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This project is about development of a solar water heater with increased thermal efficiency using nanofluids as enhancement medium compared to conventional solar water heater which uses water as the working medium to overcome the inadequate heating of water in the seasons like rainy and winter. In this project Al₂O₃-H2O nanofluid is used as working medium, where Al₂O₃ is used as nanoparticle and water is used as base fluid. A nanofluid is a fluid containing nanometer sized particles, called nanoparticles. These fluids are engineered colloidal suspensions of nanoparticles in a base fluid. It also includes analysis at various concentrations of Al₂O₃ to determine the performance of the solar water heater.

Background: Haemophilia is the most common inherited coagulation disorders transmitted by X-linked recessive fashion affecting the males and females are the carriers of the disease. Haemophilia is distributed worldwide and has heterogeneous presentation depending on its severity starting from neonatal period. Knowledge of spectrum of the presentation of haemophilia helps in early diagnosis and planning of management. Aims and Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the socio-demographic profile of the patients, clinical presentations, epidemiological profiles, and the outcomes of the hemophilic patients in a tertiary care teaching hospital in West Bengal. Materials and Methods: This study was a prospective, observational, single center study conducted in the Pediatrics haemophilia treatment center at Midnapore Medical College, Paschim Medinipore from May 2020 to April 2021. Detailed history was taken and recorded in a predesigned pro forma Case Record Form. Analyses were done only after completion of CRF of the last patient. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 20.0 software. Continuous variables were compared by Paired t-test. Dichotomous events were analyzed using the Fisher’s exact test and Chi-squared Test. Statistical significance was defined as P12 months to ≤24 months (32.81%). Bruises were the most common presentation (37.50%), followed by joint bleeding (31.25%), muscle bleed (10.94%), and gum bleeding (7.81%). Conclusion: Facility of counseling for children of hemophilia is required at regular interval (trimester wise/semester wise) with the aim to enhance the knowledge of personal care, treatment, and to boost up themselves for their academics, activities, etc.

Rauvolfia serpentina(Linn.) Benth. Ex Kurz belongs to the family Apocynaceae. The objective of the present study was to establish an effective protocol for the regeneration of leaf explants fromR. serpentinaand to study the α-amylase expression and phytochemical profiling by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Further antibacterial activity was studied using silver, gold, and copper nanoparticles. The leaf explants were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing Benzyl amino purine (BAP) (2.0 mg/L-1) and Naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) (1.0 mg/L-1) induced the formation of callus and expressed α-amylase with underexposed to Cyclodextrin. Explants growing on MS medium fortified with 2,4-Dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D) (1.0 mg/L-1), NAA (1.0 mg/L-1) with and without BAP (2.0 mg/L-1) and showed a maximum concentration of protein on the 75th day. Synthesis of a-amylase enzyme was expressed 40 days old culture and were confirmatic by western, further Silver, gold, and copper nanoparticles were synthesized using the ethyl acetate extract of callus tissue and subjected to thin-layer chromatography (TLC), which resolved 5 bands. These five bands were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy and screened for antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. TLC band 4 alone showed inhibitory activity against both Gram-negative and positive bacteria and potent antioxidant activity. For the first time, α-amylase was found in the callus extract by SDS-PAGE and confirmed by Western blot. The fourth band of TLC from the ethyl acetate extract as well as silver and gold nanoparticles synthesized using this extract revealed pronounced antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. GC-MS analysis revealed 26 compounds, which included mainly the phytosterols and fatty acid esters.

Any elective surgery should be as atraumatic to the patient as possible to allow for a comfortable postoperative recovery. The present study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of preoperative regional blocks in reducing pain, discomfort, and analgesic use in patients scheduled to undergo bimaxillary surgery.A prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted to include all patients aged 16 to 30 years requiring bimaxillary surgery. We excluded patients with syndromes and systemic conditions. The primary predictor variable was the maxillary and mandibular nerve blocks (extraoral lateral pterygoid method) administered preoperatively in the operating room using 0.25% bupivacaine hydrochloride. Standard anesthetic and postoperative protocols were followed. The primary outcome variable was postoperative pain. The secondary outcome variables were postoperative discomfort, analgesic consumption, duration of surgery, and blood loss. The unpaired t test and Mann-Whitney U test were used for statistical analyses, with P .05 considered to indicate statistical significance.A total of 110 patients were included in the study (55 in the control group and 55 in the test group), of whom 61 were female and 49 were male. Postoperative pain, recorded using a visual analog scale was significantly lower (P .001) in the test group compared with the control group. Secondary outcome variables such as postoperative discomfort and analgesic consumption were also significantly lower in the test group. A significant positive correlation was present between the duration of surgery and pain measured at 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively in both groups.From our results, it can be established that the administration of preoperative regional blocks using 0.25% bupivacaine immediately before bimaxillary surgery can effectively minimize patients' postoperative pain, discomfort, and consumption of analgesics.

Background: Large vascular malformations (VM) are complex lesions anatomically, functionally or both. The criteria to define “Large” vascular malformations were unclear. This study aims to retrospectively identify Large VM based on clinical features and discussed about the method we adopted in management. Methods: This is retrospective study of analyzing all patients of vascular malformations treated by us since 2003. The criteria to categorize large vascular malformations were outlined after analyzing the anatomical area of involvement, functional disturbances by these lesions, operability of the lesions, morbidity associated with resection, and the requirement of reconstruction. All cases were managed by a multi-disciplinary team. Various methods utilized to control the bleeding varied from simple wound packing to cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) assistance. The resection was either curative or palliative. Complete excision in the form of radical resection was carried out in all possible cases intended with curative aim. Vascularized tissue transfer was done to reduce the morbidity following surgical resection. Results: Out of 268 patients, 26 patients fulfilled the criteria for large vascular malformations. The predominant site of involvement is head and neck. 80% had more than one indication for surgery. Majority of the cases 54% were arterio-venous malformations (AVM) followed by 31% of capillary venous malformations (CVM). The commonest indication for surgery is bleeding in 73% followed by cosmetic disfigurement in 61.5%. Compressive wound packing with delayed wound closure and preoperative embolization were the commonly employed methods for bleeding control. CPB assisted resection was carried out in 5 cases. On analysing the recurrence, 7.7% had in complete excision, 36% in incomplete excision and 12% in cases of vascularized tissue transfer. Conclusion: The clinical criteria outlined in our study will be useful in identifying “Large” vascular malformations. Compression wound packing with delayed closure plays a major role in bleeding control immediately after resection. CPB assistance for aiding resection can be considered in selected cases. Complete resection in the form of radical excision will reduce the recurrence. Palliative resection provides symptom free disease when complete resection is not viable. The tissue transfer for the wound cover controls the residual disease in cases of incomplete resection.

