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The health and well-being of older parents, especially in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) like India, depend on adult children. As such, using the 2017-18 wave 1 of the Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI), we examined (1) the association between adult children's education and older parents' cognitive health in India; (2) the extent to which this association is mediated by (a) parents' empowered status and (b) their active engagement; and (3) whether the associations between (1) and (2) vary for older men and women. Findings reveal that adult children's education was, indeed, positively associated with older parents' cognitive health, and this association was significantly stronger for older mothers. The educational attainment of adult daughters was found to have a relatively stronger association with the cognitive functioning of older parents, particularly their older mothers, compared to their male counterparts. We also found that parents of well-educated children were more empowered and mentally and physically engaged, both factors linked to better cognitive functioning. These findings highlight that educating even one child beyond the 'compulsory' secondary education proves consequential not just for the child but for parents in later life. Given the considerable generational disparities in educational attainment and the proportion of joint families in the country, older Indians may be particularly well-situated to reap the cognitive health dividends of educating the next generation.

The objective of this study was to analyze the gap in expected benefits and actual benefits of virtual classrooms used at the time of nationwide lockdown for the teaching-learning process for faculty members and students in higher education during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 893 responses have been used for this study. The overall mean of expected benefits, from 305 faculty members and 588 students of higher education institutes/colleges/universities, is higher than the overall mean of actual benefits and that difference value is 0.250055, with a Sig. (2-tailed) value of 0.036 which is less than 0.05 for faculty members and 0.3872827, with a Sig. (2-tailed) value of 0.000 which is less than 0.05 for students. We found that the network connectivity was the major challenge faced by the faculty members with a mean value of 3.68 followed by a 3.17 mean value for lack of professional environment at home, 3.03 for lack of teaching material at home, 2.92 for lack of personal computer/laptop. From students' responses, we found the lack of a professional environment at home with a mean value of 3.59 was the major challenge faced by the students followed by 3.57 for lack of teaching material at home (for lack of printed teaching- learning material at home), and 3.35 for network connectivity, 3.31 for lack of personal computer/laptop. The moderation effects of challenges between expected benefits and actual benefits is found significant for faculty and students both. The moderation effects of challenges between expected benefits and actual benefits is found significant for faculty ([beta]_ Expected Benefit_Challenges = -0.110, p < 0.05) and students ([beta]_ Expected Benefit_Challenges = -0.0.094, p < 0.05) both. The faculty members and students both were able to perceive higher actual benefits due to the low challenges of virtual classrooms. Further, the faculty members and students both were able to perceive lower actual benefits when challenges are more. The policymakers of higher education must work to resolve the issues and challenges of virtual classrooms to improve the effectiveness of the virtual classroom. The post-COVID higher education may require a continued focus on flexibility, adaptability, technology integration, student engagement, equity, and well-being. By prioritizing these areas, institutions can create a resilient and inclusive learning environment for their students and faculty in the post-pandemic era. the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical importance of organizational learning in responding to crises. Organizational scholars can contribute by advancing knowledge on effective learning patterns, documenting best practices, and incorporating these lessons into teaching and practice. By doing so, we can help organizations be better prepared for future crises, including pandemics, and ensure that the lessons learned are not forgotten. post-COVID higher education may require a continued focus on flexibility, adaptability, technology integration, student engagement, equity, and well-being. By prioritizing these areas, institutions can create a resilient and inclusive learning environment for their students and faculty in the post- pandemic era. It's important to note that effective online instruction often involves a combination of different learning theories, depending on the nature of the content, the goals of the instruction, and the characteristics of the learners. Online instructors should consider how these theories can inform their instructional design and delivery to create meaningful and effective online learning experiences. learning theories have a significant impact on the performance of higher education institutes in the context of online education. By aligning instructional strategies, course design, assessments, feedback, and learner support with learning theories, higher education institutes can optimize their online education programs and enhance student performance. the pandemic has necessitated the use of various teaching strategies in higher education institutions to adapt to remote and online learning. Blended learning, technology-enhanced instruction, student-centered approaches, flexible assessments, active learning strategies, and social-emotional support are some of the most appropriate teaching strategies that have been used during the pandemic to support student learning and engagement. It is important for instructors to continually assess and adapt their teaching strategies based on student needs and feedback to ensure effective learning outcomes.

Background: Dissociative Trance Disorder (DTD), is a complex psychological condition characterized by abrupt trance-like states and altered consciousness, commonly seen in young women throughout various regions of India. Currently, there is a lack of research on the experiences of Indian adolescent girls with DTD and how inaccurate medical information affects their quest for suitable care. This study aims to develop a thorough comprehension of the help-seeking patterns and experiences of adolescent girls with DTD, specifically concerning encountering medical misinformation. By identifying the obstacles, they face and the cultural beliefs that shape their decision-making, this research seeks to guide interventions and initiatives aimed at enhancing care and support for this group. Method: Six adolescent girls and young women, who sought therapy at a district hospital in Sikkim were recruited for the study. They were interviewed extensively and their interview data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Result: Three super-ordinate themes that emerged were: challenges in seeking diagnosis and treatment; emotional and psychological struggles; support and healing journey. Conclusion: Misinformation surrounding DTD in India impacts the help-seeking behaviours of adolescent girls, leading to delays in diagnosis and inadequate treatment. Cultural beliefs, reliance on exorcism, and insufficient healthcare professional training contribute to this problem. Awareness campaigns are necessary to correct misconceptions and misinformation and promote accurate understanding among parents, communities, and healthcare providers. Culturally sensitive approaches, accurate information dissemination, and collaboration among stakeholders are crucial for improving care and support for individuals affected by DTD in India. Additionally, it is acknowledged that certain religious beliefs resist empirical evidence, but it is vital to recognize that not all religious beliefs are misinformation solely based on scientific evidence. As we address the impact of cultural beliefs, it is essential to strike a balance between respecting individual faith and promoting evidence-based interventions.

