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Facial emotion recognition (FER) represents a significant outcome of the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) technology. In today's digital era, the ability to decipher emotions from facial expressions has evolved into a fundamental mode of human interaction and communication. As a result, FER has penetrated diverse domains, including but not limited to medical diagnosis, customer feedback analysis, the automation of automobile driver systems, and the evaluation of student comprehension. Furthermore, it has matured into a captivating and dynamic research field, capturing the attention and curiosity of contemporary scholars and scientists. The primary objective of this paper is to provide an exhaustive review of FER systems. Its significance goes beyond offering a comprehensive resource; it also serves as a valuable guide for emerging researchers in the FER domain. Through a meticulous examination of existing FER systems and methodologies, this review equips them with essential insights and guidance for their future research pursuits. Moreover, this comprehensive review contributes to the expansion of their knowledge base, facilitating a profound understanding of this rapidly evolving field. In a world increasingly dependent on technology for communication and interaction, the study of FER holds a pivotal role in human‐computer interaction (HCI). It not only provides valuable insights but also unlocks a multitude of possibilities for future innovations and applications. As we continue to integrate AI and facial emotion recognition into our daily lives, the importance of comprehending and enhancing FER systems becomes increasingly evident. This paper serves as a stepping stone for researchers, nurturing their involvement in this exciting and ever‐evolving field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Obesity is one of the critical public health problems in our society. It leads to various health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, dyslipidaemia, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. With the rising incidence of obesity, there is a growing demand for new therapies which can effectively manage body weight and improve health. Current evidence: Currently under development, multi-receptor agonist drugs may offer a promising solution to meet this unmet medical need. Retatrutide is a novel triple receptor agonist peptide that targets the glucagon receptor (GCGR), glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor (GIPR), and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R). This novel drug has the potential to treat metabolic abnormalities associated with obesity as well as diseases resulting from it due to its distinct mechanism of action. The Phase III trial of this pipeline drug for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and obesity started on August 28, 2023. The results of a Phase II clinical trial have demonstrated significant weight reduction in overweight and obese adults. Specifically, the trial reported an average weight loss of 17.5% and 24.4% at 24 and 48 weeks, respectively. Conclusions: These findings hold promise for the development of effective weight loss interventions in this population group. There is a need for more phase III studies to provide sufficient clinical evidence for the effectiveness of retatrutide, as current evidence is limited to phase II studies and has yet to prove its worth in a larger population. Here, we aimed to provide an overview of retatrutide's safety and effectiveness in treating obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, Ni-doped SnO2 nanoparticles with varying doping concentration were synthesized by adopting two processing routes. X-ray diffraction (XRD) study confirmed the tetragonal rutile structure of chemical and green synthesized Sn1–xNixO2 (x = 0.5, 1.5 & 2.5%) nanoparticles. FE-SEM micrographs exhibited significant variations in morphology leading to the formation of spherical nanoparticles with agglomeration via chemical route while tiny rods were observed in case of green route. Optical bandgap (Eg) found to decrease with doping concentration irrespective of the processing technique. The obtained outcomes from XPS studies confirmed the presence and oxidation states of desired elements in the samples. Methylene blue (MB) and crystal violet (CV) were selected as target pollutants in order to investigate the photocatalytic performance under natural solar light illumination. The better catalytic performance has been achieved by green synthesised Sn1–xNixO2 nanoparticles with the higher degradation efficiency of 95.2% as compared to chemical synthesised SnO2 nanoparticles (80%) under natural solar light. The obtained results showed that doping and processing methods have significant impact on the structural, optical, morphological and photocatalytic performance of nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalysts have gained much attention because of the water pollution instigated by the rapid usage of organic dyes for industrial needs. The degradation of these dyes using photocatalysts under natural light is an economical and popular method for water treatment. There is a need to synthesize photocatalytic materials which can generate reactive oxygen species under natural light. Hence, keeping in mind the above point, rose flower-shaped CuS nanostructures have been synthesized first time by solvothermal technique by varying reaction duration. The self-assembled powder of CuS nanostructures is characterized using XRD, FE-SEM, TEM, DLS, EDS, XPS, Raman, FT-IR, and UV–visible spectroscopy. The XRD and TEM analyses confirmed the formation of a polycrystalline hexagonal structure with prominent diffraction peaks. FE-SEM study shows the formation of uniformly self-assembled rose flower-shaped nanostructures of size 2–3 μm composed of densely packed nanoparticles. XPS study shows the presence of Cu(II) and Cu(I) states of copper in the synthesized batch and stoichiometric composition Cu:S is found to be 60:40 at.%. The optical studies showed broad absorption spectra of CuS nanostructures in about 300–800 nm wavelength range. Besides, this work studies the degradation activity of methylene blue and crystal violet organic dyes under natural sunlight conditions without the presence of any additive agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background-Peripartum hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus performed in obstetrical complications such as uncontrolled postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), unrepairable uterine rupture, and sepsis during or immediately after abdominal and vaginal deliveries. Its incidence has increased in recent years. The objective of this study was to review all the cases of Peripartum hysterectomy in a Kamla Raja Hospital, Gajra Raja Medical College, Gwalior.(July 2020-July 2022) to determine its incidence, management and outcomes in women who underwent peripartum hysterectomy. Materials and Method-All women undergoing peripartum hysterectomy from July 2020 to July 2022 were included in the study. Details of the women who underwent peripartum hysterectomy wascollected from the case files, OT registers and SNCU registers. The total number of deliveries i.e caesarean and vaginal deliveries were included. Results-A total of 54 cases were collected over a period of 2 years. The incidence of peripartum hysterectomies in our study was 0.19/1,000 vaginal deliveries and 5.1/1,000 caesarean (CS) deliveries. The mean age of women undergoing hysterectomy was 29.46 years, with 28 women (51.8%) less than 30 years. Thirty six women (66.68%) were anaemic with mean preoperative haemoglobin of 8.02 g/dl. Sixty-six percent of women underwent emergency hysterectomy. In our study a total 28/54 women that accounts for 51.85% of the caseshad placenta previa of which 22 were abnormally invasive morbidly adherent placenta. Abnormally invasive morbidly adherent placenta accounts for 68.51% and massive postpartum haemorrhage accounts for 37.03% of the cases and were major indications for peripartum hysterectomy. In our study 18.25 % of patients had isolated atonic PPH, while 51.85% of the cases had placenta previa in combination with atony or abnormally invasive placenta or uterine rupture. Uterine rupture accounts for 4/54 cases i.e 7.40%. More than 50 % of the hadhaemorrhage due to two or more factors (uterine atony, morbid adherent placenta, and traumatic uterine rupture). Uterine atony constituted as the cause of PPH 18.25% women single handedly, 55.56% of the cases presented in the emergency hours with minimal prior workup. Average duration of ICU stay in our study was 5.1 days and 11.11% of the cases required ventilator support .83.33% of the patients underwent total hysterectomy which inferred from the fact that majority of the cases presented with placenta previa and abnormally invasive placenta. Uterine artery ligation was done in 48.14% of the cases. Internal iliac artery ligation was done in 7.40% of the cases. The febrile illness was the most common post peripartum hysterectomy complication and the Bladder injury was the second most common intraoperative