Background:Malaria is one of the most prevalent parasitic diseases worldwide and India has fourth highest number of malaria cases and deaths in the world. Prevention of the disease through better knowledge and awareness is the appropriate way to keep the disease away and remain healthy. Thus, the present study was aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices regarding malaria among residents of urban slum area of Kolkata. Method:A Community based cross sectional study was conducted among 300 residents in Tangra area, urban slum area of Kolkata. The data was collected by using pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire which include socio-demographic data, basic knowledge about malaria, transmission and preventive measures and health seeking behaviour regarding malaria through interview method. Result:Results revealed that they had good knowledge regarding malaria symptoms and treatment (92.67%), methods of prevention (86%) and diagnosis (70.67%). Most respondents did not avail government health services or DDT spray. Even with a satisfactory knowledge some misconceptions persisted. Conclusion:Majority of the respondents were familiar with the malaria symptoms, mode of transmission and vector control measures. Awareness on malaria diagnosis, preventive methods, presumptive treatment and DDT acceptance is required for improving malaria control practices. The quality of services from government health facilities must be patient friendly for better utilization of the services.

Background: Viral hepatitis is a major public health issue throughout the world affecting millions of children despite the availability of vaccines, prophylactic measures and improved sanitation. The objective of the study was to determine the etiological profile of acute viral hepatitis in patients admitted in a tertiary care hospital, West Bengal, India.Methods: This prospective hospital-based study was done in, Midnapore Medical College, Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal, India from February 2020 to July 2021. Children between 6 months to 12 years who presented with fever and prodromal symptoms, with or without jaundice, abdominal pain, high coloured urine, pale coloured stools with suspicion of acute viral hepatitis were included in the study. The data were statistically analysed using Microsoft excel and statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) software.Results: Majority of the study subjects were from Lower middle class i.e. 59.6%. Only 34.6% regularly boiled water before consuming. Majority 44.2% of the subjects had history of practicing unhealthy eating practices which included not cleaning hands before eating. 66.7% subjects did not boiled water before consumption, 33.3% were involved in unhygienic food habits and 100% were using unhygienic sanitary practices. Prevalence of hepatitis A in our study was 96.2%. and hepatitis E was 5.8%. Prevalence of HAV IgM positive was 96.2%, prevalence of hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis E virus (HEV) positive was 1.9% and prevalence of HEV IgM positive was 5.8%.Conclusions: Prevalence of hepatitis A in our study was 96.2%. Hence, HAV was the most common etiological factor causing acute viral hepatitis in children. It’s important to create awareness in the society regarding preventive measures like hygienic food practices and improved sanitation which is of utmost importance in its prevention.

Background: Self-medication is dened as medication taken on the patient's own initiative or on the advice of pharmacist or any other lay person. Self-medication can be described as a double edged sword for its users, because it has both benecial and harmful effects. According to recent community based study in 2016 prevalence of self-medication in developing countries varies from 12% to as high as 73% in different communities. The objectives of the study were to assess the prevalence of self-medication among the residents of urban slum of Kolkata r and to identify the factors associated with the practice of self-medication. Methods: A community based cross-sectional study was done in the Tangra urban slum area of Kolkata. All the residents of selected slum who >18 years of age were selected. Atotal of 200 participants were randomly selected. Data on socio demographic details (age, gender, education, occupation, and income), practice of self-medication, and reasons for use of self-medication were collected. Results: Majority of the respondents were females 118 (59%) and maximum of the study participants were in the age group of 31- 60 years 96 (48%). The prevalence of self-medication was very high 138 (69%). Majority of the study participants preferred allopathy medicine 152 (76%). Pharmacist was the main source of information for practicing self-medication 118 (59%). Conclusions: Sessions of health education should be conducted to create awareness about side effects of self-medication. Govt should prepare and implement strict laws that without prescription of doctors no medicine should to given to anybody at the pharmacy.

Background: In recent past, blood transfusion in neonates has developed a lot improving the outcome particularly in premature and low birth weight babies. However, there are no globally followed standardised guidelines for neonatal blood transfusion. The present study conducted with the objective to evaluate the frequency, indications, complications and appropriateness of various blood components transfusion in sick newborn care unit (SNCU) of a resource poor setting.Methods: This retrospective, hospital based, single centre observational study is done in a tertiary care SNCU of a teaching hospital of eastern India. All SNCU admitted neonates who received blood/ blood component transfusion from October 2018 to September 2019 were evaluated for blood component usage and their indications and followed up throughout hospital stay. The data were statistically analysed using Microsoft Excel™ software.Results: In this study 219 neonates received a total of 359 bags of blood component transfusion. Out of these packed red blood cell (PRBC), fresh frozen plasma (FFP), random donor platelet and whole blood were 233 (64.90%), 97 (27.01%), 10 (2.78%) and 19 (5.29%) respectively. The major indications for transfusion were anaemia of prematurity (35.37%), sepsis (26.18%) and bleeding disorder (16.71%). The common transfusion-related complications observed in our study were cardiac abnormality (22.35%), electrolyte disturbance (6.40%) and hypoglycaemia (19.17%).Conclusions: Anaemia of prematurity was the foremost indication of transfusion. Multiple transfusions were associated with prematurity and low birth weight.

This is essentially a 'call for research' and collaboration between industry and academia to improve the motivation and performance of software engineers through use of language, words and symbols. How languages and symbols shape the way people think, feel and behave has been a topic of wide research. Words have powerful association with perception and cognition and throughout history, language has been used as a medium for influencing minds and for mass propaganda. While this is widely understood in politics, psychology and sociology, very little research has been to study the implicit and explicit impact of words, phrases and language on the way software engineers think, feel, behave and perform. While software engineering could be seen as a science that lends itself to a formal process and methods, it can also be seen as a craft and art which needs imagination and creativity which in turn are influenced by emotions. We propose some hypotheses, research questions and ideas to trigger formal studies of deeper connections between language/ symbols and software engineers' performance. We also draw inspiration from a wide body of research already conducted in this area which have influenced the field of psychology, sociology and mass communication. This is essentially a 'call for research' and collaboration between industry and academia to improve the motivation and performance of software engineers through use of language, words and symbols.

