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Accessible and equitable education is a national priority recently highlighted by the Indian and Australian Governments. New developments in web-based architecture allow augmented reality (AR) lessons to be delivered via smartphone. Although educational technology is commonplace in the Australian curriculum, it is unclear if Indian tertiary students would be welcoming towards web-based mobile learning due to a historically slower uptake and only recent availability of connected devices in their educational system. This study evaluated feedback after using a web-deployed AR smartphone-based application across both Australia (70 participants) and India (100 participants) to see if this technology can assist in capacity building on a global scale. From thematic analyses on the provided feedback, it was identified that Australian students were more focused on the benefits received from the educational technology. In contrast, Indian students were far less critical of the embedded lesson, and more interested in the prospect of introducing the specific technology into their curricula. The data suggests that a rollout of web-based mobile AR for learning in countries more digitally-native should likely prioritise the content within it. Alternatively, for countries recently-introduced to educational technology, such as India, a rollout should focus on embedding the technology itself first. Although there is a risk of learners being distracted by the technology, smartphone web-based AR presents an excellent option to equitably provide a modern, innovative intervention, regardless of wealth, location, or status.

In terms of scale, shock, and disenfranchisement, the disruption to formal education arising from COVID-19 has been unprecedented. Anecdotally, responses from teachers and educators around the world range from heightened caution to being inspired by distance education as the "new normal." Of all the challenges, face-to-face and formal teaching have been most heavily affected. Despite some education systems demonstrating resilience, a major challenge is sustaining quality and inclusiveness in formal education suddenly delivered at a distance. In probing these issues, this article profiles international perspectives on the role of open education in responding to the impact on formal school and higher education caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. We proceed by highlighting and analysing practices and case studies from 13 countries representing all global regions, identifying and discussing the challenges and opportunities that have presented themselves. Reports cover the period from the beginning of 2020 until 11 March 2021, the first anniversary of the COVID-19 outbreak as declared by the World Health Organization. In our comparative study, we identify seven key aspects of which three (missing infrastructure and sharing OER, open education and access to OER, and urgent need for professional development and training for teachers) are directly related to open education at a distance. After comparing examples of existing practice, we make recommendations and offer insights into how open education strategies can lead to interventions that are effective and innovative--to improve formal education at a distance in schools and universities in the future.

In this paper, we explore the improvisations made in examination practices in higher education during the pandemic of 2020. Drawing on STS, we start from the theoretical assumption that examinations constitute an obligatory passage point in universities and colleges: a sacred point which students need to pass if they want to gain recognized qualifications. We base our analysis of higher education examinations on cases from six countries around the world: Australia, Belgium, Chile, India, Sweden and the UK. We use the analytical heuristic of choreography to follow the movements, tensions and resistance of the 'emergency examinations' as well as the re-orderings of actors and stages that have inevitably occurred. In our analytical stories we see the interplay between the maintenance of fixed and sacred aspects of examinations and the fluidity of improvisations aimed at meeting threats of spreading COVID-19. These measures have forced the complex network of examinations both to reinforce some conventional actors and to assemble new actors and stages, thus creating radically new choreographies. Although higher education teaching and didactics are being framed as a playground for pedagogical innovation with digital technologies, it is clear from our data that not all educational activities can be so easily replicated.

This article presents an empirical study carried out among the students of higher secondary schools to find out how English language learning occurs naturally in an environment where learners are encouraged by an appropriate method such as visual learning. The primary data was collected from 504 students with different pretested questionnaires. A selection of a series of variables is taken into consideration in the survey, which is measured and information of each one is collected to describe what is researched. The results indicate that visual learning is an essential part of the overall experience that the learners gain towards their process of language learning. Also, it constitutes a vital process of "Input and Interaction" for the learner ensuring that his needs, necessities and aspirations are taken into account and by making him involved, produce genuine learning.

Background: Malaria remains a serious public health concern, particularly in regions with favourable climatic conditions for transmission. The Jakiri Health Centre in the North‒West Region of Cameroon is endemic to malaria, exhibiting a significant burden and unique epidemiological characteristics. Understanding the dynamics of malaria prevalence in this area is vital for developing targeted interventions, optimizing resources, and guiding public health policies. We report the trends in malaria prevalence over 15 years in the Jakiri Health Centre, North-West Region, Cameroon. Methods: Data were collected retrospectively by reviewing the Jakiri Health Centre's consultation and laboratory registers. The data were double-entered, cross-checked, and analysed using SPSS statistical software and Microsoft Excel. Results: A total of 3800 febrile cases were recorded from 2006 to 2021, with 2318 (61.0%) females and 1482 (39.0%) males. About one-quarter of the patients 945/3800 (24.9%) were confirmed to be malaria-positive. The prevalence of malaria fluctuated but increased between 2006 and 2019 with confirmed malaria cases increasing from 16.8% (37/220) to 39.8% (129/324). The proportions of confirmed malaria cases increased from 24/122 (19.7%) in 2006 to 21/90 (23.3%) in 2008 and 30/115 (26.1%) in 2009. Between 2009 and 2014, malaria cases decreased from 30/115 (26.1%) to 43/268 (16.0%), then increased steadily to a peak of 129/324 (39.8%) in 2019 and declined again to 190/766 (24.8%) in 2021. Malaria prevalence was significantly higher in males 27.2% (411/1482) compared to females 23.0% (534/2318), and the odds of having malaria were higher in females (OR = 1.28, 95% CI 1.10–1.49). Children aged 1 to < 5 years and 5 to < 15 years were most affected by malaria during the study period. Conclusion: Malaria prevalence increased from 2006 to 2009, decreased from 2009 to 2014, and increased again from 2014 to 2019, with significant fluctuations across the study period. Children 1 to < 5 years and 5 to < 15 years of age remained the most vulnerable to malaria infection, with males carrying the highest malaria burden in the locality. A shift in malaria burden from children under 5 years to those aged 5 to < 15 years was observed during this period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the interest in mindfulness research, there is a dearth of studies about mindfulness assessment in India. Particularly, little is known about the extent to which the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) represents content relevant for experienced meditators in Indian cultural and spiritual contexts. A sequential explanatory mixed-method design was used for this study. Six experienced meditators completed the standard FFMQ along with corresponding perceived importance items, followed by retrospective cognitive interviews. In addition