complication. One women died, one due to coagulopathy. The maternal mortality ratio for PRH was 2.78 per 100,000 live births. Stillbirth rate was 29.62%. Conclusion-Over time, caesarean section rates have skyrocketed, leading to life-threatening complications like scar rupture, placenta accreta spectrum, bladder injuries, adnexal bleeding, and broad ligament hematomas. This requires the health care system to identify high-risk women prior to workup to rule out placental invasion, improve hemoglobin stores, control hypertension, and provide appropriate management. Resident doctors need emergency obstetric hysterectomy training and workshops. Patients, family members, and outreach workers like ASHAs and ANMs should be advised that a planned caesarean section is better than attempting a home birth and arriving late to the hospital in obstructed labor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple and convenient protocol has been developed for the synthesis of 1,8-dioxo-octahydroxanthenes via one-pot pseudo three-component reactions between two equivalents of dimedone and one-equivalent of aromatic aldehydes in the presence of a catalytic amount of camphor sulfonic acid as an efficient organocatalyst in ethanol under refluxed conditions. A variety of aryl as well as heteroaryl aldehydes were employed and all those afforded excellent yields of the desired products. The synthesized products were isolated pure in excellent yields by simple crystallization techniques. Use of organocatalyst, simple work up procedure, high atom economy, multicomponent strategy, easy isolation procedure and excellent yields are some of the major advantages of this newly developed protocol. X-ray crystallographic data of the five such synthesized 1,8-dioxo-octahydroxanthene derivatives were also recorded. 3D Hirshfeld surfaces and allied 2D fingerprint plots of these five 1,8-dioxo-octahydroxanthene derivatives were also analyzed further for molecular interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the rise in the global prevalence of stress and depressive symptoms, there is an increasing need to identify promising interventions that promote well-being. One potential intervention that has been widely discussed in the literature on improving well-being is the practice of gratitude. However, findings on its effectiveness have been marred by inconsistency and publication bias. Building upon past studies, the current study aims to revisit the effect of a gratitude contemplation intervention on multiple well-being outcomes by using a within-person experimental design with a daily diary approach. Multilevel modeling showed that the gratitude contemplation intervention had a significant within-person effect on multiple daily well-being outcomes including negative affect, perceived stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. Moreover, the results were robust across varying levels of personality traits. Our study provides another line of evidence to the literature supporting the benefits of gratitude contemplation intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The study was undertaken to observe the adverse event following immunization (AEFI) to the Covaxin vaccine in young adolescents in the age group of 15-18 years in a district in Northern India. The study was conducted to assess the safety profile of the COVAXIN vaccine. Methodology: This was a prospective observational study conducted at rural and urban health centers of a district in Northern India. We included the beneficiaries of the COVAXIN between the age of 15 and 18 years. The administration of the COVAXIN occurred in our district from January 2022. Periodic visits were conducted to the urban and rural health centers of the city to record any suspected adverse drug reaction following immunization in the defined population. The study was conducted for a period of 1 year (January 2022 to December 2022). Results: A total of 72,771 adolescents (15-18 years) received the first dose of Covaxin and 49,046 received the second dose. No adverse drug event following immunization was reported during the study. Conclusion: Thus, it can be concluded that Covaxin was found to be safe in adolescents (15-18 years). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & objectives: Calcium and vitamin D, separately or in combination are usually prescribed to prevent fragility fractures in elderly population. However, there are conflicting results regarding the ideal dosage and overall efficacy obtained from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted in the past. The objective of this study was to assess the fracture risk with the administration of calcium or vitamin D alone or in combination in elderly population (>60 yr). Methods: PubMed, Cochrane and Embase databases were searched to identify the studies from inception to February 2021 with keywords, 'vitamin D', 'calcium' and 'fracture' to identify RCTs. The trials with comparing vitamin D, calcium or combination with either no medication or placebo were included for final analyses. The data were extracted and the study quality was assessed by two reviewers. The principal outcome measure was fractures around hip joint and secondary outcomes assessed were vertebral and any other fracture. Results: Eighteen RCTs were considered for the final analysis. Neither calcium nor vitamin D supplementation was associated with risk of fractures around hip joint [risk ratio (RR) 1.56; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.91 to 2.69, I²=28%; P=0.11]. In addition, the combined administration of calcium and vitamin D was also not associated with fractures around the hip joint in comparison to either no treatment or placebo. The incidence of vertebral (RR 0.95; 95% CI, 0.82 to 1.10, I²=0%; P=0.49) or any other fracture (RR 0.83; 95% CI 0.65 to 1.06, I²=0%; P=0.14) was not significantly associated with the administration of calcium and vitamin D either individually or in combination. Further subgroup analysis of the results did not vary with the dosage of calcium or vitamin D, dietary calcium intake sex, or serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. Interpretation & conclusions: The present meta-analysis of RCTs on calcium, vitamin D or a combination of the two in comparison to no treatment or placebo did not support the routine administration protocol of calcium and vitamin D either alone or in combination to lower the risk of fractures in elderly population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Maternal and child under-nutrition is particularly widespread in low and middle-income nations, increasing the overall disease burden due to poor nutritional status. The aim of this study was to develop nutrition intervention for the prevention and control of anaemia among women of reproductive age. Methods: Community-based intervention study was conducted among 443 women of reproductive age group (15–49 years) to determine the effectiveness of a 6-month nutrition intervention package. The nutrition intervention was developed by using Precede-Proceed model and the trans-theoretical model of behavior change. Multi-channel communication approach was adopted and nutrition intervention package was provided. Assessment of haemoglobin, red blood cells, platelet, ferritin, folate, vitamin B12, haematocrit test, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, red cell distribution width and total leucocyte count was compared at the baseline and endline after the intervention among the participants. The chi-square test of independence and t-test were performed. Results: The only mean ferritin level shows significant improvement (p < 0.001). A significant decrease (~ 15%, p = 0.027) in anaemia was observed after the intervention. Conclusions: Improvement in anaemic status of women was observed. National schemes and programs require a more robust strategical implementation like food fortification/bio fortification and behaviour change communication at village level to enhance the availability and accessibility of fortified food. Significance: What is already known on this subject? Anaemia is highly prevalent among women and child in India. In reproductive aged women, there is some evidence of a link between nutrition and anaemia. What this study adds? The study recommends that trans-theoretical model of behaviour construct was an effective way to reduce the prevalence of anaemia among reproductive aged women of India. Multi-channel communication and household level interaction can be considered for significant implementation of nutrition intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The majority of the tumours occurring in minor salivary glands are malignant with only 18% being benign. Among the benign tumours, pleomorphic adenoma is the most common. Although it presents more commonly in the parotid and submandibular glands, it can occur at any site where salivary glands reside. Only 6.4% of cases of pleomorphic adenoma occur in minor salivary glands, e.g. palate, cheeks, lips, para-pharyngeal space, etc. It occurs in females in the fourth or fifth decade. It presents as an asymptomatic and slow-growing mass. The treatment of choice is wide local excision due to the high rate of recurrence