The research was aimed to synthesize heterocyclic derivatives containing thiazole fused p-hydroxybenzohydazide for antimycobacterial activity. As, literature survey reveals various substitutions on thiazole fused p-hydroxybenzohydazide moiety show a variety of remarkable activities, the new derivatives of thiazole fused p-hydroxybenzohydazide was prepared by using various substitutions on R and R’ positions. Considering various pharmacological activities the present work is designed to club thiazole fused p-hydroxybenzohydazide moiety with different phenacyl bromide and isothiocynate moieties. Synthetic studies started with reaction of p-hydroxymethylbenzoate (1) which on amination with hydrazine hydrate leads to form common intermediate p-hydroxybenzohydrazide (2). This intermediate (2) when undergoes nucleophilic addition reaction with aryl isothiocyanates were resulted in the formation of thiosemicarbazides (III.a-III.d). The cyclization reaction (step-III) was carried out by using different phenacyl bromides, actual cyclization takes place by using sodium acetate. Step-III was resulted in the formation of final compounds (IV.a-IV.h). All synthesized compounds were further characterized by melting point. The compounds showed single spot in TLC which assured the completion of reactions and the purity of the compounds. The compounds were synthesized by appropriate synthetic route. The melting points of compounds were determined. The melting points of compounds were determined and were uncorrected. Thin layer chromatography was carried out by using suitable solvent system selected on the basis of solubility and polarity. The Rf value was determined. All the newly synthesized compounds were subjected for characterization by Rotational and Vibrational spectra (IR), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Mass spectroscopy (MS) and C, H, N analysis. The newly synthesized by compounds were screened for antimycobacterial activity by radiometric method.

We report herein an accurate, precise, and economical stability indicating high performance thin layer chromatographic (HPTLC) method developed to assess the safety of olanzapine in pharmaceutical formulations. Olanzapine was subjected to forced degradation studies to assess the effect of environmental conditions on its stability. Stress conditions such as hydrolysis under acidic and alkaline environment, degradation and oxidation by heat, light and air were used to study the stability of olanzapine. Mobile phase comprising of toluene: methanol (5:5 v/v) and aluminum plate pre-coated with silica gel 60 F254 as a stationary phase were used for the development of chromatogram by HPTLC technique. Densitometric analysis of olanzapine carried out at 297 ​nm gave sharp symmetrical peak with Rf value of 0.50 and a satisfactory baseline resolution for all components. The drug was found to undergo degradation under acidic, alkaline and oxidative conditions. A single distinct peak in acidic and alkaline media while two peaks obtained as a result of oxidative degradation were well resolved along with the parent drug. The degradation products and parent drug showed significantly different Rf values. The developed HPTLC method gave quick and reproducible results for the olanzapine content in the tablets. The mean recoveries were 100.75% which confirms accuracy of the proposed method. The method was further validated for specificity, ruggedness and robustness. Based on the results, it can be suggested that the developed HPTLC method is quite efficient in separating the olanzapine from its degradation products; hence it can be used by pharmaceutical industries and regulatory bodies for the routine analysis of olanzapine in various pharmaceutical dosage forms.

Introduction: Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is one of the most common problems in term and preterm babies. Development of hyperbilirubinemia in neonates is fretful for the parents and a concern for the pediatrician too. Healthy babies born through normal vaginal delivery who are getting discharged early are being readmitted for the treatment of hyperbilirubinemia. Aim sand Objectives: The present study is done to determine the correlation of cord blood bilirubin, albumin and neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in identifying newborn babies at risk of developing significant hyperbilirubinemia and to establish the cutoff values of cord blood bilirubin and cord blood albumin levels to identify such high-risk neonates. Materials and Methods: In present study, 303 term neonates who are delivered in ASRAM, Eluru from January 2012-January 2013, were included after parental consent. Cord blood bilirubin, Blood grouping and typing, Cord blood albumin and serum bilirubin levels were done in all babies. Results: The incidence of significant hyperbilirubinemia in this study was 23.7%. Cord serum unconjugated bilirubin level ≥2.0 mg/dl and total cordserum bilirubin level ≥ 2.5mg/dl as high risk indicator towards predicting neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in first week of life. 58.53% babies had cord serum albumin level < 2.8gm/dl. Conclusion: Cord serum unconjugated bilirubin level ≥2mg/dl and total cord serum bilirubin level ≥2.5mg/dl, cord blood albumin

Mobius syndrome is a rare congenital disorder with the preliminary diagnostic criteria of congenital facial and abducent nerve palsy. Involvement of other cranial nerves, too, is common. Prevalence rate of this syndrome is approximately 1 in 100,000 neonates. It is of unknown etiology with sporadic occurrence. However, data regarding the occurrence rate in India is limited. Features such as orofacial malformations, limb defects, and musculoskeletal, behavioral, and cognitive abnormalities might be associated. A thorough evaluation to identify the condition and establishing an adequate treatment plan is of utmost important in this condition. We are reporting clinical and radiographic features of Mobius syndrome in two cases along with unusual findings of limb and neck deformity.

In a micro grid with multiple DGs, the system experience the issue of active and reactive power sharing between the inverters. In this context, this paper presents the implementation of droop control method to equally share the active and reactive power in a micro grid with inverters operating in parallel. Further this paper also addresses the issues pertaining to the feeder impedance mismatch effecting the sharing of P and Q. To realize its operation the system is designed in PSCAD software. Further this paper also addresses a future scope for a possible solution.