to quantitative analysis related to reliability, content validity, and agreement, qualitative data from cognitive interviews were used to explore the reasons for high and low ratings of some items. Most of the items on the FFMQ facets act with awareness (75%), and nonreact (85.7%) were rated by all participants as being important. For 87.5% of the items in the describe facet, there was moderate agreement among the meditators regarding their importance. Only one out of eight items in each of the observe and nonjudge facets were rated as important by all participants. The qualitative statements supported the quantitative results by throwing some light on the reasons for high and low agreement. The observe and nonjudge facets were found to have questionable content validity for use with meditators in India who are non-Buddhist and also do not practice in mindfulness-based interventions contexts. Future psychometric work in India will need to explore to what extent a shortened version, excluding the low validity items of the FFMQ, may be a suitable alternative. Public Significance Statement: This article examines the content validity of the multidimensional model (five-facet) of mindfulness as assessed by the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ). The study focuses on experienced meditators from non-Buddhist and nonmindfulness-based intervention (non-MBI) contexts in India. The research holds broader implications due to the lack of consensus in the West regarding the FFMQ's applicability across diverse cultures, philosophies, religious, and meditative practices. Through evaluating a popular mindfulness assessment tool, this research endeavors to help confirm its reliability and validity for measuring mindfulness in meditators within non-MBI settings globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We use data from the Young Lives longitudinal survey to analyse the effect of socioeconomic conditions and gender on the educational performance of young children in India. In particular, we use data for standardised scores on two cognitive tests: the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (PPVT) and a maths test. Our results show that there are significant gender differences in the way that household wealth affects the educational performance of children. Specifically, boys born into wealthier households perform significantly better in maths than those from worse-off economic backgrounds. The effect of wealth on the PPVT is stronger for girls than it is for boys. The results are robust across a range of specifications. The effect of household wealth on performance differed between the genders, even when we focused our analysis on the bottom 10% and top 10% of the performance distribution. One possible explanation for these differences is parental aspirations. We tested this hypothesis and found that boys from wealthier households with higher parental educational aspirations are positively and significantly associated with higher maths scores. Further analysis showed that the moderating role of parents' educational aspirations was more pronounced at the top of the test score distribution, an indication that more able children are associated with wealthier and more ambitious parents.

Many children do not receive a full schedule of childhood vaccines, yet there is limited evidence on the cost-effectiveness of strategies for improving vaccination coverage. Evidence is even scarcer on the cost-effectiveness of strategies for reaching 'zero-dose children', who have not received any routine vaccines. We evaluated the cost-effectiveness of periodic intensification of routine immunization (PIRI), a widely applied strategy for increasing vaccination coverage. We focused on Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI), a large-scale PIRI intervention implemented in India in 2017–2018. In 40 sampled districts, we measured the incremental economic cost of IMI using primary data, and used controlled interrupted time-series regression to estimate the incremental vaccination doses delivered. We estimated deaths and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) averted using the Lives Saved Tool and reported cost-effectiveness from immunization programme and societal perspectives. We found that, in sampled districts, IMI had an estimated incremental cost of 2021US$13.7 (95% uncertainty interval: 10.6 to 17.4) million from an immunization programme perspective and increased vaccine delivery by an estimated 2.2 (−0.5 to 4.8) million doses over a 12-month period, averting an estimated 1413 (−350 to 3129) deaths. The incremental cost from a programme perspective was $6.21 per dose ($2.80 to dominated), $82.99 per zero-dose child reached ($39.85 to dominated), $327.63 ($147.65 to dominated) per DALY averted, $360.72 ($162.56 to dominated) per life-year saved and $9701.35 ($4372.01 to dominated) per under-5 death averted. At a cost-effectiveness threshold of 1× per-capita GDP per DALY averted, IMI was estimated to be cost-effective with 90% probability. This evidence suggests IMI was both impactful and cost-effective for improving vaccination coverage, though there is a high degree of uncertainty in the results. As vaccination programmes expand coverage, unit costs may increase due to the higher costs of reaching currently unvaccinated children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skeletal dysplasias (SKDs) are a heterogeneous group of more than 750 genetic disorders characterized by abnormal development, growth, and maintenance of bones or cartilage in the human skeleton. SKDs are often caused by variants in early patterning genes and in many cases part of multiple malformation syndromes and occur in combination with non‐skeletal phenotypes. The aim of this study was to investigate the underlying genetic cause of congenital SKDs in highly consanguineous Pakistani families, as well as in sporadic and familial SKD cases from India using multigene panel sequencing analysis. Therefore, we performed panel sequencing of 386 bone‐related genes in 7 highly consanguineous families from Pakistan and 27 cases from India affected with SKDs. In the highly consanguineous families, we were able to identify the underlying genetic cause in five out of seven families, resulting in a diagnostic yield of 71%. Whereas, in the sporadic and familial SKD cases, we identified 12 causative variants, corresponding to a diagnostic yield of 44%. The genetic heterogeneity in our cohorts was very high and we were able to detect various types of variants, including missense, nonsense, and frameshift variants, across multiple genes known to cause different types of SKDs. In conclusion, panel sequencing proved to be a highly effective way to decipher the genetic basis of SKDs in highly consanguineous families as well as sporadic and or familial cases from South Asia. Furthermore, our findings expand the allelic spectrum of skeletal dysplasias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite progress in reducing rates of early marriage, it is still a widespread practice in India accounting for 30 per cent of the world's early marriages. Understanding its impacts is thus of high importance to global gender equality goals. This article examines the impact of early marriage on multi-dimensional aspects of well-being: life satisfaction, subjectively assessed health and educational attainment. Difference-in-differences analysis with propensity score matching examines causal effects using Young Lives Study data. The analysis shows women who married early experience a trajectory of lower life satisfaction which is in evidence before marriage, even at age 12, persisting until the latest survey at age 22. There is no evidence of a causal negative effect of early marriage on life satisfaction; the relationship is more complicated, linked to trajectories of deprivation which commence from a very young age. In contrast, early marriage negatively affects women's self-reported health and educational attainment by age 22. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) has been associated with several diseases including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's and multiple sclerosis. ApoE also has documented immunomodulatory functions. We investigated gene expression in circulating monocytes and in bone marrows of patients with visceral leishmaniasis (VL) living in an endemic area in Bihar, India, and contrasted these with control healthy subjects or other diagnostic bone marrows from individuals in the same region. Samples from VL patients were obtained prior to initiating treatment. Our study revealed significant upregulated expression of the apoE transcript in patients with VL. Furthermore, the levels of ApoE protein were elevated in serum samples of subjects with VL compared with healthy endemic controls. These observations may provide clues regarding the complex interactions between lipid metabolism and immunoregulation of infectious and inflammatory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a potentially fatal parasitic infection caused by Leishmania donovani in India. L. donovani is an obligate intracellular protozoan residing mostly in macrophages of the reticuloendothelial system throughout chronic infection. Monocytic phagocytes are critical in the pathogenesis of different forms of leishmaniasis. Subsets of monocytes are distinguished by their surface markers into CD14+CD16- classical monocytes, CD14+CD16+ intermediate monocytes, and CD16++CD14low non-classical monocyte subsets. During cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), intermediate monocyte are reported to be a source of inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF, and they express CCR2 attracting them to sites of inflammatory pathology. We examined monocyte subsets in the blood and bone marrow of patients with VL from an endemic site in Bihar, India, and found these contrasted with the roles of monocytes in CL. During VL, intermediate and non-classical CD16+ monocyte subsets expressed instead a non-inflammatory phenotype with low CCR2, high CX3CR1 and low microbicidal oxidant generation, making them more similar to patrolling monocytes than inflammatory cells. Bone marrow CD16+ monocyte subsets expressed a phenotype that might be more similar to the inflammatory subsets of CL, although our inability to obtain bone marrow from healthy donors in the endemic region hampered this interpretation Overall the data suggest that CD16+ intermediate monocyte subsets in VL patients express a phenotypes that contributes to an immunosuppressed pathologic immune state, but in contrast to CL, these do not mediate localized inflammatory responses. Author summary: The parasite Leishmania donovani causes the fatal systemic disease visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in endemic nations including India. The parasite is an obligate intracellular protozoan, residing mostly in monocytic cells in the bone marrow, blood and affected organs of infected human or other vertebrate hosts. Cells of the monocytic lineage can either provide a safe intracellular location in which the parasite survives, or they can be activated to kill intracellular parasites. We studied the contribution of monocyte subsets in the blood and bone marrow of patients from India with active visceral leishmaniasis, or control subjects without leishmaniasis. Our studies suggested that circulating monocytes of patients with VL are defective in their hability to kill intracellular parasites and to migrate toward sites of inflammation. These defects are most prominent in expanded subsets of monocytes expressing both the CD16 and CD14 receptors on their surface membranes. The immune defects underlying VL may be greatly influenced by subsets of blood monocytes that expand during disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to utilize hybrid physics-based models that allow for a comprehensive evaluation of how solar–meteorological variables influence the fraction of absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (FAPAR). By integrating both physical and statistical approaches, these models provided a novel perspective on understanding the complex relationship between solar radiation and FAPAR dynamics. The integration of URE and CLC in studying ecosystem efficiency in the nations of China and India is crucial, owing to their interdependent nature. To achieve this, the coupled model intercomparison project phase 6 (CMIP6) was utilized, which involved interpolating data from the most recent five GCMs from the six-phase CMIP6. By integrating advanced modeling techniques with observational data, this innovative approach enabled a holistic assessment of the intricate connections between urban development, climate dynamics, and the productivity of surrounding ecosystems in these regions. The reported decline in FAPAR productivity in China and India highlights the growing concern over the impact of climate change on the health and resilience of vegetation. China experienced negative changes of −1.425, −0.414, and −0.018, while India reported negative changes of −2.463, 2.199, and 2.915 under different scenarios. Interestingly, despite these variations, both countries observed similar tidal variations in their seasonal bases, suggesting a consistent pattern in the fluctuations of vegetation productivity throughout the year. The authors of this study collected and analyzed extensive data on CLC and URE in order to investigate their impact on FAPAR fluctuations in China and India. The higher impact of URE compared to CLC in terms of effective contributions suggests that URE plays a crucial role in shaping the atmospheric physics of both China, accounting for 45.26%, and India, registering 33.95%. Conversely, the effects of CLC and PAR residual factor (PRF) were more pronounced in India compared to China, with impacts of 8.21% and 53.03% compared to 4.21% and 46.70%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a research-for-development (R4D) strategy developed to address how investments and interventions in agricultural intensification as a means to achieve community development can be designed to be more socially inclusive and equitable. We draw on results from a 5-year project – Promoting socially inclusive and sustainable agricultural intensification in West Bengal (India) and southern Bangladesh (SIAGI). We reflect on a major pivot in the project's strategy, from being primarily research-driven to placing community concerns and priorities at the centre with a shift towards Ethical Community Engagement (ECE). This became the foundational framework which guided the definition and undertaking of all subsequent activities – including a rethink of methods and concepts to develop tools and frameworks fit for purpose and local context, and inculcating a culture of reflexivity and mutual learning in the project. We show that creating the conditions for true participation, where project beneficiaries and non-government organizations are equal partners alongside researchers and government actors, and for co-learning using the ECE framework, sets the foundations for increased and potentially enduring social inclusion in agricultural intensification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a severe and often fatal form of leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania donovani in the Indian sub-continent. Post Kala-azar Dermal Leishmaniasis (PKDL) is a late cutaneous manifestation of VL, typically occurring after apparent cure of VL, but sometimes even without a prior history of VL in India. PKDL serves as a significant yet neglected reservoir of infection and plays a crucial role in the transmission of the disease, posing a serious threat to the VL elimination program in the Indian sub-continent. Therefore, the eradication of PKDL should be a priority within the current VL elimination program aimed at achieving a goal of less than 1 case per 10,000 in the population at the district or sub-district levels of VL endemic areas. To accomplish this, a comprehensive understanding of the pathogenesis of PKDL is essential, as well as developing strategies for disease management. This review provides an overview of the current status of diagnosis and treatment options for PKDL, highlighting our current knowledge of the immune responses underlying disease development and progression. Additionally, the review discusses the impact of PKDL on elimination programs and propose strategies to overcome this challenge and achieve the goal of elimination. By addressing the diagnostic and therapeutic gaps, optimizing surveillance and control measures, and implementing effective intervention strategies, it is possible to mitigate the burden of PKDL and facilitate the successful elimination of VL in the Indian