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Introduction: Researches had shown that Men who have sex with men (MSM) have higher chances of having psychiatric disorder as compared to heterosexual men. Ongoing homophobia, stigma and discrimination have negative effects on mental health of MSM. Many MSM do not seek care from mental health provider because of fear of discrimination Objectives: This study was carried out to assess psychiatric health problem among MSM and also assess their health seeking behavior. Method: The Snowball sampling technique was used. First participants were recruited through a non-profit peer group. Further participants were subsequently referred by participants from their peer circles. Data obtained from total 52 MSM using pretested questionnaire and General health questionnaire (GHQ-28) was analyzed using MS Excel. Results: Two-fifth (40.38%) of MSM had self-reported psychiatric health problem. While on GHQ, 57.69% of MSM were found to have psychiatric health problem with GHQ score of ≥24. MSM who were completely homosexual and who were victims/doer of violence with sex partners had significantly higher chances of having psychiatric health problem.57.15% MSM sought treatment for their psychiatric problem from an Allopathic doctor. Rest of them either went for a self treatment (28.57%) or not taken any treatment (14.28%). 75% MSM reportedly sought treatment from private health facility. Better facility, cost effectiveness, someone known recommended were most commonly cited reason for preferring a mental health provider. Conclusion: High prevalence of psychiatric health problems was found among MSM who engage in higher-risk sexual behavior. MSM require access to mental health screening services.

Background: Men who have sex with men (MSM) refer to all males (of any age) who engage in sexual relations with other males. The gross stigmatization and discrimination of homosexuals have affected the life and health of MSM. Aims & objective: To get an insight on circumstances of initiation and continuation of same sex behavior among MSM. Material & Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in MSM population in Agra district in India. Audio recorded in-depth interviews were transcribed into verbatim. Potential themes were extracted as a part of analysis as per relevant experiences of the participants. Data saturation achieved after 13 In-depth interviews. Results: The initiation of same sex behavior among MSM was at a young age and was mostly without their consent. Almost all participants were below the legal age of giving consent for sex and their first homosexual partner was a familiar, elderly in position of authority. They played a passive role in their initial sexual encounter and none of them was able to discuss it freely with their family members or friends. They mostly felt depressed after their first homosexual encounter. They had continued this sexual behavior as they have accepted their attraction towards same sex. Conclusion: There is a need to include concepts of sexuality in education curriculum and sensitize parents also and counseling of those exposed to homosexuality at a tender age is imperative.

Nilamadhab Mohanty, Different Colours: Reflections of a Civil Servant. Haranand Publications, 220 pp., ₹600.00 (Paperback). ISBN: 978-93-88409-48-3.

Background: Neonatal health remains a thrust area of public health, and an increased out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) may hamper efforts toward universal health coverage. Public spending on health remains low and insurance schemes few, thereby forcing impoverishment upon individuals already close to poverty line. Objective: To determine catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) in neonates admitted to the government neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and factors associated with of out-of-pocket expenditure. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in a governmental NICU at Agra from May 2017 to April 2018. A sample of 450 neonatal admissions was studied. Respondents were interviewed for required data. OOPE included costs at NICU, intervening health facilities, and transport as well. SPSS version (23.0 Trial) and Epi Info were used for analysis. Results: Of the 450 neonates analyzed, the median total OOPE was Rs. 3000. CHE was found among 55.8% of cases with 22% spending more than their household monthly income. On binary logistic regression, a higher total OOPE of Rs. 3000 or more was found to be significantly associated with higher odds of residing outside Agra (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.829), delay in first cry (AOR = 1.623), referral points ≥3 (AOR = 3.449), private sector as first referral (AOR = 2.476), and when treatment was accorded during transport (AOR = 1.972). Conclusions: OOPE on neonates amounts to a substantial figure and is more than the country average. This needs to be addressed sufficiently and comprehensively through government schemes, private enterprises, and public–private partnerships.