Purpose: As an emerging technology, Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID) and blockchain have the potential to disrupt many areas of business and social structure. However, it is loaded with significant technical, social, legal, financial and ethical complications that bring difficulty in its widespread use within the public distribution system (PDS). This research aims to analyze the barriers to integrated RFID and blockchain adoption in developing countries' PDS. Furthermore, this study also aims to validate the proposed framework against the Indian PDS. Design/methodology/approach: The proposed framework consists of 10 potential barriers to integrated RFID and blockchain adoption. To identify the barriers, this study referred to the extant literature followed by consultations with domain experts. This study prepared the DEMATEL-based questionnaires, collected the data from four domain experts and analyzed them using an integrated Grey-DEMATEL approach. Findings: The obtained results provide a precise list of barriers and the correlations among them. From the results, it is concluded that the unavailability of a skilled workforce at affordable cost, lack of knowledge about privacy level and unclear return on investment and benefits are the most critical blockchain adoption barriers in the context of Indian PDS. Originality/value: This research proposes a framework consisting of 10 integrated RFID and blockchain adoption barriers in relation to Indian PDS. It also proposes a method for analyzing causal interrelationships between the barriers while allowing for data input from domain experts. Consequently, the framework is capable of coping with experts' biases and data scarcity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Indian economy and population have been largely influenced by the green revolution which has caused a big change in India. Yet farmers are not able to make full-blown usage of technology to improve crop cultivation. As Indian economy and per capita income, in trade terms, CAPEX (Capital Expenses); is based on agro products, to rejuvenate the demand-supply chain of the food sector, farmers are using fertilizers to increase yield. Due to the excessive use of these puissance fertilizers, soil fertility is adversely impacted. It is hazardous for direct consumption by people. The current study was aimed to optimize the use of fertilizer as per crop requirement using Newton backward difference (NBD) method. Methods: The experiment was conducted for the last three years (2017-2020) in the Agrotech farm of MIT Academy of Engineering, Pune. The tomato crop was used for taking the readings. Using the NBD, we compared the values between standard, conventional and actual which gives the optimized value and saves the wastage of fertilizer and farmers' burden economically. These NBD can lead to a reduction in the number of sensor nodes in the farm field. The reduction in sensor nodes saves the overall working cost. Result: The implemented system saves the quantity of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) only by providing the required amount of fertilizer to the crop in comparison with a conventional approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Emphysematous Pyelonephritis (EPN) is a urologic emergency with acute necrotizing infection with presence of gas in the renal or peri-renal space or in urinary collecting system. OBJECTIVES: To compare the management of EPN by A] IV Antibiotics only, B] Image guided minimal invasive drainage and IV Antibiotics, C] Open Drainage and D] Emergency Nephrectomy if any. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective observational study, from July 2019 to March 2022 with 24 patients of EPN admitted in IPD at our institution. RESULTS: Patients classified according to CT Severity Scale (class1, 2 3A, 3B, 4). Only 12.5% patient had been cured by only medical treatment (one of class1 and other 2 of class 2), 6 (who had stone disease with HDN) out of 24 patients were treated successfully with D J Stenting and antibiotics and another 3 patients required both D J Stenting and pigtail drainage. 50% patients were treated with Percutaneous Nephrostomy (PCN) and IV antibiotics. 3 patients among these twelve required pigtail drainage with PCN. 3 patients required open drainage. There was no mortality. CONCLUSION: It is vital to initiate proper management after a prompt CT scan. Prompt Anti - microbial therapy with minimalinvasive drainage by Pigtail, PCN or D J Stenting not only avoids morbidity, but also saves the kidney. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a vector-borne protozoan disease, which can be fatal if left untreated. Synthetic chemical insecticides are very effective tools for controlling of insect vectors, including the sand fly Phlebotomus argentipes, the vector of VL in the Indian subcontinent. However, repeated use of the same insecticide with increasing doses potentially can create high selection pressure and lead to tolerance and resistance development. The objective of this study was to determine the lethal concentrations and assess levels of susceptibility, diagnostic doses and times to death of laboratory-reared P. argentipes to five insecticides that are used worldwide to control vectors. Using the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) bottle bioassay, 20–30 sand flies were exposed in insecticide- coated 500-ml glass bottles. Flies were then observed for 24 hours and mortality was recorded. Dose-response survival curves were generated for each insecticide using QCal software and lethal concentrations causing 50%, 90% and 95% mortality were determined. A bioassay was also conducted to determine diagnostic doses and diagnostic times by exposing 20–30 flies in each bottle containing set concentrations of insecticide. Mortality was recorded at 10-minute intervals for 120 minutes to generate the survival curve. Phlebotomus argentipes are highly susceptible to alpha-cypermethrin, followed by deltamethrin, malathion, chlorpyrifos, and least susceptible to DDT. Also, the lowest diagnostic doses and diagnostic times were established for alpha-cypermethrin (3μg/ml for 40 minutes) to kill 100% of the flies. The susceptibility data, diagnostic doses and diagnostic times presented here will be useful as baseline reference points for future studies to assess insecticide susceptibility and resistance monitoring of field caught sand flies and to assist in surveillance as VL elimination is achieved in the region. Author summary: Synthetic chemical insecticides are mainly used for controlling sand flies via indoor residual spraying (IRS) and insecticide treated nets. Sand flies had developed resistance against DDT in endemic areas of Bihar, India, and was replaced by synthetic pyrethroids (alpha-cypermethrin) in the second phase of IRS in 2015. The substantial increase in the use of synthetic pyrethroids will potentially lead to increased resistance because DDT and pyrethroids both have the same target site. To monitor insecticide resistance in field caught sand flies, susceptibility status and diagnostic doses and times are warranted, as no diagnostic dose for resistance detection has been established for Indian sand flies. A laboratory reared P. argentipes was used to quantify insecticide susceptibility and determination of diagnostic doses and times. The CDC bottle bioassay was used with five insecticides viz., alpha-cypermethrin, deltamethrin, malathion, chlorpyrifos and DDT. Results indicate that the P. argentipes were highly susceptible to alpha-cypermethrin followed by deltamethrin, malathion, chlorpyrifos and least susceptible to DDT. This study provides critical base line reference data for further studies to assess insecticide susceptibility and resistance monitoring in field populations, as well as determining diagnostic doses and times for other insecticide susceptible sand fly populations undergoing surveillance to sustain VL elimination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Infrastructural revolution, intense competition and customer attraction towards organised apparel retailing in India are potentially affecting traditional retailing. The authors seek to identify the factors that customers perceive during shopping in organised apparel retail store. This study also investigates the indirect effects of identified factors on behavioural outcomes such as loyalty. Design/methodology/approach: The study randomly selected the customers immediately after shopping to minimise the experience's carryover effects. A sample of 648 customers was collected. Data were analysed using multivariate analysis of covariance. Findings: The study has found that in-store logistics is the second order factor with ease of return, on-shelf availability, product accessibility, shopping convenience, and product information as the variables. The result shows that in-store logistics, store environment, store communication, merchandise assortment, perceived price and employee attribute influence customer satisfaction. As expected, these factors indirectly influence the loyalty. Research limitations/implications: This study focused on organised multi-brand apparel retailing, and the survey was conducted in a tier-II city of India only. Hence, any attempt to generalise the findings must be undertaken with caution. Practical implications: In the context of multi-brand retailing, competition is fierce. New entrants and traditional apparel retailers hesitate to adopt organised apparel retailing. The findings of this study can be helpful for new entrants and traditional apparel retailers to adopt organised apparel retailing. Originality/value: Previous studies in the field of multi-brand retailing have mainly focused on the marketing aspect of retail stores. This study contributes to the operations aspect and tests the impact of operational function (in-store logistics) on customer satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Human-Elephant conflicts (HECs) are high-risk for agrarian landscape near elephant corridor. • People who grew more diverse crops near to their household had more human-elephant interaction. • Lower elevation with higher human density had more human-elephant conflict. • Local farmers must be supplemented with longer-term village-level