sub-continent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Exclusive breastfeeding in the initial six months of infancy plays a significant role in the physical and cognitive development of the child. One in two children below six months of age in India is not receiving exclusive breastfeeding, with the rates varying considerably between and within states. In this study, we investigated the effect of intersecting inequalities in exclusive breastfeeding practice amongst children below six months in India. Methods: Data from the fourth National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4) was used for the study. The study used a weighed sample of 211,145 infants below six months. Exclusive breastfeeding practice was assessed based on the previous 24-hours feeding practice of the child. Intersecting social categories were created based on place of residence, religion, wealth index, and mothers' education. A binary logistic regression model was used to explore inequalities in the practice of exclusive breastfeeding based on the intersecting social categories. Results: Exclusive breastfeeding practices varied significantly between the intersecting categories of religion, place of residence, wealth index, and education of the mother. Exclusive breastfeeding practice prevalence was the highest amongst children born in the Urban-Secondary-Poor-Others group (57.9%) and lowest amongst the Rural-Primary-Rich-Others category (34.5). In comparison to children in the most disadvantaged category (Rural-Primary-Poor-Others), children born in the Rural-Secondary-Poor-Others category had the highest odds [OR (odds ratio) 1.213; 95% CI 1.024, 1.437] of being exclusively breastfed, whilst children within the Rural-Primary-Rich-Others category had the lowest odds (OR 0.494; 95% CI 0.345, 0.708). Wide disparities were observed in the odds of engaging in exclusive breastfeeding practice amongst the middle groups than between the most advantaged and the most disadvantaged groups. The inequality indices show varied distribution of exclusive breastfeeding prevalence across the intersecting groups with higher exclusive breastfeeding prevalence noted amongst disadvantaged groups. Conclusions: The study found that intersecting inequalities in exclusive breastfeeding exist in India. In order to improve exclusive breastfeeding practice, targeted interventions must acknowledge and adopt a comprehensive approach that addresses inherent inequalities resulting from the intersection of various axes of social stratification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high voltage, high frequency transformer unit has been designed and built for powering the Cockcroft–Walton voltage multiplier to be used as part of a particle accelerator power supply at the Institute For Plasma Research, India, for the nuclear fusion research facility. A novel combination of high voltage (25 kV), high frequency (20 kHz), and high power (70 kV A) specifications makes its design distinctive and more challenging. The complete unit is composed of two 0.350/25 kV amorphous core transformers connected in center-tap configuration and immersed in an oil-filled tank. To facilitate an iterative design procedure, a spreadsheet method was utilized. The design involved a methodical approach for the core and winding selection, followed by the magnetic analysis and high voltage insulation layout through the finite element method. All the magnetic, electrical, and thermal parameters have been evaluated in detail, assuring a continuous stable operation having an efficiency of greater than 95%. Finally, the transformers were made, and preliminary experiments, including turns ratio, short-circuit, and dielectric tests, were carried out to verify the accuracy of the proposed design. The unit was also field tested under actual load conditions, and the test results were presented and corroborated with the design calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to Infrastructure development city streets are being covered with concrete pavements in which it makes the pavement surface impermeable. During monsoon period, the importance of counter action against the stormwater runoff develops a stress among the Central and the State Governments of India. It also attracts the attention of the Road and Transport officials mainly because of the difficulties faced with poor drainage system during heavy intensity of rainfall. The productive application of pervious concrete includes its usage for light volume transportation and it also diminishes the additional design for stormwater drainage. This concrete also holds potential to accommodate shoulders in heavy traffic roadway transportation. The behaviour of pervious pavement under various loading scenario can be well understand using Finite Element Method Analysis (FEMA). For primary assessment of pervious concrete (PC) as pavements, computer modelling software is preferable and economical comparing to ground evaluation after installation. In this paper, a EverFE (Finite Element Analysis) tool has been used to develop and determine the loading characteristics of pervious pavement based on the experimental values obtained through preliminary studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The statement discusses Jonathan Parry's recent monograph, Classes of Labour, and in particular his "labour aristocracy" thesis of the most privileged sections of India's workforces that had been widely accepted in the social sciences in the 1970s but that had later been discarded. It is argued that the ethnography of an industrial town in Central India he presents in the monograph convincingly demonstrates that the relative privileges of public-sector employment have fostered the bifurcation of the town's industrial workers into two major distinct classes with different life chances, different attitudes to caste, and with often antagonistic political interests. Classes of Labour also demonstrates that Giddens' concept of "class structuration" offers a suitable theoretical grounding for identifying the major fault lines and driving forces of class formation in his case study but also for a controlled comparison between case studies across India and beyond. This statement moreover argues that this approach conceives of class as an historical, dynamic object, and it asks whether the current crises of class reproduction in the times of jobless growth might provoke a major change in the structuration of classes in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the interdependence of climate change (CLC) and urban expansion (URE) on ecosystem productivity in China and India, hybrid physics-based models were fitted in this study to evaluate the effects of these variables on photosynthetically active radiation (PAR). This was accomplished by interpolating the most recent five general circulation models (GCMs) from coupled model intercomparison project phase 6 (CMIP6) into the CMIP6 multi-ensemble model. The potential of PAR is projected to increase by 0.001 to 2.077% in China and by 0.002 to 6.737% in India, on a seasonal and annual basis, if the warming is kept at 1.5 °C from now until the end of this century. The effects of CLC and URE on the changes in PAR in China and India were investigated, and URE had a greater impact than CLC when compared to effective contributions, with 49.47% for China and 28.41% for India in the entire case scenario. In contrast, CLC and PAR residual factor (PRF) have a greater impact in India than in China, with effects of 13.79% and 57.79% compared to 0.89% and 49.64%, respectively. Preferences for exotic, high-productivity plant species, irrigation, CO2 fertilization, and nitrogen deposition are suggested as measures for replenishing PAR in both countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The petrogenesis of Palaeoarchaean mafic–ultramafic rock suites from the western Iron Ore Group, Singhbhum Craton, eastern India, has been evaluated based on the chemistry of constituent mineral phases. The rock suites include basaltic rocks and mafic (gabbro) to ultramafic (serpentinized peridotite) intrusive rocks, which occur in host rocks covering phyllite, ferruginous shale, banded haematite quartzite and jasper. The constituent clinopyroxene shows dominant uralitization, whereas plagioclase grains are generally saussuritized, being marked by relatively tiny granular aggregates of albite, chlorite, epidote and K-feldspar. The