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Purpose: The study aims to evaluate the components of entrepreneurship education and training (EET) in India. The paper proposes a framework for an effective EET regime for amalgamating entrepreneurship education as fundamental to mainstream higher education in India. Design/methodology/approach: The current study utilises a qualitative research technique, that is, the narrative inquiry methodology based on in-depth interviews. The study respondents included sixteen educators who are actively engaged in EET and related activities for a minimum of ten years. Findings: The study identified five broad "meaning units" or "themes," that is, "incremental pedagogical efficiency and flexible evaluation systems," "entrepreneurial experience of the faculty," "extended support," "holistic mentoring" and "experiential learning" as components of an effective EET regime. Originality/value: The study will help the policymakers and higher education institutions (HEIs) revisit their policy frameworks and practices to promote entrepreneurial capacity and entrepreneurial intentions among students. The study will also help to gain deeper insights into EET components and will propose a framework for an effective EET regime based on its findings.

This article examines singular historical narratives of the 1947 British India Partition in four history textbooks from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Britain, respectively. Drawing on analysis and work in the field, this study proposes a seven-module "integrated snail model" with a human rights orientation that can be applied to teaching historical events of conflict and violence in different contexts. It offers opportunities for learners to enhance their historical understanding and consciousness, experience empathy for others, and take actions that uphold human rights.

This article is an epistemological reflection on memory practices in the construction, deconstruction, and reconstruction of collective memories of a historical event involving collective violence and conflict in formal and informal spaces of education. It focuses on the 1947 British India Partition of Punjab. The article engages with multiple memory practices of Partition carried out through personal narrative, interactions between Indian and Pakistani secondary school pupils, history textbook contents, and their enactment in the classroom by teachers. It sheds light on the complex dynamic between collective memory and history education about events of violent conflict, and explores opportunities for and challenges to intercepting hegemonic remembering of a violent past.

The history of education in India has been looked into with a view which has been narrow in its expanse, often missing out on many social categories which had a relatively limited, yet important, presence in colonial India. Sufficient attention has been paid to the official policies of the British Indian government (starting from Macaulay's Minute). However, a critical analysis of it is assumed to be provided by the nationalist discourse, which is popularly perceived as almost an antithesis of colonial education. In the entire process, the discussion on education broadly gets limited to two sections--the ruler and the ruled, thereby eschewing the diversity within the realm of those seeking and providing education. In this paper, an attempt will be made to understand the emerging importance of "Europeans and Eurasians" as a social category with a peculiar position in colonial India. Though technically part of the ruling "race", their economic standing was not always congruent with their assumed racial superiority. Termed as "poor whites" their presence in India posed challenges to the British government especially after the 1857 mutiny. Employed in the "communication network" of the British Raj, their presence in postal, railways and telegraph departments was imperative for its successful working. The first part of the paper seeks to explore the making of these European and Eurasian communities in India. An official stand regarding schooling of European and Eurasian children was formulated for the first time through Canning's Minute of 29 October 1860. Analysis of this Minute is vital to understand the very "nature of education" extended along with religious overtones providing these schools with a distinct identity and status. Using archival sources, this paper seeks to explore the "making of distinct schools" for them at hill stations and in the plains. Many of these hill schools still exist and have become a symbol of "modernity". Quite ironically their association with the colonial past provides them with a certain elite reputation in independent India (where nationalism is closely tied to education). Analysis of this opens up scope to investigate the ways in which "modernity" is not only understood but professed and adapted through such an educational setup.

The author pleads the cause of promoting literacy among women, and suggests fresh approaches and new strategies for strengthening the economic and productive role of women and effectively linking it with the educational effort. There is need for action in the economic and social emancipation of women in India. (CT)

