with current and lifetime versions was also developed. The scales were applied to patients with SUDs at six different clinical sites. Results: The instrument was applied to 720 patients (98.2% males, mean age: 34.6 years). The Cronbach's alpha of the full scale was 0.852. The inter-rater reliability Pearson correlation coefficient of the full-scale was r = 0.821 (P < 0.001), and the intra-class correlation coefficient single measure was 0.800 (95% confidence interval: 0.724-0.956). A four-factor solution was suggested to be the most tenable. The mean application duration of the full scale was 13.4 minutes, and that of the briefer version was 2 minutes. Conclusion: This validated scale could be a potentially useful assessment measure for the severity of SUDs in the Indian context. The utility lies in the simplicity of administration and scoring and the balance between brevity and thorough assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Understanding pathways to dual diagnosis (DD) care will help organize DD services and facilitate training and referral across healthcare sectors. Aim: The aim of our study was to characterize the stepwise healthcare and other contacts among patients with DD, compare the characteristics of the first contact persons with common mental disorder (CMD) versus severe mental illness (SMI), and estimate the likelihood of receiving appropriate DD treatment across levels of contacts. Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive study in eight Indian centers included newly enrolled patients with DD between April 2022 and February 2023. The research spans varied geographic regions, tapping into regional variations in disease burden, health practices, and demographics. The study categorized healthcare contacts by using the WHO Pathways Encounter Form. Results: The sample (n = 589) had a median age of 32 years, mostly males (96%). Alcohol was the most common substance; SMI (50.8%) and CMD were equally represented. Traditional healers were a common first contact choice (18.5%); however, integrated DD care dominated subsequent contacts. Assistance likelihood increased from the first to the second contact (23.1% to 62.1%) but declined in subsequent contacts, except for a significant rise in the fifth contact (97.4%). In the initial contact, patients with CMD sought help from public-general hospitals and private practitioners for SUD symptoms; individuals with SMI leaned on relatives and sought out traditional healers for psychiatric symptoms. Conclusion: Recognizing the cultural nuances, advocating for integrated care, and addressing systemic challenges pave the way to bridge the gap in DD treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Substance use disorders (SUDs) are among the leading causes of morbidity in the population. In low- and medium-income countries like India, there is a wide treatment gap for SUD. A multicentric study on the care pathways for SUD in India can help to understand service provision, service utilization, and challenges to improve existing SUD care in India. Aim: We aimed to map pathways to care in SUD. We compared the clinical and demographic characteristics of patients who first consulted specialized services versus other medical services. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of consecutive, consenting adults (18-65 years) with SUD registered to each of the nine participating addiction treatment services distributed across five Indian regions. We adapted the World Health Organization's pathway encounter form. Results: Of the 998 participants, 98% were males, 49.4% were rural, and 20% were indigenous population. Addiction services dominated initial (50%) and subsequent (60%) healthcare contacts. One in five contacted private for-profit healthcare. Primary care contact was rare (5/998). Diverse approaches included traditional healers (4-6%) and self-medication (2-8%). There was a 3-year delay in first contact; younger, educated individuals with opioid dependence preferred specialized services. Conclusion: There is a need to strengthen public healthcare infrastructure and delivery systems and integrate SUD treatment into public healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The response to antipsychotic therapy is highly variable. Pharmacogenomic (PGx) factors play a major role in deciding the effectiveness and safety of antipsychotic drugs. A hybrid type 2 effectiveness-implementation research will be conducted to evaluate the clinical utility (safety and efficacy), cost-effectiveness, and facilitators and barriers in implementing PGx-assisted management compared to standard of care in patients with schizophrenia attending a tertiary care hospital in eastern India. Methods: In part 1, a randomized controlled trial will be conducted. Adult patients with schizophrenia will be randomized (2: 1) to receive PGx-assisted treatment (drug and regimen selection depending on the results of single-nucleotide polymorphisms in genes DRD2, HTR1A, HTR2C, ABCB1, CYP2D6, CYP3A5, and CYP1A2) or the standard of care. Serum drug levels will be measured. The patients will be followed up for 12 weeks. The primary endpoint is the difference in the Udvalg for Kliniske Undersøgelser Side-Effect Rating Scale score between the two arms. In part 2, the cost-effectiveness of PGx-assisted treatment will be evaluated. In part 3, the facilitators and barriers to implementing PGx-assisted treatment for schizophrenia will be explored using a qualitative design. Expected outcome: The study findings will help in understanding whether PGx-assisted management has a clinical utility, whether it is cost-effective, and what are the facilitators and barriers to implementing it in the management of schizophrenia. Trial registration: The study has been registered with the Clinical Trials Registry–India (CTRI/2023/08/056210). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychogenic vomiting is often diagnosed in the absence of medical, psychiatric, or other conditions. Although functional gastrointestinal disorders are now an established entity, still psychogenic vomiting has its place as a temporary diagnosis till a more definitive diagnosis emerges, particularly during the developmental period. The usefulness of psychogenic vomiting is illustrated by four interrelated pediatric cases as a forerunner of formed psychopathology or as an epiphenomenon of significant psychosocial issues. Hence, psychogenic vomiting can be advocated to have a more prominent place in nosology in the coming years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim was to evaluate the outcome of tobacco cessation services. The primary objective was to find the association of early retention in services with tobacco cessation outcomes. Secondarily, it tried to find other sociodemographic, clinical, and treatment-related predictors of tobacco cessation. Methodology: The outcome would be evaluated through a retrospective-prospective design. The retrospective design was recorded based, while the prospective design was done telephonically by calling the patients and enquiring about their status after at least 6 months since their first visit. Patients with "No tobacco usage in last 1 month" were considered "abstinent." Those who "reduced their usage in last 1 month" by about 50% were considered to have "reduced" usage, whereas others who "continued their usage in same previous manner" were considered "same" user. Results: Out of 356 patients registered between June 1, 2021 and February 28, 2022, 81 (22.75%) could not be contacted, 221 (62.08%) had "reduced usage" after a tele-follow-up of at least 6 months, 50 (14.04%) patients have retained similar amount of usage and 4 patients expired. Of the 221 who reduced usage, 53 were abstinent (14.48%). "Initial retention in services" that is a single physical follow-up was significantly associated with "reduced usage" (P = 0.003) in the tele-follow-up with a median duration of 13 months. With regard to "abstinence," none could stand the test of significance after correction in the logistic model except "types of tobacco usage" which predicted a statistically significant effect with an odds ratio of 3.15 (P = 0.01). Conclusion: This study reveals important information regarding "type of tobacco" as a predictor of abstinence and "initial physical retention" as a predictor of "reduction in tobacco usage." Such studies need further clarification in future, more robust face-to-face studies with biochemical verification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solution-processable molecular dopants are popular wet-lab mediators to engineer the electronic properties of organic semiconductors and to optimize the level performance of their corresponding devices. Nonetheless, the exact doping mechanism that is operative during the interaction of organic semiconductors with Lewis acid species is not fully elaborated. The products of the doping reactions between Lewis acids and organic semiconductors have not been studied in detail. Here we focus on the macromolecular poly[bis(4-phenyl)(2,4-dimethylphenyl)]amine (PTAA) and molecular fluorinated anthradithiophene (diF-TES-ADT) organic semiconductors for addressing their chemical integrity after p-doping by the tris(pentafluorophenyl) borane [B(C6F5)3] Lewis acid agent. The PTAA and diF-TES-ADT organic substrates are studied in mixtures with B(C6F5)3 at three discrete concentration regimes. In the dilute solution regime, UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy verifies the effectiveness of p-doping by the changes observed in the absorption spectra of the solutions at increased B(C6F5)3 content. In the concentrated solution regime, the reactivity of B(C6F5)3 with PTAA and diF-TES-ADT is monitored by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) and electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy (ES-MS), as well as thin-layer chromatography (TLC). Finally, in the solid-state the photophysical properties of spin-coated PTAA:B(C6F5)3 and diF-TES-ADT:B(C6F5)3 films are examined as a function of their B(C6F5)3 content. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations corroborate the experimental findings. Both theoretical and experimental results exclude the formation of Lewis adduct species in the PTAA:B(C6F5)3 and diF-TES-ADT:B(C6F5)3 systems. In agreement with recent literature, the B(C6F5)3 reactivity is attributed to the Brønsted-type acidity of the hydrated B(C6F5)3–OH2 complex that induces p-doping via the protonation of the organic substrates. The formation of the B(C6F5)3–OH2 acidic agent is identified experimentally by its characteristic 1H-NMR signal at 4.7 ppm. All results for the three concentration regimes provide evidence for the occurrence of PTAA and diF-TES-ADT decomposition in the presence of B(C6F5)3. At high B(C6F5)3 loadings, ES-MS spectroscopy and TLC analysis suggest that B(C6F5)3 remains unreacted, revealing the catalytic role in the decomposition process of PTAA and diF-TES-ADT. The results suggest that after interacting with Lewis acids, organic semiconductors may undergo detrimental decomposition reactions. This potentially undesired chemical reactivity should be considered for evaluating the operation stability of the p-doped electronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Pandemic and consequent lockdowns are likely to affect the drug market by the sudden disruption of the supply chain. We explored the change in the availability, access, purity, and pricing during lockdown from respondents seeking treatment for drugs, alcohol, and tobacco dependence. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 404 respondents from seven treatment centers across India. A structured questionnaire assessed the change in availability, access, quality, and price of substances used during the first phase (March 24–April 14) and the second phase (April 15–May 3) of lockdown. Results: A majority of the respondents in treatment used tobacco (63%) and alcohol (52%). Relatively few respondents used opioids (45%) or cannabis (5%). Heroin (44%) was the most common opioid the respondents were treated for. Seventy-five percent, 65%, and 60% of respondents treated for alcohol, tobacco, and opioid problems, respectively, reported a reduction in the availability and access during the first phase of the lockdown. In the second phase, respondents with alcohol and tobacco dependence reported greater availability than those with opioid and cannabis dependence. The reported price of all substances increased more than 50% during the first phase of lockdown and remained higher throughout the second phase. Deterioration in purity was reported by more than half of the people who used opioid. Conclusion: Lockdown could have affected both licit and illicit drug markets, albeit to a varying degree. The observed changes seemed short-lasting, as suggested by the recovering trends during the second phase of lockdown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In 2019-20, the American College of Radiology (ACR) introduced Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System Magnetic Resonance Imaging (O-RADS MRII). Application of the O-RADS MRI in routine clinical practice can increase lesion characterization accuracy, promote better interdisciplinary communication, and help in personalized patient management of adnexal masses. Aim: To assess the diagnostic performance of the ACR O-RADS MRI scoring system for the predicting malignancy in adnexal mass in routine clinical radiology practice by using histology/imaging findings during a minimum 4 month follow-up as the reference standard. Materials and Methods: In this single-tertiary center prospective cohort study done in Jorhat Medical College, Assam, 42 patients with 46 adnexal masses who underwent MRI between April 2020 and June 2021 were assessed. The ACR O-RADS MR scores were assigned using the MRI protocol with a dynamic study. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values along with the area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve were calculated (cut-off score =4 was considered malignancy,). Histopathologic diagnosis or >4 months followup imaging findings was the reference standard used. Logistic regression analysis of MRI parameters used in identifying malignant masses was assessed. Statistical analysis was done using 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The p-values <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of subjects in the study was 35.9 (range 10-75 years), and 84.8% of adnexal masses (39) were premenopausal. Malignancy was more common in postmenopausal patients (57.1%). Of 46 lesions, 13 (33.3%) were malignant. The ACR O-RADS-MR scoring system, using a dynamic MRI protocol, showed 92.3% sensitivity and 87.8%specificity in malignancy prediction. The area under the ROC curve for predicting malignancy was 0.962. The positive and negative predictive values were 75% and 89.1%, respectively. Conclusion: In a teaching hospital in assam, the O-RADS MRI scoring system, based on a dynamic MRI protocol demonstrated good sensitivity, specificity and area under the Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC) curve in identifying malignant adnexal masses. The ACR O-RADS MRI system enables standardized MRI reporting with uniform lexicon and interpretation guide on adnexal masses. This will help to improve communication between radiologists and referring physician and in patient management, particularly in indeterminate masses on ultrasound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing demand to attain organic materials with high electron