ultramafic intrusive rocks are overwhelmingly serpentinized. Clinopyroxene compositions are augitic, whereas relict plagioclase is typically bytownite. Amphiboles of the investigated rock suites are divisible into the 'uralite' type (occurring peripherally to clinopyroxene) and the 'completely changed-over amphibole' type (with no traces of initial clinopyroxene). Both the amphibole types belong to the 'calcic group', showing a compositional spectrum from actinolite–magnesiohornblende–ferrohornblende–ferroactinolite. Opaque minerals include magnetite (both Cr-magnetite and Al-magnetite), chromite (Al-chromite) and ilmenite, whereas serpentine (belonging to the ultramafic intrusive rocks) corresponds to lizardite. Looking at the mineral compositions of the pyroxene, glass and amphibole, the studied rock suites show a wide equilibration temperature–pressure domain range (∼750 °C to ∼1400 °C at ∼0.26 kbar to ∼21 kbar), which corresponds to an ascending magma that underwent a 'hydration event' at a shallow level. The assessment of the clinopyroxene and spinel chemistry characteristically suggests an arc setting for the parent magma that has undergone both equilibrium and fractional crystallization in the course of magmatic evolution. During differentiation, the magmatic density remains almost constant, with variable oxygen fugacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global rise of populism and concomitant polarizations across disenfranchised and marginalized groups has been magnified by so-called echo chambers, and a major public health crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic has only served to fuel these intergroup tensions. Media institutions disseminating information on ways to prevent the propagation of the virus have reactivated a specific discursive phenomenon previously observed in many epidemics: the construction of a defiled 'Other'. With anthropological lenses, discourse on defilement is an interesting path to understand the continuous emergence of pseudo-scientific forms of racism. In this paper, the authors focus on 'borderline racism', that is the use of an institutionally 'impartial' discourse to reaffirm the inferiority of another race. The authors employed inductive thematic analysis of 1200 social media comments reacting to articles and videos published by six media in three different countries (France, United States and India). Results delineate four major themes structuring defilement discourses: food (and the relationship to animals), religion, nationalism and gender. Media articles and videos portrayed Western and Eastern countries through contrasting images and elicited a range of reaction in readers and viewers. The discussion reflects on how borderline racism can be an appropriate concept to understand the appearance of hygienic othering of specific subgroups on social media. Theoretical implications and recommendations on a more culturally sensitive approach of media coverage of epidemics and pandemics are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The olive ridley sea turtle is predominantly an epipelagic species with no apparent migration corridors. Research in feeding areas in other sea turtle species has identified aggregations of individuals from diverse backgrounds; however, no specific feeding areas have been identified for the olive ridley. We used mtDNA control region sequencing to identify the haplotype composition of 85 olive ridley turtles (adult and immature turtles from both sexes) captured and released in Central Mexican Pacific waters. Amplified fragments of the control region (751 bp) revealed the presence of 17 haplotypes (h = 0.5877 ± 0.0622 and π = 0.001698 ± 0.001185), and 16 of them were phylogenetically grouped within the lineage of the Eastern Pacific, but the haplotype Lo37 showed close evolutionary relationships with the lineage of the East Coast of India. Lagrangian drifter data showed that West–East transport from the Indo-Pacific to the tropical Eastern Pacific might be possible through passive drift. These results highlight the importance of more genetic studies offshore and the role of the ocean currents in the migratory behavior of olive ridleys, as well as the need to establish multinational strategies for the conservation and management of the species in international waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large proportion of the global tuberculosis (TB) burden is asymptomatic and not detectable by symptom-based screening, driving the TB epidemic through continued M. tuberculosis transmission. Currently, no validated tools exist to diagnose incipient and subclinical TB. Nested within a large prospective study in household contacts of pulmonary TB cases in Southern India, we assessed 35 incipient TB and 12 subclinical TB cases, along with corresponding household active TB cases (n=11), and household controls (n=39) using high throughput methods for transcriptional and protein profiling.We split the data into training and test sets and applied a support vector machine classifier followed by a Lasso regression model to identify signatures. The Lasso regression model identified an 11-gene signature (ABLIM2, C20orf197, CTC-543D15.3, CTD-2503O16.3, HLADRB3, METRNL, RAB11B-AS1, RP4-614C10.2, RNA5SP345, RSU1P1, and UACA) that distinguished subclinical TB from incipient TB with a very good discriminatory power by AUCs in both training and test sets. Further, we identified an 8-protein signature comprising b-FGF, IFNg, IL1RA, IL7, IL12p70, IL13, PDGF-BB, and VEGF that differentiated subclinical TB from incipient TB with good and moderate discriminatory power by AUCs in the training and test sets, respectively. The identified 11-gene signature discriminated well between the distinct stages of the TB disease spectrum, with very good discriminatory power, suggesting it could be useful for predicting TB progression in household contacts. However, the high discriminatory power could partly be due to over-fitting, and validation in other studies is warranted to confirm the potential of the immune biosignatures for identifying subclinical TB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Spinal tuberculosis is a manifestation of extrapulmonary tuberculosis. The incidence of tuberculosis is low in high-income countries; however, globally, it still remains one of the most frequent fatal infectious diseases. Because of its rarity in developed countries, spinal tuberculosis can be mistaken for malignant tumors of the spine, especially in case of an atypical radiologic manifestation and without pulmonary affection. Methods We present the case of a 39-year-old man from South India with quickly progressing gait disturbance and hypesthesia below the Th10 level. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an osteolytic lesion of the vertebral arch Th2 with central necrosis and compression of the spinal cord altogether highly suspicious for spinal metastasis. Results After surgical removal of the mass by laminectomy, the patient regained normal neurologic function. Histology revealed a severe granulomatous inflammation and DNAhybridization of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products detected Mycobacterium tuberculosis -specific DNA in the sample. Biopsy of an enlarged hilar lymphnode allowed us to obtain material to successfully perform a drug resistance test to start specific antimicrobial therapy. Conclusion Spinal tuberculosis, even with atypical radiologic appearance, has to be considered a differential diagnosis in patients with provenance from endemic countries. A multidisciplinary diagnostic approach helps perform antimicrobial susceptibility testing to avoid delaying the start of antibiotic therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aquaculture expansion has made significant contributions to global food security, socio-economic development and, if implemented sustainably, can help preserve stable coastal environments. This study explicitly details the rapid expansion of largescale aquaculture growth across the Kolleru and Upputeru regions of South India. We developed a novel classification method for automated extraction of aquaculture ponds in the Kolleru zone using the Canny Edge-Otsu algorithm to segment and extract the ponds applied to SAR-VV images in Google Earth Engine. This approach enables the area estimation of dense aquaculture ponds are essential for monitoring