crop protection and promote farming of alternative produces and diverse livelihoods. • Early Warning Systems using mobile technology and/or drones can be helpful in high conflict areas to function as deterrents. Understanding the dynamics that drive human-wildlife conflict and identifying potential mitigation solutions requires understanding the spatial patterns of conflict. The juxtaposition of ecological preservation and economic growth has led to increased conflicts between humans and Asian elephants Elephas maximus in the Rajaji-Corbett landscape of Uttarakhand, India, where the conversion of elephant habitat to agricultural land have increased over the last several decades. We investigated the predictors influencing household-level human-elephant conflicts (HECs) using binomial Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) collected from semi-structured questionnaire-based surveys of 266 households in the human-wildlife interface next to protected areas. Further, we modelled the landscape predictors that influence the spatial distribution of HECs by collecting occurrence data of HECs in 25 km2 grid units (N = 1473 grids) using Maxent software. We discovered that HECs are directly influenced by the diversity of major and minor crops planted and the proximity to agricultural land (conflicts decreased with increasing distance from the agricultural land). We also observed that the probability of HECs decreased with increasing elevation, increase in road networks, and with increasing slope in the study area; while HECs increased with increase in human population. We discovered that nearly one-fifth of areas sampled (3606.87 km2) in the Rajaji-Corbett landscape were at high risk of HEC, especially flat, agrarian areas where most people reside. Farmers in the susceptible risk areas identified by our study could lessen the likelihood of crop damage and HEC incidents by cultivating highly profitable alternative crops that are less attractive to elephants. Additionally, implementing mobile-based Early Warning System in high HEC hotspot areas could mitigate crop raiding and potentially reduce the occurrence of HECs. The findings of our study can assist policymakers and park management in designing landscape-scale human-wildlife conflict mitigation strategies tailored to identified conflict hotspots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Business models: new growth drivers for increasing renewable energy adoption by the C&I segment. • Key new trends that are being explored in the Indian market. • Adoption of large-format modules. • Cost analysis of onsite/rooftop solar installation models in India. • Risks and challenges: existing buildings, design standards and codes, lack of manufacturers. Commercial and industrial (C&I) applications have been the most active in india's onsite solar market. These applications account for almost three-quarters of the rooftop solar market in India. As a result of the COVID pandemic that began in 2020, solar installation slowed. The C&I market segment, on the other hand, is likely to recover and see a rise in solar installations. The C&I market has been forced to optimize its costs in light of the pandemic. In addition to helping companies accomplish these goals, rooftop solar systems with battery storage can also contribute to their social responsibility efforts. Rooftop solar systems with battery storage are also expected to grow in popularity. Battery prices are expected to reach $100 per kWh in roughly two years (by 2023), propelling the rooftop solar and battery storage sectors forward. Rooftop solar and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) are ideal alternatives for behind-the-meter (BTM) applications in India due to their 90 GW of capacity. An Indian case study breaks down the costs of PV installation. This study examines the emerging technology trends in India's Commercial & Industrial Rooftop Solar market, as well as general advice for consumers and investors contemplating solar PV installations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: India has a significant backlog in terms of renal transplant waiting lists, and progress of deceased donor transplant is limited by social and cultural hurdles. Newer strategies in living donation are needed. Materials and Methods: A prospective comparative study was conducted at our tertiary hospital over 3 years, between living related donor (LRD) and living unrelated donor (LURD) renal transplant outcomes, chiefly acute rejection and graft dysfunction. Confounding variables and outcome parameters such as mortality, hospital stay >21 days, and complications were recorded for 6 months. Results: LRD (n = 78) and LURD (n = 42) groups differed significantly in median recipient age (25 [22-34] vs. 40 [33-50] years; P < 0.001) and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) mismatches >3 (3/78 [3.8%] vs. 32/78 [76.2%]; P < 0.001, respectively). Yet, there was no significant difference in donor age, gender, immunosuppression, preoperative hemodialysis, nephrectomy time, or warm ischemia time. No significant difference was noted between LRD and LURD in acute rejection rate, graft dysfunction at 1 week and 6 months, mortality, hospital stay >21 days, or complication rate. Among factors predictive for acute rejection, only anastomotic time had a significant association (β coefficient = 0.006 [0.001--0.010]; Pearson's coefficient "r" =0.208; P < 0.01), while for early graft dysfunction, it was only mean donor nephrectomy time in minutes (β coefficient=-0.002 [-0.004-0.000]; Pearson's coefficient "r" = -0.158; P = 0.042). Conclusion: Despite differences in HLA-mismatches and age, LRD and LURD had a similar short-term outcome with respect to acute rejection and graft dysfunction. This is linked to better and standardized immunosuppression available, making it possible to expand the scope of LURD beyond spousal, within the legal and ethical boundaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence on the prevalence and determinants of smoking and smokeless tobacco (SLT), and alcohol consumption between slums and non-slums are quite limited. Using sub-samples from the National Family Health Survey (2015–16), prevalence and determinants of tobacco and alcohol use were estimated in eight Indian megacities (Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Indore, Kolkata, Meerut, Mumbai, and Nagpur) by residence and sex using binary logistic regression analyses. Inter-and intra-city differences in both forms of tobacco and alcohol by residence were assessed using interaction effect analysis. Strong intra-urban disparity in tobacco and alcohol use was observed. Both forms of tobacco use were higher among men and women residing in slum areas. Despite alcohol use being higher among men from non-slum areas (33.1%) compared to those from slum areas (27.7%), the likelihood of alcohol use was higher among men residing in slums (OR = 1.37;95%CI:1.06–1.77). Higher odds of SLT use were observed among men and women from slums than in non-slum areas. Both forms of tobacco use were higher in slums from North, East, and West Indian cities, whereas alcohol use was higher among males from East and South Indian cities. Continuous monitoring of tobacco and alcohol use in slums is warranted to achieve Sustainable Development Goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Covid‐19 pandemic has emerged as one of the most disquieting worldwide public health emergencies of the 21st century and has thrown into sharp relief, among other factors, the dire need for robust forecasting techniques for disease detection, alleviation as well as prevention. Forecasting has been one of the most powerful statistical methods employed the world over in various disciplines for detecting and analyzing trends and predicting future outcomes based on which timely and mitigating actions can be undertaken. To that end, several statistical methods and machine learning techniques have been harnessed depending upon the analysis desired and the availability of data. Historically speaking, most predictions thus arrived at have been short term and country‐specific in nature. In this work, multimodel machine learning technique is called EAMA for forecasting Covid‐19 related parameters in the long‐term both within India and on a global scale have been proposed. This proposed EAMA hybrid model is well‐suited to predictions based on past and present data. For this study, two datasets from the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare of India and Worldometers, respectively, have been exploited. Using these two datasets, long‐term data predictions for both India and the world have been outlined, and observed that predicted data being very similar to real‐time values. The experiment also conducted for statewise predictions of India and the countrywise predictions across the world and it has been included in the Appendix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This study investigates the effect of using quantum dots (QDs) on the performance of solar still in the tropical climate of India. This article presents a new way to use QDs, which on absorbing solar energy increases water evaporation rate. Pyrex glass powder QDs are used in the solar still due to its high absorptivity value. An experimental setup of solar still with QD and without QD was developed, and a comparative analysis was conducted under the real outdoor environment in a tropical climate. The experimental results were also validated through mathematical modeling. The experiment was carried out by mixing Pyrex glass powder QDs with black paint and was coated on the basin and sidewalls of the solar still. Experiments were conducted for a depth of 0.02 m for solar still with QDs and without QDs. The results revealed that for 0.02 m of water depth and 1 m2 of basin area, the percentage increase in distillate output using Pyrex glass powder QDs is 29.36% experimentally and 29.94% theoretically. Furthermore, the net percentage increase in solar still efficiency by using Pyrex glass QDs is 74.74% experimentally and 61.03% theoretically. The study analyzed that all the experimental results are in good agreement with the theoretical analysis. The addition of Pyrex glass powder QDs and black paint mixture in the basin of solar still