and malignant potential. We present rare case reports of two patients. The first case is of a young 18 years female presenting with recurrent neck (anterior triangle) swelling and the second case is of a 46-year-old female presenting with lower lip swelling. In both cases, it was a slow-growing mass and asymptomatic. Cytological examination of the lesion revealed the diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma. It was completely excised with no post-operative complication. Pleomorphic adenoma, although a common benign neoplasm of major salivary glands, should always be kept as a possibility at the locations of minor salivary glands. As pleomorphic adenoma can transform into a malignant counterpart, therefore early diagnosis and treatment of the lesion can prevent further complications. The prognosis of pleomorphic adenoma is excellent. However, a close follow-up of the patient is required due to the high rate of recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Er3+ doped Y2O3 nanophosphors were synthesized by combustion techniques using urea as fuel, and their photoluminescence properties were measured. Furthermore, the morphology and particle size were calculated using Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), with the histogram showing the average particle size. Photoluminescence spectra of doped Y2O3:Er3+ phosphors were efficiently excited in the range of 200–400 nm. The phosphors prepared below 356 nm excitation exhibit three major peaks located at 506 nm (green) and 522 nm (green) and 711 nm (red) corresponding to 2H11/2 → 4I15/2 and 4F9/2 → 4I15/2 transition, respectively. The chromaticity calculation by the Commission Internationale de I'Eclairage (CIE) confirms that with Er3+ doping, the luminescence coordinates of Y2O3 phosphor with Er3+ doping shift to an almost white (0.291, 0.397) region which is very much close to the ideal white emission. Therefore, the prepared phosphor is used for UV-based LEDs and display devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycine is a commercially available, mild, less toxic, zwitterionic amino acid. The present review summarizes all the reported protocols related to the one-pot multicomponent synthesis of structurally diverse biologically promising heterocyclic scaffolds using a catalytic amount of glycine or its complexes as catalyst under various reaction conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The universal spread of novel virus named coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) also known as 2019-nCoV, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) declared by the world health organisation (WHO). This virus has dived in to multiorgan, with clinical manifestations of fever, sore throat, dry cough, dyspnoea, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and muscle pain. As novel coronavirus been categorised as HG3 infection which has highest with inhalation and by skin surface contact. As previous pandemics have occurred like SARS and MERS special attention to autopsy had been given to prevent exposure to the healthcare workers. Similar attention should be given to the autopsy protocols and underlying pathology for COVID-19 infection so as to better understanding of the disease for further control and treatment guidelines. Thus, herein we bring and summarise review of literature for understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-read single-cell transcriptomics (scRNA-Seq) is revolutionizing the way we profile heterogeneity in disease. Traditional short-read scRNA-Seq methods are limited in their ability to provide complete transcript coverage, resolve isoforms, and identify novel transcripts. The scRNA-Seq protocols developed for long-read sequencing platforms overcome these limitations by enabling the characterization of full-length transcripts. Long-read scRNA-Seq techniques initially suffered from comparatively poor accuracy compared to short read scRNA-Seq. However, with improvements in accuracy, accessibility, and cost efficiency, long-reads are gaining popularity in the field of scRNA-Seq. This review details the advances in long-read scRNA-Seq, with an emphasis on library preparation protocols and downstream bioinformatics analysis tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To analyze the number, epidemiology and circumstances of needlestick and sharps injuries (NSSI) and exposures to body fluids and to identify further preventive measures to improve the occupational safety of health care workers (HCW).Material and Methods: Setting: German university tertiary-care referral center. Retrospective study based on injury documentation sheets of the hospital's staff and faculty health service and, if given, on reports by continuity doctors and by the accident and emergency department in January 2014-June 2016.Results: Altogether, 567 injuries were registered with a significant decrease of cases over the study period. The majority of accidents occurred in the operating theater (35%). Stress, time pressure, overstrain, carelessness and distraction were found to be the main reasons for injuries. At least 30% of the cases were preventable, mainly by wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), by proper disposal of an item and by early replacement of overfilled sharps containers (SC). In 20% of the cases involving an item, the injury was caused by a safety-engineered device (SED). Almost one-third of these injuries were attributable to an improper use of the SED.Conclusions: Despite many efforts made to reduce their number, NSSI still occur. Health care workers and students should be offered regular trainings to be sensitized to this topic and to learn the appropriate use of SED. Moreover, organizational measures must be taken, such as the provision of suitable PPE and safe SC. Strategies need to be established to improve the working conditions and reduce the stress level of HCW. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2022;35(5):497-507. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and cancers are on the rise. Most of the risk factors of these diseases commence in Adolescence. Therefore, a cluster randomised controlled trial is designed to evaluate the effect of school-based health promotion intervention on the risk factors of chronic diseases. Methodology: Considering school as a cluster, twelve schools will be randomly selected from the public schools of Chandigarh, a city in India. After baseline assessment, six schools will be randomly allocated to intervention and six to the control arm. Study participants will be students of 8th grade (age 10–16 years), their parents and teachers. A sample of 360 students (12 clusters x 30 students) has been estimated to provide statistically valid inference. The PRECEDE PROCEED Model will be used to develop health promotion interventions to prevent the use of an unbalanced diet, physical inactivity, alcohol, and tobacco. Interventions will be implemented for six-months in the school setting. For students, the intervention will comprise interactive learning sessions of 30 minutes duration per week and physical activity sessions of 30 minutes duration four times every week. Educational sessions will be conducted for parents and teachers for 30 minutes, four times during the intervention period. Primary outcomes will be changes in the prevalence of behavioural risk factors from pre- to post-intervention. Changes in anthropometric, physiological, and biochemical measures will be the secondary outcomes. The difference-in-difference (DID) method will be used to measure the net change in the outcomes. Discussion: It is essential to understand whether health promotion interventions implemented in the school setting simultaneously targeting adolescents, teachers, and parents are effective. Using the PRECEDE-PROCEED model for planning, implementing, and evaluating the intervention as part of a cluster Randomized Controlled Trial design with DID analysis, could objectively assess the impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: mHealth has potential to improve health care delivery but little is known about its effectiveness on health amongst marginalized communities. This study was carried out to determine the scope and usefulness of mHealth implementation in underprivileged slum population. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in an urban slum of Northern India where the government primary health care facility was digitized and mHealth component was integrated into the system to improve the health care service delivery. The survey was conducted using a pre-tested questionnaire among 921 persons who were sent SMSs within the last 2 months prior to survey to assess the reach and acceptability of mHealth in the underprivileged slum populations, and the role it can play to improve the healthcare services provided through primary health care facility. Results: In the surveyed population majority (59.8%) were young (18–30 years), females (79.3%), Hindu (94%) belonged to Scheduled caste (77.8%) and a significant percentage of them were illiterates (30%). Mobile phones were available with 87% of the surveyed population and more than 50% had smartphones. Though, only 59.5% of individuals confirmed the receipt of SMS, a very high proportion of survey population (98.3%) were willing to receive health-related SMS. About 72% individuals received SMSs and remembered the content of the message. Adherence to health advise sent through SMS was significantly higher among females (OR = 2.4 (95% CI: 1.2,5.1), P = 0.01), those who read messages themselves (OR = 1.9 (95% CI: 1.0, 3.3), P = 0.03), and who received SMS more than once in a month (OR = 2.2 (95% CI: 1.2, 4.2), P = 0.01). Majority of those who received SMS (83%) expressed that the health-related SMS were beneficial to them. Conclusion: mHealth has high potential to improve reach and increase accessibility of health care services for marginalized communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is based on the Citation Analysis of the Doctoral theses related to Citation Analysis uploaded by the Department of Library and Information Science from Maharashtra Region during 2012-2019 on Shodhganga. Total 1797 citations were collected from 11 doctoral theses for this study. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the authorship pattern of the citations, type, and form of literature cited and compiled a rank list of core journals in Citation Analysis. The study exposed that among 11 Ph.D., 6 Ph.D. (55%) Output by the Male Researchers while 5 Ph.D. (45%) by the Female Researchers. As well as in Supervisor Gender we have found that 7 Ph.D. (64%) output by the female Supervisors while 4 Ph.Ds. (36%) by the Male Supervisors. Single-authored journals have received the highest number 1188(65%) of total citations followed by two authors 504 (28), three authors 99 (5), four or more authors 40(2%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of Y2O3:Er3+ phosphors have been synthesized via combustion synthesis method using urea as a fuel. The prepared samples are characterized by X‐ray diffractometer (XRD) and Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) techniques. TL glow curves are recorded for Y2O3:Er3+ doped phosphors to study dose dependence, UV response, and heating rate effect. The trapping parameters (μ, E, s) are calculated from Chen's glow peak shape method. TL glow curve is fitted in computerized glow curve deconvolution (CGCD) techniques and are discussed in detail for their possible usage in dosimetry applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of musculoskeletal pain and disability among Americans. Physical therapy (PT) is recommended per the 2019 ACR /Arthritis Foundation Guideline for Treatment of OA of the Hand, Hip, and Knee. During COVID-19, access to healthcare has been altered in a variety of clinical settings, with the pandemic creating delays in healthcare, with an unknown impact on access to PT care for OA. Objectives: We sought to determine whether referrals to PT for OA were reduced in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to 2019. Methods: A retrospective analysis was done of 3586 PT referrals placed by the University of California, Davis for 206 OA ICD-10 codes from January to November 2019 and from January to November 2020. The numbers of PT referrals per month of each year were compared using both descriptive statistics and Poisson Regression analysis. Results: A total of 1972 PT referrals for OA were placed from January to November 2019. Only 1614 referrals for OA were placed from January to November 2020, representing a significant decrease (p = 0.001). Month-by-month analysis of 2020 compared to 2019 revealed statistically significant drops in PT referrals for OA in April (p = 0.001), May (p = 0.001), and August (p = 0.001). Conclusions: These findings reveal a significant reduction in the number of referrals for PT for OA placed in 2020 during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. These reductions were particularly evident in the months following state-mandated actions and closures. Factors associated with this outcome may include decreased access to primary care providers, perceptions of PT availability by health care providers, decreased mobility limiting access to both clinic and PT appointments, and/or willingness to engage in PT by patients during the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed at the evaluation of the efficacy of TLR ligands (viz. Poly I:C, Lipopolysaccharide and CpG:ODN) as vaccine adjuvants in combination with a suitable carrier (oil-in-water emulsion, normal saline solution, or alum) by studying the expression profile of cytokines belonging to Th1 and Th2 biased immune systems. Methods: Whole blood was collected from 108 birds that were divided into 9 different experimental groups: 3 TLR ligands each with 3 delivery vehicles. Th1 (IFN-gamma) and Th2 (IL4) biased cytokines were detected by qPCR followed by ELISA. Both the results showed the highest level of IL4 (Th1 biased) with LPS and the highest level of IFNg (Th1 biased) with CpG-ODN. Uneven TLR expression was detected from day 3 onwards till day 21 but ligands and delivery vehicles administered along with NDV vaccine did not show significant influence on the immune response. Result: It is evident that the TLR-3, 4 and 9 expressions increase following exposure to the respective ligands. Hence, TLR ligands can be used as reliable adjuvants in NDV vaccine. The expression of the Th2 biased cytokine IL4 mRNA and Th1 biased cytokine Interferon-gamma was found to be the highest on day 3 in the LPS+NSS group and on day 21 in CpG-ODN+Alum group, respectively. The findings of the real-time PCR were supported to some by the ELISA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study compared flours from six different split dehulled pulses (dhals) with full‐fat and defatted soybean flours for color, composition (proximate and mineral), protein molecular weight, microstructure, pasting, and functional properties. In comparison to soybean flours, dhal flours showed higher Fe content, paste viscosities, and bulk density; comparative color properties (L* and b*), aw, Zn content, foaming capacity, and foam stability; but lower emulsifying activity index (EAI), emulsion stability index (ESI), protein content, and ash content. Among different dhal flours, Cicer arietinum showed the highest fat absorption capacity (FAC), EAI, and ESI, while Phaseolus mungo and Pisum sativum flours showed the highest water absorption capacity (WAC) and foaming properties, respectively. Dhal flours also differed for protein molecular weight and starch morphology. Proteins in Vigna unguiculata, P. mungo, and P. aureus flours were high in vicilins of ≈130–138 kDa, whereas Pisum sativum, Lens culinaris, and C. arietinum flours contained both vicilins (≈135–142kDa) and legumins (≈256–332 kDa) as major storage proteins. Principal component analysis revealed negative relation of paste viscosities with protein solubility, lipids, and mineral content while positive with bulk density. Emulsifying properties (EAI and ESI) related positively with FAC, and amount of proteins, lipids, Mn, Cu, K, and Mg, while foaming capacity related positively with WAC and Na content and negatively with protein solubility and concentration of Zn and Fe. Practical applications: Soybean, as flour or meal, is used in food formulation to improve nutritional and sensory properties, but it is listed as a major allergen in foods. The present study provides information on chemical composition and functionality of dhal flours in comparison to defatted and full‐fat soy flours, which is useful for partial or complete replacement of soybean with pulse flours. The study also discusses flour characteristics that contribute to functional properties. The results of the present work are useful in identifying pulse flours that can mimic soybean flours/meals for functional properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterocycles are very common in many naturally occurring bioactive compounds as well as in the commercially available drug molecules. Very recently spiroheterocycles have gained considerable attention due to their wide range of pharmacological applicability. Among many others, 11H‐indeno[1,2‐b]quinoxalin‐11‐one in recent time have gained significant attention as an important building block to prepare structurally diverse biologically promising spiroheterocycles under various reaction conditions. On the other hand, it was found that one‐pot three‐component reaction strategy plays an important role in the preparation of spiroheterocycles starting from 11H‐indeno[1,2‐b]quinoxalin‐11‐one as it has many advantages including high atom economy, operational simplicity, easy workup procedures, reduction of byproducts, energy and reaction step efficiency etc. In this review, we have discussed all the recent developments related to the one‐pot three‐component synthesis of biologically promising indenoquinoxaline fused spiroheterocycles starting from 11H‐indeno[1,2‐b]quinoxalin‐11‐ones under diverse reaction conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past century, the world's population has increased greatly. The growth in the population has increased the global food demand, so the food sector has increased its production. As a result of the increased production and consumption, a huge amount of agro‐food waste is