Background: Individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus are at increased risk for heart failure (HF), particularly those with coexisting atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and/or kidney disease. Some but not all dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors have been associated with increased HF risk. We performed secondary analyses of HF and related outcomes with the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor linagliptin versus placebo in CARMELINA (The Cardiovascular and Renal Microvascular Outcome Study With Linagliptin), a cardiovascular outcomes trial that enrolled participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and/or kidney disease. Methods: Participants in 27 countries with type 2 diabetes mellitus and concomitant atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and/or kidney disease were randomized 1:1 to receive once daily oral linagliptin 5 mg or placebo, on top of standard of care. All hospitalization for HF (hHF), cardiovascular outcomes, and deaths were prospectively captured and centrally adjudicated. In prespecified and post hoc analyses of HF and related events, Cox proportional hazards models adjusting for region and baseline history of HF were used. Recurrent hHF events were analyzed using a negative binomial model. In a subset of participants with left ventricular ejection fraction captured within the year before randomization, HF-related outcomes were assessed in subgroups stratified by left ventricular ejection fraction > or 50%. Results: CARMELINA enrolled 6979 participants (mean age, 65.9 years; estimated glomerular filtration rate, mL/min per 1.73m(2); hemoglobin A1c, 8.0%; 62.9% men; diabetes mellitus duration, 14.8 years), including 1873 (26.8%) with a history of HF at baseline. Median follow-up was 2.2 years. Linagliptin versus placebo did not affect the incidence of hHF (209/3494 [6.0%] versus 226/3485 [6.5%], respectively; hazard ratio [HR], 0.90; 95% CI, 0.74-1.08), the composite of cardiovascular death/hHF (HR, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.82-1.08), or risk for recurrent hHF events (326 versus 359 events, respectively; rate ratio, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.75-1.20). There was no heterogeneity of linagliptin effects on hHF by history of HF at baseline, baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate or urine albumin-creatinine ratio, or prerandomization left ventricular ejection fraction. Conclusions: In a large, international cardiovascular outcome trial in participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus and concomitant atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and/or kidney disease, linagliptin did not affect the risk of hHF or other selected HF-related outcomes, including among participants with and without a history of HF, across the spectrum of kidney disease, and independent of previous left ventricular ejection fraction. Clinical Trial Registration: URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT01897532.

IMPORTANCE Type 2 diabetes is associated with increased cardiovascular (CV) risk. Prior trials have demonstrated CV safety of 3 dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors but have included limited numbers of patients with high CV risk and chronic kidney disease. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of linagliptin, a selective DPP-4 inhibitor, on CV outcomes and kidney outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes at high risk of CV and kidney events. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS Randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter noninferiority trial conducted from August 2013 to August 2016 at 605 clinic sites in 27 countries among adults with type 2 diabetes, hemoglobin A(1c) of 6.5% to 10.0%, high CV risk (history of vascular disease and urine-albumin creatinine ratio [UACR] > 200mg/g), and high renal risk (reduced eGFR and micro-or macroalbuminuria). Participants with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) were excluded. Final follow-up occurred on January 18, 2018. INTERVENTIONS Patients were randomized to receive linagliptin, 5 mg once daily (n = 3494), or placebo once daily (n = 3485) added to usual care. Other glucose-lowering medications or insulin could be added based on clinical need and local clinical guidelines. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Primary outcomewas time to first occurrence of the composite of CV death, nonfatalmyocardial infarction, or nonfatal stroke. Criteria for noninferiority of linagliptin vs placebo was defined by the upper limit of the 2-sided 95% CI for the hazard ratio (HR) of linagliptin relative to placebo being less than 1.3. Secondary outcome was time to first occurrence of adjudicated death due to renal failure, ESRD, or sustained 40% or higher decrease in eGFR from baseline. RESULTS Of 6991 enrollees, 6979 (mean age, 65.9 years; eGFR, 54.6 mL/min/1.73m2; 80.1% with UACR > 30mg/g) received at least 1 dose of study medication and 98.7% completed the study. During a median follow-up of 2.2 years, the primary outcome occurred in 434 of 3494 (12.4%) and 420 of 3485 (12.1%) in the linagliptin and placebo groups, respectively, (absolute incidence rate difference, 0.13 [95% CI,-0.63 to 0.90] per 100 person-years) (HR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.89-1.17; P

An asymmetric ground structured hybrid reconfigurable antenna is designed on polyimide substrate material in this work. The antenna model is occupying the dimension of 43X28X0.2 mm with couple of F-shaped slots and U-shaped slot in the radiating structure. Antenna providing impedance bandwidth of 44% (2.3-3.8 GHz), 12% (4.5-5.1 GHz) and 7% (6.3-6.8 GHz) at three resonant frequencies. Parametric analysis with respect to dimensional parameters are done for optimization of the antenna performance characteristics. The asymmetric ground with slots on the radiating structure is providing the frequency and pattern reconfigurability with BAR 64 diodes placement and tunability by switching conditions. The proposed antenna is providing frequency and pattern reconfigurability in 'S' and 'C' bands at LTE, Wi-Fi, WLAN, and fixed satellite applications. Peak realized gain of 4 dB and efficiency more than 74% is achieved at fundamental resonant band of the antenna. Four state frequency reconfigurability and two state pattern reconfigurability is achieved with beam steering at 30 deg and 330 deg in the azimuthal plane. The flexible behavior of the antenna is also analyzed at various bending angles in X and Y-directions and found good matching between simulation results obtained from Ansys HFSS tool and the measurement results on combinational analyzer in the anechoic chamber.

Background: The word “stress” was defined by different scholars. The word was first defined by Hans Selye in 1936 as “a nonspecific response of the body to any demand of change”. The modern medical workplace is a complex environment, and doctors respond differently to it, some finding it stimulating and exciting, whereas others become stressed and burned. The medical workplace also provides an environment where new skills are continually being learned, both as a result of medical knowledge evolving and because a doctor's work changes. Objective of the present study was to find out the level of stress among the doctors working in CMSDH and to find out the possible sources of stress from their perspective.Methods: The study was an institution-based cross-sectional study conducted from 26th October 2017 to 22nd November 2017 among the enlisted 257 working doctors of CMSDH present during the period of data collection. It was intended to include all the doctors working in this college for this study.Results: A total of 257 doctors including faculty132 (51.4%), interns 80 (31.1%) and house staffs 45 (17.5%) consented and participated in the study of whom 172 (67.0%) were male and 85 (33.0%) female. Interns are the most stressed ones mean 20.4, SD±5.2, followed by house staff mean 17.5, SD±5.1 and faculty mean 16.9, SD±5.3. Unmarried faculty members mean 19.2, SD±5.2 are slightly more stressed than married mean 17.0, SD±5.3. Preclinical faculty has more stress, mean 17.1 ±SD5.2, where the clinical intern has maximum level of stress, mean 20.4 ±SD5.2.Conclusions: Doctors who are in massive stress need counseling and regular psychotherapy to reduce their stress level. A system of monitoring information and communication between administrative and working doctors should be evolved regularly.