caused significant enhancement in the distillate output and solar still efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Error update model developed to reduce uncertainty in SWAT based runoff modelling. • Hybrid AI methods were used to develop an error update model. • WSVM-GA was found to be the best algorithm for an error update model. Uncertainty of physical models is caused by the model's complexity as well as the accuracy of input variables. In present study, an error update model was developed based on artificial intelligence, namely Wavelet Multilayer Perceptron (WMLP), Wavelet Support Vector Machine (WSVM), Wavelet Multilayer Perceptron-Genetic Algorithm (WMLP-GA), and Wavelet Support Vector Machine-Genetic Algorithm (WSVM-GA). Sensitivity findings demonstrate that groundwater recession factor (ALPHA_BF), plant uptake compensation factor (EPCO), and curve number were the most sensitive for runoff in the Shivnath River basin, India, as well as four distinct parameters were shown to be highly sensitive to sediment yield at the Sigma station. During the calibration and validation phase, the SWAT model overpredicts runoff at the Simga and Pathardhi stations while underpredicting it at the Kotni station. SWAT model performance for runoff modelling is enhanced via the use of statistical indicators like as Percent of Bias (PBIAS) decreased from −35.355 to −20.503, Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) decreased from 319.905 to 25.191 m3/sec, and coefficient of determination increase from 0.712 to 0.904. At Simga station, the Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) increase from 0.315 to 0.745, the PBIAS decreased from −39.502 to –22.946, the RMSE decreased from 186.711 to 24.432 m3/sec, and the coefficient of determination increased from 0.733 to 0.996. Further, NSE increased from 0.305 to 0.985 at Kotni station and PBIAS reduced from −114.026 to −9.214, RMSE reduced from 82.205 to 31.082 m3/sec, coefficient of determination increased from 0.779 to 0.976, NSE increased from 0.523 to 0.927 at Pathardhi station after applying an error update model. For sediment yield prediction, similar outcomes to runoff were obtained. The WSVM-GA model was reported to be the optimum error update model both for runoff and sediment yield modelling. It was recommended that the SWAT model might be applied for runoff and sediment yield simulation in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Checkpoint inhibitors (Nivolumab and Pembrolizumab) are approved for multiple indications in solid tumors. However access to these therapies is limited in low and middle income countries. Hence we performed an audit to identify accessibility, adverse event rates, compliance, progression free survival and overall survival in solid tumors. Methods: This was a single center retrospective analysis of prospective data base of patients with non‐melanoma solid tumors who were treated with immunotherapy from August 2015 to November 2018. Adverse events during immunotherapy were documented and graded using CTCAE (Common terminology criteria for adverse events), v. 4.02. The response rates to immunotherapy, toxicities and the time to onset and resolution of toxicities were also evaluated as secondary endpoints. Results: Out of 9610 patients, only 155 patients (1.61%) could receive immunotherapy. The most common malignancies included metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer, metastatic renal cell carcinoma, metastatic urothelial carcinoma and relapsed/recurrent head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Median overall survival in patients who received immunotherapy in non‐melanoma solid malignancies was 5.37 months (95% CI, 3.73–9.73). Poor performance status at baseline was the only adverse prognostic factor. The median progression free survival was 2.57 months (95% CI, 1.73–3.83). Immunotherapy was well tolerated with most common side effects being fatigue 14.8% and anorexia 5.8%. The cumulative incidence of immune related adverse events like hepatitis, pneumonitis, colitis and nephritis was less than 10%. Conclusion: Real‐world data in Indian setting confirms the benefit of immunotherapy in patients with advanced non‐melanoma solid tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Apart from various Fetomaternal factors Birth Weight also varies with Ethnic Groups. This study aims to find out various Fetomaternal, socioeconomic and behavioural factor which determines the Birth Weight of Meitei and Meitei Pangan Communities of Manipur, India. Material and Methods: The present study being a retrospective study, cross sectional sample of 150 women belonging to Meitei community and 100 women from Meitei Pangan community were selected after fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were collected in a pre-designed, pre-tested structured schedule .The collected data were then compiled, classified, tabulated and analysed using standard appropriate statistical methods. Results: Meitei Pangan newborn had a lower mean Birth Weight of 2923 ±46 grams as against 3106 ±36 grams and mean age of mother 25.23± 0.40 against 29.66 ± 0.50 years respectively, but higher mean Parity (2.12 vs. 1.66) and Mean Gestational age (39.3 vs. 38.8 weeks) than their counterpart . Women with no education or lower level of education, non working mothers and Low Birth Weight Babies were more frequently observed with Meitei Pangan. Conclusion: Women in Meitei Pangan community had a lower mean Birth Weight and they also had a higher mean Parity and a lower Mean Age of Mothers. Lower level of education or no education and non working mothers were also more frequently seen with Meitei Pangan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrical energy storage is a promising solution to overcome the intermittency and demand-supply mismatch problem in hybrid renewable energy systems. The objective of the present study is to prioritize ten electrical energy storage systems by using an innovative ranking framework, considering different criteria. Further, a techno-economic study of a hybrid renewable energy system is performed for rural area electrification, where the present selection strategy of the storage system is incorporated in the system design. Due to the conflicting nature of these criteria, a fuzzy assisted Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution method based framework is employed for its prioritization. The effect of variation of the weights on the criteria is also investigated through a sensitivity analysis. The framework is used to design an optimum hybrid renewable energy system for a remote village in India using the Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewables tool. The results of the ranking show that pumped hydro storage, compressed air energy storage, and lead-acid batteries are the top three electrical energy storage systems that present more benefits for renewable energy integration for the present case. Moreover, adopting a storage system selection strategy can further reduce the cost of energy of the system. Therefore, the present framework provides a systematic procedure of storage system selection for renewable energy integration by considering different conflicting criteria for case-specific application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A unique fossil assemblage has recently been discovered from Gehun and Lunu sections of Paleocene Barmer Hill Formation in Barmer area, Western Rajasthan, India. These fossil sites have been identified on the basis of previous studies and on the present work of our research group. Aim of the present paper is to conserve the unique and rare geological materials (Asthenopodichnium fossils) as the only fossil site of such type in India. Spectacular Gehun site is easily accessible as it is located within the Barmer city. In addition, this study will also propose an idea of setting up a national fossil park at Gehun in Barmer city similar to the famous Jurassic Fossil Park of Jaisalmer in Western Rajasthan, India. Geotourism is the best tool for their promotion and conservation with additional value as branding of Paleopark for sustainable socioeconomic development of the region. Recently, field work was conducted to observe the present scenario and to identify the threat s to the fossil site. Rapid urbanization, developmental activities, fossil hunting and vandalism of fossils by visitors are the main threats to these sites. Aim of the present paper is also to make further efforts to conserve paleontological sites and to recognize such sites as the significant geoheritage resources of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ageratum conyzoides L. is a common weed in many tropical and subtropical countries including India. The present study aimed to evaluate the antitick potential using Adult Immersion Test (AIT) and variability of its phytoconstituents with the developed HPTLC method in germplasms collected from Eastern and Western Ghats of India. Percent tick mortality at 8% concentration ranged from 10.0 ± 0.2 to 85.0 ± 2.9. Precocene I content ranged from 0.0004% to 0.072%, Precocene II content varied from 0.001% to 0.035%, and Caryophyllene oxide content was found to range from 0.0001% to 0.0023% in crude drug. Precocene II was positively correlated (coefficient = 0.656) with tick mortality (%) in the germplasm collected from Western Ghats. However, in Eastern Ghat samples, Precocene I was positively correlated (coefficient = 0.550) with per cent tick mortality. There is significant variation in marker compound content as well as antitick activity of the extracts; however, a direct correlation among marker compounds and antitick activity was not observed. This indicates there may be some other phytomolecules responsible for antitick activity of the extract. This study will lead to a potential source of quality raw material for the industry in developing herbal acaricide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coal fly ash (CFA) is a potential secondary Rare Earth Element (REE) source that needs an efficient enrichment and extraction process. Annually, coal-fired power plants generate nearly 1 billion tonnes of coal ash. India alone produced 270.82 million tonnes of CFA in 2021–22. The average global concentration of REE in coal ash is 403.5 