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The significance of assessment in driving learning is undeniable, particularly in oral assessments like viva voce where students express themselves verbally. However, traditional viva voce examinations' challenges include reliability, objectivity, content validity, time constraints, varying question difficulty levels, inconsistency in questioning among students, the influence of the "halo" effect, and issues with the test environment. Thus the study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Objective, Integrated, Clustered Examination Software (VOICES) compared to traditional viva voce methods. Using a mixed-method design with 103 students, questions were framed using VOICES software created by the National Informatics Center (NIC), Chhattisgarh State Center, Government of India, and students responded through voice messages. Faculty graded students based on personalized videos created by the app. Then, feedback was given, and a focused group discussion was conducted for the students. Traditional viva voce examinations were conducted as part of internal assessments, and the marks obtained from these assessments were compared to evaluate their effectiveness in comparison to the VOICES app. There was no significant difference in the marks obtained using both methods indicating that viva voce using an oral assessment app is equally effective. Students responded positively to the VOICES method. The formative oral assessment conducted through the use of the VOICES app successfully addresses the challenges typically associated with traditional viva voce examinations.

The significance of peace education is universally recognized for a safe and prospering future for the world at school level as peace education aims at equipping the future citizens with necessary knowledge, attitude, and skills so that they would acknowledge and respect all kinds of diversity and understand human dignity. This paper is based on an empirical research aiming how far guiding principles and practices of peace education followed in secondary schools of Mizoram. The concept of peace education, guiding principles of peace education and practices on peace-related activities being followed in the secondary schools of Mizoram were explored. The study revealed that peace education was not being taught as a separate subject. Peace education component was infused in the existing curriculum and also was being taught through co-curricular and extra-curricular activities. Besides, teachers must reflect in their behavior all the guiding principles of peace. They should encourage the students for critical thinking, reasoning, develop awareness on societal problems and issues, broaden their outlook, concentrate on studies, and to be associated with various activities. In Mizoram, students' unions and church organizations used to play a prominent role in shaping and moulding the character of the people starting from the early stage of life which ultimately benefits the society and the nation. However, in the context of rapid change in social structure and modernization process, there is need for inculcating the values of peace for which schools have to play important role.

Teaching is a profession in which the newly appointed teachers learn different methods of teaching skills, pedagogies of teaching and conducting research and should know the role and responsibilities of different academic leaders. The Faculty Induction Program (FIP) includes all these components. This article aims to study the perceptions of the newly appointed assistant professors or early-career faculty (ECF) regarding FIP, conducted by the Faculty Development Center (FDC) of Mizoram University, India. Out of 202 participants, 100 were selected by simple random sampling procedure. A self-constructed questionnaire was used for the collection of data. Focus group discussion was also conducted. The findings revealed that FIP conducted by the FDC was well organized. The participants benefitted by learning micro-teaching and its uses, the development of teaching-learning material, comprehensive and effective lesson planning, Bloom's taxonomy, and the constructivist teaching approach.

Every individual is characterized by a learning style which an individual develops over a course of time. The learning style may be shaped by different cultural environment. This study aims to find and compare the learning style of Indian and German business students by examining the learning styles of 81 students from India and Germany. The study uses Learning Style Questionnaire introduced by Honey and Mumford. The findings suggest that there is significant difference in the learning style of Indian and German students. Indian students are found to be observed to reflect, analyze, and theorize whereas German students are more oriented towards practical application of theory followed by reflection and analysis. Findings have also been thoroughly discussed in terms of the geographical constructs.

Background: There was always a need for some innovative assessment method like an objective structured practical examination (OSPE) which is objective, reliable, and valid over conventional practical examinations (CPEs), which lack objectivity and reliability and carries risk of teachers' bias as learning is assessment-driven. The aim of this study was to find out the effectiveness of OSPE over CPE among seventh-semester medical students and to assess the objectivity of structured questions among different OSPE stations. Materials and Methods: A total of 207 students appeared in the seventh-semester examination in community medicine, and they were divided into three groups depending on their total marks. Each student had to face both OSPE stations and conventional viva voce tables and their scores were recorded. A paired T-test was done to assess differences in mean marks between OSPE and CPE. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was done to compare the OSPE station-wise mean among different series of examinations. Results: The high-scorer students secured significantly higher mean marks of 30.30 ± 3.94 in OSPE than in CPE (26.93 ± 3.85). The mean marks obtained by high-scorer students showed no significant difference except in one station. Among the low-scorer group, statistically significant differences in mean marks were found among various stations. Conclusions: OSPE is an effective tool of assessment than CPE. Still, meticulous care is to be taken in designing respective OSPEs, and proper training of assessors is also needed, to avoid biases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Women education and empowerment are the indicators of development. Women education ensures the holistic and long development. It includes equitable and increased access to technical and vocational education and training, higher education and research with due attention to quality assurance. This communication has taken a look on women participation through women higher education institutes, women enrolment as compared with population. The participation in terms of distribution of institutes and enrolment has been studied for the years 2011-2016. The trend has been found as increasing but slow. Correlations have also been studied.

Purpose: The paper reports the feedback collected from students of the Master of Social Work (MSW) Programme of the School of Social Work (SOSW), Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), through open and distance learning (ODL), in India. The paper discusses findings related to learner profile, student support services, assignments, academic counselling, fieldwork, audio/video/teleconferencing facilities, Internet access and challenges faced by the learners. The findings will be useful for researchers and practitioners, will help in improving the overall quality of the programme, in designing the delivery mechanism as per the needs of MSW learners and in preparing them to be trained professionals to work in social development sector in India. Design/methodology/approach: For data collection, a questionnaire was prepared and sent to all the students of the MSW programme along with assignment, across India. Responses from 290 students were voluntarily received. Findings: The research findings are that MSW (ODL) students are older, mostly married with the average male learners age being 35 years and that of female learners being 30 years, there are more female learners than male learners, majority of the learners are Hindu from general category, tend to be employed, mostly full-time and some part-time, with work experience. They are from urban, semi-urban, rural and tribal areas with Internet access. Most of the students preferred to read printed self-learning materials than digitally available on eGyanKosh or IGNOUmobile app especially in rural areas though with increasing access to Internet, students are gradually opting for online materials while filling up the admission form. Majority of students found the quality and standard of study materials to be very good. Though maximum respondents gave positive feedback about the student support services and their learning experiences, some of the learners faced challenges like unco-operative staff members, administrative delays, non-allotment of academic counsellor/fieldwork supervisor, irregularity, late reception of study materials, lack of staff members at study centre, far distance of regional centre/study centre from residence, etc. Research limitations/implications: The findings will help in designing and delivering the MSW programme in a more effective way. Based on the feedback received, the next revision of the programme will take into consideration the concerns of the learner. The limitation of the study is that not all learners responded to all the questions. Not all potential MSW learners filled the questionnaire and submitted it at the school. And those who responded had left some questions unanswered. Those who did not submit response may differ in their responses from what is received. Originality/value: It is an original work and will be valuable in understanding the distance learner of MSW programme in India, programme delivery and challenges.