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a disease associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Patients with diabetes have higher rates of coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, retinopathy, neuropathy and nephropathy. Many of these complications can be prevented with appropriate medical care that often requires significant alterations in lifestyle and strict adherence to self-care tasks to obtain good control of disease. Awareness regarding the complications of this disease will play a vital role in its prevention and control. While lack of adherence to the treatment and self-care leads to poor glycemic control, thereby, increasing hazardous complications. Objective of the study was the present study was conducted to assess the knowledge of diabetic patients regarding the disease and its complications, and to estimate the knowledge and adherence to self-care practices concerned with Type 2 diabetes mellitus.Methods: The study was conducted in Tangra an urban slum of Kolkata from July 2018 to December 2018. A house to house survey was conducted to identify the known diabetics in the community and data of 362 patients were collected.Results: A total of 362 diabetic patients consented and participated in the study of whom 191(52.76%) were male and 171(42.74%) female. Majority of the respondents (26.52%) between the age of 50-59 years, 140(38.67%) belonged to upper middle class. Though 332(91.71%) respondents were aware regarding diet control but only 170(46.96%) were actually practicing the recommended diet schedules. Knowledge of the respondents regarding eye, foot, skin and dental care was very low, only 67(18.51%), 102(28.28%), 62(17.13%) and 46(12.71%) respondents were aware respectively and practices were still lower.Conclusions: Overall the level of self-care activities among diabetic patients in our study was quite low. Government policies should help in creating guidelines on comprehensive diabetes management within the primary health care setting including availability of medicines and diagnostic services and creating public awareness.

With the aim of obtaining newer biologically active compounds, a series of 4-(6-substituted-1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)amino-1,3-thiazole-2-amines ( 9 – 12 ) and 4-(6-substituted-1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)amino-2-(4-substitutedphenyl-methylidene)amino-1,3-thiazole ( 13 – 28 ) were synthesized. The structures of all the synthesized compounds were confirmed by spectral (FTIR, 1 H NMR and EI-MS) data and elemental (C, H, N) analysis. Furthermore, compounds ( 9 – 12 ) and ( 13 – 28 ) were screened for antibacterial, antifungal and anthelmintic activities. Almost all of these compounds showed moderate to excellent antimicrobial activity against two gram negative bacteria ( Escherichia coli , Pseudomonas aeruginosa ), two gram positive bacteria ( Staphylococcus aureus , Bacillus subtilis ), pathogenic fungal strains ( Candida albicans , Aspergillus niger ) and good anthelmintic activity against earthworm species ( Pontoscotex corethruses ). Among the compounds tested, compounds 23 and 24 showed maximum activity against Gram negative and Gram positive bacteria, respectively. Compound 22 exhibited good antifungal activity while compound 26 displayed maximum anthelmintic activity comparable to the standard drugs.

The proposed stability indicating method for the determination of tramadol hydrochloride by high-performance thin-layer chromatography in the pharmaceutical formulations was found to be specific, precise, and validated. The stationary phase employed was a precoated silica gel 60 F254 aluminum TLC plate. Several mobile phase combinations of varying polarity of solvent were tried for the method development, as well as for the resolution of degradation products from the parent densitogram of drug. Finally, the mobile phase containing a mixture of ethyl acetate:methanol:ammonia (9:0.8:0.5 v/v/v) was found to be satisfactory for the resolution of degradation products from the parent drug. Densitometric analysis of tramadol hydrochloride was carried out in the reflectance–absorbance mode at 271 nm. The Rf value of the drug was obtained at 0.64 ± 0.02 with sharp symmetrical peak. The degraded products formed under acidic, oxidative, and an alkali conditions were strongly retained. Linear relationships between co...

Heat transfer by convection between a surface and the fluid surrounding can be increased by attaching to the surface called fins. The heat conducting through solids, walls, or boundaries has to be continuously dissipated to the surroundings or environment to maintain the system in a steady state condition. In many engineering applications large quantities of heat needed to be dissipated from small areas. The fins increase the effective area of a surface thereby increasing the heat transfer by convection. Rectangular fin and triangular fins are straight fins. Triangular fins are attractive, since for an equal heat transfer it requires much less volume than rectangular fin. Hence the fins have practical importance because it gives maximum heat flow per unit mass with ease of manufacture. In an air-cooled engine, rectangular and triangular fins are provided on the periphery of engine cylinder. Heat transfer analysis is carried out by placing rectangular and then triangular fins. Analysis is carried out by varying temperatures on the surface of the cylinder from 200 oC to 600oC and varying length from 6 cm to 14 cm. Input parameters such as density, heat transfer coefficient, thermal conductivity and thickness of fin are taken and output parameters such as rate of heat flow, heat flow per unit mass, efficiency and effectiveness are determined. Comparisons are presented with rectangular fins.

Woodfordia fruticosa Kurz. (Lythraceae) flowers are ethnopharmacologically acclaimed in the Indian medicinal system to treat asthma.To evaluate W. fruticosa flower extracts for anti-asthmatic effect.Ethyl acetate, acetone, methanol, and hydro-alcohol extracts of W. fruticosa flowers were obtained successively and standardized. Ability of extracts to stabilize free radicals and compound-48/80-induced mast cell degranulation was evaluated. In vitro anti-inflammatory potential of extracts at 100 and 200 µg/ml by membrane stabilization and in vivo inhibition of rat paw edema up to 5 h (100 and 200 mg/ml; p.o.) was evaluated. In vitro bronchorelaxant effect was examined against histamine- and acetylcholine (1 µg/ml; independently)-induced guinea pig tracheal contraction. Extracts were evaluated for bronchoprotection (in vivo) ability against 0.1% histamine- and 2% acetylcholine-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs at 100 and 200 mg/ml; p.o.Standardization studies revealed that the methanol extract exhibited highest polyphenolic (62.66 GAE), and flavonoid (6.32 RE) content and HPLC fingerprinting confirmed the presence of gallic acid (Rt 1.383). IC50 values for DPPH scavenging and metal chelation by the methanol extract were 40.42 and 31.50 µg/ml. Methanol and ethyl acetate extracts at 100 µg/ml exhibited 06.52 and 07.12% of histamine release. Methanol, ethyl acetate, and hydro alcohol extracts at 200 mg/kg demonstrated 32.73, 29.83, 26.75% and 32.46, 9.38, 26.75% inhibition of egg albumin and carrageenan-induced inflammation, respectively. Methanol extract exhibited 100% bronchorelaxation and 48.83% bronchoprotection.Woodfordia fruticosa flower (WFF) extracts exhibited anti-asthmatic effect by demonstrating bronchoprotection, bronchorelaxation, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and mast cell stabilization ability.