mg/kg. The present authors have already studied some promising CFAs from Indian thermal power stations and one such CFA is used in the present study for the sequential extraction (SE), speciation, and enrichment of REEs. Organic acids are used for SE to determine different fractions of REEs and it is found that REEs are mostly associated with amorphous Mn-oxide and organic and sulfide fractions. About 84% of REEs are in the glassy phase that SE cannot dissolve. The main components of CFA and SE residues are quartz, mullite, and glassy phase (52.0–59.2%). The XRF analysis showed that CFA is 'Class F' (ASTM C618–19). The ESEM – EDS and backscatter imaging revealed monazite-(La) mineral as the REE carrier in CFA. Furthermore, enrichment studies using acid and alkali media have been performed. Alkali treatment with NaOH and KOH increased total REE by 1.61 and 1.32 times, respectively. Acidic treatment with HCl and oxalic acid increased total REE by 1.27 and 1.09 times, respectively. Therefore, NaOH followed by HCl treatment could be a cost-effective and sustainable REE enrichment and extraction method from CFA. [Display omitted] • The speciation of REEs in coal fly ash is investigated by multi-step sequential process. • REE association in different phases decreases in the order: glassy phase>manganese oxide>organics & sulphides fractions. • REE in coal fly ash is associated with monazite-La. • Treatment with NaOH followed by acid leaching to recover REE. • Organic acids can be used for selective extraction of REE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ageratum conyzoides L. is a traditionally used herb for various ethnoveterinary purposes. There are no earlier reports on simultaneous high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) quantification of bioactive markers. Objective: To develop a sensitive, robust, and replicable HPTLC method for simultaneous estimation of precocene I (PI) and precocene II (PII) in A. conyzoides L. collected from the Western Himalaya region of India, with an aim to understand the level of chemotypic differences arising in the intraspecific population of this ethnobotanically important plant. Materials and Methods: A sensitive HPTLC method was developed to resolve PI and PII using toluene: ethyl acetate (9.8:0.2 v/v) as mobile phase. The method was validated for selectivity, specificity, linearity, and precision as per International Conference on Harmonization guidelines. Results: Good linearity was achieved over a five-point concentration range with a correlation coefficient of 0.986 and 0.988 for PI and PII, respectively. The PI content varies in the range of 0.0016% (NAC-77) to 0.0834% (NAC-82), whereas PII was reported to be present in the range of 0.016% (NAC-85) to 0.143% (NAC-91) on a dry weight basis. A principal component analysis biplot of samples based on the content of PI and PII identified four elite chemotypes, namely, NAC-81, NAC-82, NAC-85, and NAC-91. Conclusion: The study identifies superior germplasms for commercial prospection and develops a validated method that can be used for the quality control of herbal drug/formulation using A. conyzoides as an ingredient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decade the demand of power in India has increased manifold, therefore Government has announced the National Solar Mission of generating 100 GW of solar power up to 2022. Around 60% of the total National Solar Mission target is allotted to the national/international large-scale solar power developers/investors. Hence, it becomes important to know the ground reality of large-scale solar PV developers/investors. This paper deeply analyzes the key barriers and bottlenecks faced by solar power developers in achieving the target and their growth. This article also suggests some motivational factors of solar energy which play an important role in attracting large solar players around the world to invest in Indian subcontinent. It concludes by highlighting some key policies of the Government that can help in addressing some identified barriers in order to ensure a secured sustainable energy future of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gloriosa superba L. (Colchicaceae) is used as adjuvant therapy in gout for its potential antimitotic activity due to high colchicine(s) alkaloids. Objective: This study aimed to develop an easy, cheap, precise, and accurate high-performance thin-layer chromatographic (HPTLC) validated method for simultaneous quantification of bioactive alkaloids (colchicine and gloriosine) in G. superba L. and to identify its elite chemotype(s) from Sikkim Himalayas (India). Methods: The HPTLC chromatographic method was developed using mobile phase of chloroform: acetone: diethyl amine (5:4:1) at λmax of 350 nm. Results: Five germplasms were collected from targeted region, and on morpho-anatomical inspection, no significant variation was observed among them. Quantification data reveal that content of colchicine (Rf: 0.72) and gloriosine (Rf: 0.61) varies from 0.035%-0.150% to 0.006%-0.032% (dry wt. basis). Linearity of method was obtained in the concentration range of 100-400 ng/spot of marker(s), exhibiting regression coefficient of 0.9987 (colchicine) and 0.9983 (gloriosine) with optimum recovery of 97.79 ± 3.86 and 100.023% ± 0.01%, respectively. Limit of detection and limit of quantification were analyzed, respectively, as 6.245, 18.926 and 8.024, 24.316 (ng). Two germplasms, namely NBG-27 and NBG-26, were found to be elite chemotype of both the markers. Conclusion: The developed method is validated in terms of accuracy, recovery, and precision studies as per the ICH guidelines (2005) and can be adopted for the simultaneous quantification of colchicine and gloriosine in phytopharmaceuticals. In addition, this study is relevant to explore the chemotypic variability in metabolite content for commercial and medicinal purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Juniperus communis Linn. is an important plant in India traditional system of medicine which is widely used by different tribes in many countries. Objective: In the present study, the antioxidant, cytotoxic and hepatoprotective activities of Juniperus communis leaves were investigated against various models. Materials and Methods: ethanolic extract (70% v/v) of J. communis leaves was successively extracted using hexane and ethyl acetate to prepare various fractions. Total phenol content was resolute by the Folin-Ciocalteau's process. The antioxidant properties of the different fractions/extract of leaves of J. communis were examined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity and Fe2+ chelating ability. Cytotoxic activity was examined by cell viability assay on HepG2 cells. Hepatoprotective activity of ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) evaluated against PCM-Paracetamol-induced hepatic damage in Wistar albino rats. Results: Total phenol content was found maximum 315.33 mg/ GAE/g in EAF. Significant scavenging activity were found for EAF (IC50 = 177 μg/ml) as compared to standard BHT (IC50 = 138 μg/ml), while EAF showed good Fe2+ chelating ability having an IC50 value of 261 mg/ML compared to standard ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (7.7 mg/mL). It was found that EAF treated group shows remarkable decrease in serum Aspartate aminotransferase, serum Alanine aminotransferase, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, and alkaline phosphatase level in treatment group as compared to the hepatotoxic group. Conclusion: EAF of J. communis leaves is found to be potent antioxidant and hepatoprotective without any cytotoxicity and it can also be included in nutraceuticals with notable benefits for mankind or animal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: In India, opioid substitution therapy (OST) has been scaled-up in the recent years for HIV prevention among injecting drug users. This study aimed to assess the change in knowledge and attitude of the OST staff who underwent a five-day training programme on OST.Methods: Using a “pre-test post-test” design, routine data collected from 267 staff who underwent the OST training was analysed. The staff composition was: doctors (n = 42, 15.7%), nurses (n = 49, 18.4%), counsellors (n = 45, 16.9%) and other programme staff (n = 131, 49.1%). A 20-item, pen and paper questionnaire was administered right before the beginning of and immediately after the completion of the training. The questions were categorised into one of the five domains to assess whether changes in scores are confined to certain domains. Overall scores and scores in different domains were compared using paired-sample t-tests. The score difference in different cadres was compared using univariate general linear model with post-hoc comparisons.Findings: The difference between the total mean pre-test scores (9.24) (out of maximum possible score of 20) and post-test score (13.8) was significant. Comparison between various domains showed significant differences across all cadres. Doctors recorded significantly higher scores compared to other cadres.Conclusion: It is feasible to train different cadres of service providers together on OST in five days. The training was able to improve the participants’ knowledge and their attitude towards injecting drug users. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