and management purposes. The results indicated that this method could effectively map the aquaculture ponds and the overall accuracy achieved in 2020 for the Kolleru and Upputeru areas by 90.6% and 95.7%, respectively. The aquaculture maps of this study can help government organizations, resource managers, stakeholders, and decision-makers understand the dynamics and plan sustainable measures in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India is the second largest country in the world in terms of population and thus a considerable market for potential future robot applications as well as a location for manufacturing and production. While work has started to explore attitudes towards robots, very little is known about the perceptions of robots in India, particularly of political leaders who have the ability to effect rapid change. The present study administered the 30-item Frankenstein Syndrome Questionnaire to 31 Lok Sabha (Lower House) and Rajya Sabah (Upper House) members of the Indian Parliament (MPs) as well as doctors (n = 94), medical students (n = 493), and engineering students (n = 1104) for comparative purposes. Because no information had been available about the psychometric properties of the scale for use in India, a prior Rasch analysis explored the suitability of the commonly used five-factor model. The five subscales did not possess sufficient reliability, and a more psychometrically robust 26-item two-factor model (positive and negative attitudes) was utilized instead. The results revealed a higher degree of positive attitudes in MPs and doctors as compared to the two student groups. Negative attitudes, on the other hand, were strongest in doctors, followed by students. MPs had significantly less negative views compared to all other comparison groups. This study provides valuable insights into attitudes towards robots in India. In general, MPs appear to have more favourable views than comparison groups in India. A slightly shorter and more parsimonious version of the Frankenstein Syndrome Questionnaire has now also been proposed, with improved psychometric properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study deals with identifying the accident blackspots and the influencing factors causing accidents using factored analysis in a medium-sized city (Tirunelveli) in India. From the literature review, the geospatial technique to identify the blackspots and the factors causing accidents was used for analysis. The most influencing factors driving the accidents were identified and ranked based on the repetitive occurrence of accidents in the blackspot area. The spearman ranking system showed the correlation among the factors causing accidents. The factor analysis technique was utilized to identify the key factors driving the repetitive accidents and group them. This study will help transportation planners understand the factors causing accidents and take appropriate measures to reduce the casualties in the road construction planning stage and existing conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent events like heatwaves and abnormal rainfall are a glimpse of the devastating effects of human induced climate change. No country is immune to its effects, but a developing country like India is particularly vulnerable. This research, for the individual states of India, explores the technical feasibility and economic viability of a renewable transition pathway for the power sector. Based on the assumptions of this study, we show that a renewables-based power system by 2050 is lower in cost than the current coal dominated system, has zero greenhouse gas emissions and provides reliable electricity to around 1.7 billion people. Electricity generation will be based on solar PV, wind energy, and hydropower, while batteries and multi-fuel reciprocating internal combustion engines based on synthetic fuels provide the required flexibility to the power system. This transition would address multiple imperatives: affordability, accessibility, and sustainability without compromising economic growth. A new study assesses the feasibility of a fully renewable based power system by 2050 across India, finding this option to be cost competitive with the status quo and with zero GHG emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Apart from teaching, school teachers are involved in much of the school related work which may eventually affect their psychological wellbeing. It is important to know the psychological impacts of such work related stress among school teachers. Objectives: To find out the prevalence of variables of the occupation stress among high school teachers using scale; To find out association between the selected personal variables with different component of occupational stress as defined in The School Teachers Job Stressor Scale-STJSS; Methods: STJSS was used as a tool for data collection. The sample size was calculated and the data were analyses for components of occupational stress by selecting 36 school teachers from each zone. Statistical analysis was done using proportions, Kurtosis-Skewness and Chi-square test. Results: Among a total of 218 school teachers, Male teachers had significantly higher proportions of anxiety (72.72%) and depression (76.66%) than female counterparts. On the other hand, female teachers (38.88%) were more likely to feel "additional work-load" than the males (21.09%). Depression was more common in overweight (18.51%) and obese (23.07%) participants. Conclusion: Demographic variables like age and gender had significant associations with occupational stressors among the school teachers. The need of psychological improvements among school teachers should be the area of focus including school health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) strains are a serious health problem in India, also contributing to one-fourth of the global MDR tuberculosis (TB) burden. About 36% of the MDR MTBC strains are reported fluoroquinolone (FQ) resistant leading to high pre-extensively drug-resistant (pre-XDR) and XDR-TB (further resistance against bedaquiline and/or linezolid) rates. Still, factors driving the MDR/pre-XDR epidemic in India are not well defined. Methods: In a retrospective study, we analyzed 1852 consecutive MTBC strains obtained from patients from a tertiary care hospital laboratory in Mumbai by whole genome sequencing (WGS). Univariate and multivariate statistics was used to investigate factors associated with pre-XDR. Core genome multi locus sequence typing, time scaled haplotypic density (THD) method and homoplasy analysis were used to analyze epidemiological success, and positive selection in different strain groups, respectively. Results: In total, 1016 MTBC strains were MDR, out of which 703 (69.2%) were pre-XDR and 45 (4.4%) were XDR. Cluster rates were high among MDR (57.8%) and pre-XDR/XDR (79%) strains with three dominant L2 (Beijing) strain clusters (Cl 1–3) representing half of the pre-XDR and 40% of the XDR-TB cases. L2 strains were associated with pre-XDR/XDR-TB (P < 0.001) and, particularly Cl 1–3 strains, had high first-line and FQ resistance rates (81.6–90.6%). Epidemic success analysis using THD showed that L2 strains outperformed L1, L3, and L4 strains in short- and long-term time scales. More importantly, L2 MDR and MDR + strains had higher THD success indices than their not-MDR counterparts. Overall, compensatory mutation rates were highest in L2 strains and positive selection was detected in genes of L2 strains associated with drug tolerance (prpB and ppsA) and virulence (Rv2828c). Compensatory mutations in L2 strains were associated with a threefold increase of THD indices, suggesting improved transmissibility. Conclusions: Our data indicate a drastic increase of FQ resistance, as well as emerging bedaquiline resistance which endangers the success of newly endorsed MDR-TB treatment regimens. Rapid changes in treatment and control strategies are required to contain transmission of highly successful pre-XDR L2 strains in the Mumbai Metropolitan region but presumably also India-wide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While growth in India stayed relatively stable over the last decade, Brazil fell into deep recession and a fundamental political and economic crisis. Why did these two countries, despite their similarities, diverge so massively within only 10 years? Through a paired comparison, this article