High energy 60Co γ-radiation was used to graft glycidylmethacrylate onto Teflon scrap through mutual radiation grafting technique. The epoxy ring of grafted polyGMA chains were later converted to U selective phosphoryl group, chemically. The grafted matrix was used as solid–liquid adsorbent of uranium from alkaline waste solution. More than 98% recovery of uranium from alkaline waste (~pH 8) solution was achieved. The effect of grafting extent on adsorption kinetics was also investigated. The selectivity of uranium extraction over other fission products was established. The uptake of other fission products was

A survey was conducted to determine current consumer attitudes toward irradiation. The mailed questionnaire was designed to be self-administered. Results were obtained from responses of 54% of 918 questionnaires mailed out to consumers in the metro-Atlanta area. Results indicated that 72% of consumers are aware of irradiation and, among these, 87.5% indicated that they have heard about irradiation but do not really know that much about it. Over 30% of consumers believe that irradiated food is radioactive. Consumers are less concerned about irradiation than they are about food additives, pesticide residues, animal drug residues, growth hormones, and bacteria. The risk to workers and environmental issues are among the top concerns regarding irradiation. The percentage of consumers who would buy irradiated food is 45%; 19% would not buy it, and others are undecided. Results indicate that a more favorable response will be observed when a choice of irradiated poultry, meats, and seafood is offered.

A One pot four-component domino reactions were developed for the synthesis of 5-methyl-4-(2-(3-methyl-4-nitroisoxazol-5-yl)-1-arylethyl)-1H-pyrazol-3-ols derivatives in excellent yield from hydrazine hydrate (1), ethyl acetoacetate (2), aldehyde (3) and 3,5-dimethyl-4-nitro-isoxazole (4) using 10 mol% of piperidine. This method is simple, efficient and multiple bonds were generated (two C−C, one C−N, one O−H and one C=N) in a single step. These novel 5-methyl-4-(2-(3-methyl-4-nitroisoxazol-5-yl)-1-arylethyl)-1H-pyrazol-3-ol derivatives are evaluated as anti-bacterial agents.

Background: Internet has become an essential part of one’s life in this modern era where technology is taking over the world. Risk of Internet addiction (IA) has increased in this year 2020, due to Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, where most of time students are restricted to their homes thus relying on social media to be in touch with outer world, moreover surfing of web, as well as online learning practices increased their screen and internet exposure time. Hence, we conducted a study to assess internet addiction among medical undergraduate students of Government Medical College in Agra.Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 600 medical undergraduate students of S.N. Medical College, Agra. A self-administered, pre-validated questionnaire was used and a total of 488 students responded. E-questionnaire consist of questions about demographic information and internet usage pattern, it also contains Young’s IA test scale to measure internet addiction. Data obtained was analyzed and inferences were drawn.Results: The prevalence of IA was 61.5%. Mean ± Standard deviation (SD) age of the participants was 22.27±1.59 years and 48.36% were males. IA was significantly associated with male students, higher family income group and higher year of academic course. IA was also statistically significant with higher number of years since using internet, greater screen and internet usage time.Conclusion: Internet addiction is a growing problem among students of professional courses especially in medical colleges. IA has psychological, physical, and social impact on student’s life. So, it is necessary to develop strategies for prevention of internet addiction.

Background: In India, after decriminalization of homosexuality, men who have sex with men (MSM) emerged as legal community but still one of the most stigmatized section of society. their health needs are distinct due to their distinct behaviour. To achieve ‘Universal health coverage’, this group health needs must be addressed as they had been living in shackles of exclusion.Methods: This mixed method study was conducted in men who have sex with men (MSM) population in Agra district of India. For qualitative part, Audio recorded in-depth interviews were transcribed into verbatim. Potential themes were extracted as a part of analysis as per respondents’ experiences. Data saturation was achieved after 13 IDIs. For quantitative assessment, the snowball technique for sampling was used. First participants were recruited through a non-profit peer group. Further participants were subsequently referred by the participants from their peer circles.Results: Easy /low cost availability of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing (32.69%) was foremost cited health need. 26.92% of respondents were unable to tell anything about their health need. 25% of respondents told to increase the number of MSM friendly STD clinics. 15.38% of respondents think that doctor should be taught not to discriminate with MSM and 5.76% asked for psychiatric and medical counselling for MSM. Similarly, qualitative findings highlighted need of non-judgemental and discrimination free health facilities and also suggested MSM inclusive STD centres and psychiatric counselling.Conclusions: The main implication of this study was need to recognize the existence and their diverse health needs and link them to appropriate health care.