mobility, μe, as current reliable reported values are significantly lower than those exhibited by their hole mobility counterparts. Here, it is shown that a well‐known nonfullerene‐acceptor commonly used in organic solar cells, that is, BTP‐4F (aka Y6), enables solution‐processed organic thin‐film transistors (OTFT) with a μe as high as 2.4 cm2 V−1 s−1. This value is comparable to those of state‐of‐the‐art n‐type OTFTs, opening up a plethora of new possibilities for this class of materials in the field of organic electronics. Such efficient charge transport is linked to a readily achievable highly ordered crystalline phase, whose peculiar structural properties are thoroughly discussed. This work proves that structurally ordered nonfullerene acceptors can exhibit intrinsically high mobility and introduces a new approach in the quest of high μe organic materials, as well as new guidelines for future materials design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epidemiological studies suggest that 10–15% adults meet the present criteria for the diagnosis of insomnia disorder; however, there may be geographical variations. Untreated insomnia disorders have a number of adverse health consequences in addition to economic burden caused by it. Available guidelines mention that CBT-I should be preferred over hypnotics. However, several patients of chronic insomnia are not candidate for CBT-I and for them, hypnotics are the only answer. This paper reviews the literature to answer following questions: What is the current understanding regarding place of hypnotics for in management of insomnia disorder? How many patients misuse or abuse hypnotics, especially benzodiazepines, as commonly believed? Do we have data from human studies regarding low-dose benzodiazepine dependence? What does hypnotics produce—withdrawal insomnia, rebound insomnia or end of dose phenomenon? Are adverse effects of benzodiazepines worse than other psychotropic medications? Is prescription of hypnotics more troublesome than untreated insomnia disorder? Available literature suggests that there is an unreasonable negative bias attached to the use of hypnotics. Only a sub-set of patients who are prescribed hypnotics, meet the criteria for "dependence" in long term. Other patients either discontinue it (as insomnia remits) or change to occasional use (since insomnia may be relapsing remitting disorder), or continue using it in low dose (since insomnia reappears as hypnotics are discontinued, similar to increase in blood sugar after hypoglycemics are discontinued). Meta-analysis shows that adverse effects of hypnotics are comparable to that of other psychotropic medications. Considering the consequences and risks associated with untreated insomnia disorder, even long-term use of hypnotics is justified, however with the careful watch that patients are not increasing the dose. This approach is especially important in geographical areas where trained CBT-I therapists are not available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The unprecedented first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted mental health services globally. However, the negative impact of such disruptions on people with substance use disorders (SUD) seeking treatment remains unclear. We aim to explore the behaviors adopted by these individuals to overcome the service disruptions. Materials and Methods: We explored the changes related to substance use behavior (quit attempts, withdrawal experienced, treatment-seeking, and risky behaviors), and behavioral changes in response to COVID-19 lockdown. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 404 people with SUD seeking treatment from seven centers across India. They were assessed by a specially designed structured questionnaire during the first wave (June–September) of the pandemic. Results: An overwhelming majority experienced withdrawal symptoms, with close to half making quit attempts and seeking treatment during the lockdown. Three-fourth of the sample reported difficulty in accessing treatment services and medications. Patients with opioid use were significantly more likely to think about quitting (χ2 = 20.408, P = 0.000), make attempts (χ2 = 12.436, P = 0.000), seek treatment (χ2 = 7.536, P = 0.006), and self-medicate for withdrawal symptoms (χ2 = 5.885, P = 0.015). In turn, those with alcohol use were more likely to use telepsychiatry services (χ2 = 35.143, P = 0.000) and experience stigma by family members (χ2 = 29.951, P = 0.000) and neighbors (χ2 = 17.725, P = 0.000). Among COVID-19 safety precautions, majority practised wearing masks and social distancing but not others. Conclusion: COVID-19 lockdown led a significant proportion of substance users, especially opioid users, to make quit attempts and seek help. However, these could not be sustained due to difficulty in accessing treatment services. Further, significant proportion failed to adhere to COVID-19 safety precautions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Therapeutic alliance has been the 'Holy-Grail' of doctor patient relationship but is most discussed in relation to psychotherapy. At times in an individual therapeutic scenario it has been conceptualized as a working