This article is a tentative effort to highlight the symbiotic but systematically underrated position of animals in labour history. It argues for an expansion of human-centric definitions of labour to include non-human animals in this domain. The discussion focuses in later parts on colonial rule in India to examine debates about three colonial legislative enactments dealing with animals as labouring bodies in various capacities. Predictably, this colonial discourse and intervention remains human-centric, too. Yet, closer reading of such historical evidence also indicates exciting scope for developing various aspects of the 'animal question' in relation to labour history and South Asian studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) may facilitate the collection and dissemination of citizen-generated data to enhance governmental accountability for the fulfillment of the right to health. The aim of this multiple case study research was to distill considerations related to the implementation of ICT and health accountability projects, describe the added operational value of ICT tools (as compared to similar projects that do not use ICT), and make preliminary statements regarding government responsiveness to accountability demands through ICT projects. In all three projects, the need for relationship building, continuous community engagement and technical support, and training for volunteers or service users was identified. Government responsiveness to the data varied, suggesting that political will is lacking in certain contexts. Despite these challenges, ICT initiatives provided an easy, accessible, and low-risk platform for reporting violations and demanding accountability from service providers and decision-makers. ICT-enabled citizen generated data can add significant operational value and some political value to project activities and goals, and may affect systems change when it is part of a broad-based, multi-level civil societal and governmental effort to improve health care quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In India, cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in women. We piloted a cervical cancer prevention intervention in a rural town in southeastern Punjab, India to test the feasibility of a peer-driven intervention (PDI) model. Methods: Sixty-eight women (18-50 years) attended workshops with pre-post evaluation. Women learned skills of community health workers (CHWs), including strategies to engage women from the community for subsequent workshops. Results: Workshop 1 attendees (n=35) referred 33 women for Workshop 2, confirming the feasibility of PDI. Mean age was 29.48 (SD=8.2). Paired T-tests showed increased knowledge (19.41 vs 29.25, p<.001), and confidence (2.67 vs 3.70, p<.001) in imparting information to others. Conclusions: This PDI is a feasible, culturally specific approach in which community women took on the role of CHWs to reach others. They successfully acquired knowledge and confidence in discussing cervical cancer prevention at low cost and minimal resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Municipal solid waste management is one of the major challenges faced by most of the developing countries like India. The scarcity of land due to large population and increasing waste production due to urbanization impose a challenge to find innovative methods for waste disposal. Thermal treatment is seen as an emerging technology which can help in reducing the volume of the waste and also extract energy and value added products during processing of the waste. However, the raw material mostly has low calorific value which causes problem for its thermal treatment. Pyrolysis, combustion and gasification are the major thermal treatment processes. Pyrolysis, found more promising than other processes, is discussed in this paperin regards to its kinetics and reaction conditions and products formed to understand and further develop the technology. Any improvement in the treatment processes requires an understanding of the fundamentals of the reactions specific to the waste being treated. It is concluded that suitable combination of reaction conditions along with reactor design needs to be formulated once the process kinetics for the treatment of mixed municipal solid waste during pyrolysis is estimated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India is a developing country and health care sector is one of the fastest growing sectors in India as a result of which hospitals, clinics and nursing homes have sprung both in rural as well as in urban areas. Today biomedical waste management has become one of the major issues of concern taking into account the growth rate of population. The present study focuses on the biomedical waste management system in government and non-government hospitals in India with special reference to environmental education, in this paper an attempt is made to study the classification, legislation, management practices in India, it also includes detail of various methods adapted by different countries for disposal of biomedical waste generated in hospitals and other health care units. The data was collected from general literature, legislative aspects, hospital experience and online survey work for the review. The paper aims to create awareness among the individual and for better result we need to increase the level of training and education regarding the handling and disposal of biomedical waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A large number of patients with chronic diseases like, cancer are cared for in homes by the family members in India. The vital role that these family members play as "caregivers" is well recognized, however, the burden on them is poorly understood.Aims: To assess burden and to determine the predictors of burden on family caregivers of cancer patients.Setting and Design: A cross-sectional, hospital based study conducted in National Capital Territory of Delhi.Materials and Methods: 200 family caregivers of cancer patients were selected by systematic random sampling and interviewed using standard, validated Hindi version of Zarit Burden Interview.Statistical Analysis: Univariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression were carried out using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software (version 17.0).Results: The study population consisted of 90 (45%) males and 110 (55%) female caregivers aged 18-65 years. 113 (56.5%) caregivers reported no or minimal burden while 75 (37.5%) caregivers reported mild to moderate burden. Using logistic regression marital status, education and type of family of caregivers, occupation of cancer patients and type of treatment facility were found to be the predictors of burden on caregivers.Conclusion: In view of the substantial burden on family caregivers coupled with lack of adequate number of cancer hospitals, there is a public-health imperative to recognize this important group. All levels of health-staff in cancer hospitals in developing countries should be sensitized to the various burdens faced by family caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study seeks to unveil important information related to Indian diaspora tourists and examines promotional representations of India by the travel trade in the US. Key motivations of visits to India include the desire to strengthen family and friendly connections, to be in touch with themselves, and to feel a sense of belonging. For the most part, perceived images of India are congruent with the most frequently observed themes in the promotional representations. Representative dissonance to a moderate extent is also noted. The results of the study offer important implications for the travel trade and the homeland government on how to appeal to this niche market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Use of multivariable logistic regression (MLR) modeling has steeply increased in the medical literature over the past few years. Testing of model assumptions and adequate reporting of MLR allow the reader to interpret results more accurately. Aims: To review the fulfillment of assumptions and reporting quality of MLR in selected Indian medical journals using established criteria. Setting and Design: Analysis of published literature. Materials and Methods: Medknow.com publishes 68 Indian medical journals with open access. Eight of these journals had at least five articles using MLR between the years 1994 to 2008. Articles from each of these journals were evaluated according to the previously established 10-point quality criteria for reporting and to test the MLR model assumptions. Statistical Analysis: SPSS 17 software and non-parametric test (Kruskal-Wallis H, Mann Whitney U, Spearman Correlation). Results: One hundred and nine articles were finally found using MLR for analyzing the data in the selected eight journals. The number of such articles gradually increased after year 2003, but quality score remained almost similar over time. P value, odds ratio, and 95% confidence interval for coefficients in MLR was reported in 75.2% and sufficient cases (>10) per covariate of limiting sample size were reported in the 58.7% of the articles. No article reported the test for conformity of linear gradient for continuous covariates. Total score was not significantly different across the journals. However, involvement of statistician or epidemiologist as a co-author improved the average quality score significantly (P=0.014). Conclusions: Reporting of MLR in many Indian journals is incomplete. Only one article managed to score 8 out of 10 among 109 articles under review. All others scored less. Appropriate guidelines in instructions to authors, and pre-publication review of articles using MLR by a qualified statistician may improve quality of reporting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research note is based on a pilot study and offers a critical elucidation of slum tourism in India from an ethical standpoint. The results unpack a diverse mix of ethical guidelines embraced by the observed organizations. Heavy traces of voyeurism are found. A complex production process strives to provide both meaningful and profitable tourist gazes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the current stage of tourism in Ladakh (India) using both face-to-face interviews and a survey comprised of open-ended questions. It hypothesizes that the evolution of host community attitudes as tourism moves from one life cycle stage to another is the combined influences of triggers such as the social exchange, social disruption, Lamarckian, and Chaos theories. This modified tourism life cycle (TLC) framework is termed as the Triggered TLC framework. A strong influence of identified triggers is noted at various stages and a favorable disposition towards tourism development in the later stages of the life cycle is detected. These findings offer important implications for both the policy makers of tourism in Ladakh and the local residents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The paper presents a detailed understanding of nitrogenous fertilizer use in Indian agriculture and estimation of seasonal nitrogen loosses from rice crop in Indo-Gangetic plain region, the ‘food bowl’ of the Indian sub-continent. An integrated methodology was developed for quantification of different forms of nitrogen losses from rice crop using remote sensing derived inputs, field data of fertilizer application, collateral data of soil and rainfall and nitrogen loss coefficients derived from published nitrogen dynamics studies. The spatial patterns of nitrogen losses in autumn or ‘kharif’ and spring or ‘rabi’ season rice at 1×1km grid were generated using image processing and GIS. The nitrogen losses through leaching in form of urea-N, ammonium-N (NH4-N) and nitrate-N (NO3-N) are dominant over ammonia volatilization loss. The study results indicate that nitrogen loss through leaching in kharif and rabi rice is of the order of 34.9% and 39.8% of the applied nitrogenous fertilizer in the Indo-Gangetic plain region. This study provides a significant insight to the role of nitrogenous fertilizer as a major non-point source pollutant from agriculture. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this article the author discusses the polio eradication efforts of the U.S. in Delhi, India which further its humanitarian goals in the Indian region and Muslim communities re-engagement. It states that the polio eradication reflects American foreign policy which relies on unconventional diplomats who venture into unvisited areas to acquire a picture of a certain situation. It also notes the significance of the efforts in engaging the Islamic communities and changing the U.S. foreign policy.