Background: Chronic non-communicable diseases (NCD) are increasing among the adult population in both developed and developing countries, resulting diabetes, cardiovascular diseases with high morbidity and mortality. Due to increase in life expectancy and change in life style and behavior of people and clustering of metabolic abnormalities in individuals leads to development of metabolic syndrome. To estimate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and their associated risks factors belonging the age group of 18 years and above of urban Agra population. Methods: Cross sectional study was carried out among 18 years and above age group of urban population of Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. A multi stage simple random sampling technique is used to reach the subjects. Results: Prevalence of metabolic syndrome was found 37.1% in study subjects, more common in females (65.9%). The metabolic syndrome was also found higher in the educated group between class 8 to class 12 and among socio economic status III. Higher risk showed by serum triglyceride component of metabolic syndrome among study group. Conclusions: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in female study population is higher as compared to the male study population in every selected bio social characteristics.

Background: Fertility is only way for biological replacement of human being in order to continue its existence on earth. The fertility behavior of any population is influenced by various factors. Objective of the study is to study the fertility perception and behavior among urban women in Agra and understand the social factors on perception of women regarding fertility behavior among study group women. Methods: Community based, Cross-sectional study was done among 280 married women of reproductive age group residing in Agra City, using a standardized questionnaire to assess their fertility perception and behavior. Results: Mean age of marriage was 19.01 years. About 70% of women married before the age of 20. Mean gap between marriage and first child was 1.57 years. The mean least birth interval was 1.61 years. Less than one third of women desired for more than two children. Level of education, transition from lower to high SE status, significantly shifts the preferred family size. Conclusion: Majority of women considered appropriate age of marriage 18 year and above, gap between marriage and first child two years and above, wishes for two child norm. However, two third had confessed the necessity of mail child. Level of education and working status of women had positively effect.

Detailed EPR investigations on as-grown and annealed TiO2 nanoparticles in the anatase and rutile phases were carried out at X-band (9.6 GHz) at 77, 120–300 K and at 236 GHz at 292 K. The analysis of EPR data for as-grown and annealed anatase and rutile samples revealed the presence of several paramagnetic centers: Ti3+, O−, adsorbed oxygen (O2−) and oxygen vacancies. On the other hand, in as-grown rutile samples, there were observed EPR lines due to adsorbed oxygen (O2−) and the Fe3+ ions in both Ti4+ substitutional positions, with and without coupling to an oxygen vacancy in the near neighborhood. Anatase nanoparticles were completely converted to rutile phase when annealed at 1000° C, exhibiting EPR spectra similar to those exhibited by the as-grown rutile nanoparticles. The high-frequency (236 GHz) EPR data on anatase and rutile samples, recorded in the region about g = 2.0 exhibit resolved EPR lines, due to O− and O2− ions enabling determination of their g-values with higher precision, as well as observation of hyperfine sextets due to Mn2+ and Mn4+ ions in anatase.

The study of fish diversity of the river Pilasalunki situated in Phulbani distict, Odisha was attempted during 2012. A total of 23 fish species belonging to 9 families were recorded. Out of the recorded species, 35 per cent are enlisted as vulnerable, 52 per cent as lower risk near threatened category. Maximum number of fish species were collected from slow flow site (31.6%) followed by silty sand beds (17.6%), deep water zone (15.8%), gravel habitat (15.8%), fast flow zone(10.5%) and least in shallow water zone. Shannon diversity index (H') fluctuated from 0.29 to 0.93, Simpson dominance index ranged from 0.14 to 0.52 and Margalef richness fluctuated from 1.38 to 9.65. Bray Curtis cluster analysis recorded 100 per cent similarities within Wallago attu, Labeo dyochilusand Nemacheilus botia (sub cluster-I), Puntius sarana, P. Sophore,and Mystus cavasius (sub cluster-II), Glosogobius giurisand Mastacembalus armatus (sub cluster-III). Correspondence analysis indicated Nemacheilus botia, Labeo dyochilus, Heteropneustes fossilis, Wallago attu, Cirrhinus reba, Glosogobius giuris, Mastacembalus armatus and Mystus cavasius, Channa gachua, Puntius sophoreand Puntius sarana congregated distantly from origin suggesting their stock enhancement through conservation measures.