alliance to a collaborative plan but more than that it influences the lives of the clients and the therapists alike. Aims and Objectives: Understanding therapeutic alliance and its influence on the client and the therapist. Materials and Method: Three interrelated cases scenarios and the therapeutic alliance has been allegorized through the Shakespearian perspective. Results: In this exposition, a trilogy of three interrelated therapeutic case scenarios culminates in the existential framework. The first gentleman was a middle aged physician who had everything in life and at the end was drinking heavily as he had nothing else to do. In the second a soldier who fought bravely for his country but received no recognition and in lieu lost an arm in an conflict with the insurgents. Thereafter he found drinking as the only way forward. In the third case a gentleman who had alcohol dependence could quit alcohol unlike the other two. The main driving force of the latter was to do something for his son - this 'search for meaning' was lacking in the previous two. In the course it was seen that therapeutic alliance not only influences the life perspectives of the clients but also the therapist alike through an interplay of transference and counter transference. Conclusion: The influence of therapeutic alliance is not only limited to some narrow therapeutic scenarios but extends beyond in a much broader sense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the magnitude and impact of co-occurring physical and substance use disorders (SUDs) and evidence of effectiveness of integrated care, the training for management of comorbidities has been neglected. Our objective was to examine the effectiveness of 1-day continuing medical education (CME) in this area on participants' perceived and objective knowledge and skills. Materials and Methods: It was a cross-sectional study of CMEs conducted in a tertiary care center with a pre-post assessment design. Assessment included rating perceived knowledge and skill on a five-point scale and objective multiple-choice questions. Subjective feedback on qualitative aspects of the CME was taken. Out of total 154 participants, 69 completed pre-post assignments that included interactive lectures through multimodal presentations and problem-based learning. Pre-post comparisons were done by paired t-test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: Pre-CME assessment showed low mean scores (4.04 [1.75]) in objective (assessment to be added) and limited perceived knowledge and ability. However, objective knowledge assessment showed a significant improvement (P < 0.001) after the CME. Perceived knowledge and skills showed a significant positive (P < 0.001, all comparisons) change in all the four (CME-1) and seven (CME-2) domains assessed. CME was perceived to be excellent in terms of the practical value of material (60.3%), able to meet its stated objectives (60.3%), quality of instructions (58.8%), and organization of material (60.3%). Conclusion: CME is a viable option for training of psychiatrists to address the unmet need for treating co-occurring physical and SUDs. Future studies with experimental designs should determine the effectiveness of the components of CMEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the development of the psychiatry curriculum as a major subject at All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh (AIIMS-Rishikesh). Topics discussed include the process of expert consultation under the Indian Psychiatric Society (IPS) followed by AIIMS-Rishikesh, number of hours of theoretical teaching and clinical skills posting in psychiatry in the undergraduate curriculum, and importance of the integration of the curriculum with other subjects.

Conjugated polymers with mixed ionic and electronic transport are essential for developing the complexity and function of electrochemical devices. Current n‐type materials have a narrow scope and low performance compared with their p‐type counterparts, requiring new molecular design strategies. This work presents two naphthalene diimide‐bithiophene (NDI‐T2) copolymers functionalized with hybrid alkyl‐glycol side chains, where the naphthalene diimide unit is segregated from the ethylene glycol (EG) units within the side chain by an alkyl spacer. Introduction of hydrophobic propyl and hexyl spacers is investigated as a strategy to minimize detrimental swelling close to the conjugated backbone and balance the mixed conduction properties of n‐type materials in aqueous electrolytes. It is found that both polymers functionalized with alkyl spacers outperform their analogue bearing EG‐only side chains in organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs). The presence of the alkyl spacers also leads to remarkable stability in OECTs, with no decrease in the ON current after 2 h of operation. Through this versatile side chain modification, this work provides a greater understanding of the structure‐property relationships required for n‐type OECT materials operating in aqueous media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blade-coating is a roll-to-roll (R2R) compatible processing technique and has the potential to address the industry's