The article explores a study on emergency contraception awareness in rural women in India. It aims to investigate the knowledge and practice of emergency contraception among women in the study area. Results revealed that women are aware of oral pill but not of the intrauterine device (IUD). Apart from this, they have also shown that younger girls between the age of 18 to 19 were twice as likely as women from 30 to 44 years old to know about emergency contraception. The authors highlight the significance of emergency contraception toward pregnancy prevention.

The present study was conducted amongst women attending an MCH Centre in a rural area of North West Delhi, situated approximately 25 kilometers from the city. With the rising level of education, socioeconomic developments increasing use of contraceptives and changing patterns of breastfeeding, there has been a change in the intermediate variables and fertility indicators. Fertility is directly influenced by a set of social and biological factors. These factors are often called intermediate fertility variables because they are influenced in turn by various social, economic, cultural and environmental variables. The age at marriage was less than eighteen years in 66.2 per cent of the women. A positive relationship between age at marriage and education was observed. Live birth intervals were computed from the dates of births of live issues for every woman. The mean interval between first and second birth was 32.2 months, while that between second and third was 34.8 months. The birth intervals were significantly related to the duration of breastfeeding of the previous child and postpartum amenorrhoea.

Studies on duration and patterns of breast feeding based on recall may lead to a bias about the exact feeding status. The present study was designed to overcome this bias using the 'current status analysis method'. Mothers of 650 infants from 0 to 12 months of age attending a Health Centre were interviewed about the current feeding patterns of the infants and other socioeconomic variables. Month-wise prevalence of feeding patterns was determined. It was observed that breast feeding was maintained at a high level (more than 90%) throughout infancy while exclusive breast feeding showed a rapid decline. At 1 month, 74% and at 4 months, 46% of infants were exclusively breast-fed. The median duration of exclusive breast feeding was 3.83 months. Mothers with lesser education and lower family income were more likely to exclusively breast feed (p < 0.05). The time interval between birth and first breast feed was 24-48 hours in most (48.9%) of the infants. Majority (76.9%) of the infants received pre-lacteal feeds. Hospital-born infants received their first feed earlier and were less likely to receive pre-lacteal feeds as compared to those born at home (p < 0.001). Thus, the practice of exclusive breast feeding has to be promoted amongst pregnant and lactating mothers by health personnel. Also knowledge regarding infant feeding has to be imparted in schools and colleges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to assess the functional aspects and the staffing at Pulse Polio immunisations posts. Interns and medical students conducted the survey in eighty seven pulse polio immunisation posts scattered all over National Capital Territory of Delhi on 18th January 1997. A pre-tested structured format containing information pertaining to dose utilisation and staffing was filled. Number of children given pulse polio was on an average 459.2 per immunisation post (474.7 rural, 516.35 slums and 435.0 urban). Average number of neonates (below one month) per immunisation post given polio drops was 5.1 (1.1%). The break-up for rural area, slums and urban area was 3.0 (0.63%), 6.7 (1.30%) and 4.9 (1.13%) respectively. By 12 pm, 67.8% and by 2 pm 88.7% of the doses had been administered. Staffing at most of the immunisation posts was adequate for all categories of staff except doctors (0.48 per booth). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Changthangi sheep thrive at high altitudes in the cold desert regions of Ladakh, India while Muzaffarnagri sheep are well-suited to the low altitude plains of northern India. This study investigates the molecular mechanisms of pulmonary adaptation to diverse environments by analyzing gene expression profiles of lung tissues through RNA sequencing., Methods and Results: Four biological replicates of lung tissue from each breed were utilized to generate the transcriptomic data. Differences in gene expression analysis revealed discrete expression profiles in lungs of each breed. In Changthangi sheep, genes related to immune responses, particularly cytokine signaling, were significantly enriched. Pathway analysis highlighted the activation of NF-kB signaling, a key mediator of inflammation and immune response. Additionally, the gene network analysis indicated a strong association between cytokine signaling, hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) and NF-kB activation, suggesting a coordinated response to hypoxic stress in lungs of Changthangi sheep. In Muzaffarnagri sheep, the gene expression profiles were enriched for pathways related to energy metabolism, homeostasis and lung physiology. Key pathways identified include collagen formation and carbohydrate metabolism, both of which are crucial for maintaining lung function and structural integrity. Gene network analysis further reinforced this by revealing a strong connection between genes associated with lung structure and function., Conclusions: Our findings shed light on the valuable insights into gene expression mechanisms that enable these sheep breeds to adapt to their respective environments and contribute to a better understanding of high altitude adaptation in livestock., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

This study explored the genetic diversity and evolutionary history of riverine and swamp buffaloes in India, utilizing complete mitochondrial genome sequences. Through comprehensive sampling across varied agro-climatic zones, including 91 riverine buffaloes from 12 breeds and 6 non-descript populations, along with 16 swamp buffaloes of the Luit breed, this study employed next-generation sequencing techniques to map the mitogenomic landscape of these subspecies. Sequence alignments were performed with the buffalo mitochondrial reference genome to identify mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variations and distinct maternal haplogroups among Indian buffaloes. The results uncovered the existence of 212 variable sites in riverine buffaloes, yielding 67 haplotypes with high haplotype diversity (0.991), and in swamp buffaloes, 194 variable sites resulting in 12 haplotypes, displaying haplotype diversity of 0.950. Phylogenetic analyses elucidated the genetic relationships between Indian buffaloes and the recognized global haplogroups, categorizing Indian swamp buffaloes predominantly into the SA haplogroup. Intriguingly, the haplogroup SB2b was observed for the first time in swamp buffaloes. Conversely, riverine buffaloes conformed to established sub-haplogroups RB1, RB2, and RB3, underscoring the notion of Northwestern India as a pivotal domestication site for riverine buffaloes. The study supports the hypothesis of independent domestication events for riverine and swamp buffaloes, highlighting the critical role of genetic analysis in unraveling the complex evolutionary pathways of domestic animals. This investigation contributes to the global understanding of buffalo mitogenome diversity, offering insights into this important livestock species' domestication and dispersal patterns., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Background: Women's health is usually looked upon in terms of their reproductive health. However, cardio-vascular diseases are one of the leading causes of death and disability among women, globally as well as in India. Risk factors of today can be disease of tomorrow. Gradience in level of epidemiological transition is observed across different states. The study aims to estimate the national and regional prevalence, and sociodemographic determinants of biological and behavioural risk factors for cardiovascular diseases., Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted among women in the age group of 15 to 49 years using nationally representative sample from fifth round National Family Health Survey in India. The data analysis in the current study included 7,24,115 women in the age group of 15 to 49 years. SPSS version 20 was used for the purpose of analysis. Weighted prevalence was computed for the studied behavioral and biological (dependent variable) risk factors using women specific weights as provided in the dataset. Binary logistic regression model was employed to calculate the adjusted odds ratio (OR) with the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) to study the sociodemographic determinants (independent variables) of these risk factors., Results: Highest prevalent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases was reported to be central obesity (78.2%), followed by overweight/obesity (23.9%), oral contraceptive use (13.4%), raised blood pressure (11.8%), raised blood sugar (8.6%), tobacco use (4.0%), and alcohol use (0.7%). Higher odds of all the studied risk factors were reported with increasing age. All of the studied risk factors, except for alcohol consumption [OR (95%CI): 0.9 (0.8-0.96)], had higher odds in rural areas compared to urban areas. Compared to other castes, the odds of tobacco [OR (95% CI): 2.01 (1.91-2.08)] and alcohol consumption [OR (95% CI): 5.76 (5.12-6.28)], and raised blood pressure [OR (95% CI): 1.07(1.04-1.11)] was significantly higher among the people belonging to schedule tribe., Conclusion and Recommendation: The present study highlights the state-wise disparities in the burden and predictors of risk factors for cardio-vascular diseases among women of reproductive age. The study provides insights to these disparities, and focuses on the need of tailoring the disease prevention and control measures suiting to the local needs., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