Attempting to predict future is dangerous. This is particularly true in medical science where change is a result of chance discoveries. Currently, practicing psychiatrists are aware of deficiencies in psychiatric practice. However, we have a number of genuine reasons for optimism and excitement. Genetics, novel treatment approaches, new investigative techniques, large-scale treatment trials, and research in general medicine and neurology will give better insights in psychiatric disorders and its management. Psychiatric services in rural India can be reached by telemedicine. There are some threat perceptions which require solving and remedying. Subspecialties in psychiatry are the need of the hour. There is also a requirement for common practice guidelines. Mental Health Care Bill, 2013, requires suitable amendments before it is passed in the Indian Parliament. Research in psychiatry is yet to be developed as adequate resources are not available.

Background: : Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) is a trained female community health activist. ASHAs are local women trained to act as facilitator and promoters of health care in their communities. ASHA is trained to work as an interface between the community and the public health system. ASHA play an important role in newborn care to reduce their morbidity and mortality.Methods: Data were collected from ASHAs working in Shibbur area of Howrah District, west Bengal. The study sample consisted of 70 ASHAs working in the Shibpur area that fulfilled the inclusion criteria. A predesigned pretested questionnaire of ASHA was used to collect data in the study.Results: The mean age of ASHAs was 35.74 years. Only 32 (45.71%) had received middle level (class VIII) education. Only 45.71 % of ASHAs had good knowledge and practice regarding hypothermia and its complication and the procedure of providing warmth the baby after delivery. Only 57.1% of ASHA had good knowledge regarding counseling and problem solving on breast feeding. Only 38.57% had good knowledge and practices on identification and basic skill on management of Low Birth Weight (LBW) having birth weight of

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major cause of death globally in both developed and developing countries. Coronary artery disease which was once thought to be a disease of the urban population is now involving the rural community in an increased number. So a study of major coronary risk factors in rural communities will help to adopt various strategies particularly behavior change and communication relevant for these communities to prevent these risk factors and lower CAD related mortality and morbidity. Objective was to estimate rates of the various risk factors for CAD and identify the high-risk groups in the rural community.Methods: A community based cross sectional study was carried out in a rural area in the Howrah district of West Bengal. Four hundred and eighteen (418) persons (212 males and 206 females) were subjected to study using structured, pretested and predesigned schedule. Coronary artery disease risk factors were assessed. Statistical analysis was done with the help of statistical software, the SPSS 20.0 for windows.Results: The study observed that prevalence of tobacco use among the study population was the most significant risk factor (42.3%). The prevalence of other coronary risk factors ranged from 10-20%. Tobacco use, alcohol consumption and sedentary life style were significantly more amongst males. Whereas truncal obesity and systolic hypertension more among females.Conclusions: Various comprehensive strategies particularly behavior change and communication targeting these high risk population need to be emphasized to lower CAD related morbidity burden in the community.

The main mycobacterial infection in human is tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Tuber- culosis is the leading infectious cause of death in the world. Therefore there is continuing and compelling need for new and improved treatment for tuberculosis. The entire logic towards design of new compounds containing 4-hydroxy-N'-(1,3-thi- azoldin-2-yldene)benzohydrazide moiety is basically for superior antimycobacterial activity. The recent advances in QSAR and computer science have provided a systematic approach to design a structure of any compound and further, the biological activity of the compound can be predicted before synthesis. The 3D-QSAR studies for the set of 4-hydroxy-N'-(1,3-thiazoldin- 2-yldene)benzohydrazide and their derivatives were carried out by using V-life MDS (3.50). The various statistical methods such as Multiple Linear Regression (MLR), Partial Least Square Regression (PLSR), Principle Component Regression(PCR) and K nearest neighbour (kNN) were used. The kNN showed good results having cross validated r 2 0.9319, r 2 for external test set 0.8561 and standard error of estimate 0.2195. The docking studies were carried out by using Schrodinger GLIDE mod- ule which resulted in good docking score in comparison with the standard isoniazid. The designed compounds were further subjected for synthesis and biological evaluation. Antitubercular evaluation of these compounds showed that (4.a), (4.d) and (4.g) found as potent inhibitor of H37RV.

Ten new derivatives of 1-benzothiazol-2-yl-3-chloro-4-substituted-azetidin-2-ones (3a-j) were synthesized using various Schiff bases (alkyl/arylidene-2-aminobenzothiazoles; 2a-j), which in turn were prepared starting from 2-aminobenzothiazole (1). All the synthesised compounds were characterised by elemental analyses and spectral (IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and EI-MS) data. The title compounds 2a-j and 3a-j were screened in vivo using carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model. All the test compounds showed anti-inflammatory activity when tested in vivo. In general, compounds 3a-j were found to be more potent compared to compounds 2a-j. Among the compounds tested, compound 2g in the alkyl/arylidene-2-aminobenzothiazoles series and compound 3 g in the 1-benzothiazol-2-yl-3-chloro-4-substituted-azetidin-2-ones series were found to be the most potent. All the test compounds were also evaluated to check the gastric ulcer incidence. In gastric ulceration studies, all the test compounds were generally found to be safe at the 100 mg/kg dose level. Furthermore the most potent compounds 2 g and 3 g from each series were screened in vitro for inhibition of both COX-2 and COX-1 catalysed prostaglandin biosynthesis (radiochemical assay). Like most of the commercially available non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), in the in vitro study, compounds 2 g and 3 g showed anti-inflammatory activity by blocking the metabolism of arachidonic acid to prostaglandin via the cyclooxygenase pathways. In general, in the vitro assay, test compounds 2 g and 3 g were found to be more active after 15 min pre-incubation with the enzyme. Compound 3 g was found to be more COX-2 selective, while compound 2 g was found to be equally COX-2 and COX-1 selective.

A series of 4-(6-substituted-1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)amino-2-(4-substitutedphenyl)- amino-1,3-thiazoles, 9-24 have been synthesised from 2-chloro-N-(6-substituted-1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)acetamides, 5-8. The structures of these compounds have been elucidated by spectral (IR, (1)H NMR, Mass) and elemental (C, H, N) analysis data. All the newly synthesised compounds (9-24) were screened for their antibacterial, antifungal and anthelmintic activities. Almost all of these compounds showed moderate to good antimicrobial activity against two gram negative bacteria (E. coli, P. aeruginosa), two gram positive bacteria (S. aureus, B. subtilis), pathogenic fungal strains (C. albicans, A. niger) and good anthelmintic activity against earthworm species (P. corethruses). Compounds 18 and 20 exhibited good antibacterial and antifungal activities, while compound 22 displayed the most significant anthelmintic activity.