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Background: Disaster mental health is a critical yet neglected aspect in India. Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a crucial role in mitigating mental health challenges following disasters. This study conducted a knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) survey among PCPs in Karnataka to assess their disaster mental health preparedness. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from February to May 2023 targeting PCPs across 29 districts of Karnataka in a convenient snowball sampling method. The questionnaire review included KAP questions on disaster mental healthcare. A total of 324 PCPs responded. Results: Knowledge scores were moderate (mean: 7.05), attitudes were positive (mean: 9.15), and practices were poor (mean: 0.32). Significant correlations were found between clinical experience and knowledge/attitudes/practices (rho 0.358, P < 0.001; rho 0.147, P = 0.007; rho 0.232, P = 0.003). Conclusion: There is a large gap between theoretical knowledge and practical preparedness in disaster mental health. Training programs and government initiatives are essential to improve preparedness among PCPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adolescent is a very crucial period of life for the growth and development of the body and mind. Nutrition influences growth and development throughout infancy, childhood and adolescents. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the sudy was to assess the nutritional status in terms of thinness, overweight and obesity and stunting amongst the school-going adolescents and to find out the factors related to nutritional status amongst the study subjects. Methodology: Community-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted amongst six rural schools of Bankura-I community development block in Bankura district from July to September 2017. With the help of a pre-designed, pre-tested, semi-structured schedule, a total of 600 adolescent students were interviewed, and clinical examinations were done. The collected information was entered into Microsoft Excel sheet and analysed using SPSS-20. Results: The mean age of the study population was 13.2 ± 2.19 years. About one-third (32.8%) of adolescent students were thin, as per body mass index for age Z-score category. Normal nutritional status was found in the majority of students (63.8%), but overweight and obesity were only 3.4% amongst the adolescent students. Stunting (31.0%) was higher amongst the late adolescents, and also that the percentage of stunting was higher in adolescent girls (35.8%) than boys (15.0%). Stunting was also significantly related with caste, SE class, family type according to number of family members and birth order of study subjects. Conclusions: School-based as well as community-based adolescent-friendly health and nutrition education and services and economic development may improve the overall health and nutritional knowledge and status of adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Type 2 diabetes affects 10.5% of adults globally, with sexual dysfunction being one of the complications, of which erectile dysfunction is the most commonly reported one with the prevalence ranging from 35% to 90%. There are a few studies exploring links between sexual dysfunction, depressive symptoms, and marital satisfaction, which is the reason we undertook the study. Aim: To study the prevalence of sexual dysfunction, depressive symptoms, and marital satisfaction in male patients with diabetes and correlation between the three parameters. Methods: A total of 120 male patients with type 2 diabetes were assessed for sexual dysfunction using ICD-10 criteria and International Index of Erectile Function, depressive symptoms using Beck Depression Inventory, and marital satisfaction using Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS). Results: The mean age of patients at diagnosis of diabetes was 42.32 ± 7.48 years, and the mean duration of diabetes was 7.35 ± 3.76 years. Mean HbA1c was 9.05 ± 2.25% with only 22 patients having good glycemic control. Eight-eight patients reported sexual dysfunction with lack of genital response, premature ejaculation, and orgasmic dysfunction being common. Thirty-two patients had depressive symptoms, with borderline clinical depressive symptoms and moderate depressive symptoms in 14 patients each. Marital satisfaction was affected with the total mean DAS score being 93.95 ± 18.34. There was a negative correlation seen between sexual function and depressive symptoms and also between sexual function and increasing age, with a positive correlation seen between sexual function and marital satisfaction. Poor glycemic control was significantly associated with clinically diagnosed erectile and orgasmic dysfunction. Conclusions: Sexual dysfunctions, depressive symptoms, and marital distress are highly prevalent in patients with type 2 diabetes, warranting timely detection and management. The three parameters are significantly correlated with each other, and poor glycemic control is significantly associated with sexual dysfunction. Psychiatric liaison would improve outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scope and method of imparting distance education to the learner has evolved over a period of time. Various models of distance education have been introduced over the years; the latest introduction is the use of Web 2.0 technologies to make distance learning more analytical, flexible, interactive, and collaborative for both the teacher and the taught. This research paper has assessed the purpose of usage of social media tools, specifically Facebook, Blogs, Google groups, SkyDrive and Twitter by the students for academic purposes. Further, the relationship between usage of Facebook and academic performance of students has been tested statistically. The study reveals that majority of the students access various social media tools for information sharing and personal interaction. The academic performance of the students is independent of the use of Facebook as a social media tool for academic purpose.

This paper makes an attempt to provide a review on challenges, outcomes and present situation in vocational education and training (VET) programs in some Asian countries. Various country-specific studies indicate that the VET system has not responded very well in the South Asian region. The VET stream is quite small. Despite there being a growing demand for a skilled labor force, the labor market outcomes of those who have followed the vocational path are not good. However, the governments are giving full attention to making the VET system robust in these countries. Various new policy initiatives have been undertaken by the governments in recent years.