With the view point of recovery of pure solvent components from degraded PUREX (Plutonium URanium Extraction) solvent, comprising of mixture of 30% TBP–HDBP-n-dodecane, three homologues of room temperature ionic liquids (CnmimCl, n = 4, 6, 8) have been investigated in batch equilibration mode (liquid–liquid extraction). While lower homologues of RTIL (C4 and C6) could effectively separate out HDBP from pure TBP–HDBP-n-dodecane mixture, the higher homologue C8mimCl could quantitatively remove TBP and HDBP together leaving behind pure n-dodecane as organic phase. Efficacy of RTIL solutions have also been studied as a function of RTIL concentration, composition of various components in organic mixture, kinetics of extraction, etc. These ionic liquids were found to retain their efficacy even after five cycles of operation after their regeneration. Studies from actual degraded solvent showed that C8mimCl could remove HDBP quantitatively and TBP (∼45% of the initial concentration) whereas C6mimCl and C4mimCl showed very little extraction even for HDBP. The mechanism of extraction was found to be formation of micelles and ion-pair formation.

Background: HIV/AIDS remains a significant global public health problem. With approximately 56% HIV patients in India receiving treatment, adherence to drugs is a crucial element for successful management. Sustainable development goals, National Strategic plan for HIV/AIDS and STI (2017-24) and 90-90-90 target pushing towards ending of AIDS epidemic require adequate adherence and this research estimates the adherence, associated factors and reasons for non-compliance.Methods: This analytical cross sectional study was undertaken on 160 HIV patients from an ART Centre. A pre-structured, pilot tested, face validated questionnaire was used and data collected by face to face interviews, through random selection of participants from outpatient department register. Data was analysed using Epi Info software and chi squared test applied.Results: Of the 160 study subjects, 86.8% remained adherent to the treatment with forgetfulness (71.4%) being the most common cause for non-adherence. Statistically significant treatment adherence was observed to be associated with socio-economic status (p=0.021) and period elapsed since diagnosis (p=0.041).Conclusions: Improving adherence to drug therapy through intensive counselling, streamlined drug supply and increased family participation would go a long way in reducing the menace of HIV.

Background: Hypertension once considered a problem of adults only in the high income countries, now dramatically is on the rise in low and middle income countries. An established predictor of adult hypertension and organ damage is childhood hypertension. Thus for the control, effective treatment and prevention of its complications, early diagnosis of hypertension in adolescents in an important strategy. The objective was to study the blood pressure profile and its socio-demographic determinants among school going adolescents in urban Agra.Methods: A cross-sectional survey was done among 534 adolescent in age group of 13-18 years studying in various government and private schools in urban Agra. Socio demographic details, anthropometric measurements and family history of hypertension were obtained. Also the dietary habits, physical activity, mode of transport to school were included in the present study. Blood pressure was measured at 0 and 30 minutes and average of two readings was taken as the final reading of that individual.Results: It was found that 49.82% of the study subjects had above normal blood pressure and among them 21.16% were hypertensive and 28.66% had pre-hypertension. Higher blood pressure showed a statistically significant (p

Background: Timely referral and safe transport form a crucial link for the survival and safety of sick newborn. Thus the study aimed at assessing referral and transport of sick neonates admitted to NICU of a tertiary care government hospital and the factors associated with direct referral and safe final transport.Methods: A hospital based cross-sectional study was carried out in among 450 neonates and was based on face to face interview with caregivers. The data was analyzed using proportions and mean values Chi square test of significance and independent t test were appropriately applied and p

A One pot four-component domino reactions were developed for the synthesis of 5-methyl-4-(2-(3-methyl-4-nitroisoxazol-5-yl)-1-arylethyl)-1H-pyrazol-3-ols derivatives in excellent yield from hydrazine hydrate (1), ethyl acetoacetate (2), aldehyde (3) and 3,5-dimethyl-4-nitro-isoxazole (4) using 10 mol% of piperidine. This method is simple, efficient and multiple bonds were generated (two C−C, one C−N, one O−H and one C=N) in a single step. These novel 5-methyl-4-(2-(3-methyl-4-nitroisoxazol-5-yl)-1-arylethyl)-1H-pyrazol-3-ol derivatives are evaluated as anti-bacterial agents.