Background: Puberty is the unique stage of growth and development associated with the social and psychological changes referred to as adolescence. The adolescent psychosocial development is the process through which the dependent child becomes a self reliant adult. A large number of adolescents suffer from psychosocial problems and many of these problems are of transient in nature and are often not even noticed. The objective of the study was to find out the prevalence of psychosocial problems among adolescents.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in ward no 58 of Tangra area of Kolkata. The study group comprised of 420 adolescents, selected by multistage stratified random sampling. Data was collected on a pre-designed and pre-tested questionnaire by interviewing the adolescents and was subsequently analyzed by using suitable statistical package.Results: Anxiety was maximum (34.76%) in adolescent boys whereas conduct disorder was found to be maximum (28.57%) in adolescent girls. Majority (35.62%) of late adolescent boys were attributed to substance abuse. Anxiety was found to be the commonest problem among adolescent males in all religions. Educational difficulties were maximum among Muslim adolescents. The problems per subject (with psycho-social problems) were more in adolescent boys (4.4) and girls (3.8) having joint family. None of the class I adolescent girls claimed to have any educational difficulties.Conclusions: A holistic approach to underlying causes of psycho-social problems of adolescents should be undertaken. There is need of strengthening the existing “package” of services for adolescents in various initiatives and programmes.

To examine new drug leads with potential anticancer activity, some (4-hydroxyphenyl)[5-substituted alkyl/aryl)-2-thioxo-1,3,4-thiadiazol-3-yl]methanone (4.a–4.c) and [-(3,4-disubstituted)-1,3-thiazol-2ylidene)]-4-hydroxybenzohydrazide (6.a–6.d) were synthesized using appropriate synthetic route. The newly prepared compounds 4.a–4.c and 6.a–6.d demonstrated inhibitory effects on the growth of a wide range of cancer cell lines especially on leukemia (HL-60), non-small lung cancer (HOP-92), renal cancer (ACHN) at the range of GI50 −4.23 to −7.23.

Hospital-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has been an increasing problem worldwide since the initial reports over 40 years ago. To examine new drug leads with potential antibacterial activities, Various N'-[(-3-substituted-4-oxo-1,3-thiazolidin-2-ylidene]-4-hydroxy benzohydrazide (4a-4.i) and N'-[-(3,4-disubstituted)-1,3-thiazolidin-2ylidene)]-4-hydroxybenzohydrazide from (5.a-5.i) to (10.a-10.i) were synthesized using appropriate synthetic route. The entire test compounds (4.a-4.i) and from (5.a-5.i) to (10.a-10.i) were assayed in vitro against s. aureus strain. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined for test compounds and for reference standards. The test compounds showed significant antibacterial activity against the strains used, when tested in vitro. In general, p-hydroxybenzohydrazide ring and substituted thiazoline ring are essential for antimicrobial activity. Among the compounds tested, compounds 6.f, 7.g, 9.f and 10.f, 10 i were found to be most potent. The test compounds were found nontoxic upto the dose level of 2000 /mL. The intact compounds were then subjected for 3D-QSAR studies. 3D-QSAR study based on the principal of alignment of pharmacophoric features by Schrodinger PHASE module. The 3D-QSAR study allowed us to confirm the preferential binding mode of p-hydroxybenzohydrazide inside the active site.

A series of 6-substituted-[3-substituted-prop-2-eneamido]benzothiazole 9-32 and 6-substituted-2-[(1-acetyl-5-substituted)-2-pyrazolin-3-yl]aminobenzothiazole 33-56 were synthesized using appropriate synthetic route and evaluated experimentally against maximal electroshock test. Selected compounds were evaluated for neurotoxicity, hepatotoxicity and behavioral study. The most active compound, 6-methyl-2-[(1-acetyl-5-(4-chlorophenyl))-2-pyrazolin-3-yl]aminobenzothiazole 52 exhibited an ED50 of 25.49 micromol/kg, TD50 of 123.87 micromol/kg and high protective index (PI) of 4.86 compared to standard drug phenytoin. The 3D-QSAR analysis was carried out by PHASE program and a statistically reliable model with good predictive power (r2=0.9220, q2=0.8144) was achieved. The 3D-QSAR plots illustrated insights into the structure activity relationship of these compounds which may aids in the design of potent aminobenzothiazole derivatives as anticonvulsant agents.

Fifteen new ethyl 6-methyl-2-methoxy-3-(substituted 1-phenylethanone)-4-(substituted phenyl)-1, 2, 3, 4-tetrahydropyrimidine-5-carboxylates ( 6a – o ) have been synthesized in a two step reaction. In first step ethyl acetoacetate, s -methylisourea and appropriate benzaldehydes reacted in a single step reaction to obtain ethyl 6-methyl-2-methoxy-4-(substituted phenyl)-1, 4-dihydropyrimidine-5-carboxylates ( 4a – e ). Second step involves synthesis of reaction between substituted phenacyl bromides and 1-4-dihydropyrimidine-5-carboxylates ( 6a – o ). Their structures are confirmed by IR, 1 H NMR, mass and elemental analyses. The compounds were tested for antihypertensive activity by non-invasive tail-cuff, and evaluated by carotid artery cannulation method for determining the diastolic blood pressure. Hypertension was induced by DOCA-salt. Anti-inflammatory activity was carried out by carrageenan induced rat-paw oedema method. Test compounds 6b , 6c , 6e , 6f , 6j , 6h , 6k , 6l , 6m , 6n and 6o exerted comparative antihypertensive activity at 10 mg/kg dose level compared to nifedipine. Compounds 6j , 6m and 6o showed excellent results on evaluation by direct method. Test compounds 6a – 6h , 6l , 6m , 6n and 6o exerted moderate to comparative anti-inflammatory activity at the 100 mg/kg dose level compared to indomethacin. Their further investigation for analgesic activity and acute ulcerogenesis was carried out, compounds 6m , 6f , 6k , 6o showed excellent to good analgesic activity and low ulcerogenic activity.