BACKGROUND: Mercury (Hg) is a toxic heavy metal with multiple uses in various medical devices. Hg is used in dentistry as a restorative material. Such use creates significant exposure to dental practitioners. Hence, it is important to assess the risk created by Hg use in healthcare. OBJECTIVE: To quantify airborne Hg vapour exposure and Hg levels in dental healthcare workers, and determine the association of various symptoms and diseases to Hg exposure. METHODS: Air monitoring of Hg vapours were conducted in dental clinics and amalgam rooms. Urine samples were collected from occupationally exposed dental healthcare workers and urine Hg levels were measured. A cross-sectional health survey was conducted in 23 healthcare units of Delhi to determine an association between Hg exposure and various health effects. RESULTS: Hg vapour concentration ranged from 0.96μg/m3 to 15μg/m3, the highest concentration was recorded in the amalgam room (15μg/m3). Urine Hg levels in healthcare workers (0.51±0.17μg/L) were higher than the control (0.29±0.05μg/L). A cross-sectional health survey revealed a significant prevalence of confusion, forgetfulness, muscle spasm, and tremors by the respondents. CONCLUSION: Hg concentration in dental clinics may hover above the prescribed safe levels posing a definitive health risk to healthcare workers. Urinary Hg measurements did not reveal an excess of body burden except in one case. Since Hg bio accumulates, it is probable as these workers grow older, they may end up with a higher body burden of Hg that may lead to a variety of adverse health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Trauma is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide among children. Nonoperative management is the standard of care in hemodynamically stable children with blunt abdominal solid organ injury. Embolization is a potential pathway, which has shown increasing evidence for benefit in adult trauma patients. However, the data in children is limited. Materials and Methods A retrospective analysis of hospital data of all children (<18 years of age), presenting to a tertiary-care trauma center in India, with history of blunt trauma from January 2021 to June 2023, was performed. Preprocedural imaging, angiographic and embolization details, number of blood transfusions, and length of hospital stay were assessed. Results Two hundred and sixteen children (average age: 11.65 years) presented with a history of abdominal trauma during the study period. Eighty four children were FAST positive, out of whom, 67 patients had abdominal solid organ injury on computed tomography. Liver was the most commonly injured solid organ (n = 45), followed by the spleen and kidney. Ten children had solid abdominal organ arterial injuries for which eight children underwent embolization. The average length of hospital stay in embolization group (n = 8) was 4 days, as compared to 11 days in children undergoing operative management (n = 2). At 6 months follow-up, all children were asymptomatic. Conclusion Superselective embolization is a safe and feasible procedure in appropriately selected children with abdominal injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Platelet transfusion has been therapeutically used in patients with thrombocytopenia and platelet function defects over the years. The use of advanced techniques may add value in assessing the quality of platelet products. The aim of the study was to assess stored platelet concentrates (PCs) prepared in blood banks for platelet indices, clot strength, and platelet function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Apart from the routine quality check parameters (platelet count, volume, pH, swirling, and sterility), 24-h-old PCs derived by the platelet-rich plasma method (PRP-PC) were prospectively assessed for various platelet indices using hematology analyzer and clot strength using thromboelastography (TEG). Platelet function (platelet activation and aggregation) was assessed using flow cytometry and compared with freshly prepared PRP. RESULTS: A total of 43 PRP-PCs that were analyzed had a mean volume of 69.1 ± 5.1 mL, a pH of 6.8 ± 0.3, and a platelet count of 738.8 ± 312.9 × 103 cells/μL. Swirling was present in all. The platelet distribution width, mean platelet volume, platelet-large cell ratio, plateletcrit, and immature platelet fraction were 9.4 ± 2.7 fL, 8.7 ± 1.2 fL, 16.9% ± 8.9%, 0.6% ± 0.3%, and 4.4% ± 3.9%, respectively. The r-time, k-time, alpha angle, and maximum amplitude were 15 ± 0.3 min, 2.1 ± 0.4 min, 65.2° ± 2.3°, and 76.1 ± 10.1 mm, respectively. Delayed clot initiation and higher clot strength were observed in in 60% (n = 21) and 71.4% (n = 25) of products, respectively Platelet activation of PRP-PC was significantly lower than PRP (0.4 [0.1%–42%] vs. 10.5 [0.8%–32.4%]; P = 0.002). However, platelet aggregation of PRP-PC was significantly higher than PRP (62.0 [26.7%–88.7%] vs. 33.4 [4.9%–55.8%]; P = 0.003). CONCLUSION: Platelet indices, TEG, and flow cytometry analysis provides useful information to assess the quality of PCs. However, the variable effects of processing and storage on platelet activity need further exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CONTEXT: Therapists use dry needling (DN) to treat myofascial trigger points and various pain conditions. Need for study: A gap analysis showed that more information about how DN works on spastic muscles through alpha motor neurofiring and what role it plays in clinical and functional outcomes. Currently, the objective evidence for the usefulness of DN in neurological diseases is required. AIMS: The purpose of this research was to examine how DN affects spasticity in stroke patients using the H reflex and a Modified Tardieu Scale (MTS). SETTINGS AND DESIGN: We conducted a randomized controlled trial. We randomly assigned 81 stroke survivors to one of two groups: one group underwent six sessions of DN over the muscles with conventional treatment, whereas the other group received conventional care. We assessed spasticity using the H reflex and the MTS. We analyzed all outcome measures before, after, and 2 weeks later names as H1, H2, H3 and T1, T2, and T2 receptivity. RESULTS: After the intervention, people who received DN had improvement in spasticity. H3-H1 is statistically significant (P = 0.42) in the experimental group against the control group. T3-T1 and T2-T3 are statistically significant (P = 0.00) in the experimental group compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: The DN is effective for lowering spastic muscle tone and local muscle stiffness. This could be because DN diminishes the nodular zone of spastic muscle and reduces the firing of alpha motor neurons. These findings are very promising in terms of lowering spasticity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on investigating the release and dispersion of radon in diverse samples obtained from four designated sites (Rajpur, Maldevta, Kalsi and Dugadda) situated within the Main Boundary Thrust region of Garhwal Himalaya, Uttarakhand, India. In the Current research, we measured different radioactive parameters; including natural radioactivity (Radium content) and Mass exhalation rate. Using these measurements, we calculated the radon emanation fractions in 82 samples from four sampling sites. The radium content exhibited a range of 39 ± 8 Bq kg−1 to 442 ± 50 Bq kg−1, averaging at 88.2 ± 62.2 Bq kg−1. The Radon Exhalation rate displayed a range of 8.56 ± 3.1 mBq kg−1 h−1 to 144.9 ± 12.5 mBq kg−1 h−1 with an average rate of 48.4 ± 29.2 mBq kg−1 h−1. The variation in radon emanation fraction ranged from 0.62 to 8.52, with an average of 3.25 ± 1.60. Initially, the samples were categorized into rock and soil groups. To introduce an additional dimension, a secondary classification based on dry and wet conditions were subsequently incorporated. An increase in radon emanation fraction was observed for the wet samples due to higher moisture content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rise of e-vehicles there is a rapid growth in the use of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) throughout the world. Thus, there is rapid depletion of lithium and other rare earth metals for manufacturing of LIBs. As a result, it has become extremely important to develop and sustainably implement circular economy (CE) of LIBs throughout the world. We conducted semi-structured interviews with various organisations working on the development of LIBs to investigate the current policies and practices in the CE of LIBs. We considered India as a focus country due to its large potential market and diversity in context of LIBs. This helped us to investigate various impacts and dynamics in the political and practical field. The results helped in recommending certain policies that should be adopted by the Government of India to enhance CE of LIBs in the nation. These policies will help in the sustainable usage of resources used to manufacture LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines 52 water samples from diverse locations in the Dehradun district, measuring radon activity concentrations with a scintillation-based monitor. The findings indicate an average concentration of 33.97 Bq/L, ranging from 3.35 to 99.25 Bq/L. Beyond this, the research estimates annual effective ingestion (µSv/y), inhalation (µSv/y), and total (µSv/y) doses attributed to radon in the drinking water samples, offering insights into potential health risks. Additionally, the study explores spatial patterns in the dataset, providing a geographic perspective on radon distribution across the region. This spatial analysis enhances our understanding of localised exposure risks, contributing valuable information for public health and environmental considerations in the Dehradun district. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skill development has been a major policy agenda in several countries and there is a lot of emphasis on the promotion of vocational education and training (VET) programmes. This paper investigates the labour market outcomes of the vocationally trained population in India using the data from a nationally representative survey on employment and unemployment. We find that a large section of the population in the age group 15-59 years does not have any kind of formal training. Among the VET holders, a large share is accounted for by non-formal trainees. Quite a high proportion of formal trainees in the workforce remain unemployed reflecting underutilisation of human resource. We also examine the extent to which individuals' training matches their occupational levels and find that overall about two-thirds of the trainees are employed in occupations related to the field of training. Further, we compare the returns to general secondary and vocational education streams using the standard earnings function accounting for the sample selection bias. Our findings show that the relative returns to vocational education is higher than that to general secondary education.