The amidoximated grafted polypropylene polymer matrix was prepared by post irradiation grafting of acrylonitrile (AN) onto thermally bonded non-woven matrix of poly(propylene) sheet using electron beams. This precursor polymer was reacted with hydroxylamine to convert AN to poly(acrylamidoxime) (AO) groups, and conditioned by treating them with 2.5 % KOH at 80 °C for 1 h. The polymer matrix was having the degree of AN grafting ~106 wt% and its subsequent conversion to AO groups ~70 %. The water uptake capacity of AO polymer matrix were found to be 100 ± 5 % (w/w). Quantitative recovery of uranium from alkaline waste (ammonium diuranate supernatant) solution was achieved by this polymer matrix. The other radionuclides present in the waste solution were not extracted by the polymer matrix. For all other radionuclides, the uptake was found to be

The launch of the Indian Remote Sensing Satellite IRS-P4 (Oceansat-1) has opened up many important applications. Meteorological navigation is one of the new avenues, which was suffering due to the lack of a synoptic wave database. The research in this area was hindered mainly by the unavailability of real-time wind data. Now, it has become feasible to carry out routine wave forecasting. The Multi-frequency Scanning Microwave Radiometer (MSMR) channel of the satellite gives scalar wind information. This is analysed at the National Center for Medium-range Weather Forecast (NCMWF), India and converted to vector wind information. The 6-hourly u-and v-components of wind in a 1.5° grid covering both the north and south Indian Ocean are available to the research community for further application. In the present study the information has been used to force a third generation spectral wave model (WAM). The simulations are performed for the rough weather month of July 1999 for the regional grid system of the Indian Ocean. This simulated wave climate formed the basis for computing effective ship velocity in the irregular seaway. This study gives a quantitative estimation of change in ship velocity in the open Indian Ocean for a tanker. The optimal path is charted using Dijkstra's algorithm for the optimum route voyage from Calcutta to Singapore and vice versa.

ummary A preliminary trial was conducted to study the effect of ruminal lactic acidosis on electrolyte changes in rumen liquor and serum in buffalo calves. Rumen acidosis was induced in four adult buffalo calves by oral feeding of molasses at the rate of 10g/kg body weight. In the rumen liquor a decrease in pH was accompained by a decrease in sodium and potassium and an increase in calcium, magnesium and inorganic phosphorus levels. Serum values of inorganic phosphorus and sodium increased, while calcium, magnesium and potassium concentrations decreased. There was a decrease in the pH of urine which was associated with an increased urinary excretion of inorganic phosphorus. Zusammenfassung Einflus der Milchsaureazidose auf den Elektrolytgehalt im Blut und im Pansensaft von Buffeln Bei Buffeln wurden praliminarische Untersuchungen uber den Einflus der ruminalen Milchsaureazidose auf die Elektrolytveranderungen im Pansensaft und im Blutserum durchgefuhrt. Die Pansenazidose wurde bei vier zweijahrigen Buffeln durch Melassenverfutterung (10 g/kg Kgew.) ausgelost. Ergebnisse: pH-Senkung; Natrium- und Kaliumabnahme; Zunahme von Calcium, Magnesium und anorganischem Phosphor im Pansensaft. Im Serum erhohte sich der Gehalt an anorganischem Phosphor und Natrium. Die Konzentration von Calcium, Magnesium und Kalium nahm hingegen ab. Der pH des Harnes sank und die Ausscheidung von anorganischem Phosphor erhohte sich. Resume Influence de l'acidose de l'acide lactique sur le taux des electrolytes dans le sang et le suc de la panse chez des buffles Des recherches preliminaires ont ete faites chez des buffles concernant l'influence de l'acidose de l'acide lactique durant la rumination sur les modifications des electrolytes dans le suc de la panse et dans le serum snaguin. L'acidose de la panse a ete declenchee chez quatre buffles de deux ans en affourrageant de la melasse (10 g/kg de poids). Resultats: abaissement du pH; diminution du sodium et du potassium; augmentation du calcium, du magnesium et du phosphore inorganique dans le suc de la panse. Le taux du phosphore inorganique et du sodium a augmente dans le serum alors que la concentration du calcium, du magnesium et du potassium a baisse. Le pH de l'urine s'est abaisse et l'excretion du phosphore inorganique s'est elevee. Resumen Influjo de la acidosis acidolactica sobre el contenido de electrolitos en sangre y liquido ruminal de bufalos Se efectuaron en bufalos estudios preliminares relativos al influjo de la acidosis acidolactica ruminal sobre las modificaciones electroliticas en el liquido de la panza y en el suero sanguineo. La acidosis de la panza se indujo en cuatro bufalos de dos anos de edad por medio de alimentacion a base de melaza (10 g./kg. peso en vivo). Resultados: descenso del pH; disminucion del sodio y potasio; aumento del calcio, magnesio y fosforo inorganico en el liquido ruminal. En el suero sanguineo aumento el contenido en fesforo inorganico y sodio Sin embargo, disminuyo la concentracion de calcio, magnesio y potasio. El pH de la orina descendio, aumentando la excrecion urinaria de fosforo inorganico.