being generated yearly. Rice husk, wheat straw, sugarcane bagasse, corn husk, peanut shell, eggshell, are just a few examples of agro‐food wastes. As these agro‐food wastes and their by‐products are left unused and unattended, their amount is increasing globally. It is imperative to find ways to put these wastes to environmentally viable use. These wastes find direct uses in biofertilizers, mud houses, animal feed, biofuel, and heat generation in small‐scale industries, etc. After heat generation, ashes are considered as a secondary by‐product, which can be used as a sustainable and renewable resource for synthesizing value‐added products for various applications. This article presents a review of the traditional and advanced methods of utilizing these wastes in household applications, animal feed, fertilizers, fuel generation, pyrolysis, and for the removal of toxic metals from polluted water. These secondary resources can also be used in construction materials and for the synthesis of glasses and glass–ceramics, which can be used in bioengineering, optical, and dielectric materials. Agro‐food wastes can be used as resource materials to develop modern materials with better properties instead of using minerals. This not only reduces the environment‐ and management‐related problem of the wastes but also provides a sustainable alternative way to produce cost‐effective value‐added materials for the benefit of society. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Unhealthy dietary behaviour–high intake of fat, sugar, and salt, and low intake of fruits and vegetables–is a major risk factor for chronic diseases. There is a lack of evidence-based interventions to promote healthy dietary intake among Indian populations. Therefore, we tested the effectiveness of an information technology-enabled 'SMART Eating' intervention to reduce the intake of fat, sugar and salt, and to increase the intake of fruits and vegetables. Methods: In Chandigarh, a North Indian city, a cluster randomized controlled trial was implemented in twelve geographical clusters, based on the type of housing (i.e., LIG: Low-income group; MIG; Middle-income group, and HIG: High-income group–a proxy for socio-economic status). Computer-generated randomization was used to allocate clusters to intervention and comparison arms after pairing on the basis of socioeconomic status and geographical distance between clusters. The sample size was 366 families per arm (N = 732). One adult per family was randomly selected as an index case to measure the change in the outcomes. For behaviour change, a multi-channel communication approach was used, which included information technology–short message service (SMS), email, social networking app and 'SMART Eating' website, and interpersonal communication along with distribution of a 'SMART Eating' kit—kitchen calendar, dining table mat, and measuring spoons. The intervention was implemented at the family level over a period of six months. The comparison group received pamphlets on nutrition education. Outcome measurements were made at 0 and 6 months post-intervention at the individual level. Primary outcomes were changes in mean dietary intakes of fat, sugar, salt, and fruit and vegetables. Secondary outcomes included changes in body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, haemoglobin, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and serum lipids. Mixed-effects linear regression models were used to determine the net change in the outcomes in the intervention group relative to the comparison group. Results: Participants' mean age was 53 years, a majority were women (76%), most were married (90%) and 51% had completed a college degree. All families had mobile phones, and more than 90% of these families had access to Internet through mobile phones. The intervention group had significant net mean changes of -12.5 g/day (p<0.001), -11.4 g/day (p<0.001), -0.5 g/day (p<0.001), and +71.6 g/day (p<0.001) in the intake of fat, sugar, salt, and fruit and vegetables, respectively. Similarly, significant net changes occurred for secondary outcomes: BMI -0.25 kg/m2, diastolic blood pressure -2.77 mm Hg, FPG -5.7 mg/dl, and triglycerides -24.2mg/dl. The intervention had no effect on haemoglobin, systolic blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, or high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Conclusion: The IT-enabled 'SMART Eating' intervention was found to be effective in reducing fat, sugar, and salt intake, and increasing fruit and vegetable consumption among urban adults from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. Trial registration: Clinical Trial Registry of India CTRI/2016/11/007457. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Job satisfaction is a multidimensional response to work and workplace environment. It depends on many factors, and affects the behavior of employees that, in turn, affects organizational functioning. The aim of the study was to measure job satisfaction among different categories of healthcare providers from the Punjab government health services and to determine the factors that affect job satisfaction the most. Methodology: The study was conducted between September 2015 and February 2016 and included 462 participants working under the Punjab Government health services. Multi-stage random sampling was used, and participants were interviewed telephonically. The study instrument comprised the sociodemographic data and questions from Job Satisfaction Scale (JSS). Results: Three-fourth of the respondents (75.3%) were dissatisfied by their working conditions, followed by fringe benefits facet (34%), promotion facet (25.4%), and contingent rewards facet (23.7%). But they felt satisfied concerning relations with their coworkers (97%), nature of their work (93.3%), supervision (91.2%) and communication facet (80.6). Ambivalence was seen in a range of 2.8% (coworkers facet) to 54.8% (contingent rewards facet). Conclusion: Job satisfaction affects future career goals, social relationships, and personal health. An extremely demanding workplace can make workers susceptible to feelings of uncertainty and low self-esteem. It is recommended to beef up the policies related to healthcare providers and their working conditions regularly. Job responsibilities should have a scope of change to avoid monotony and loss of interest. A conducive working ecosystem can have a positive effect on the evolving health system of a country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variety of implant materials have been employed in various disciplines of medical science depending on the requirement of a particular application. Metals, alloys, ceramics, and polymers are the commonly used biomaterials. The main focus of this study is to review the various structural and microstructural properties of titanium and titanium based alloys used as orthopaedic implants. Orthopaedic implants need to possess certain important qualities to ensure their safe and effective use. These properties like the biocompatibility, relevant mechanical properties, high corrosion and wear resistance and osseointegration are summarized in this review. Various attempts to improve upon these properties like different processing routes, surface modifications have also been inculcated in the paper to provide an insight into the extent of research and effort that has been put into developing a highly superior titanium orthopaedic implant. Unlabelled Image • Process parameters and microstructure are important for selection of implants. • Surface modifications improve biocompatibility, wear, and corrosion resistance. • Equal channel angular pressing improves mechanical properties of titanium implants. • Nano-scale surface features help avoid infection and enhance osseointegration. • Modulus of gyroid scaffold from selective laser melting close to trabecular bone [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using syndemics theory as a framework, we explored the experience of men who have sex with men in India in relation to four syndemic conditions (depression, alcohol use, internalised homonegativity and violence victimisation) and to understand their resilience resources. Five focus groups were conducted among a purposive sample of diverse men along with seven key informant interviews with HIV service providers. Participants' narratives suggested various pathways by which syndemic conditions interact with one another to sequentially or concurrently increase HIV risk. Experiences of discrimination and violence from a range of perpetrators (family, ruffians and police) contributed to internalised homonegativity and/or depression, which in turn led some men to use alcohol as a coping strategy. Stigma related to same-sex sexuality, gender non-conformity and sex work contributed to the production of one or more syndemic conditions. While rejection by family and male regular partners contributed to depression/alcohol use, support from family, regular partners and peers served as resources of resilience. In India, HIV prevention and health promotion efforts among men who have sex with men could be strengthened by multi-level multi-component interventions to reduce intersectional/intersecting