After the introduction of the rotavirus vaccine into the Universal Immunization Program in India in 2016, relatively few studies have assessed the prevalence and epidemiological patterns of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) among hospitalized children ≤5 years of age. We used a uniform protocol to recruit children with AGE as well as standardized testing and typing protocols. Stool specimens from children with AGE younger than 5 years of age admitted to six hospitals in three cities in India were collected from January 2017 through December 2019. Norovirus was detected by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) followed by typing positive specimens by conventional RT-PCR and Sanger sequencing. Norovirus was detected in 322 (14.8%) of 2182 specimens with the highest rate in 2018 (17.6%, 146/829), followed by 2019 (14.4%, 122/849) and 2017 (10.7%, 54/504). Rotavirus vaccine status was known for 91.6% of the children of which 70.4% were vaccinated and 29.6% not. Norovirus positivity in rotavirus-vaccinated children was 16.3% and 12% in unvaccinated children. GII.4 Sydney[P16] (39.3%), GII.4 Sydney[P31] (18.7%), GII.2[P16] (10%), GI.3[P13] (6.8%), GII.3[P16] (5.9%), and GII.13[P16] (5%) accounted for 85.8% (188/219) of the typed strains. Our data highlight the importance of norovirus in Indian children hospitalized with AGE., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

In this study, comparative analysis of skeletal muscle transcriptome was carried out for four biological replicates of Aseel, a fighter type breed and Punjab Brown, a meat type breed of India. The profusely expressed genes in both breeds were related to muscle contraction and motor activity. Differential expression analysis identified 961 up-regulated and 979 down-regulated genes in Aseel at a threshold of log 2 fold change ≥ ±2.0 ( p adj <0.05). Significantly enriched KEGG pathways in Aseel included metabolic pathways and oxidative phosphorylation, with higher expression of genes associated with fatty acid beta-oxidation, formation of ATP by chemiosmotic coupling, response to oxidative stress, and muscle contraction. The highly connected hub genes identified through gene network analysis in the Aseel gamecocks were HNF4A, APOA2, APOB, APOC3, AMBP, and ACOT13, which are primarily associated with energy generating metabolic pathways. The up-regulated genes in Punjab Brown chicken were found to be related to muscle growth and differentiation. There was enrichment of pathways such as focal adhesion, insulin signaling pathway and ECM receptor interaction in these birds. The results presented in this study help to improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms associated with fighting ability and muscle growth in Aseel and Punjab Brown chicken, respectively.

The present study is an attempt to examine the differential expression of genes in longissimus thoracis muscles between meat and wool type Indian goat breeds. Barbari goat is considered the best meat breed while Changthangi is famous for its fine fibre quality. RNA sequencing data was generated from four biological replicates of longissimus thoracis muscles of Barbari and Changthangi goats. A clear demarcation could be observed between the breeds in terms of expression of genes associated with lipid metabolism (FASN, SCD, THRSP, DGAT2 and FABP3). Most significant genes with high connectivity identified by gene co-expression network analysis were associated with triacylglycerol biosynthesis pathway in Barbari goat. Highly interactive genes identified in Changthangi goat were mainly associated with muscle fibre type. This study provides an insight into the differential expression of genes in longissimus thoracis muscles between Barbari and Changthangi goats that are adapted to and reared in different agro-climatic regions., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The study presents the miRNA profiles of two Indian sheep populations with divergent carcass and muscle traits. The RNA sequencing of longissimus thoracis muscles from the two populations revealed a total of 400 known miRNAs. Myomirs or miRNAs specific to skeletal muscles identified in our data included oar-miR-1, oar-miR-133b, oar-miR-206 and oar-miR-486. Comparison of the two populations led to identification of 100 differentially expressed miRNAs (p < 0.05). A total of 45 miRNAs exhibited a log 2 fold change of ≥ ( ±) 3.0. Gene Ontology analysis revealed cell proliferation, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, apoptosis, immune response and cell differentiation as the most significant functions of the differentially expressed miRNAs. The differential expression of some miRNAs was validated by qRT-PCR analysis. Enriched pathways included metabolism of proteins and lipids, PI3K-Akt, EGFR and cellular response to stress. The microRNA-gene interaction network revealed miR-21, miR-155, miR-143, miR-221 and miR-23a as the nodal miRNAs, with multiple targets. MicroRNA-21 formed the focal point of the network with 42 interactions. The hub miRNAs identified in our study form putative regulatory candidates for future research on meat quality traits in Indian sheep. Our results provide insight into the biological pathways and regulatory molecules implicated in muscling traits of sheep.