Transdermal films of carvedilol were prepared by using Eudragit RL100 (ERL100) either alone or in combination with Eudragit RS100 (ERS100), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose K 15 LV (HPMC), and ethyl cellulose (EC). The drug release was extended over a period of 24 h from all formulations. The formulation A5 showed 98.33 cumulative % drug releases in 24 h and followed zero order kinetics. The drug transport mechanism was observed to be Fickian. The cumulative % drug diffused through artificial permeation membrane (cellophane A 393) from same formulation was 100.52 % over a 12 h. The mechanism of dug release was governed by Peppas model and the drug diffusion rate followed zero order kinetics. The formulation A5 comprising of polymers ERL 100, ERS 100, EC and HPMC in 7:1:1:1 ratio fulfills the requirement of good TDDS. o ) necessitated the formulation of sustained release transdermal drug delivery system for carvedilol, as this route of drug administration would reduce the dosing frequency hence better patient compliance. In this study, water soluble polymer like hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and water insoluble polymers, Eudragit RL 100 (ERL 100), Eudragit RS 100 (ERS 100), and ethyl cellulose (EC), were selected as carriers in which the drug was incorporated. Eudragit RL and RS are copolymers of acrylic and methacrylic acid esters containing 10 and 5% trimethylammonium methacrylate chloride, respectively. The RL polymer swells more than RS due to its higher concentration of hydrophilic quaternary groups. RL films are more permeable than RS films. HPMC is a film former and is soluble in cold water, whereas EC forms films which are insoluble in water. The polymers selected were non-toxic and non absorbable and they did not lose their film forming properties when formulated with the drug and the excipients. The present study aims to design a matrix dispersion type transdermal system and its evaluation for technological properties, effect of polymer ratios on patch flatness, thickness, water vapour transmission rate (WVTR), percentage moisture loss (ML), percentage moisture absorption (MA), percentage moisture content (MC), drug content, folding endurance, in-vitro drug release. The in-vitro permeation studies were done using artificial permeation membrane since it provides the inert holding surface for the test formulation but it does not act as barrier. The membrane allows the active ingredient to diffuse in to receiving medium once it is released from dosage form. (Arora P. et al, 2002)

© 2015 Elsevier Inc. Using GPS radio occultation refractivity data collected over the period of 2002-2013, we present a new method for identification of the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ). The ITCZ is identified by estimating the maximum in the monthly meridional refractivity and specific humidity field by applying a Gaussian fit at each longitude. The interannual variability and climatology of the ITCZ is presented from 12. years of refractivity data. This new method captures all the general features of ITCZ extent and its variability. We also examine the effects of the ITCZ vertically during different seasons. The ITCZ is observed mostly at eastern Pacific in May month, and it is zonally distributed in the September and October months of each year. The zonal variability is large between lower and higher levels, particularly over the Indian monsoon and western Pacific. The latitudinal difference in the vertical extent between 850. hPa and higher levels is larger during the northern hemisphere (NH) summer than NH winter.

A new series of 3-(6-substituted-benzothiazol-2-yl)-6-phenyl-[1, 3]-oxazinane-2-thiones (4a-j) has been synthesised using an appropriate synthetic route (Scheme 1) and characterised by elemental analyses and spectral (IR, (1)HNMR, (13)C NMR, and EI MS) data. The anticonvulsant activity of all the title compounds (4a-j) was evaluated against Maximal Electroshock (MES) induced seizures and furthermore the most potent compounds were evaluated against subcutaneous pentylenetetrazole (sc PTZ) induced seizures model in mice. The neurotoxicity was assessed using the rotorod procedure. All the test compounds were administered intraperitoneally at various dose levels ranging from 30-200 mg/kg body wt and the median effective dose (ED(50)), median toxic dose (TD(50)), and protection index (PI) values were determined (Table 2). Among the compounds tested, the 3-(6-dimethylaminobenzothiazol-2-yl)-6-phenyl-[1, 3]-oxazinane-2-thiones (4j) was found to be the most potent (ED(50): 9.85 and 14.8 in MES model and 12 and 17 in scPTZ model at t = 0.5 h and 4 h, respectively, and TD(50) 42.8 and 44 at t = 0.5 h and 4 h, respectively, which has been found to be significant at p < 0.01 with respect to reference standard phenytoin) with protection index (PI) 4.85.

Aims: The purpose of this study was to evaluate web-based Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) intervention on office ergonomics – a unique method for prevention of musculoskeletal discomfort (MSD) – in corporate offices that influences behavior modification. Background: With the increasing use of computers, laptops and hand-held communication devices globally among office employees, creating awareness on office ergonomics has become a top priority. Emphasis needs to be given on maintaining ideal work postures, ergonomic arrangement of workstations, optimizing chair functions, as well as performing desk stretches to reduce MSD arising from the use of these equipment, thereby promoting safe work practices at offices and home, as in the current scenario many employees work from home with flexible work hours. Hence, this justifies the importance of our study. Objective: To promote safe working by exploring cost-effective communication methods to achieve behavior change at distant sites when an on-site visit may not be feasible. Materials and Methods: An invitation was sent by the Medical and Occupational Health Team of a multinational corporation to all employees at their offices in Sri Lanka, Singapore, and Malaysia to take up an online Nordic questionnaire, a screening tool for musculoskeletal symptoms, shared in local languages on two occasions – baseline evaluation (n = 240) and a follow-up evaluation after 3 months (n = 203). After completing the baseline questionnaire, employees were immediately trained on correct postures and office ergonomics with animation graphics. The same questionnaire was sent again after a 12-week gap only to those employees who responded to the baseline questionnaire on initial assessment. Statistical Analysis Used: Data collected were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 software and variables were compared using odds ratio as well as Chi-square test. Results: Of the 203 employees who responded, 47.35% had some musculoskeletal symptoms. Among them 58.7% had lower back pain, 46.9% had upper back pain, 44.1% had wrist pain, 39.5% had shoulder pain, and 37% had knee pain. The percentages are high as some participants had multiple complaints i.e. 2 or 3 complaints. However, only 40% of these employees had ongoing symptoms at the time of evaluation (past 7 days). A subsequent 3-month evaluation after web-based intervention showed a significant 41–50% decline in ongoing symptoms. Conclusions: We conclude that newer technology using web-based animation graphics is a highly efficient technique to create office ergonomics awareness and has the potential to become a best practice in countries where language is a communication barrier and an on-site visit may not be feasible due to meagre resources.

Methanolic extract of Heteropogon contortus (L.) Beauv was screened for mast cell stabilization (in vitro anti-histaminic) and membrane stabilization (in vitro anti-inflammatory) effects. Extracts was also evaluated for antioxidant effect (DPPH, % RRI of DPPH, reducing power and metal chelation). In addition extract was standardized using chromatographic fingerprinting and spectroscopic quantitation for phytoconstituents contents. HC-ME exhibited good anti-hisatminic effect in by reducing histamine release quantity from C-48/80 induced mast cells destabilization. Stabilizes hypotonic and heat induced destabilized cell membrane. Findings of the above studies helps to reveals that, HC-ME not only exhibit antioxidant activity but also exhibit membrane and mast cell stabilization potential.