stigma, address syndemic conditions and foster resilience - especially by promoting family acceptance and peer support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper uses care pathway and delay models to better understand the possible social reasons for maternal deaths in a city with good public and private health infrastructure. The findings can inform programmes to reduce maternal mortality. During 2007–15, 136 maternal deaths were reported in Chandigarh, India. Using World Health Organisation’s verbal autopsy questionnaire, interviews were conducted with primary caregivers of 68 (50%) of the 136 deceased women, as majority of the families had returned to their native places. We used process-tracing techniques to construct the care pathways and identify delays, and explored open-ended responses using thematic analysis. The mean age of the deceased women was 27 years, 51% resided in slums, 32% were primigravida, 25% had their deliveries assisted by traditional birth attendants, and 23% had Caesarean section. Eight percent died at home, and 54% died in tertiary level facilities. Post-partum haemorrhage (26.5%), and complications of puerperium (25%) and labour/delivery (14.7%) were the reported medical causes. Male child preference and norms for home delivery were identified as the distal socio-cultural causes. Individual and family level factors included: shame on multiple pregnancies; fear of discrimination from providers; past successful deliveries at home leading to overconfidence and not seeking institutional care; and lack of awareness about family planning, antenatal care, and danger signs of pregnancy. Healthcare system factors were: non-availability of senior doctors at the time of consultation in the emergency that delayed initiation of immediate treatment, and lack of availability of life-saving equipment due to patient load. Empirical evidence was found on social causes of maternal deaths, which could have been prevented by appropriate actions at individual, family, societal, institutional and policy levels. This study identified potential preventable causes of primarily social origin, which could help in taking actionable steps at several levels to further reduce maternal deaths in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doping of nitrogen is a promising strategy to modulate chemical, electronic, and structural functionalities of graphene (G)and graphene quantum dots (GQDs) for their outstanding properties in energy and environmental applications.This paper reviews various synthesis approaches of nitrogen-doped graphene (N-G) and nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots (N-GQDs).;Thermal, ultrasonic, solvothermal, hydrothermal, and electron-beam methods have been applied to synthesize N-G and N-GQDs.These nitrogen-doped carbon materials are characterized to obtain their structural configurations in order to achieve better performance in their applications compared to only either graphene or graphene quantum dots.Both N-G and N-GQDs may be converted into functional materials by integrating with other compounds such as metal oxides/nitrides, polymers, and semiconductors.These functional materials demonstrate superior performance over N-G and N-GQDs materials.Examples of applications of N-G and N-GQDs include supercapacitors, batteries, sensors, fuel cells, solar cells, and photocatalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sunlight driven strontium doped tin oxide (SnO 2) photocatalyst was synthesized with different strontium (Sr) concentrations by the simplest sol-gel methodology. The XRD diffractogram findings revealed the decrement in the average crystallite size from 13 nm to 8 nm and shifting of diffraction peaks towards lower diffraction angle signifies the incorporation of Sr2+ ions in the host lattice sites. Optical studies unveiled the reduction in the energy bandgap values with respect to doping concentration i.e. 2.94 eV for pristine SnO 2 to 2.43 eV for 1.5% Sr:SnO 2. The photocatalytic measurements showed that the action of Sr doped SnO 2 nanoparticles (1.5%) on methylene blue (MB) and crystal violet (CV) dyes exhibited momentous photocatalytic performance of about 83.3% in 100 minutes and 67.8% in 150 minutes under natural sunlight. Additionally, an efficient antibacterial activity of Sr doped SnO 2 nanoparticles (at 1.5% doping) was estimated against a gram negative bacteria E. Coli. [Display omitted] • Sr doped SnO2 nanoparticles exhibited momentous photocatalytic decomposition performance against methylene blue (MB) and crystal violet (CV) dyes under natural sunlight. • The enhanced antibacterial activity of the Sr doped SnO2 nanoparticles is ascribed due to cell wall dysfunction caused by excessive oxidative stress released by ROS species and finally causing cell death [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile and convenient method has been developed for the one-pot three-component synthesis of 2-amino-3-cyano substituted tetrahydrobenzo[b]pyran derivatives from the reactions of aromatic aldehydes, malononitrile and dimedone or 1,3-cyclohexanedione in the presence of a catalytic amount of sodium dodecyl sulphate as an efficient surfactant type catalyst in water at room temperature. Synthesis of 2-amino-3-cyano substituted spiropyrans was also achieved under the same reaction conditions starting from ninhydrin/isatins, malononitrile and dimedone or 1,3-cyclohexanedione. All the reactions were completed within 2.5 h and the desired products afforded in good to excellent yields. Gram scale production of the desired compound was also achieved. Use of water as green solvent, commercially available low cost surfactant type catalyst, high atom economy, excellent yields, energy efficiency, no column chromatographic purifications, reusability of the solvent media, multiple carbon–carbon and carbon-heteroatom bond formations are some of the major advantages of this newly developed protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Verbal autopsy methods have been developed to determine medical causes of deathforprioritizing disease control programs. Additional information on social causesmay facilitate designing of more appropriate prevention strategies. Use of social autopsy in investigations of causes of adult deaths has been limited. Therefore, acommunity-based study was conducted in NandpurKalour Block of Fatehgarh Sahib District in Punjab (India)for finding social causes of adult deaths. An integrated verbal and social autopsy toolwas developed and verbal autopsies of 600 adult deaths, occurring over a reference period of one year, were conducted in 2014. Quantitative analysis described the socio-demographic characteristics of the deceased, number and type of consultations from health care providers, and type of care received during illness. Qualitative data was analyzed to find out social causes of death by thematic analysis. The median duration of illness from symptom onset till death was 9 days (IQR = 1–45 days). At the onset of illness, 72 (12%) deceased utilized home remedies and 424 (70.7%)received care from a clinic/hospital, and 104 (17.3%) died withoutreceiving any care. The number of medical consultations varied from one to six (median = 2). The utilization of government health facilities and qualified allopathic doctor increased with each consultation (p value<0.05). The top five social causes of adult deaths in a rural area of Punjab in India. (1) Non availability of medical practitioner in the vicinity, (2) communication gaps between doctor and patient on regular intake of medication, (3) delayed referral by service provider, (4) poor communication with family on illness, and (5) perception of illness to be ‘mild’ by the family or care taker. To conclude, social autopsy tool should be integrated with verbal autopsy tool for identification of individual, community, and health system level factors associated with adult mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A tetrapodal receptor was synthesized and was processed into fluorescent organic nanoparticles (FONs) for determination of important analytes in aqueous medium. The receptor was fully characterized using characterization techniques. Recognition behavior of FONs towards different metal ions was investigated with fluorescence spectroscopy, amongst them Fe 3+ ions showed quenching behavior in the emission spectra. The Fe 3+ ion complex of FONs based sensor was further tested with different biogenic amines and ratiometric response was obtained for tyramine. Fluorescence emission profile of FONs. Fe 3+ ion complex showed no change in the pH in wide range; thereby increasing their utility in biological and environmental samples. Tyramine detection was linearly proportional in response with the detection limit of 377 nM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inosine is an endogenous nucleoside that is produced by metabolic deamination of adenosine. Inosine is metabolically more stable (half-life 15 h) than adenosine (half-life < 10 s). Inosine exerts anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects similar to those observed with adenosine. These effects are mediated in part through the adenosine A 2A receptor (A 2A R). Relative