Objective: Lipoid congenital adrenal hyperplasia (LCAH) is caused by mutations in STAR. A systematic review of phenotype–genotype correlation and data on testicular histology in LCAH patients is unavailable. We aim to describe our experience and provide phenotype–genotype correlation. Design, Patients and Measurements: Retrospective review of three genetically proven LCAH patients from our centre and per‐patient data analysis from a systematic review of 292 probands. The phenotypic subgroups of 46,XY were Group A (typical female genitalia), Group B (atypical genitalia) and Group C (typical male genitalia). Results: We report three new LCAH probands from India, all diagnosed post‐infancy with preserved gonadal function and one novel variant. The systematic review reports 46,XY to 46,XX LCAH ratio of 1.1 (155:140). Patients with 46,XY LCAH in Group A were diagnosed in infancy (116/117) and had higher mineralocorticoid involvement than Group C (96.4% vs. 75%, p = 0.035), whereas Group C had preserved gonadal function. Hyperplastic adrenals are noted in ~60% of LCAH diagnosed with primary adrenal insufficiency in infancy. There was no report of gonadal germ cell cancer and rare reports of germ cell neoplasia in situ in adolescents, especially with intraabdominal gonads. Two‐thirds of LCAH probands were East‐Asian and 11/16 regional recurrent variants were from East Asia. There was minimal overlap between variants in Groups A (n = 55), B (n = 9) and C (n = 8). All nonsense and frameshift and most of the splice‐site variants and deletion/insertions were present in Group A. Conclusions: We report three new cases of LCAH from India. We propose a phenotype‐derived genotypic classification of reported STAR variants in 46,XY LCAH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Cross-sectional study to assess the level of Parental stress and coping strategies among Mothers attending Postnatal Areas of GMCH Sector-32, Chandigarh was carried out in full compliance with ethical standards provided by the Research and Ethical committee of GMCH-32, Chandigarh. The approval was taken to conduct research from the committee of the institution. The objectives of the study were to assess the level of Parental stress among Mothers attending Postnatal Areas of GMCH Sector-32, Chandigarh, to assess the coping strategies of Mothers attending Postnatal Areas of GMCH Sector-32, Chandigarh, To find out the association of Parental stress with selected socio-demographic variables. Data was collected by using parental stress scale and self-efficacy scale from 100 study subjects from Postnatal Areas (labour room, postnatal ward and immunization).The sampling technique used was convenience sampling . The study concluded that 55% of the mothers were suffering from moderate stress, 19% were having severe stress and 26% mothers were having mild stress.16% mothers were having low level coping, 60% were having medium level coping and 24% mothers had high level of coping. Thus moderate amount of stress and medium level of coping were found to be more in Postnatal mothers. Association between parental stress and gravida of mother was found to be significant with p value =0.05 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucocorticoid resistance syndrome is a rare disorder with no genetically proven cases reported from India; in addition, there are no descriptions available regarding its management during pregnancy. A 27-year-old woman, hypertensive since the age of 17 years, presented with hypokalemic paresis. She reported regular menses and acne. On investigation, she had elevated serum cortisol that remained unsuppressed after a low-dose dexamethasone suppression test. Genetic analysis revealed a novel, homozygous missense variant in exon 5 of the NR3C1 gene confirming glucocorticoid resistance syndrome. She was managed with oral dexamethasone followed by tapering of antihypertensive drugs. A year later, she conceived with assisted reproductive techniques when dexamethasone was replaced with prednisolone, necessitating the reintroduction of antihypertensive drugs to maintain normotension and potassium supplements to manage hypokalemia. She presented with acute abdomen at 36 weeks of gestation; evaluation revealed right adrenal hemorrhage, which was managed conservatively. Postpartum, the right adrenal lesion reduced in size and an underlying right adrenal myelolipoma was unveiled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Fanconi renotubular syndromes (FRTS) are a rare group of inherited phosphaturic disorders with limited Indian as well as global data on this condition. Here, we describe the experience of a single Endocrinology center from Western India on FRTS. Materials and methods: Comprehensive clinical, biochemical, radiological, management, and genetic details of FRTS patients managed between 2010 and 2023 were collected and analyzed. Results: FRTS probands had mutations (eight novel) in six genes [CLCN5 (n = 4), SLC2A2 (n = 2), GATM, EHHADH, HNF4A, and OCRL (1 each)]. Among 15 FRTS patients (11 families), rickets/osteomalacia was the most common (n = 14) presentation with wide inter- and intra-familial phenotypic variability. Delayed diagnosis (median: 8.8 years), initial misdiagnosis (8/11 probands), and syndrome-specific discriminatory features (8/11 probands) were commonly seen. Hypophosphatemia, elevated alkaline phosphatase, normal parathyroid hormone (median: 36 pg/ml), high-normal/elevated 1,25(OH)2D (median: 152 pg/ml), hypercalciuria (median spot urinary calcium to creatinine ratio: 0.32), and variable proximal tubular dysfunction(s) were observed. Elevated C-terminal fibroblast growth factor 23 in two probands was misleading, till the genetic diagnosis was reached. Novel observations in our FRTS cohort were preserved renal function (till sixth decade) and enthesopathy in FRTS1 and FRTS3 families, respectively. Conclusion: Our findings underscore frequent under- and misdiagnosis of FRTS; hence, a high index of suspicion for FRTS in phosphopenic rickets/osteomalacia, with early consideration of genetic testing is essential to ensure timely diagnosis of FRTS. The novel variants and phenotypic manifestations described here expand the disease spectrum of FRTS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Management of trauma patients includes prevention, prehospital care, appropriate resuscitation at a hospital, definitive treatment, and rehabilitation. Timely and adequate care for a trauma patient is paramount, which can dramatically impact survival. This study was planned to assess the proportion of patients who failed to receive adequate prehospital care before reaching our institute. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in the trauma and emergency department of a level-1 trauma center in eastern India from February to April 2022. The demographic profile, vital parameters, injury, mode of transport, travel duration, referring hospital, and any interventions as per airway/breathing/circulation/hypothermia were collected. Results: The records of a hundred-two patients who were brought to the trauma and emergency department in the study period were reviewed. Road traffic accident involving two wheelers was the leading cause of injury. Eighty-three percent of the patients were referred from other health centers, of which 49 were referred from district headquarters hospitals. Only three patients out of 14 had been provided with an oropharyngeal airway for whom endotracheal intubation was indicated. Only one among the 41 patients needing Philadelphia collar actually received. Sixteen patients were provided supplemental oxygen out of the 35 for whom it was indicated. Out of 68 patients in whom intravenous cannulation and fluid administration were indicated, only 35 patients had received it. Out of 31 patients with fractures, none were provided immobilization. Conclusion: The care of the trauma patients with respect to airway, breathing, circulation, and fracture immobilization was found to be grossly inadequate, emphasizing the need of structured and protocol based prehospital trauma care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We aim to report the natural course of non-center involving diabetic macular edema (NCIDME) progression to center involving diabetic macular edema (CIDME) and associated risk factors. Methods: This is a multicenter retrospective comparative study. Data was collected from electronic medical records from 8 centers in India covering. We included patients with type 2 diabetes above 18 years of age with treatment-naïve NCIDME on OCT and best-corrected visual acuity at baseline of 6/12 or better who were under observation for NCIDME and had 2 years follow-up data. Results: Out of 72 patients with NCIDME, 26.38% patients progressed to CI DME by 2 years, and the visit wise proportion was 11.11% at 6 months, 7% at 1st year and 8.3% at 2 years. The change in CST was statistically significant at 2 years in patients who developed CIDME, the mean difference was 137.73 ± 48.56 microns p = 0.045. Duration of diabetes mellitus > 10 years was the only risk factor for conversion to CIDME. Conclusion: A quarter of eyes with NCIDME developed CIDME and 15% progressed from NPDR to PDR by 2 years, highlighting the disease burden in these patients with NCIDME. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hereditary hypophosphatemic rickets with hypercalciuria (HHRH) is a rare disorder of phosphate homeostasis. We describe a single-center experience of genetically proven HHRH families and perform systematic review phenotype-genotype correlation in reported biallelic probands and their monoallelic relatives. Detailed clinical, biochemical, radiological, and genetic data were retrieved from our center and a systematic review of Pub-Med and Embase databases for patients and relatives who were genetically proven. Total of nine subjects (probands:5) carrying biallelic SLC34A3 mutations (novel:2) from our center had a spectrum from rickets/osteomalacia to normal BMD, with hypophosphatemia and hypercalciuria in all. We describe the first case of genetically proven HHRH with enthesopathy. Elevated FGF23 in another patient with hypophosphatemia, iron deficiency anemia, and noncirrhotic periportal fibrosis led to initial misdiagnosis as tumoral osteomalacia. On systematic review of 58 probands (with biallelic SLC34A3 mutations; 35 males), early-onset HHRH and renal calcification were present in ~ 70% and late-onset HHRH in 10%. c.575C > T p.(Ser192Leu) variant occurred in 53% of probands without skeletal involvement. Among 110 relatives harboring monoallelic SLC34A3 mutation at median age 38 years, renal calcification, hypophosphatemia, high 1,25(OH)2D, and hypercalciuria were observed in ~30%, 22.3%, 40%, and 38.8%, respectively. Renal calcifications correlated with age but were similar across truncating and non-truncating variants. Although most relatives were asymptomatic for bone involvement, 6/12(50%) had low bone mineral density. We describe the first monocentric HHRH case series from India with varied phenotypes. In a systematic review, frequent renal calcifications and low BMD in relatives with monoallelic variants (HHRH trait) merit identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emerging economies are moving toward electric vehicles (EVs), which are much sustainable means of transportation. However, many social, economic, and technological blockades of EV mobility remain to be addressed. The study investigates social, economic, and technological blockades for e‐mobility in an emerging economy and simultaneously concentrating on their existing and future business implications. Identification of e‐mobility blockades is obtained through literature review and consensus of the experts. Kappa analysis is used to strain the priority map of the mentioned blockades on the basis of developing consensus among experts. Thereafter, a multi criteria decision making approach that is, best‐worst method is adopted to rank the identified potential blockades. The study models the social, economic, and technological blockades of EV mobility in context of emerging economy. To cater blockades in a desired sequence, the study further suggests the ranking sequence of blockades to enhance e‐mobility toward sustainable development. The findings from the study reveals that "costs associated with EVs and "the lack of government policies, standards, and regulations" are the most important blockades to sustainable EV adoption. Thus, the organizations and the Government need to find ways to reduce the cost of EVs and simultaneously should plan and develop policies to enhance EV adoption and to reduce the usage of gasoline vehicles. The third most important blockade that is, "low demand due to undetermined sustainable benefits" indicates that there is an urgent need to spread awareness among the consumers about the sustainable benefits for the adoption of EVs. Further, the sensitivity analysis reveals that sensitivity range for weightage of the group of academicians lies between 0.3 and 0.7 on a scale of 1. If more weightage is provided to the practical scenario, it is discovered that "location of charging station (BEV4)" is more important than "lack of flexible distribution network (BEV2)" to enhance the amount of EV adoption in India. The study provides insights to practitioners dealing with e‐mobility in emerging economies, showing the appropriate sequence of the blockades to help them build up strategies to mitigate these blockades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eragrostris shrirangii (Poaceae), a new species from the Agra district of Uttar Pradesh, India, is described and illustrated. A morphological comparison of E. shrirangii and the closely related species E. henryi and E. minor is provided. In addition, habitat details, a distribution map and the conservation status of the new species are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An east–west‐trending medium‐grained mafic sill containing co‐genetic Fe–Ti oxide ore lenses is found disposed within granite gneisses around Saltora‐Mejia area in the eastern part of the Chotanagpur Granite Gneissic Complex (CGGC) of eastern India. CGGC is considered as a Proterozoic mobile belt as it witnessed multiple phases of deformation and high‐ grade metamorphism during 1.8–0.8 Ga. Occurrence of such Fe–Ti oxide ore‐bearing mafic sill is unique in the entire CGGC which is a vast Proterozoic orogenic belt and has witnessed many phases of voluminous mafic and felsic magmatisms. The mafic rock is of gabbronorite composition which contains plagioclase, clinopyroxene, orthopyroxene as major constituent primary minerals and amphibole as late magmatic mineral. The rock shows sub‐ophitic, intergranular, mosaic and poikilitic texture (defined by larger pargasitic grain). The gabbronorite shows iron enriched tholeiitic character, low Mg#, low abundances of Ni and Cr, slight enrichment in LILE, LREE and slight depletion in HFSE like Nb and Ti. The computed melt in equilibrium with the studied gabbronorite shows transitional orogenic to anorogenic, within‐plate and E‐MORB‐like geochemical character. In this study, the U–Pb zircon crystallization age (~960 Ma) of the Saltora‐Mejia gabbronorite is reported for the first time which coincides with the late tectonic stage of the most pervasive orogenic activity in the CGGC around 1.2–0.9 Ga. Transitional orogenic to anorogenic geochemical character, late tectonic evolution and other field and laboratory evidences together suggest evolution of the Saltora‐Mejia gabbronorite sill in a late tectonic extensional environment which might have been facilitated by delamination of a subducted plate and upwelling of asthenospheric mantle during the waning stage of a major orogeny in the CGGC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bisphosphonates, synthetic analogs of endogenous pyrophosphates, are pivotal in managing various bone disorders, primarily osteoporosis, which affects millions globally. While osteoporosis, especially postmenopausal osteoporosis, significantly benefits from bisphosphonate therapy, considerations arise regarding their administration and potential