Background: Malnutrition in the elderly is a significant public health problem and has serious implications on the overall health of the elderly. There are very few community-based studies on malnutrition among the elderly, especially in India., Objectives: The objective was to find out the prevalence of malnutrition and its associated risk factors among the elderly in urbanized villages of Delhi., Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted during November 2015 to April 2017 in two urbanized villages of East Delhi among 353 elderly (>60 years) individuals. A semi-structured interview schedule was used to record the sociodemographic and relevant personal details of the elderly. To determine the prevalence of malnutrition, Mini Nutritional Assessment scale was used. Statistical analysis included simple descriptive analysis and tests of significance such as Chi-square test. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the predictors of malnutrition., Results: The prevalence of possible malnutrition was found to be 49.3%. On bivariate analysis, age, gender, education status, marital and residential status, per capita income, financial dependency, and family size were found to be associated with malnutrition (P < 0.05). Age >70 years, being tenant, and financial dependency were observed to be significant predictors of possible malnutrition in multiple logistic regression., Conclusion: Malnutrition needs to be identified at an early stage using appropriate tools so that proper interventions can be directed to those who need it to ensure healthy aging. Social and economic parameters are linked with the occurrence of malnutrition among the elderly and must be considered in the development of preventive strategies., Competing Interests: None

Background: Although air pollution and weather changes have been identified as putative risk factors that precipitate acute attacks of bronchial asthma, so far there have been no studies that could conclusively establisha clear association., Objectives: This study was carried out to investigate the effect of the concentrations of NO 2 , SO 2 , and particulate matter on exacerbation of bronchial asthma., Methods: A longitudinal study was conducted during February 2014-January 2015. Sixty-one known cases of asthma were recruited from the outpatient department of a chest hospital. Data regarding weather parameter (temperature, rainfall, and relative humidity) and environmental pollution (SO 2 and NO 2 ) and respirable suspended particulate matter were procured from the Indian Meteorological Department and Delhi Pollution Control Committee, respectively. Association was examined using the generalized estimation equation (GEE)., Results: Separate models were developed for weather parameter and pollution parameters. This study could not find a significant association between any of the weather parameters and occurrence of asthmatic attacks. In the GEE model, where average values of SO 2 , NO 2 , and PM were used, the PM was found to be significantly associated with asthmatic attacks., Conclusion: PM was found to increase the risk of exacerbation of asthma three folds., Competing Interests: None

Background: For women living with HIV who do not want to become pregnant or who wish to delay pregnancy, contraception has the added public health benefit of reducing the number of infants who might acquire HIV. The unmet need for contraception must be addressed to prevent unintended pregnancies among HIV-positive women and consequently mother-to-child transmission of HIV., Objectives: The objectives of this study were to assess the contraceptive usage and its various determinants and to find out the unmet need for family planning among HIV-positive women., Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive hospital-based study conducted among 235 HIV-positive women attending the ART center of a medical college. Data were collected using a questionnaire-containing sociodemographic details, obstetric history, treatment information, contraceptive usage, and their fertility desires. Data analysis was performed using MS Excel and the SPSS version 20.0 using frequencies, Chi-squared test, and multiple logistic regression., Results: The mean (standard deviation) age of the study participants was 28.8 (5.5) years. Majority (96.6%) of them were married and were illiterate (34.4%). The prevalence of unmet need for family planning was found to be 17%, and the prevalence of consistent contraceptive use was 74.5%. The most common family planning method used by women was male condom. Not having HIV-positive children, HIV-negative partner, and discussing contraceptive with partner were observed to be significant predictor of consistent contraceptive use on multiple logistic regression., Conclusion: There is a need to boost family planning counseling and address the unmet need and contraceptive use among HIV-infected women., Competing Interests: None

Background: In addition to maternal mortality, information on maternal near miss and severe maternal morbidity are important in maternal healthcare. We aimed to determine the incidence, causes and outcome of severe maternal morbidity and near miss, and the sociodemographic and obstetric factors associated with these at a tertiary care teaching hospital in Delhi., Methods: Women admitted with severe maternal morbidity and near miss, as defined by the WHO study group, were included in the study. The incidence ratio of near miss and severe morbidity in the hospital was determined, and a case-control study was conducted to study the factors associated with the occurrence of near miss. Information was obtained from hospital records and interviews, using a semi-structured open-ended questionnaire., Results: The incidence ratio of near miss was 6.85/ 1000, and severe morbidity was 11.38/1000 live births. Hypertensive disorders and haemorrhage were the common causes of cases of near miss and severe morbidity. Coagulation dysfunction (62%) was the most common organ dysfunction, followed by uterine dysfunction (22%). Older age (odds ratio [OR] 2.01, confidence interval [CI] 1.02-3.93), the absence of formal education (OR 2.05, CI 1.11-3.75), <18 years of age at marriage (OR 2.01, CI 1.21-3.32), lower income (OR 3.8, CI 1.88-7.64), gravida of four or more (OR 2.25, CI 1.21-4.17) and residence outside Delhi (OR 9.31, CI 4.36-19.90) were significant predictors of near miss. Sepsis, hypertensive disorders and haemorrhage were the most common underlying conditions in women who died. The foetal outcome was a live birth in 64% of near-miss cases and 62% among severe morbidity., Conclusions: The burden of severe maternal morbidity and near miss is high. These need to be identified and managed at the earliest., Competing Interests: None

Background: Availability of user-friendly statistical software has increased the application of multivariable logistic regression (MLR) in the medical journal many fold. The reporting quality in terms of checking assumptions, model building strategies, proper coding, and report format need proper care and attention to communicate correct and reliable model results., Objective: The objective of this article is to evaluate the quality of MLR article based on 10-point well establish criteria and to study the factors that may influence the quality., Methods: Study included PubMed indexed Indian medical journals as on March 2010 and published at least ten original articles that applied MLR during 10 years was included in the study. Multilevel modeling was applied to assess the role of journal and article attributes on MLR quality., Results: Twelve out of 39 Indian PubMed indexed journals fulfilled the inclusion criterion. Of a total 5599 original articles in these journals, 262 (4.68%) applied MLR in their study. Conformity of linear gradient assumption for continuous covariate was the least fulfilled criterion. One-third of the MLR articles involved statistician or epidemiologist as co-author, and almost same number of MLR articles' first author was from outside India. The trend of 10-point criteria remained consistent although the number of MLR articles increased over the period. The average quality score was 3.78 (95% confidence interval: 2.97-4.60) out of a possible 10. Larger sample size, involvement of statistician as co-author, non-Indian as the first author, and use of SAS/STATA software increased the quality of MLR articles., Conclusions: The quality of MLR articles in Indian medical journals is lagging behind as compared to the quality of MLR articles published from the United States and Europe medical journals. Joint effort of editors, reviewers, and authors are required to improve the quality of MLR in Indian journals so that the reader gets the correct results.