needs for scalable manufacturing of future organic electronics. Here we investigate the applicability of blade-coating for the fabrication of organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs) based on best-in-class organic semiconducting blends comprised of the conjugated small-molecule 2,7-dioctyl[1]benzothieno[3,2-b][1]benzothiophene (C8-BTBT), and the conjugated polymer poly(indacenodithiophene-co-benzothiadiazole) (C16IDT-BT). We show that the operating characteristics of blade-coated transistors consistently outperform devices prepared via spin-coating, showcasing the compatibility of the technique. Introducing the molecular p-dopant C60F48 into the binary C8-BTBT:C16IDT-BT blend formulation, in combination with carefully optimized blade-coating conditions, helps to enhance the performance of the ensuing transistors further resulting in a maximum hole mobility of ≈14 cm2 V−1 s−1, and an all-around improvement of the device operating characteristics. Our results show that p-doped blend OTFTs can be manufactured using industry relevant processing techniques without sacrificing their state-of-the-art performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the objective of the Indian Medical Graduate (IMG) program is to prepare the physicians of first contact. It mentions that most of the international universities teach psychiatry during undergraduate years with a focus on neurobiological models of behavior and psychiatric disorders along with clinical postings. It also mentions that faculty members of the department looked for updates and publication patterns in leading journals of medical education.

The use of ternary systems comprising polymers, small molecules, and molecular dopants represents a promising approach for the development of high‐mobility, solution‐processed organic transistors. However, the current understanding of the charge transport in these complex systems, and particularly the role of molecular doping, is rather limited. Here, the role of the individual components in enhancing hole transport in the best‐performing ternary blend systems comprising the small molecule 2,7‐dioctyl[1]benzothieno[3,2‐b][1]benzothiophene (C8‐BTBT), the conjugated polymer indacenodithiophene‐alt‐benzothiadiazole (C16IDT‐BT), and the molecular p‐type dopant (C60F48) is investigated. Temperature‐dependent charge transport measurements reveal different charge transport regimes depending on the blend composition, crossing from a thermally activated to a band‐like behavior. Using the charge‐modulation spectroscopy technique, it is shown that in the case of the pristine blend, holes relax onto the conjugated polymer phase where shallow traps dominate carrier transport. Addition of a small amount of C60F48 deactivates those shallow traps allowing for a higher degree of hole delocalization within the highly crystalline C8‐BTBT domains located on the upper surface of the blend film. Such synergistic effect of a highly ordered C8‐BTBT phase, a polymer bridging grain boundaries, and p‐doping results in the exceptionally high hole mobilities and band‐like transport observed in this blend system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: To mitigate the spread of the pandemic coronavirus infection (COVID-19), governments across the world have adopted "lockdowns" which have confined many individuals to their homes. This disrupts normal life routines, elements of which are important circadian cues. The pandemic is also associated with new stressors, altered roles, and uncertainties about health and economic security, which are also likely to affect sleep. The current study is an online survey of sleep experience, routines, physical activity, and symptoms of anxiety and depression, to study the alterations associated with the lockdown. Materials and Methods: The survey was conducted in early May 2020 using a questionnaire circulated through social media platforms. Questions related to demographic characteristics, current and previous sleep schedules, routine, and working patterns. Insomnia (Insomnia Severity Index - 4), Stress (Perceived Stress Scale - 4), anxiety and depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire - 4) and physical activity (International Physical Activities Questionnaire) were assessed using standardized instruments. Results: A total of 958 valid responses were received. Compared to the prelockdown period, there was a shift to a later bedtime and waking time, with a reduction in night-time sleep and an increase in day-time napping. These effects were visible across occupational groups, but mostly affected working individuals except health professionals. Sleep quality deteriorated across groups. Reductions in sleep duration were associated with depressive symptoms. Conclusions: The COVID-19 lockdown is associated with changes in sleep schedule and in the quantity and quality of night-time sleep. Although these changes are associated with elevated rates of emotional symptoms, it is unclear from these cross-sectional results, whether sleep deterioration produces psychological distress, or vice versa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of a novel fluorinated n‐type small molecule based on an