to adenosine inosine exhibits a lower affinity towards the A 2A R. Therefore, it is generally believed that inosine is incapable of activating the A 2A R through direct engagement, but indirectly activates the A 2A R upon metabolic conversion to higher affinity adenosine. A handful of studies, however, have provided evidence for direct inosine engagement at the A 2A R leading to activation of downstream signaling events and inhibition of cytokine production. Here, we demonstrate that under conditions devoid of adenosine, inosine as well as an analog of inosine 6-S-[(4-Nitrophenyl)methyl]-6-thioinosine selectively and dose-dependently activated A 2A R-mediated cAMP production and ERK1/2 phosphorylation in CHO cells stably expressing the human A 2A R. Inosine also inhibited LPS-stimulated TNF-α, CCL3 and CCL4 production by splenic monocytes in an A 2A R-dependent manner. In addition, we demonstrate that a positive allosteric modulator (PAM) of the A 2A R enhanced inosine-mediated cAMP production, ERK1/2 phosphorylation and inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokine and chemokine production. The cumulative effects of allosteric enhancement of adenosine-mediated and inosine-mediated A 2A R activation may be the basis for the sustained anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects observed in vivo and thereby provide insights into potential therapeutic interventions for inflammation- and immune-mediated diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Globally, India ranks first in the absolute number of stillbirths. Hence, the level, causes, and risk factors of stillbirths were estimated to facilitate designing of prevention strategy.Methods: Capture and recapture method was used to identify 301 stillbirths from 1st July 2013 to 31st August 2014 in Chandigarh Union Territory of India. Verbal autopsies (n = 181) were done at household level to identify causes of stillbirths. Risk factors were determined using case-control approach. Women who had a stillbirth in the past 3 months were enrolled as cases (n = 181) and those who had live-birth in same neighbourhood were included as controls (n = 181). Statistical differences in the distribution of characteristics of cases and controls were tested by t test and chi square test respectively for quantitative and categorical variables. In logistic regression models adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated for various risk factors.Results: Stillbirth rate was estimated to be 16/1000 birth. Antepartum causes were more common (68%) than intrapartum causes (32%). Among maternal conditions, hypertension (18.2%) and chorio-amnionitis (13.8%), and among foetal conditions, growth restriction (19.9%) and congenital anomalies (18.8%) were the leading causes. In about half of the stillbirths foetal (48%) and maternal (44.7%) causes were unidentifiable. Risk factors of stillbirths were: higher maternal age (aOR 1.1, 95%CI 1.0-1.2), vaginal delivery (aOR 8.1, 95%CI 2.6-26), induced labour (aOR 2.6, 95%CI 1.5-4.5), green or light brown liquor (aOR 2.0, 95%CI 1.1-3.8), preterm delivery (aOR 6.4, 95%CI 3.7-11) and smaller household size (aOR 1.2, 95% CI 1.1-1.3).Conclusions: Stillbirth rate was high in Chandigarh Union Territory of India. Major causes and risk factors amenable to interventions were infections, hypertension, congenital malformations, foetal growth restriction, pre-maturity and household size. Therefore, better maternity ante-natal and intra-natal care is required to achieve a single digit stillbirth rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amyloid fibrils are a class of insoluble protein nanofibers that are formed via the self-assembly of a wide range of peptides and proteins. They are increasingly exploited for a broad range of applications in bionanotechnology, such as biosensing and drug delivery, as nanowires, hydrogels, and thin films. Amyloid fibrils have been prepared from many proteins, but there has been no definitive characterization of amyloid fibrils from hemoglobin to date. Here, nanofiber formation was carried out under denaturing conditions using solutions of apo-hemoglobin extracted from bovine waste blood. A characteristic amyloid fibril morphology was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM), with mean fibril dimensions of approximately 5 nm diameter and up to several microns in length. The thioflavin T assay confirmed the presence of β-sheet structures in apo-hemoglobin fibrils, and X-ray fiber diffraction showed the characteristic amyloid cross-β quaternary structure. Apo-hemoglobin nanofibers demonstrated high stability over a range of temperatures (-20 to 80°C) and pHs (2-10), and were stable in the presence of organic solvents and trypsin, confirming their potential as nanomaterials with versatile applications. This study conclusively demonstrates the formation of amyloid fibrils from hemoglobin for the first time, and also introduces a cost-effective method for amyloid fibril manufacture using meat industry by-products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A room temperature sub-ppm H 2 S sensor based on RF sputtered SnO 2 : NiO thin film has been demonstrated. For this, SnO 2 thin films have been modified with ultrathin layers (30 nm) of NiO. These films were characterized using Scanning electron Microsopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Gas sensing properties of these films were systematically investigated and compared with those of pure SnO 2 and NiO films. Sensing studies revealed that these films are highly sensitive to H 2 S at room temperature. The sensor response exhibited by NiO modified SnO 2 film, is 9 and 415 times greater than that exhibited by pure SnO 2 and NiO films, respectively. The sensor response in case of SnO 2 :NiO is due to contribution from two different mechanisms- (i) oxidation reaction between adsorbed oxygen and H 2 S and (ii) destruction of p-n junctions due to conversion of Nickel Oxide to metallic Nickel Sulphide (product of chemical reaction between NiO and H 2 S). Presence of XPS sulphide peaks at binding energies of ∼163 eV corresponding to S-2p 3/2 and S-2p 1/2 , on H 2 S exposure confirms the formation of Nickel Sulphide. Present experiments proved the ability of these films to detect low concentrations of H 2 S i.e. parts per billion reproducibly. These films were also found to be stable for extended period of time, hinting at commercial viability of the sensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Social capital reflect the degree of social cohesion in communities. Although studies have shown that social capital influences health, there is limited understanding about the role of social capital on physical and mental health of older people in India. Aims & Objectives: To assess the association between social capital and self-rated health among older people. Material &Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 211 older people selected from 1563 households in urban and rural Chandigarh District. Standardized tools were used to measure social capital (Global Social Capital Survey) and self-rated health (SF-36). The association between social capital and physical and mental health dimensions of self-rated health was analyzed using multiple linear regression. Results: Participants' mean age was 68.1 years (SD 7.6); about half were women. The mean total social capital score was 45.5 (SD 11.9). The mean physical and mental health dimensions of self-rated health scores were 1027.7 (SD 252.5) and 1416.9 (SD 487.7), respectively. Social capital was found to be a significant predictor of mental health dimension of self-rated health. Age and gender were found to be significant predictors of physical health dimension of self-rated health. Conclusion: Social capital influences mental health of older people. Interventions to improve social capital, in terms of strengthening relationships with family members and other social networks, can contribute to improving mental health of older people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas sensing properties of ZnO nanobelts synthesized using carbothermal reduction method has been investigated. At room temperature (28 °C), the sensor films exhibit an appreciable response towards H 2 S and NO and response of these two gases were studied as a function of concentration. For NO the sensor films exhibit a complete reversible curve for the concentration range between 1 and 60 ppm. However, for H 2 S a complete recovery was obtained for concentration <5 ppm and for higher concentration a partial recovery of the baseline resistance was observed. The reason for the incomplete recovery was investigated using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies of the sample before and after the H 2 S exposure. After exposure, appearance of an additional peak at 26.6° corresponding to the formation of ZnS was observed in XRD. Formation of additional phase was further corroborated using the results of XPS. H 2 S exposure causes decrease in the intensity of O 1s peak and appearance of sulphide peaks at binding energies of 162.8 and 161.8 eV corresponding to S-2p peaks – 2p 3/2 and 2p 1/2 , confirms the formation of ZnS upon exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study we report how the modification of graphene oxide sheets to zirconia-reduced graphene oxide (ZrO 2 -rGO) nanocomposite improves the electrochemical hydrogen storage. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Thermo-gravimetric Analysis (TGA) characterizations were carried out to confirm the successful preparation of the samples. Dinitrogen adsorption at 77 K was carried out to determine the surface area and porosity. ZrO 2 -rGO nanocomposite exhibited high surface area of 390 m 2 g −1 , thus making it a reliable hydrogen storage material. Electrochemical measurements carried on glassy carbon electrode in an aqueous KOH electrolytic solution. Investigation of adsorption-desorption behavior of ZrO 2 -rGO nanocomposite was done by cyclic voltammetry and the amount of hydrogen stored was found to be 1.2 wt% using chronopotentiometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we report a 100% enhancement in NO 2 sensing response of tin oxide (SnO 2) thin films through surface modification utilizing magnesium phthalocyanine (MgPc). For this purpose, SnO 2 thin films were grown by Rheotaxial Growth and Thermal Oxidization (RGTO) method and were later modified by MgPc. Deposition of MgPc over SnO 2 film was carried out by vacuum sublimation method. During deposition of MgPc, the substrates were heated to 200 °C. The MgPc modified SnO 2 films (SnO 2 : MgPc) exhibit higher sensor response (18.5 for 5 ppm NO 2), faster response/recovery time (6 s/169 s) and lower operating temperature (175 °C) as compared to pristine SnO 2 films which exhibit maximum response at an operating temperature of 300 °C. Work function measurements and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies indicate formation of p-n hetero junctions in modified films due to electron transfer from SnO 2 (n-type) to MgPc (p-type). In addition, MgPc modification results into intensification of oxygen adsorption sites (from 6.5% to 32.5%) on the sensor surface. Formation of p-n junctions at the interface and enhancement of adsorbed oxygen on the surface establish the basis for superior response i.e higher sensor response and faster response and recovery time of SnO 2 : MgPc films. [Display omitted] • SnO 2 :MgPc films exhibit superior NO 2 response (18.5 @ 175°C) with faster response and recovery time (6 &169 s) for 5 ppm. • Work function and XPS studies verify formation of p-n hetero junctions. • 5-fold increase in surface adsorbed oxygen species as a result of MgPc modification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inosine is an endogenous purine nucleoside that is produced by catabolism of adenosine. Adenosine has a short half-life (approximately 10 s) and is rapidly deaminated to inosine, a stable metabolite with a half-life of approximately 15 h. Resembling adenosine, inosine acting through adenosine receptors (ARs) exerts a wide range of anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects in vivo. The immunomodulatory effects of inosine in vivo, at least in part, are mediated via the adenosine A 2A receptor (A 2A R), an observation that cannot be explained fully by in vitro pharmacological characterization of inosine at the A 2A R. It is unclear whether the in vivo effects of inosine are due to inosine or a metabolite of inosine engaging the A 2A R. Here, utilizing a combination of label-free, cell-based, and membrane-based functional assays in conjunction with an equilibrium agonist-binding assay we provide evidence for inosine engagement at the A 2A R and subsequent activation of downstream signaling events. Inosine-mediated A 2A R activation leads to cAMP production with an EC 50 of 300.7 μM and to extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1 and -2 (ERK1/2) phosphorylation with an EC 50 of 89.38 μM. Our data demonstrate that inosine produces ERK1/2-biased signaling whereas adenosine produces cAMP-biased signaling at the A 2A R, highlighting pharmacological differences between these two agonists. Given the in vivo stability of inosine, our data suggest an additional, previously unrecognized, mechanism that utilizes inosine to functionally amplify and prolong A 2A R activation in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The author discusses role of mixed method approach on public health in defining several health problems mixed method approach and integrates quantitative and qualitative methods for public health study. He mentions that in scientific enquiry determination of sampling schemes and sample size plays an important role. He also mentions public health has entrenched in service delivery and seeks explanations for health behaviours of the people and policy makers.

We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to improve healthcare and expand it beyond the walls of clinics and hospitals into places where people live, work, play, and age. New roles are emerging for clinical and non-clinical care providers--particularly that of the Community Health Worker. To be effective, these workers require extensive systems of ongoing support, contextual anchoring into the right type of care teams, clear role delineation, and robust systems of care. To ensure such roles are effective and lasting, promising workforce models must demonstrate concrete value to existing care teams, payors of health services, and patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein nanofibrils self-assembled from crystallin proteins, a waste material from the fishing industry, have been identified as a suitable material to be used as a bionanoscaffold. In this study, a successful method for the functionalization of crystallin protein nanofibrils by immobilizing several enzymes of industrial relevance (glucose oxidase, β-galactosidase, pectinase, α-amylase, and laccase) through a glutaraldehyde cross-linking approach is reported. The extent of functionalization is evaluated by using gel electrophoresis, transmission electron microscopy, and thermostability studies. The functionalized fibrils are investigated further for reusability studies-the use of protein nanofibrils as nanoscaffolds results in a significant increase in enzyme thermostability and reusability relative to the free enzyme in solution under the same conditions. Finally, as an example and proof of concept, the use of the developed functionalization method in a biosensor platform for glucose and lactose detection is shown, by utilizing the crystallin protein nanofibrils as nanoscaffolds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to examine the effect of a syndemic theory-based intervention to reduce condomless anal intercourse among men who have sex with men (MSM) in India. In 2016/17, a pre- and post-test comparison group design was used to implement a syndemic theory-based intervention among 459 MSM (229, intervention; 230, standard-of-care comparison) recruited through non-governmental organizations in Chandigarh, India. The intervention group received two-session peer-delivered motivational interviewing-based HIV risk reduction counselling and skills training to improve sexual communication/negotiation and condom use self-efficacy, and screening/management of psychosocial health problems. The intervention's effect on consistent condom use was estimated using difference-in-differences (DiD) approach. Mediation analysis assessed the extent to which intervention effects on the outcome were mediated by changes in psychosocial health problems and condom use self-efficacy. A process evaluation assessed implementation fidelity and intervention acceptability. Baseline consistent condom use was 43% in the intervention group and 46% in the standard-of-care group. Baseline survey findings demonstrated that a psychosocial syndemic of problematic alcohol use, internalised homonegativity and violence victimisation synergistically increased condomless anal intercourse. Using DiD, we estimated that the intervention increased consistent condom use with male partners by 16.4% (95% CI: 7.1, 25.7) and with female partners by 28.2% (95% CI: 11.9, 44.4), and decreased problematic alcohol use by 24.3% (95%CI: −33.4, −15.3), depression by 20.0% (95% CI: −27.6, −12.3) and internalised homonegativity by 34.7% (95% CI: −43.6%, −25.8%). The mediation analysis findings suggested that the intervention might have improved consistent condom use by decreasing internalised homonegativity and by increasing condom use self-efficacy. The process evaluation showed high levels of acceptability/satisfaction among participants and high levels of implementation fidelity. A syndemic theory-based intervention tailored for MSM in India is feasible, acceptable, and can reduce HIV transmission risk behaviour as well as problematic alcohol use, depression and internalised homonegativity. • Syndemic alcohol use, depression & internalised homonegativity increased HIV risk. • A syndemic theory-based intervention significantly increased condom use among MSM. • Syndemic intervention significantly reduced psychosocial syndemic conditions. • Managing psychosocial syndemic conditions led to more consistent condom use. • HIV interventions for MSM should screen for & treat psychosocial syndemic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]