An earthquake of M 6.7 occurred near the Noney village of Tamenglong district, 30 km WNW of Imphal, Manipur on 4 January 2016. This is the largest earthquake to have occurred in the region during last six decades. The last event of M 7.3 occurred on 1 July 1957 SW of Imphal in Manipur valley. The current event was recorded by a local network of BBS and located at 24.865°N and 93.653°E with a focal depth of 50 km. Data collected have been analysed to estimate source parameters, fault plane solution and assessment of damage in the vicinity of the epicenter. The seismic moment and stress drop have been estimated to be 1.096x10 dyne.cm and 10.1 bars respectively, with the source radius of 17 km and rupture length of 44 km. The fault plane solution obtained using waveform inversion shows that the event was of strike slip type with two nodal planes, having (i) dip of 49°; strike 342°; rake 166° and (ii) with dip of 79°; strike 81°; rake 36°, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Awareness about paradoxical reactions in tuberculous meningitis is crucial as a paradoxical reaction may lead to certain wrong conclusions (for example, an erroneous diagnosis, and a possibility of treatment failure, mycobacterial drug-resistance, drug toxicity, or presence of a malignancy). The present study was planned to evaluate the incidence and predictive factors of paradoxical reactions in light of clinical, cerebrospinal fluid, and neuroimaging characteristics.Methods: In this prospective cohort study, consecutive patients fulfilling the International Consensus criteria of tuberculous meningitis were included. Patients were subjected to clinical evaluation, cerebrospinal fluid evaluation, and neuroimaging. Patients were treated with anti-tuberculosis drugs along with corticosteroids. Patients were regularly followed up at 3 monthly intervals. At each follow up patients were evaluated clinically and repeat cerebrospinal fluid analysis was performed along with repeat neuroimaging. Disability assessment was done using Barthel index.Results: We enrolled 141 patients of tuberculous meningitis. Approximately one-third of patients (44/141; 31.2 %) developed a paradoxical reaction. Twenty-seven patients developed hydrocephalus, 26 developed tuberculomas, 12 developed optochiasmatic arachnoiditis and 4 patients had spinal arachnoiditis. In 41 patients (out of 44) cerebrospinal fluid paradoxically worsened (increase in cells and/or protein); 2 demonstrated a decrease in cells with polymorph predominance while in one it was normal. In 3 patients, paradoxical cerebrospinal fluid changes were not associated with neuroimaging changes. On multivariate analysis, predictors of paradoxical reaction were female gender (p = 0.013), HIV positivity (p = 0.01) and a shorter duration of illness (p = 0.049). Development of paradoxical reactions did not predict the disability status of the patients.Conclusions: Paradoxical reaction occurs in approximately one-third of patients with tuberculous meningitis. Female gender, concomitant HIV infection, and a shorter duration of illness were significant predictors. Paradoxical reactions did not adversely affect the outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in India are playing a significant role in transfer of all feasible technologies in the field of agriculture and allied field to farmers and farm women's at field level. This study was under taken to assess and compare the profitability from the buffalo farming of beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries dairy farmers of KVK for the year 2012. The Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Bichpuri, Agra of Uttar-Pradesh was purposively selected for the study as many training programs on Animal Husbandry and Dairying for dairy farmers were conducted at this Kendra. A total 60 trained dairy farmers, 60 non-trained dairy farmers were selected in the study and data were collected through personal interview and personal observation. The results indicated that the average total fixed cost involved in the buffalo farming of beneficiaries was higher than that of non-beneficiaries dairy farmers of KVK. The total variable cost was worked out to be more than 80 percent in both beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries dairy farmers of KVK. The net profit from the buffalo farming was higher for beneficiary's dairy farmers (Rs.12510) as compared to non-beneficiaries dairy farmers (Rs.6455) of KVK. There was significant difference at 1 percent level of probability between the beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries dairy farmers regarding mean net profit from buffaloes. It could be concluded that the Transfer of Technology (TOT) through Krishi Vigyan Kendra were able to increase the profit of the beneficiaries dairy farmers from their enterprise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have never been produced in India, but were used in industrial applications. PCBs have been detected in environmental samples since 1966, and their sources in soils come from depositions of industrial applications, incinerators and biomass combustions. PCBs adsorb to soil particles and persist for long time due to their properties. Their close proximity may also lead to human exposure through ingestion, inhalation, dermal contact, and may exert neurotoxic, mutagenic and carcinogenic health effects. Design and Methods. Residential soil from Korba, India, was extracted using pressurized liquid extraction procedure, cleaned on modified silica and quantified for PCBs. Soil ingestion was considered as the main exposure pathways of life-long intake of PCBs. Human health risk in terms of life time average daily dose, incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) and non-cancer hazard quotient (HQ) were estimated using established guidelines. Results. The estimated average ILCR from non dioxin like PCBs for human adults and children was 3.1×10-8 and 1.1×10-7, respectively. ILCR from dioxin like PCBs for human adults and children was 3.1×10-6 and 1.1×10-5, respectively. The HQ for PCBs was 6.3×10-4 and 2.2×10-3, respectively for human adults and children. Study observed that ILCR from non dioxin like PCBs was lower than acceptable guideline range of 10-6-10-4, and ILCR from dioxin like PCBs was within the limit. HQ was lower than safe limit of 1. Conclusions. Study concluded that human population residing in Korba had low health risk due to PCBs in residential soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blasting operations at Banduhurang opencast mine of Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL) were stopped for about seven months since February 2011 due to the complaints lodged by the inhabitants of nearby Dhodanga village to the district administration. The complaints were related to the disturbance caused to them as a result of blast-induced ground vibration, noise/air overpressure and flying fragments. On recommendation of the district administration, the Blasting Department of the CSIR-Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR), Dhanbad carried out a thorough scientific study and assessed the impacts of blasting on various residential structures as well as on their inhabitants. The study proved that the impacts of blasting were well within safe limit. It helped pacifying public discontent and ultimately reopening the mine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new braconid, Macrocentrus delhiensis sp. nov., is described and illustrated from New Delhi, India. Specimens were collected on weeds near a mango orchard. Including this new species, seven species of Macrocentrus Curtis 1833 are known from India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cognitive impairments in multiple sclerosis (MS) are now well recognized worldwide, but unfortunately this domain has been less explored in India due to many undermining factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate cognitive impairments in Indian MS patients with visual or upper limb motor problems with the help of short version of Montreal cognitive assessment test (MoCA). Subjects and Methods: Thirty MS patients and 50 matched controls were recruited for the 12 points MoCA task. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was performed to determine optimal sensitivity and specificity of the 12 points MoCA in differentiating cognitively impaired patients and controls. Results: The mean 12 points MoCA scores of the controls and MS patients were 11.56 ± 0.67 and 8.06 ± 1.99, respectively. In our study, the optimal cut-off value for 12 points MoCA to be able to differentiate patients with cognitive impairments from controls is 10/12. Accordingly, 73.3% patients fell below the cut off value. Both the groups did not have significant statistical differences with regard to age and educational years. Conclusion: The 12 points, short version of MoCA, is a useful brief screening tool for quick and early detection of mild cognitive impairments in subjects with MS. It can be administered to patients having visual and motor problems. It is of potential use by primary care physicians, nurses, and other allied health professionals who need a quick screening test. No formal training for administration is required. Financial and time constraints should not limit the use of the proposed instrument. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Health services in India is mainly shared by the Public health sector, Private health sector and by some voluntary organizations, Public health services mainly serve the middle class and lower middle class population in India. Lack of funds and human resource is a major factor contributing to compromised services rendered in this sector. Objectives: The present study was planned to assess the quality of care provided and the patient's satisfaction level in the obstetrics and Gynaecology department of the Government Medical College hospital of Garhwal, Uttarakhand. Material & Method: The study was conducted as a hospital based cross sectional study. A predesigned structured questionnaire was devised and 5 newly admitted patients were interviewed daily between 5-7 pm for a period of two months. The infrastructure and other facilities were assessed by direct physical observation. Result: In the present study it was observed that the department is mainly suffering with lack of manpower and supply of essential drugs. Patients expect better services from the hospital as well as they conclude that the behaviour of the doctors and the paramedical staffs needs further improvement. Conclusion: The department needs better infrastructure, human resource facilities and there is a need to improve the quality of care as well as patient satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A literary criticism of the book "Reception of the Received: European Romanticism, Rabindranath and Suryakanta Nirala," by Ipshita Chanda is presented. It details the difference between the views of scientists Aristotle and Plato with regards to the concept of change related to contactuality. It explores that comparisons are natural though it may be strange is a human instinct related to jealousy and power. Moreover, Chanda made India as the site for contractual comparative study.