Background: With antiretroviral therapy (ART) for human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV) coming into picture, quality of life (QOL) has gained importance. Knowledge on the factors affecting QOL would be helpful in making important policy decisions and health care interventions. The aim of this study is to assess the quality of life of people living with HIV and to identify the factors influencing their QOL.Methods: The Cross-sectional study was done among 160 HIV patients registered with ART Centre, at SNMC Agra (UP), India. QOL was assessed using HIV specific WHOQOLHIV-BREF questionnaire which has six domains. Association were find out by using chi square test for categorical variables and ANOVA were used for comparisons means scores among continuous variables. Correlation between continuous quantitative variables was found out by Pearson correlation coefficient.Results: Mean age of the study subjects was 37.89 years and 61.2% of the participants were males. Quality of life score was highest in level of independence domain (12.79±2.28) and lowest in SRPB domain (10.51±3.63). A significant negative correlation (-0.49) was observed between age and physical domain. Male Subjects had significant better mean score in social and environmental domain. Family support associated with social relationship and psychological domain. Higher CD4 count is associated with better in psychological and SRPB domain. Younger age, female gender, rural background, shorter duration of HIV, non-intake of ART were the high risk factors of poor QOL.Conclusions: Interventions such as ART, family, vocational and peer counselling would address these modifiable factors influencing QOL, thereby improving the QOL of PLWH.

An assessment of human interference in Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary (KWLS) showed huge dependence of local communities on forest fringes. KWLS is under active consideration as a national park because of its unique flora and fauna. Studies have evidenced habitat destruction and successional changes in the area because of ongoing unsustainable harvesting and logging. The present study provides an integrated approach towards evaluating resource extraction and management of the sanctuary. The study was based on in-depth semi-structured interviews and group discussions with local inhabitants of six villages and with forest officials. In addition, regeneration patterns and vegetation analysis was conducted in three land tenurial systems: community forest (CF), reserve forest (RF) and protected forest (PF). Key issues identified were wildlife offences, encroachment, pressure from unsustainable harvesting of resources and lack of livelihood opportunities. Ecological studies showed continuous change in regeneratio...

Ethylhexyl-2-ethylhexyl phosphonic acid (PC-88A) and Tributylphosphate (TBP) extractants have been attached to polypropylene (PP) in granular, film and non-woven fabric forms, by a simultaneous c-ray irradia- tion method. The extraction of plutonium from the acidic radioactive liquid waste by modified polymers was studied by varying the c-ray dose. The uptake of plutonium was also studied by polyethylene (PE) in film form. This modified polymer also showed extraction capability for plutonium from nitric acid medium. The uptake of pluto- nium depends upon the c-ray dose as well as the nature and source of the polymer. Liquid-solid extraction studies showed that the equivalent amount of uptake of plutonium on TBP-polyethylene film requires twice the c-ray dose as compare to TBP-polypropylene film. It was observed that at given c-ray dose polypropylene fabric is not sturdy, compare to the granules and films, and material leach out in aqueous phase. The presence of other solvents like di-methyl formamide (DMF) and cyclohexane during c-ray irradiation were able to enhance the extraction capabilities. The optimum conditions established during this study was successfully applied for the separation of plutonium, ura- nium and thorium from the fission products in acidic waste solution.