probes two alternative approaches to capitalist diversity to explain the divergence among two rising economic powers and 'state capitalisms'. It finds that through the lens of a firm-centred supply-side approach, one largely sees institutional stability in both economies, while a focus on the demand side and respective growth models makes visible fundamental destabilization in Brazil. The fragility of domestic demand, the vulnerability of global economic integration and the erosion of key social coalitions, we contend, are key to unpack the divergence between Brazil and India. This study thereby not only sheds a new light on emerging market capitalism but also discusses further possibilities for the analysis of state capitalism within comparative political economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One atmosphere experimental study on fresh basaltic rocks of Paleoarchean western Iron Ore Group (IOG) basin of Singhbhum Craton, Eastern India gives insight of the crystallization behavior of the parent magma, liquid lines of descent and appearance of the different constituent phases. The natural starting material is sufficiently ferroan (FeOt: 14.28 wt%) and corresponds to 'ferro-basalt'. Regarding the experimental run products, clinopyroxene shows Al2O3 rich character (ranging from 2.23–6.94 wt%; formed due to fluctuating silica activities in the magma) while plagioclase reveals typical Fe-Mg enrichment (that corresponds to higher KdFe-Mg between plagioclase and the parent liquid caused due to immiscible silicate melt inclusion in plagioclase where Mg enters more readily in plagioclase than Fe). The run-product glass corresponds to both high and low iron contents suggesting liquid immiscibility in the parent magma at particular temperature-domains. This study suggests that the crystallization of the western Iron Ore Group basalts represents a broad 'Skaergaard analogue' involving depression/shift of eutectic point in the diopside-anorthite system during crystallization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant, corresponding to the Pangolin lineage B.1.617.2, was first detected in India in July 2020 and rapidly became dominant worldwide. The ARTIC v3 protocol for SARS-CoV-2 whole-genome sequencing, which relies on a large number of PCR primers, was among the first available early in the pandemic, but may be prone to coverage dropouts that result in incomplete genome sequences. A new set of primers (v4) was designed to circumvent this issue in June 2021. In this study, we investigated whether the sequencing community adopted the new sets of primers, especially in the context of the spread of the Delta lineage, in July 2021. Because information about protocols from individual laboratories is generally difficult to obtain, the aims of the study were to identify whether large under-sequenced regions were present in deposited Delta variant genome sequences (from April to August 2021), to investigate the extent of the coverage dropout among all the currently available Delta sequences in six countries, and to propose simple PCR primer modifications to sequence the missing region, especially for the first circulating Delta variants observed in 2021 in Switzerland. Candidate primers were tested on few clinical samples, highlighting the need to further pursue primer optimization and validation on a larger and diverse set of samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study advances research on organizational efforts to tackle multidimensional, complex, and interlinked societal challenges. We examine how social inequality manifests in small-scale societies, and illustrate how it inheres in entrenched patterns of behavior and interaction. Asking how development programs can be organizing tools to transform these patterns of inequality, we use a program sponsored by an Indian non-governmental organization as our empirical window and leverage data that we collected over a decade. We identify "scaffolding" as a process that enables and organizes the transformation of behavior and interaction patterns. Three interrelated mechanisms make the transformation processes adaptive and emerging alternative social orders robust: (1) mobilizing institutional, social organizational, and economic resources; (2) stabilizing new patterns of interaction that reflect an alternative social order; and (3) concealing goals that are neither anticipated nor desired by some groups. Through this analysis, we move beyond conventional thinking on unintended consequences proposed in classic studies on organizations, complement contemporary research about how organizations effect positive social change by pursuing multiple goals, and develop portable insights for organizational efforts in tackling inequality. This study provides a first link between the study of organizational efforts to alleviate social problems and the transformation of social systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite successful combination antiretroviral therapy (cART), persistent low-grade immune activation together with inflammation and toxic antiretroviral drugs can lead to long-lasting metabolic flexibility and adaptation in people living with HIV (PLWH). Our study investigated alterations in the plasma metabolic profiles by comparing PLWH on long-term cART(>5 years) and matched HIV-negative controls (HC) in two cohorts from low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), Cameroon, and India, respectively, to understand the system-level dysregulation in HIV-infection. Using untargeted and targeted LC-MS/MS-based metabolic profiling and applying advanced system biology methods, an altered amino acid metabolism, more specifically to glutaminolysis in PLWH than HC were reported. A significantly lower level of neurosteroids was observed in both cohorts and could potentiate neurological impairments in PLWH. Further, modulation of cellular glutaminolysis promoted increased cell death and latency reversal in pre-monocytic HIV-1 latent cell model U1, which may be essential for the clearance of the inducible reservoir in HIV-integrated cells. Mikaeloff et al. use untargeted and targeted LC-MS/MS-based plasma metabolic profiling to discover dysregulated metabolism including that of glutaminolysis in individuals living with HIV. Furthermore, decreased levels of neurosteroids were detected suggesting a potential connection between HIV and neurological impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buses in Delhi have been fueled by compressed natural gas (CNG) since 2000, at significant expense, to improve air quality. We evaluate the emissions impacts and cost-effectiveness of CNG buses relative to diesel, in the early 2000s, and more recently – given stricter vehicle emission standards – in Delhi, and the Indian context. We also analyze the hypothetical use of cleaner diesel buses, instead of CNG, in the early 2000s. We consider health critical and greenhouse gas emissions, and capital, operating and maintenance costs, over the service life of buses. A scenario analysis is conducted to assess bus fleet emissions due to the higher costs of CNG buses resulting in some trips being shifted to diesel buses, or other modes. CNG buses in the early 2000s significantly reduced particulate and greenhouse gas emissions, relative to the diesel buses they replaced, and also cleaner diesel buses complying with more stringent BS-III/IV standards. However, cleaner diesel buses would likely have produced emission reductions with similar or better cost-effectiveness ratios relative to CNG. The emission reductions due to low-floor BS-III/IV compliant CNG buses relative to their diesel counterparts, during 2010–2015, were lower, with worse or similar cost-effectiveness ratios, compared with CNG buses relative to diesel in the early 2000s. The scenario analysis revealed that, under a budget constraint, it is preferable to remove diesel buses, and allow other motor vehicles to meet any shortfall in CNG bus supply, strictly from a particulate and nitrogen oxide emissions perspective. So, allowing only CNG buses to operate in Delhi was an effective policy choice in the early 2000s for mitigating local air pollution. We finally explore the implications of our results for mitigating emissions from bus fleets in Delhi and other Indian cities going forward. • We analyze CNG bus cost-effectiveness (CE) in early 2000s & recently in Delhi & India. • We also analyze hypothetical use of cleaner diesel instead of CNG in early 2000s. • CNG in early 2000s greatly reduced emissions relative to even cleaner diesel. • Cleaner diesel buses would likely have had similar or better CE ratios than CNG. • CE ratios for CNG in 2010–15 were worse than or similar to those in early 2000s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As many other countries, India leverages on a pre‐existing workfare programme as a COVID‐19 response. We combine monthly administrative data with migration and poverty statistics and provide four insights on the recent expansion of the programme. First, poorer districts include more households, that is, increasing extensive margin. Second, in districts with a high proportion of return migrants, there is no increase, and third, unmet demand for work is higher than the national average of 22.7%. Fourth, despite the expansion, the programme provided just 13.5 days per rural household. The programme requires attention to fulfil its promise as a credible safety net. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Most COVID‐19‐associated mucormycosis (CAM) cases are reported from India and neighbouring countries. Anecdotally cases from Europe have been presented. Objective: To estimate the disease burden and describe the clinical presentation of CAM in Germany. Methods: We identified cases through German mycology networks and scientific societies, and collected anonymised clinical information via FungiScope®. Results: We identified 13 CAM cases from six tertiary referral hospitals diagnosed between March 2020 and June 2021. Twelve patients had severe or critical COVID‐19, eleven were mechanically ventilated for a median of 8 days (range 1‐27 days) before diagnosis of CAM. Eleven patients received systemic corticosteroids. Additional underlying medical conditions were reported for all but one patient, five were immunocompromised because of malignancy or organ transplantation, three were diabetic. Eleven patients developed pneumonia. Mortality was 53.8% with a median time from diagnosis of mucormycosis to death of 9 days (range 0–214 days) despite treatment with liposomal amphotericin B and/or isavuconazole in 10 of 13 cases. CAM prevalence amongst hospitalised COVID‐19 patients overall (0.67% and 0.58% in two centres) and those admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) (1.47%, 1.78% and 0.15% in three centres) was significantly higher compared to non‐COVID‐19 patients (P <.001 for respective comparisons). Conclusion: COVID‐19‐associated mucormycosis is rare in Germany, mostly reported in patients with comorbidities and impaired immune system and severe COVID‐19 treated in the ICU with high mortality compared to mainly rhino‐orbito‐cerebral CAM in patients with mild COVID‐19 in India. Risk for CAM is higher in hospitalised COVID‐19 patients than in other patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On May 21, 2020, a Tribunal established under Annex VII of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) rendered an Award regarding the 2012 Enrica Lexie incident, which involved the death of two Indian fishermen at the hands of Italian Marines. The Award is lengthy and wide-ranging, finding that: (1) Italy and India had concurrent jurisdiction over the incident; (2) the Tribunal had incidental jurisdiction to determine the immunity of the Italian Marines; (3) the Marines enjoyed immunity as state officials; but nevertheless that (4) India was entitled to compensation for the loss of life, physical harm, damage to property, and moral harm. The Award has been received more positively by Italy than India, but neither party has indicated that they intend to do anything other than comply with it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Quality of life (QOL) is a subjective concept because the interpretation of each individual depends on his/her personal point of view. It is also multidimensional, given the influence of factors related to education, economy and socio-cultural aspects. Although the quality of life (QOL) of nursing students is a relatively well-researched topic in the West, there is a lack of it in developing countries like India. The aim of this study was to examine the QOL of Indian undergraduate nursing students and its associations with socio demographic and other parameters. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in nursing college in Gujarat, India. In this institution undergraduate nursing students were selected. Usually, students start nursing program at 18 years of age. During the course of their study they learn different medical and paramedical related nursing subjects. Also, from the first year, they have their first direct clinical contact with patients in hospitals (scheduled clinical rotations). All the eligible subjects were approached after class hours to participate in the survey. Participation was completely voluntary. Informed consent was obtained from all individual participants included in the study. The questionnaires were anonymous, personally identifiable information such as name and identification number was not collected. Students were requested to sit at a fair distance from each other so as to assuage their privacy concerns. Students were assured of confidentiality and informed that the data collected shall be published and later would be provided to nursing education policymakers. The study was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee and was conducted according to the ethical principles laid down by the declaration of ICMR. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 225 nursing students in Nadiad Gujarat, India. Students self-reported their QOL using the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF).Data were collected on the individuals’ characteristics, including the year of study, substance use, physical exercise, academic performance, and other parameters. Results & Conclusion: The present study evaluates the quality of life of B.Sc nursing students of Dinsha Patel College of Nursing. On the basis of the findings the researchers concluded that the 146 students are perceived that they are live with average Quality of Life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the widespread use of BCG, tuberculosis (TB) remains a global threat. Existing vaccine candidates in clinical trials are designed to replace or boost BCG which does not provide satisfying long-term protection. AERAS-402 is a replication-deficient Ad35 vaccine encoding a fusion protein of the M. tuberculosis (Mtb) antigens 85A, 85B, and TB10.4. The present phase I trial assessed the safety and immunogenicity of AERAS-402 in participants living in India – a highly TB-endemic area. Healthy male participants aged 18–45 years with a negative QuantiFERON-TB Gold in-tube test (QFT) were recruited. Enrolled participants (n=12) were randomized 2:1 to receive two intramuscular injections of either AERAS-402 (3 x 1010 viral particles [vp]); (n=8) or placebo (n=4) on study days 0 and 28. Safety and immunogenicity parameters were evaluated for up to 182 days post the second injection. Immunogenicity was assessed by a flow cytometry-based intracellular cytokine staining (ICS) assay and transcriptional profiling. The latter was examined using dual-color-Reverse-Transcriptase-Multiplex-Ligation-dependent-Probe-Amplification (dc-RT MLPA) assay. AERAS-402 was well tolerated, and no vaccine-related serious adverse events were recorded. The vaccine-induced CD8+ T-cell responses were dominated by cells co-expressing IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-2 ("polyfunctional" cells) and were more robust than CD4+ T-cell responses. Five genes (CXCL10, GNLY, IFI35, IL1B and PTPRCv2) were differentially expressed between the AERAS-402-group and the placebo group, suggesting vaccine-induced responses. Further, compared to pre-vaccination, three genes (CLEC7A, PTPRCv1 and TAGAP) were consistently up-regulated following two doses of vaccination in the AERAS-402-group. No safety concerns were observed for AERAS-402 in healthy Indian adult males. The vaccine-induced predominantly polyfunctional CD8+ T cells in response to Ag85B, humoral immunity, and altered gene expression profiles in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) indicative of activation of various immunologically relevant biological pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]