Maternal influenza infection is known to cause substantial morbidity and mortality among pregnant women and young children. Many professional healthcare bodies including the World Health Organization (WHO) have identified pregnant women as a priority risk group for receipt of inactivated seasonal influenza vaccination. However influenza prevention in this group is not yet a public health priority in India. This literature review was undertaken to examine the Indian studies of influenza among pregnant women. Eight Indian studies describing influenza burden and/or outcomes among pregnant women with influenza were identified. In most studies, influenza A (pH1N1) was associated with increased maternal mortality (25-75%), greater disease severity, and adverse fetal outcomes as compared to nonpregnant women. Surveillance for seasonal influenza infections along with higher quality prospective studies among pregnant women is needed to quantify disease burden, improve awareness among antenatal care providers, and formulate antenatal influenza vaccine policies.

Background: India accounts for 22% of the 453,000 global rotavirus deaths among children <5 years annually. The Indian Rotavirus Strain Surveillance Network provides clinicians and public health partners with valuable rotavirus disease surveillance data. Our analysis offers policy-makers an update on rotavirus disease burden with emphasis on regional shifts in rotavirus strain epidemiology in India., Methods: Children <5 years requiring hospitalization for acute gastroenteritis were selected from 10 representative hospitals in 7 cities throughout India between November 2005 through June 2009. We used a modified World Health Organization protocol for rotavirus surveillance; stool specimens were collected and tested for rotavirus using enzyme immunoassay and reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction., Results: A total of 7285 stool specimens collected were tested for rotavirus, among which 2899 (40%) were positive for rotavirus. Among the 2899 rotavirus detections, a G-type could not be determined for 662 (23%) and more than one G type was detected in 240 (8%). Of 1997 (69%) patients with only one G-type, the common types were G1 (25%), G2 (21%), G9 (13%), and G12 (10%). The proportion of rotavirus infections attributed to G12 infections rose from 8% to 39% in the Northern region and from 8% to 24% in the Western region., Conclusions: This study highlights the large, ongoing burden of rotavirus disease in India, as well as interesting regional shifts in rotavirus strain epidemiology, including an increasing detection of G12 rotavirus strains in some regions. While broad heterotypic protection from rotavirus vaccination is expected based on pre- and post-licensure data from other settings, effectiveness assessments and rotavirus strain monitoring after vaccine introduction will be important., (Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Faecal specimens collected from two outbreaks of acute gastroenteritis that occurred in southern Mumbai, India in March and October, 2006 were tested for seven different enteric viruses. Among the 218 specimens tested, 95 (43.6%) were positive, 73 (76.8%) for a single virus and 22 (23.2%) for multiple viruses. Single viral infections in both, March and October showed predominance of enterovirus (EV, 33.3% and 40%) and rotavirus A (RVA, 33.3% and 25%). The other viruses detected in these months were norovirus (NoV, 12.1% and 10%), rotavirus B (RVB, 12.1% and 10%), enteric adenovirus (AdV, 6.1% and 7.5%), Aichivirus (AiV, 3% and 7.5%) and human astrovirus (HAstV, 3% and 0%). Mixed viral infections were largely represented by two viruses (84.6% and 88.9%), a small proportion showed presence of three (7.7% and 11%) and four (7.7% and 0%) viruses in the two outbreaks. Genotyping of the viruses revealed predominance of RVA G2P[4], RVB G2 (Indian Bangladeshi lineage), NoV GII.4, AdV-40, HAstV-8 and AiV B types. VP1/2A junction region based genotyping showed presence of 11 different serotypes of EVs. Although no virus was detected in the tested water samples, examination of both water and sewage pipelines in gastroenteritis affected localities indicated leakages and possibility of contamination of drinking water with sewage water. Coexistence of multiple enteric viruses during the two outbreaks of gastroenteritis emphasizes the need to expand such investigations to other parts of India.

More than 80% of deliveries amongst the urban poor are conducted at home, mostly by traditional birth attendants (TBAs). In all, 29 eligible TBAs in the study area were identified and interviewed to assess their knowledge and practices regarding antenatal and perinatal care. Their knowledge about complications in antenatal and perinatal period was inadequate. The majority provided inadequate advice to the mothers. Over seventy-nine percent (79.3%) gave injections of oxytocin. Sixteen (55.2%) did not wait or waited for less than 10 minutes for the mother to expel the placenta. Fourteen (48.3%) encountered excessive vaginal bleeding, but none knew how to manage it. Overall knowledge and care provided by the TBAs was poor.

Noroviruses (NoVs) are considered as important causative agents of non-bacterial acute gastroenteritis, worldwide. The data on NoV genomes, their diversity and evolution from Indian subcontinent are not available to date. The present study describes the characterization of full-length genomes of Indian NoV strains for the first time to establish their phylogenetic and evolutionary relationship with those circulating worldwide. Amplification of full-length genomes of three NoV strains (PC15, PC51 and PC52) was carried out using nine overlapping sets of forward and reverse primers. Full-length genomes of all of the three strains were characterized by phylogenetic, SimPlot, selection pressure and hydrophilicity analyses. The strain, PC15 was placed in the GII.4-Hunter subcluster. An intragenotype recombination event between ORFs 2 (new GII.4 variant) and 3 (Den Haag subcluster) of the strain, PC51 was detected for the first time in this study. The strain, PC52 showed the presence of commonly detected intergenotype recombination, GII.b/GII.3. A 16 amino-acid signature code (TDVVYYAGASQPRDDI) was identified in the ORF2 of recombinant GII.3 specificity strains, which may serve as a genetic marker for differentiation of these strains from non-recombinant GII.3 strains. The amino-acid substitutions in the ORF2 of PC51 and PC52 strains in comparison to the reference strains (Toyama1 and TV24) resulted in an increase in the hydrophilicity suggested alterations in the antigenic regions of Indian NoV strains. A unique pattern of amino-acid substitutions was observed within seven subclusters of GII.4 at 19 sites (including 13 sites under positive selection pressure) spanning entire ORF2. The study indicates adaptation of NoVs in the environment to escape the host immune response and to persist in the population. It also provides in-depth analyses of NoV genomes from India and determines the extent of conserved and variable features of the Indian NoV strains., (Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The phenomenon of recombination has been widely described among noroviruses (NoVs) in the past few years. In a NoV surveillance study conducted in western India, 3 novel and 3 known combinations of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) and capsid genes were identified in genogroup (G) II NoV strains. The present study pertains to the characterization of three novel intergenotype NoV GII recombinant strains. RT-PCRs were carried out for the amplification of nearly complete RdRp and complete capsid genes spanning ORF1/2 overlap of three strains followed by sequencing of the amplicons. The recombination event was confirmed by phylogenetic analysis using Bayesian MCMC approach, SimPlot analysis and Maximum chi(2) method. Three novel intergenotype (GII) recombinations of GII.b/GII.18, GII.1/GII.12 and GII.3/GII.13 specificities were identified respectively in the strains PC03, PC24 and PC25 for the first time. The breakpoint in the novel recombinants was placed in the vicinity of the 20 bp ORF1/2 overlap, a common hotspot known to exist in NoV recombinants. The capsid genes of all of the 3 recombinants were closely related to their counter parts in reference strains however, a high degree of variation emerged in the polymerase genes especially of PC24 and PC25 in comparison to the reference strains., ((c) 2009. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