side effects. Clinical application of Bisphosphonates: Bisphosphonates, divided into nitrogen-containing and non-nitrogenous groups, exert their influence through distinct mechanisms, with the former being notably more potent. The role of bisphosphonates in other diseases, such as Paget's bone and skeletal metastasis disease is also discussed. Detailed information on the administration routes, dosage regimens, and considerations for drug holidays is provided. The article navigates through the chemical structure, generations, and mechanism of action of bisphosphonates. The article covers administration routes, dosage regimens, and drug holidays, in addition to discussing potential adverse effects and contraindications. Conclusions: Bisphosphonates hold an unrivaled legacy in the management of osteoporosis. The ubiquitous availability and the cost-effectiveness of these time-tested medications make them an invaluable asset in the osteoporosis treatment landscape, especially in developing nations like India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Earlier biomarkers of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) treatment outcomes are critical to monitor shortened anti-TB treatment (ATT). Objectives: To identify early microbiologic markers of unfavorable TB treatment outcomes. Methods: We performed a subanalysis of 2 prospective TB cohort studies conducted from 2013 to 2019 in India. We included participants aged ≥18 years who initiated 6-month ATT for clinically or microbiologically diagnosed drug-sensitive PTB and completed at least one follow-up visit. Sputum specimens were subjected to a baseline Xpert Mycobacterium tuberculosis/rifampin (MTB/RIF) assay, acid-fast bacilli (AFB) microscopy and liquid and solid cultures, and serial AFB microscopy and liquid and solid cultures at weeks 2, 4, and 8. Poisson regression was used to assess the impact of available microbiologic markers (test positivity, smear grade, time to detection, and time to conversion) on a composite outcome of failure, recurrence, or death by 18 months after the end of treatment. Models were adjusted for age, sex, nutritional status, diabetes, smoking, alcohol consumption, and regimen type. Results: Among 1,098 eligible cases, there were 251 (22%) adverse TB treatment outcomes: 127 (51%) treatment failures, 73 (29%) recurrences, and 51 (20%) deaths. The primary outcome was independently associated with the Xpert MTB/RIF assay (medium-positive adjusted incidence rate ratio [aIRR], 1.91; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.07-3.40; high-positive aIRR, 2.51; 95% CI, 1.41-4.46), positive AFB smear (aIRR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.06-2.06), and positive liquid culture (aIRR, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.21-3.23) at baseline; Week 2 positive liquid culture (aIRR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.04-2.09); and Week 8 positive AFB smear (aIRR, 1.63; 95% CI, 1.06-2.50) and positive liquid culture (aIRR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.07-2.22). There was no evidence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis growth in the Mycobacterium Growth Indicator Tube at Week 4 conferring a higher risk of adverse outcomes (aIRR, 1.25; 95% CI, 0.89-1.75). Conclusions: Our analysis identifies Week 2 respiratory mycobacterial culture as the earliest microbiologic marker of unfavorable PTB treatment outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skill development has been a major policy agenda of the Indian government in the past few years. This paper sheds light on the current scenario and labour market outcomes of vocationally trained population. The paper is based on data from two recent rounds of nationally representative employment and unemployment survey. The paper shows that 2.4% of the population had vocational education and training in year 2004-2005 and this share has further declined to less than 2% in year 2009-2010, in the age bracket 15-29?years. Though unemployment rate of this group has declined by two percentage points between the two years, nevertheless, the extent of the rate has remained very high. Further, we compare the outcomes between formal and non-formal vocational trainees.

Introduction: In the modern world, owing to rapid urbanisation and changes in lifestyles and dietary habits, obesity has emerged as a leading problem. As a result, various morbid conditions have come into the picture which have severe effects on an individual's life expectancy. Visceral fat plays an important role in causing fatty liver. Aim: To determine the relationship between visceral fat area and liver fat using Computed Tomography (CT). Materials and Methods: A retrospective analytical study was conducted at Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital, and Research Centre Pune, Maharashtra, India. The CT scans of 134 patients who underwent CT scans of the abdomen pelvis and CT KUB/CT IVU between January 2022 and June 2022 were assessed by two experienced body imaging medical doctors. Subjects aged between 18 and 75 years were included without any co-morbidities like diabetes or hypertension. Waist circumference, subcutaneous fat area, and visceral fat area were calculated at the umbilical level. The CT attenuation value was measured in the right hepatic lobe, devoid of focal lesions and vessels, using a standard ROI of approximately 200 mm2. Similarly, as an internal control, splenic attenuation was also recorded. Statistical tests were employed to determine the significance of the obtained values, including Spearman's coefficient and Cohen's criteria. Results: The CT attenuation of the liver (fatty liver) showed a moderate correlation with visceral fat (Spearman's coefficient: 0.329). The association was statistically significant (p-value=0.0001). The CT attenuation of the liver (fatty liver) showed a weak correlation with subcutaneous fat (Spearman's coefficient: -0.269). The association was statistically significant (p-value=0.0016). The CT attenuation of the liver (fatty liver) demonstrated a weak-moderate correlation with waist circumference (Spearman's coefficient: -0.305). The association was statistically significant (p-value=0.0003). Conclusion: Visceral fat area has a stronger correlation with fatty liver than waist circumference and subcutaneous fat. Visceral fat should be considered a risk factor in the development of fatty liver, which may further lead to metabolic syndrome, in order to reduce mortality and morbidity related to it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Autonomic dysfunction (AD) brings up cardiovascular morbidity/mortality and has been reported in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Still, the pattern of AD in CKD is elusive. Aim: To evaluate the distribution of cardiovascular dysautonomia in CKD. Material and Methods: This study was conducted on 33 CKD cases and 30 age and sex matched healthy controls. Five standard autonomic function tests were conducted, namely, heart rate response to Valsalva maneuver, deep breathing, and standing, and BP response to standing and sustained handgrip; based on which the patients were classified as normal, or having early parasympathetic, definite parasympathetic and combined damage. The total autonomic function score was also calculated. Results: All cases belonged to CKD stages of 3, 4, and 5; and came up with autonomic failure. The mean total autonomic function score was higher (P < 0.001) in CKD (5.09 ± 2.33) as compared to the control group (0.97 ± 0.24), using the unpaired "t" test. Most of the CKD patients (45.45%) were involved with combined damage. Of the three stages, combined damage struck stage 5 to the maximum extent (63.63%). Sympathetic failure always co occurred with parasympathetic failure. Conclusion: Combined autonomic failure is more conspicuous in late CKD, predominantly occurring in stage 5. The disease course may contort the parasympathetic system before the sympathetic system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Text Neck Syndrome occurs due to sustained Forward Head Posture (FHP) when smartphones are used constantly without any breaks for more than five hours and with improper posture. Long-term untreated text neck can cause inflammation of the neck's ligaments, muscles, and nerves, leading to chronic arthritic changes. Literature provides studies evaluating the effects of physical or manual therapy, but there is a lack of studies investigating the effects of Instrument-assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation (IASTM) treatment in individuals with text neck syndrome. Aim: To determine the added effect of IASTM on text neck syndrome. Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted at Department of Physiotherapy, Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Physiotherapy, Pune, Maharashtra, India, from August 2022 to December 2022. A total of 22 subjects, with a mean age of 21.58±1.18 years, participated in the study. The subjects were then divided into two treatment groups (n=11 each). The experimental group (Group-A) received stretching, strengthening exercises with IASTM, while the control group (Group-B) received only conventional physical therapy (stretching and strengthening). The treatment was delivered for a twoweek period. The data were analysed using MedCalc statistical software version 20.210. Significance was set at a p-value less than 0.05. For within-group analysis, Wilcoxon's signed-rank or paired t-test was used depending on the normality distribution, and for between-group comparisons, Mann-Whitney tests were used for skewed variables. Results: The pain severity (p-value=0.0063) and neck disability (p-value=0.0008) were significantly lower in the IASTM group than the control group. Additionally, the Craniovertebral Angle (CVA) (p-value=0.0001) significantly increased with IASTM (Group-A) compared to the control group. Conclusion: The study concluded that IASTM and conventional therapy are individually effective in improving pain, disability, and FHP in text neck syndrome. However, adding IASTM to routine physical therapy showed statistically more significant results compared to physical therapy alone in reducing neck pain, disability, and FHP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Myelodysplastic Neoplasms (MDS) are clonal stem cell disorders characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis and progression to acute myeloid leukemia, myelodysplasia-related (AML-MR). A major mechanism of pathogenesis of MDS is the aberration of the epigenetic landscape of the hematopoietic stem cells and/or progenitor cells, especially DNA cytosine methylation, and demethylation. Data on TET2, the predominant DNA demethylator of the hematopoietic system, is limited, particularly in the MDS patients from India, whose biology may differ since these patients present at a relatively younger age. We studied the expression and the variants of TET2 in Indian MDS and AML-MR patients and their effects on 5-hydroxymethyl cytosine (5-hmC, a product of TET2 catalysis) and on the prognosis of MDS patients. Results: Of the 42 MDS patients, cytogenetics was available for 31 sub-categorized according to the Revised International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS-R). Their age resembled that of the previous studies from India. Bone marrow nucleated cells (BMNCs) were also obtained from 13 patients with AML-MR, 26 patients with de-novo AML, and 11 subjects with morphologically normal bone marrow. The patients had a significantly lower TET2 expression which was more pronounced in AML-MR and the IPSS-R higher-risk MDS categories. The 5-hmC levels in higher-risk MDS and AML-MR correlated with TET2 expression, suggesting a possible mechanistic role in the loss of TET2 expression. The findings on TET2 and 5-hmC were also confirmed at the tissue level using immunohistochemistry. Pathogenic variants of TET2 were found in 7 of 24 patient samples (29%), spanning across the IPSS-R prognostic categories. One of the variants – H1778R – was found to affect local and global TET2 structure when studied using structural predictions and molecular dynamics simulations. Thus, it is plausible that some pathogenic variants in TET2 can compromise the structure of TET2 and hence in the formation of 5-hmC. Conclusions: IPSS-R higher-risk MDS categories and AML-MR showed a reduction in TET2 expression, which was not apparent in lower-risk MDS. DNA 5-hmC levels followed a similar pattern. Overall, a decreased TET2 expression and a low DNA 5-hmC level are predictors of advanced disease and adverse outcome in MDS in the population studied, i.e., MDS patients from India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the four scores of social work in India, education in the professional discipline has grown substantially, from being a diploma course to a doctoral degree. The curriculum too has evolved. Though some issues and problems such as inadequate contributions, lacking contextualization, thematic restrictions, etc., sometimes restrain advancements resulting in a narrowly defined curriculum of social work literature in the country. The article discusses social work education and curriculum in the Indian context. It is primarily based on a review of literature of articles and chapters published across various journals and books in India and abroad and discusses social work education and curriculum in India. Attempts have been made to examine the social work curriculum, why it needs to be reassessed, and what new could possibly be added to extend the realm of the discipline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) has mutated over time, affecting its virulence, pathogenicity and disease severity. In December 2019, a new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has emerged causing a disease known as coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The COVID-19 has a broad spectrum of severity ranging from an asymptomatic to a severe acute respiratory syndrome requiring mechanical ventilation. COVID-19 is often more severe in people aged 60 years or more, or those with health conditions like lung or heart disease, diabetes, or conditions that affect the immune system including kidney transplant recipients. In this case series, we presented our experience with 17 kidney transplant recipients who had COVID-19 infection. In India, COVID-19 peaked twice: once between August and November 2020, and again between March and June 2021. Thus, there was paucity of COVID-19 data in kidney transplant recipients in India during these times. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Our case series constituted a retrospective observational study involving 17 kidney transplant recipients who experienced COVID-19 infection from November 2020 to September 2021 at a solitary tertiary care center in Pune. Within our institution, the nephrology team assessed kidney transplant recipients with COVID-19 for appropriate immunosuppression dosing, renal drug clearance when deemed necessary, and overall well-being. Treatment for COVID-19 adhered to institutional protocols. RESULTS: In our case series, majority of the patients (n=13) had COVID-19 in March 2021 to July 2021 and the commonest presenting symptoms were fever and cough. Out of 17 kidney transplant recipients included in this case series, 13 patients survived while 4 patients succumbed to infection. CONCLUSION: An individualized, case-based approach to managing transplant recipients with COVID-19 is crucial for achieving favorable clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the rare but a common symptom of some genetic diseases presenting in Pediatric age group is silvery hair. These disorders termed as "silvery hair syndrome" consist of Griscelli syndrome (GS), Chediak-Higashi syndrome (CHS) and Elejalde disease. Among these syndromes primary immunodeficiency is present only in CHS and GS type II. CHS which is characterized by severe defect in phagocytic function leading to recurrent infections with pyogenic organism, silver blond hair, partial oculocutaneous albinism, progressive motor or sensory neurologic defects and bleeding