indacenodithiophene core is reported. Fluorination is found to have a significant impact on the physical properties, including a surprisingly dramatic improvement in solubility, in addition to effectively stabilizing the lowest‐unoccupied molecular orbital energy (−4.24 eV). Single‐crystal analysis and density functional theory calculations indicate the improved solubility can be attributed to backbone torsion resulting from the positioning of the fluorine group in close proximity to the strongly electron‐withdrawing dicyanomethylene group. Organic thin‐film transistors made via blade coating display high electron mobility (up to 0.49 cm2 V−1 s−1) along with good retention of performance in ambient conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fields of photovoltaics, photodetection and light emission have seen tremendous activity in recent years with the advent of hybrid organic-inorganic perovskites. Yet, there have been far fewer reports of perovskite-based field-effect transistors. The lateral and interfacial transport requirements of transistors make them particularly vulnerable to surface contamination and defects rife in polycrystalline films and bulk single crystals. Here, we demonstrate a spatially-confined inverse temperature crystallization strategy which synthesizes micrometre-thin single crystals of methylammonium lead halide perovskites MAPbX3 (X = Cl, Br, I) with sub-nanometer surface roughness and very low surface contamination. These benefit the integration of MAPbX3 crystals into ambipolar transistors and yield record, room-temperature field-effect mobility up to 4.7 and 1.5 cm2 V−1 s−1 in p and n channel devices respectively, with 104 to 105 on-off ratio and low turn-on voltages. This work paves the way for integrating hybrid perovskite crystals into printed, flexible and transparent electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large proportion of patients with substance use disorders have clinical comorbidities, either medical or psychiatric. An initial assessment is necessary initially for prompt identification and management of any psychiatric or medical emergency, and thereafter a more detailed assessment for the comprehensive understanding of the individual. This should be done keeping in mind the goals of both immediate and long term assessment so that a comprehensive but individualized, context and culture sensitive, reality based, recovery-oriented management plan can be formulated. Assessment should consist of not only history-taking, physical and mental status examination but also laboratory and instrument based assessment as needed. During assessment, collateral reports and past medical records are valuable additions along with self-report. Since substance use disorders influence various aspects of daily life, hence medical, social, occupational, religious, spiritual, financial and legal aspects should be evaluated. Overall, the assessment needs to be diagnosis and management focused, covering the various bio-psycho-social domains relevant to the individual. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is diagnosed broadly on the basis of frequent and persistent angry or irritable mood, argumentativeness/defiance, and vindictiveness. Since its inception in the third Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, epidemiological and longitudinal studies have strongly suggested a distinct existence of ODD that is different from other closely related externalizing disorders, with different course and outcome and possibly discrete subtypes. However, several issues, such as symptom threshold, dimensional versus categorical conceptualization, and sex-specific symptoms, are yet to be addressed. Although ODD was found to be highly heritable, no genetic polymorphism has been identified with confidence. There has been a definite genetic overlap with other externalizing disorders. Studies have begun to explore its epigenetics and gene-environment interaction. Neuroimaging findings converge to implicate various parts of the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and insula. Alteration in cortisol levels has also been demonstrated consistently. Although a range of environmental factors, both familial and extrafamilial, have been studied in the past, current research has combined these with other biological parameters. Psychosocial treatment continues to be time-tested and effective. These include parental management training, school-based training, functional family therapy/brief strategic family therapy, and cognitive behavior therapy. Management of severe aggression and treatment of co-morbid disorders are indications for pharmacotherapy. In line with previous conceptualization of chronic irritability as a bipolar spectrum abnormality, most studies have explored antipsychotics and mood stabilizers in the management of aggression, with limited effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A report is presented on the fabrication of all solid-state interdigitated flexible microsupercapacitor using ultrafast and highly scalable laser scribing technique, using highly mesoporous carbon synthesized from biomass (mushroom) with hydrothermal preprocessing. The specific protocol used