The rotavirus (RV) G1 strains represent the common genotype that causes diarrhea in humans. The aim of this study was to determine the genetic lineages of G1 RV strains circulating in western India during two different time periods, 1991-1994 and 2006 by molecular characterization of VP7 genes. The phylogenetic analysis of VP7 genes showed clustering of G1 strains into lineages I (96.4%) and VIII (3.6%) in 1991-1994 and I (96.2%) and II (3.8%) in 2006. The sublineage IA was predominant (96.4%) in the years 1991-1994, however, was detected only in 44.4% of the strains in 2006 co-circulating with other sublineages IB (44.4%), IC (3.7%), IE (3.7%) and IIB (3.7%). The amino acid substitutions were noted in the previously identified signature codes of sublineages IB and IIB at positions 75 and 55, respectively. The differentiation marker (Q) described for sublineage IB at position 16 was replaced by I in all Indian strains clustered in sublineage IB. The study reports the characterization of G1 RV strains on the basis of distinct lineages and sublineages from India and emphasizes continuous monitoring on the diversity of G1 strains across the Indian population.

This study pertains to the characterization of a human rotavirus strain (NIV929893) with a rare specificity of G1P[19]. Three structural genes (VP4, VP6 and VP7) and one non-structural gene (NSP4) of strain NIV929893 were subjected to RT-PCR for amplification of entire coding regions. All of the amplicons were sequenced to carry out phylogenetic analysis. The complete amino acid sequences of the VP7 and VP4 gene products showed clustering of the VP7 gene with G1 strains of human origin and the VP4 gene with P[19] strains of porcine origin. The two viral proteins VP6 and NSP4, described previously as genetically linked proteins, were shown to be subgroup II and genotype B of human and porcine origins, respectively. The findings of this study provide evidence of reassortment between VP7/VP6 genes of humans and VP4/NSP4 genes of porcine species and an independent segregation of VP6 and NSP4 genes in a group A human rotavirus strain with G1P[19] specificity.

A total of 90 rotavirus-positive faecal specimens collected from patients hospitalized with diarrhoea in 1990-1994 (n=77) and 2000-2002 (n=13) were investigated for VP7 and VP4 genotypes. The specimens included 21 typable and 69 non-reactive or multireactive rotavirus strains as monitored by monoclonal antibody-based serotyping ELISA. Genotyping was carried out by multiplex PCR/sequencing using primers specific for both VP7 and VP4 genes. The contribution of common genotypes (G1P[8], G2P[4], G3P[8], G4P[8]) in causing rotavirus diarrhoea was 79.2% and 92.3% in the years 1990-1994 and 2000-2002, respectively, while G9P[8] infections were detected at lower levels (1.3% and 7.7%) at both time-points. There was a predominance of G1P[8] in 1990-1994 and of G2P[4] in 2000-2002. The detection of unusual rotavirus strains (G1P[6], G1P[4], G1P[19], G2P[8], G3P[4], G4P[6]) in 19.5% of the patients indicated a significant contribution of reassortants in causing diarrhoea in western India.

The study was conducted to investigate the molecular epidemiology of noroviruses (NoVs) from western India. A total of 830 fecal specimens were collected during July 2005-June 2007 from children, < or =7 years of age suffering from acute gastroenteritis in Pune, Nagpur, and Aurangabad cities. All the specimens were subjected to RT-PCR, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis for detection and characterization of Genogroup I (GI) and GII NoVs. NoV positivity varied between 6.3% and 12.6% in different cities with the predominance of GII (96.6%). NoV infections were very common in the patients < or =2 years of age. A majority (55%) of the patients suffered from severe disease, however, vomiting was not experienced in 35%. Coinfections with rotaviruses were found in 10% cases. Summer month seasonality supported NoV infections in western India. The phylogenetic analysis of partial RNA polymerase and VP1 (capsid) genes identified 2 GI (GI. 2 and GI.6) and 5 GII (GII.4, GII.6, GII.7, GII.8, and GII.14) genetic clusters with possible occurrence of "2007 new-variant" of GII.4. Six different combinations of RdRp and capsid genes (GII.b/GII.3, GII.b/GII.4, GII.d/GII.3, GII.b/GII.18, GII.1/GII.12 and GII.3/GII.13) were also identified. GII.4 (52%) prevailed in 2005-2006 while the predominance of probable recombinant NoV strains (58%) was noted in 2006-2007 with the contribution of GII.b/GII.3 at 79% level. GII.b/GII.18 type identified in 37% infections in 2005-2006 was completely replaced by GII.b/GII.3 type in 2006-2007. This is the first report that highlights the norovirus epidemiology and strain diversity demonstrating possible circulation of new variants in patients with acute gastroenteritis from western India., (Copyright 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.)

Severe maternal morbidity also known as 'near miss' may be a good indicator of the quality and effectiveness of obstetric care, as it may identify priorities in maternal care more rapidly than mortality alone. The objective of the study was to observe the pattern of severe maternal morbidity and its associated factors in a tertiary care hospital in Delhi. All patients admitted to the obstetrics and gynaecology department who fulfilled the definition of severe maternal morbidity conditions were included. A proforma was used to record sociodemographic, obstetric, antenatal care treatment and outcome details. A total of 63 women were included for analysis. The incidence of severe maternal morbidity was 3.3/100 deliveries. The mean age of the patients was 26.3 +/- 5 years. More than half (55.5%) were uneducated: almost one-third (32%) were from outside Delhi - the median distance travelled was 10 km. The majority were antenatal admissions (68.3%). The proportion of postdelivery or abortion cases were greater among women who came from outside Delhi. Only 38.1% were registered during the antenatal period. The diagnoses were: eclampsia/pre-eclampsia (35%); haemorrhage (35%); sepsis (13%); obstructed labour (9.5%) and other medical conditions (11%). Severe anaemia was observed in 22% of cases. Only 43.5% were normal vaginal deliveries and 54.5% were delivered by caesarean section or with the use of instruments; 61.3% were live births. Hysterectomy was performed in 14.8%: the proportion of hysterectomy was higher in obstructed labour. Severe maternal morbidity cases constitute a significant burden on health resources.