This study aims to explore the level of usage of electronic information resources and services in teaching and learning, as well as the impact of its usage. The problem has been studied based on the information available in the open literature and a survey conducted on the awareness and utilization of EIR in 6 management colleges. The survey is based on structured questionnaire method. In the present study the faculty members (Professors, Associate Professors, and Assistant Professors) and students of 6 management colleges at NCR are the target population. A total of 200 questionnaires were distributed to the selected sample for the session 2011-12; 170 valid samples were selected for analyses. Awareness among the users about the availability of EIR was found satisfactory. Majority of academic community (Professors, Associate Professors, Assistant Professors and Students) use Bibliographic databases, plus other specialist management databases and Web-based resources (95.65%, 95.83%, 91.18%, 41.57%) and e-journals & e-journal collection in equal percentages which is followed by use of e-mail, newsgroups etc. (86.96%, 83.33%, 70.59%, 92.13%) and web-based news resources. Majority of the academic community used Emerald Management Xtra (95.65%, 87.50%, 85.29%, 26.97%), EBSCO Business Source Complete (95.65%, 87.50%, 88.24%, 43.82%) and Science Direct (Business, management & Accounting) (95.65%, 87.50%, 88.24%, 43.82%). All the academic community satisfied with the use of electronic information resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The increasing proportion of elderly persons is contributing to an increase in the prevalence of diabetes. The residents of urban slums are more vulnerable due to poverty and lack of access to health care. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of diabetes in elderly persons in an urban slum and to assess their awareness, treatment and control of this condition. Materials and Methods: All persons aged 60 years and above, residing in an urban slum of Delhi, were included in this cross-sectional community- based study. Data were collected on sociodemographic variables. The participants' awareness and treatment of diabetes was recorded. Their fasting blood sugar was estimated using an automated glucometer. Diabetes was diagnosed if fasting blood glucose was ≥126 mg/dL, or if the participant was taking treatment for diabetes. Impaired fasting blood glucose was diagnosed if fasting blood glucose was 110]125 mg/dL. Results: Among the 474 participants studied, the prevalence of diabetes was estimated to be 18.8% (95% CI 15.3]21.5). It decreased with increasing age, and was higher among women. The prevalence of impaired fasting blood glucose was 19.8% (95% CI 16.3-23.7). It was higher among women. One-third of the diabetic participants were aware of their condition; two-thirds of these were on treatment and three-fourths of those on treatment had controlled fasting blood sugar level. The awareness, treatment and control were better among women. Conclusions: Diabetes is common among elderly persons in urban slums. Its magnitude and low awareness warrant effective public health interventions for their treatment and control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural disasters like flood, earthquakes and cyclones are very frequent in India since historical times. As far as the casualties are concerned, globally earthquakes are second in the list after the flood. The loss of property due to these earthquakes is huge and enormous. In the light of the present knowledge base, earthquake prediction is far from being a reality. An early earthquake warning has potential to save the precious human lives. In the present day scenario seismic instrumentation and telecommunication permits the implementation of seismic alert system (SAS) based on the real-time measurement of ground motions near the source. SAS is capable of providing a warning of several seconds before the arrival of destructive seismic waves caused by a large earthquake. SAS is successfully operational in many countries of the world. In a country, like India where earthquakes are taking heavy toll on the human lives and property, seismic alert system may prove to be very important step in natural hazard mitigation strategy. In this paper, an attempt has been made to compute the available alarm time before the destructive earthquake waves reaches to the cities like Delhi, Lucknow, Patna and Kolkata taking Himalaya as the source and feasibility of seismic alert system in Indian scenario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the existence of Registration of Birth and Death Act (1969), Civil Registration System (CRS) in India registered only 68.3% of the births and 63.2% of the deaths. Hence, National Population Policy (2000) emphasized the need to improve registration of vital events. In 2005, Haryana initiated policy changes to enhance registration of vital events. We evaluated the impact of these policy changes on CRS in 2009. Materials and Methods: Records and reports of CRS were reviewed. On the basis of the birth and deaths reported by the Sample Registration System, the proportion of births and deaths registered by CRS were estimated using the projected population from 2001 Census. Results: Before 2005, Police Stations were the registration centers in rural Haryana. On 1st January 2005, the birth and death registration was made the responsibility of Primary Health Centers (PHCs). Medical Officers at PHCs were designated as Registrar and Pharmacists as Sub-Registrar of Births and Deaths. Auxiliary Nurse Midwife and Anganwadi Workers facilitated the registration. Till 2004, the registration of births was stagnant at the level of 70% for several years, which increased to 95% by 2009. Similarly registration of death events increased from 73.5% to 92.1%. Conclusion: Haryana state is still to achieve complete registration of births and deaths, but certainly shift of registration from police to health department has strengthened the CRS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proper selection and ranking of Ground Motion Prediction Equations (GMPEs) is critical for successful logic-tree implementation in probabilistic seismic hazard analysis. The present study explores this issue in predicting peak ground accelerations at the rock sites in India. Macroseismic intensity data complemented with limited strong ground-motion recordings are used for the purpose. The findings corroborate the possible conformity between the GMPEs developed for tectonically active shallow crust across the globe. On the other hand, the relevant GMPEs in the intraplate regions cluster into two different groups with the equations of lower ranks catering to higher ground motions. The earthquakes in the subduction zones have significant regional implications. However, affinity in the ground-motion attenuations between the major interface events ( M > 7.4) in Andaman-Nicobar, Japan and Cascadia, respectively, is noted. This can be also observed for the intraslab events in the Hindukush and Taiwan respectively. Overall, we do not observe any significant advantage with the equations developed using the regional data. These findings are expected to be useful in probabilistic seismic hazard analysis across the study region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Occular Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials (oVEMP) responses have been consistently obtained in healthy individuals. Reports in literature have been suggestive of their utility in evaluating patients with vestibular disorders (Iwasaki et al., 2008 & 2009). Compared to Cervical VEMPs (cVEMPS), oVEMPs are less strenuous for the subjects to perform, and symmetrical responses can be easily obtained without monitoring background activation. As the oVEMP test gains popularity and worldwide recognition as a valid and reliable test of otolith function, it is likely to supplement cVEMP in the assessment of end organ function and act as a complementary technique when assessing central vestibular disorders. However, the clinical