tendencies is a rare autosomal recessive defect. Griscelli syndrome 2 is also a rare disorder with autosomal recessive inheritance associated with dilution of pigments in skin, hair, splenohepatomegaly, immune and neurological dysfunction and pancytopenia. Because of overlapping clinical presentation, they closely mimic each other. Hence here we are focusing on differentiating these two disorders and highlighting the diagnostic dilemma. We report two cases which were referred to our tertiary care center of central India with varied clinical manifestations and complications, sharing a common feature of silvery hair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Pakkanadu carbonatite-alkaline complex (PCAC) is one of the nine carbonatite-alkaline complexes, situated along the NE-SW trending Dhramapuri Rift Zone in Southern Granulite Terrain in South India. This oval-shaped intrusion comprises of syenite–carbonatite–dunite–pyroxenite association. The carbonatites of this deformed complex are dominated by calcite carbonatite over dolomite carbonatite and ankerite. The present study mainly focuses on identifying evidence of rare-earth element (REE) remobilization and enrichment based on petrography, mineral chemistry and whole-rock geochemistry of the PCAC carbonatites and associated rocks. Chief rare-earth and rare metal bearing minerals in these rocks include monazite-(Ce), allanite-(Ce), chevkinite-(Ce), pyrochlore, besides strontianite and barite. Geochemically, the studied carbonatites and fenites have enriched, but variable Ba (5300–236,900 ppm), Sr (4360–98,700 ppm), La (84–11,500 ppm), Ce (155–17,200 ppm) and Nd (55–3000 ppm), and Sr/Ba (0.06–3.23) molar ratio. The ΣREE range from 3508 to 32,300 ppm, dominantly contributed by light rare-earth elements (LREE). Presence of a component geochemically similar to benstonite carbonatite is reported during the present study. Geochemically the studied rocks are characterised by enrichment of LREE and elevated concentrations of incompatible, with positive spikes Ba, Sr and strong depletion of Nb, Ta, Ti, Zr and P in primitive mantle-normalized spider diagram. Besides these characters, the presence of phlogopite, amphibole, early magmatic monazite-group minerals and fluorapatite in the Pakkanadu carbonatites indicate that the initial carbonatite magma was enriched in REE, and generated by a low degree of partial melting of a metasomatised fertile mantle in intra-plate rift setting. In addition, low Nb/Y ratio (≤ 1.0), Zr/Sm (up to 6.4) and Hf/Sm (up to 0.12), very high Ba content is indicative of fluid-related metasomatism. The textural relations and mineral chemistry of REE-bearing mineral phases indicate that carbo-hydrothermal processes resulted in remobilization and enrichment of REE. All these factors point towards REE fertility in the PCAC carbonatites and associated fenites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To what extent has chronic poverty increased during the pandemic? In July and August 2021, we revisited seven villages of southern Rajasthan (India), where we had studied household poverty dynamics in 2002. We find that in the two decades before the pandemic (2002–2020), people's structural positions improved vastly, chronic poverty fell from nearly half to less than 20% of households. These gains in resilience helped people cope with the pandemic. The majority suffered deep income losses between February 2020 and August 2021, but there is no evidence of any substantive rise in chronic poverty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Turmeric, known as “The golden spice” in India, is prized for its curcumin pigment, offering various uses as a food preservative, spice, and coloring agent. Its medicinal potential is gaining global recognition. A total of 24 turmeric genotypes were evaluated at Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Station, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat. Significant genetic diversity among the genotypes was revealed through multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). Discriminant function analysis and selection indices were employed to improve grain yield and other important traits in turmeric. The results showed that selecting multiple traits simultaneously through a selection index yields higher genetic gain compared to selecting single traits. The comparison of selection efficiency for different trait combinations demonstrated an increase in selection efficiency with an increasing number of traits. The highest selection efficiency was observed when all six attributes were considered. The study identified the most effective four trait combination, comprising curing percentage, leaf oil percentage, rhizome oil percentage and fresh rhizome yield per plant, for enhancing grain yield in turmeric. The best-performing genotype, ATG-17, showed promise for future breeding activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the change in life style after covid-19 there is demand for non-invasive contact less healthcare monitoring systems. In India oral cancer rate are increasing and becoming the community health issue with high mortality rate. Mortality rate can be reduced by identification of disease at initial stages. The major hindrance in disease identification is availability of dedicated hardware at remote and identification at initial stage. Research is going on to make the device portable and less costly using digital images. Also, research is going on to have hybrid algorithm which can segment smaller area abnormal area and classify reliably. This paper focuses on tongue cancer which is one of the types of oral cancer and presents comparison of hybrid algorithm using firefly and watershed transformation to segment smaller area using digital images which reduces cost of dedicated hardware required. 150 digital images are used which are available on internet or provided by cancer hospital for analysis and classification using CNN along with augmentation. 90.48% accuracy is achieved and desirable results are obtained using hybrid algorithm being used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides an overview of vocational education and training (VET) system in India, and discusses various challenges and difficulties in the Indian VET system. The paper also examines labour market outcomes of vocational graduates and compares these with those of general secondary graduates using a large-scale nationally representative household survey. We find quite a high rate of unemployment (11%) for VET holders in the age group 15-29 years. Although unemployment rate of VET holders is higher than the overall unemployment rate in the same age group, the rate is lower than that for general secondary graduates. We show that average daily wages are higher, both for regular and casual workers, for VET holders. There has been a considerable increase in the number of Industrial Training Institutes/Centres in the last decades, but the coverage of the system is disparate in terms of institutes' vis-a-vis states. (Contains 38 notes, 13 tables and 1 figure.)

This essay is a multi-authored text by the creator and the six performer-writers of The Lonely Hearts Club--an erotica performance made in India during the pandemic. The Lonely Hearts Club initially unfolded on Instagram, and subsequently on Zoom as a digital show. The text below documents the collaborative spirit with which the show was realised. Rather than a singular authorial voice, here multiple perspectives with varied registers share their experience, process, and trepidation of making an online erotica show. This erotica does not cater to the hetero-normative gaze, but lies in-between and on the periphery--queer stories, feminist narratives and intimate chronicles in regional Indian languages. The essay is framed as a series of reflections, along with excerpts from the original performance texts, to offer a flavour of the language, artistic choices, and impulses. This recounting offers an insight into a documentary theatre making process in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]