Background: In India the role of noroviruses in causing gastroenteritis is not well defined., Objective: To determine the norovirus prevalence in sporadic cases of acute gastroenteritis in western India., Study Design: A total of 236 fecal specimens consisting 192 specimens from hospitalized and 44 from OPD (outpatient department) children < or = 5 years of age were tested for the presence of norovirus genogroup (G)I and GII by RT-PCR followed by sequencing. Multiple alignment and phylogenetic analysis were carried out to determine the norovirus genetic types., Results: Norovirus GII infection was detected in 11.9% (28/236) specimens. These included 24 of 192 (12.5%) specimens from hospitalized and 4 of 44 (9.0%) specimens from OPD cases. Nucleotide sequence based analysis of norovirus GII strains indicated circulation of GIIb strains at a significant level in hospitalized (12.5%) and OPD (75%) children., Conclusion: This study demonstrates the predominance of GII/4 (genogroup II/genotype 4) along with co-circulation of GII/1, GII/2, GII/3 and GIIb revealing the possibility of norovirus as the second most common cause of non-bacterial acute gastroenteritis after rotavirus in western India. It also documents for the first time occurrence of norovirus GIIb infections in India.

Data on height and weight of 3,428 non-smoking healthy adult subjects, obtained during an earlier community-based study in Delhi, India, on chronic respiratory morbidity due to ambient air pollution was analyzed to study the distribution of body mass index (BMI) and its determinants among adults in Delhi. The sample was drawn by systematic sampling from rural and urban areas of Delhi. In urban areas, the sampling frame was restricted to areas around air quality-monitoring stations. However, the areas were spread across the city and reflected wide economic spectrum. Subjects were classified as underweight, normal, overweight, and obese as per the criteria of the World Health Organization for BMI. The mean BMI of the entire sample was 22.14 +/- 4.61. It was higher among females, urban residents, and the higher-income group. Overall, 49.7% of the 3,428 subjects had a normal nutritional status, 24.8% were underweight, 19.4% overweight, and 6.1% obese. The prevalence of underweight was higher in rural areas (38.5%) and among the lower-income group (39.9%), while overweight and obesity were more common in urban residents (22.7% and 7.5% respectively), among females (21.7% and 7.7%), and the higher-income group (31.8% and 11%) (p < 0.05). The adjusted odds for underweight were 2.02 for rural subjects and 4.00 for the lower-income group. For overweight or obesity, odds were 5.6 for the higher-income group, 3.62 for urban residents, and 2.5 for females. It was concluded that problems of both underweight and overweight and obesity exist among the adults of Delhi. While females, residents of urban areas, and economically-better-off were more likely to be overweight or obese, residents of rural areas and those from lower-income groups were more likely to be underweight.

Objective: To assess the immunization coverage of BCG, DPT, OPV, Measles, MMR and Hepatitis B vaccines in two urbanized villages of East Delhi and study the factors affecting the coverage., Methods: Children of age 24-47 months were selected using systematic random sampling. Information on socio-demographic factors and immunization status was obtained by house-to- house visit. Immunization coverage of all vaccines was computed and analysis of association between immunization coverage and socio-demographic factors was done., Results: The coverage levels were 82.7% for BCG, 81.5% for DPT/OPV 1, 76.8% for DPT/OPV 2, 70.7% for DPT/OPV 3 and 65.3% for measles vaccine. It was 41.4% and 41.6% for DPT booster and MMR vaccine. Higher education of mother (OR=1.96) and father (OR=1.80), father's occupation (OR=1.86), residential status (OR=1.76), place of birth (OR=2.64) and presence of immunization card (OR=5.8) were significant determinants for complete immunization on univariate analysis. On regression analysis mother's education (OR=1.43), presence of immunization card OR=2.05 and place of birth (OR=3.80) remained significant., Conclusion: Immunization evaluation surveys have shown a wide variation across regions, states and different strata of the society.

Aim: To study the pregnancy outcome, namely mode and place of delivery, attendant at birth and perinatal mortality in an urban resettlement area of Delhi, India, and to determine factors that affect the outcome., Methods: All the pregnant women (n = 909) in the area were enrolled and followed until 7 days after delivery. We calculated the crude and adjusted odds ratios for predictors of pregnancy related obstetric and neonatal outcomes, using logistic regression analysis., Results: A total of 884 (97.3%) women could be followed up. Approximately two-thirds of deliveries took place at home. Primigravida, more educated mothers and mothers with non-cephalic presentation or complications were more likely to deliver in a health facility (P < 0.05). Most deliveries (97%) were vaginal, 2.5% were cesarean and 0.5% forceps deliveries. Primigravida mothers, mothers with short stature, mothers with non-cephalic presentation or complications had cesarean and forceps delivery more often (P < 0.05). A perinatal mortality rate of 74.5 per 1000 live births was observed. Presentation of the fetus and complications in the mother remained important factors., Conclusion: The majority of deliveries in the under-privileged sections in urban Delhi take place at home and the perinatal mortality remains high.

Birth weight remains an important factor affecting infant and child mortality. Many factors influence the occurrence of low birth weight (LBW). The present study was conducted to study the prevalence and determinants of LBW in an urban resettlement area of Delhi. A baseline survey was done to enroll all pregnant women in the area. These women were followed up every month till outcome. The prevalence of LBW was 39.1%. Occurrence of LBW was related to age, parity, weight and height of the mother. In multiple logistic regression analysis, mother's weight and parity alone emerged as significant variables. On further analysis, on adjusting for age, parity and birth weight were associated for the 20-35-year age group only. Thus, prevalence of LBW remains high in the urban under privileged of Delhi; maternal age, parity and weight and height are important determinants. Increasing age of first birth to more than 20 years can minimize effect of primi parity.