use of any test requires the establishment of reliability of the test and little is known about the test-retest reliability of oVEMPs (Isaradisaikul, Strong, Moushey, et al., 2008; Eleftheriadou, Deftereos, Zarikas, et al., 2008). Nguyen et al., (2010) reported about the test-retest reliability of oVEMP , however, smaller number of participants, larger gap between test and retest sessions and absence of fixed reference point for upward gaze may have played spoilsport and a better control at these variables may bring about a different result. So, the present study aimed at examining the test-retest reliability of the sound-induced oVEMP parameters. Monaural contralateral oVEMPS were recorded from 30 healthy individuals with normal audio-vestibular system and the test was repeated after a minimum gap of 1 week, keeping the other parameters constant. The obtained data was analyzed using Cronbach's alpha test. The results revealed excellent test-retest reliability for the amplitude parameters barring the asymmetry ratio, which showed fair-to-moderate reliability. The latencies also demonstrated fair-to-moderate test-retest reliability. These reliability values for oVEMP are better than those reported for cVEMP and could be attributed to a number of factors including smaller area of electrode placement making it less error prone, oVEMP being excitatory potential as opposed to cVEMP being inhibitory, and lesser fatigability of extra-occular muscles contrary to higher fatigability of the SCM muscle. The test-retest reliability values, thus, prove that the test is quite reliable and can be used clinically with confidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This study employed an extended approach of 'TAM' to predict EV adoption intention. • Conceptual model based on a linkage perspective of 'beliefs-attitude-intention'. • The direct paths along with underlying mediation & moderation effects were tested. • Results verify the model of the sum of positive & negative beliefs of EV adoption. • Study addresses the essential research gap by analysing the mediator of attitude. • Contributes to the literature via the moderator of financial incentives policy. The study aims to operationalize and test the extended 'Technology Acceptance Model' (TAM) with perceived risk and financial incentives policy based on the integrative approach of 'beliefs-attitude-intention' in order to understand and predict consumers' intention to adopt electric vehicles (EVs). The research model also seeks to examine the mediating role of attitude towards EVs and the moderation of financial incentives policy in the context of an emerging sustainable transportation market. The model was empirically tested by structural equation modeling using online survey from Indian respondents. The findings reveal that adoption intention for EVs is directly and indirectly influenced by the predictor variables of attitude, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and perceived risk, with the moderation of financial incentives policy. All the direct hypotheses were accepted, except the relationship between perceived risk and attitude. In addition, the findings also confirm that attitude partially mediate the effects of usefulness and ease of use on the adoption intention, however, no mediating effect of attitude has been found between risk and adoption intention. The discussion and implications offer deeper insights for policymakers and marketers on promoting EVs in the direction of future research in the sustainable transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In present study focus has been given on estimating quality and toxicity of waste with respect to heavy metals and its impact on groundwater quality, using statistical and empirical relationships between different hydrochemical data, so that easy monitoring may be possible which in turn help the sustainable management of landfill site and municipal solid waste. Samples of solid waste, leachate and groundwater were analyzed to evaluate the impact of leachates on groundwater through the comparison of their hydrochemical nature. Results suggest the existence of an empirical relationship between some specific indicator parameters like heavy metals of all three above mentioned sample type. Further, K/Mg ratio also indicates three groundwater samples heavily impacted from leachate contamination. A good number of samples are also showing higher values for $$ NO^{ - }_{3} $$ and Pb than that of World Health Organization (WHO) drinking water regulation. Predominance of Fe and Zn in both groundwater and solid waste samples may be due to metal plating industries in the area. Factor analysis is used as a tool to explain observed relation between numerous variables in term of simpler relation, which may help to deduce the strength of relation. Positive loading of most of the factors for heavy metal clearly shows landfill impact on ground water quality especially along the hydraulic gradient. Cluster analysis, further substantiates the impact of landfill. Two major groups of samples obtained from cluster analysis suggest that one group comprises samples that are severely under the influence of landfill and contaminated leachates along the groundwater flow direction while other assorted with samples without having such influence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The Dehradun Valley, a synclinal intermontane valley piggyback basin within the Siwalik Group rocks in the NW Himalaya, is separated from the Lesser Himalayan formations in the north by a major intraplate thrust, the Main Boundary Thrust (MBT) and from the Indogangetic Plains in the south by the Himalayan Frontal Fault (HFF). Major parts of the Dehradun Valley are covered by three fans, from west to east the Donga, Dehradun and Bhogpur fans, deposited by streams following the topography produced by activity of the MBT and probable footwall imbricate thrusts, starting at about 50 ka. The Donga and Dehradun fans were fed by small streams and characterized mainly by sediment gravity-flow deposits (debris flow and mudflow deposits) in the proximal zone, and mostly mudflow deposits and minor braided stream deposits in the middle zone during the period 50–10 ka. Palaeosols were weakly developed in the proximal zone and moderately to strongly developed in the middle zone. The degree of development of palaeosol was mainly a function of rate of sedimentation and to some extent entrenchment of streams into the fan surface. Since 10 ka, deposition has been typically by braided streams. The Bhogpur fan has been marked by deposition from relatively larger braided streams since 50 ka. The fan sequences in the Dehradun Valley are synorogenic and their deposition started due to activity of the southern footwall imbricate of the MBT, i.e. Bhauwala Thrust on the Donga and Dehradun fans. In these fans, major fan sequences show retrogradation (50–10 ka) related to a decrease in the activity of the MBT and related imbricates and activity of more hinterlandward imbricates with time. After 10 ka a thin prograding sequence was deposited due to uplift of the fans, which resulted from the activity on a thrust in the distal parts of the fans. It suggests an out-of-sequence activity of faults in the MBT imbricate system. Cross-faults divide the Siwalik formations in the footwall of the MBT into three blocks, which were marked by decreasing subsidence or possibly uplift from east to west. Thrusting on the HFF was not piggyback type but synchronous with activity of the MBT and its imbricates. The development of the Mohand fault-bend anticline above the HFF changed the nature of the basin from foreland to piggyback type, shed minor colluvial deposits prior to 10 ka, and folded the southernmost fan deposits in the western, narrow parts of the valley. A major change in climate from a cold, dry climate with strong seasonal variations prevailing since 50 ka to warm and humid climate at about 10 ka resulted in a change in depositional processes from sediment gravity-flows to braided streams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]