for carbon synthesis renders some unique property features to the material (surface area of 2604 m² g−1 with hierarchical pore size distribution) in the context of supercapacitor electrode application. A polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-H2SO4 gel electrolyte is used for electrochemical measurements. The microsupercapacitor shows high cyclic stability up to 15000 cycles. Moreover it shows nearly 90% stability after 1000 bending cycles at 60° angle. It also retains its performance even under 120° bending condition. This work represents a facile and fast technique for microscaled device fabrication that can be easily commercialized. Moreover, the mushroom-derived carbon used to make the electrodes holds great promise in context of the stability and flexibility of flexible supercapacitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design of air defence, traditional command control system is very challenging which has been used with basic methodologies. Traditional design is associated with unstructured and uncorrelated data and requires huge lines of code using hard disk drive (HDD) in the system. Hence an attempt was made for a better simplified database management system (DBMS) software data access methodology, which processed the incoming airborne data, message in RDBMS database to achieve full automation on real-time. The transaction is accomplished through SQL pass through method from the host decision making system into database. An algorithm of track identification during midcourse track separation was undertaken for prototype development on DBMS data access methodology. In this methodology Oracle C++ calls interface embedded query call was used from the host interface system. The purpose of this development was to find a comparison of online process timing between HDD and SSD using commercial database, and to evaluate performance of dynamic processing of RDBMS Database for identification of target vehicle and booster after separation. Produced experimentation results from improved performance of the proposed methodology on which futuristic command control system can rely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & objectives: Genetic factors have potential of predicting response to antidepressants in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). In this study, an attempt was made to find an association between response to escitalopram in patients with MDD, and serotonin transporter (SLC6A4) and receptor (5HTR1A, 5HTR2A) polymorphisms. Methods: Fifty five patients diagnosed as suffering from MDD, were selected for the study. The patients were treated with escitalopram over a period of 6-8 wk. Severity of depression, response to treatment and side effects were assessed using standardised instruments. Genetic variations from HTR1A (rs6295), HTR2A (rs6311 andrs6313) and SLC6A4 (44 base-pair insertion/deletion at 5-HTTLPR) were genotyped. The genetic data of the responders and non-responders were compared to assess the role of genetic variants in therapeutic outcome. Results: Thirty six (65.5%) patients responded to treatment, and 19 (34.5%) had complete remission. No association was observed for genotype and allelic frequencies of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) among remitter/non-remitter and responder/non-responder groups, and six most common side-effects, except memory loss which was significantly associated with rs6311 (P=0.03). Interpretation & conclusions: No significant association was found between the SNPs analysed and response to escitalopram in patients with MDD though a significant association was seen between the side effect of memory loss and rs6311. Studies with larger sample are required to find out genetic basis of antidepressant response in Indian patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoluminescent carbon dots of 4–5 nm size were prepared from starch (Tapioca Sago) through a solution method under mild conditions. The as-prepared carbon dots were used as photoluminescence probes for highly anion selective fluoride ion detection in aqueous solutions. A ready-to-use device is also demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tapentadol is a centrally acting opioid analgesic which has partial opioid agonistic and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor action similar to its nearest congener and tramadol though with a relatively higher μ-affinity. It has abuse potential, is a scheduled drug, yet currently is not known to be an opioid widely misused in India. However, under the current drug abuse legislation in India, where common prescription opioids such as dextropropoxyphene have been banned, tapentadol may take the center stage of pharmaceutical opioid abuse in the near future. We present a series of two cases where the opioid use started with codeine, dextropropoxyphene, and buprenorphine but moved on to tapentadol and tramadol due to ease of access and cost. These cases highlight the potential of tapentadol in replacing dextropropoxyphene as the widespread prescription opioid of abuse and also emphasize the current controversies regarding opioid control policies in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]