Zusammenfassung Der Einflus einer perakuten laktischen Acidose auf physiko-chemische Veranderungen von Parotis-Speichel bei Kreuzungskalbern An vier Kreuzungskalbern wurde der Einflus einer perakuten laktischen Acidose auf physiko-chemische Veranderungen des Parotis-Speichel untersucht. Die Kalber erhielten an der linken Seite eine Parotis-Fistel. Die Acidose wurde mit Hilfe von oral verabreichter Melasse (25 g/kg Korpergewicht) induziert. Es wurden Speichel-, Pansensaft- und Blutproben vor, 6 Std., 9 Std. und 12 Std. nach der Acidose-Induktion untersucht. Mit fortschreitender Acidose erfolgte ein Abfall des pH-Wertes im Speichel, der Sekretionsrate und des Gehaltes an Bikarbonat und ein Anstieg der Konzentration an Na, anorga-nischem P, Milchsaure und Protein. Die Ca- und Mg-Konzentrationen im Speichel bleiben unverandert. Die Osmolaritat des Speichels und Blutes wechselte von hypertonisch zu hy-potonisch im Vergleich zur Pansenflussigkeit.

Summary: On clinical examination of 1232 sheep belonging to the urban and rural areas of Punjab (India) lesions of ringworm could be detected in 22 animals giving an incidence of 1.78%. Animals below the age of 6 months were more frequently affected (7.4%), than those above 6 months (1.03%). Culturally, T. verrucosum, T. mentagrophytes and M. gypseum could be isolated from the skin scrapings of four, two and one sheep respectively. Zusammenfassung: Bei der klinischen Untersuchung von 1.232 Schafen aus der stadtischen und landlichen Gegend von Punjab (Indien) wurden bei 22 Tieren Veranderungen gefunden, die auf eine Hautmykose verdachtig waren (1,78%). Tiere, die junger als 6 Monate waren, schienen haufiger befallen zu sein (7,4%) als die alteren Tiere (1,03%). Kulturell konnten T. verrucosum, T. mentagrophytes und M. gypseum aus der Haut von 4, bzw. 2, bzw. 1 Tier isoliert werden.

Summary: In an extensive survey involving 2176 goats 1.56% of goats manifested clinical lesions of ringworm infection. Animals below the age of 6 months were affected most (4.20%). The incidence of infection was higher during the winter months. T. verrucosum, T. mentagrophytes and M. gypseum were isolated from the skin scrapings of 12, 4, and 2 goats respectively. It is suggested that the infected animals could be a source of disease to human population in which the zoophilic dermatophyte invasion is characterized by severe inflammatory lesions of the skin. The zoonotic importance of different dermatophytes is stressed. Zusammenfassung: In einer ausgedehnten Untersuchung an 2176 Ziegen wurden bei 1,56% klinische Zeichen einer Hautmykose festgestellt. Tiere, die juhger als 6 Monate alt waren, zeigten mit 4,20% am hafigsten Krankheitssymptome. In den Wintermonaten war die Erkrankungshaufigkeit am groBten. T. vermcosum, T. mentagrophytes and M. gypseum wurden jeweils von 12,4 bzw. 2 Ziegen isoliert. Die inflzierten Tiere koinnen eine Infektionsquelle fur die menschliche Bevolkerung darstellen und dort Mykosen mit stark entzundlichen Veranderungen auslosen. Die Bedeutung verschiedener Dermatophyten als Erreger von Zoonosen wird hervorgehoben.

The world’s population is ageing fast and it is estimated that the global population aged 65 and above shall reach to 1.3 billion by 2040, which will be more than double of 530 million in 2010. Rapidly ageing population shall result in severe labor shortage across in the global market. The world’s largest economies like Germany, France and US are expected to suffer due to the acute shortage of skilled workers. According to a global study, presently India is one of the largest labor-surplus countries in terms of its working age group (15-64 years) populations worldwide. India is in demographic dividend phase and can generate skilled manpower for employment through effective use of vocational and skill development training. The present study is to examine how to create skilled labor force through effective use of schemes of Government of India, run by different ministries to facilitate its skill development mission target to train 500 million people by 2022.

Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) was launched in April 2005, to promote institutional deliveries through provision of cash assistance, transport, escort, and referral services. An observational cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the antenatal registrations, postnatal checkups, and institutional deliveries, and to compare the various social groups. Married women of the reproductive age group, having at least two children, were interviewed regarding antenatal care, delivery, and postnatal care in both pregnancies, latest as well as previous. Post JSY implementation, antenatal registrations increased from 61.79 to 96.34%, Deliveries at the Government Health Facility increased from 25.20 to 53.25% and postnatal check-ups increased from 45.93 to 69.51%. In the post-JSY-implementation phase, the Government Health Facility was preferred more by Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC) (SC/ST = 56.87%, OBC = 60.2%, and general = 43.68%), educated (Illiterate = 17.39%, Primary = 88.14, and Middle or above = 81.94%) and the lower socioeconomic classes (Lower SEC 71.83% and Upper lower and above = 45.71%) for their deliveries. It appears that the socially backward groups have benefited more from JSY.

We report on the magnetic-field-dependent optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) spectra for polycrystalline samples of the bridged Zr(IV) metallocenes, Me2Si

Background: Pregnancy and child birth are normal event in the life of women. Most pregnancy results in normal birth but any pregnancy can develop complication at any stage so timely provision of obstetric services is extremely important and to the care by a skill birth attendant. So knowledge, skills and practices of these are very important. In light of above the study was carried out with objective to assess the knowledge and practices of medical officer and paramedical staffs (staff nurses and ANM) regarding antenatal services, intra-natal services, postnatal services.Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted at first referral units (FRUs) of Agra district of Uttar Pradesh, India from June 2015–August 2016. Structured open ended interview schedule were use d to collect the desired information. Before commencing the interview, informed written consent were taken from respondents. All medical officer and all staff nurse, public health nurse and auxiliary nurse midwives (ANM) were included as study subjects. Data were collected by first author himself. A total of 25 medical officers and 30 paramedical staff were interview for the study.Results: Almost all the medical staffs (100%) have knowledge regarding antenatal care except minimum ANC visit (80%) as practice of ANC services concerned less than half of them doing it as routine, nearly 1/3rd of medical staff (32.0%) conducted or assists delivery (i.e. only LSCS) in routine practices.Conclusions: Knowledge about maternal health services was more among medical staffs than paramedical staffs. Paramedical staffs have less knowledge as well as practice about neonatal resuscitation and infection control measure. Only less than 1/3rd of medical staffs conducting or assisting deliveries.

The effect of component molecular structure, pH, temperature and concentration on phase and aggregational behaviour of aqueous formulations containing more than one polydisperse polyglycol ether based compound was studied. The effect of adding various inversely soluble polymer compounds to base formulations on surface tension, turbidity, conductivity and pH over a wide range of temperatures and concentrations in water was investigated. A new instrument, enabling automatic temperature and concentration scans, was used for the generation of pH, turbidity and conductivity data. It was observed that phase behaviour of polyalkylene glycol ethers is dramatically changed by the presence of surface active components. Results also show that the amount and type of polymer has a small effect on the critical micelle concentration (CMC) but is critical for the phase behaviour of the investigated formulations. Molecular weight, hydrophile–lipophile balance (HLB) as well as cloud point values are important parameters which may be varied widely and a proper choice of polyalkylene glycol can be used to affect phase separation behaviour with respect to desired performance in industrial applications, e.g. as lubricants in metal working fluids.

Phase and aggregational behavior of model metal working formulations of the inversely soluble type was studied with the aid of a new analytical tool. Correlations between these data and measured anti-wear performance data are discussed. The aim was to gain some insight into the mode of variation of the anti-wear effect with temperature and concentration depending on composition of inversely soluble formulations, despite the complexity of the systems. A comparison with a conventional synthetic metal working fluid indicated inherent advantages of inversely soluble concepts at elevated temperatures. Thus, as temperature is increased, as occurs in a friction contact, wear is more effectively mitigated with a suitable formulated inversely soluble system. Typically, as shown experimentally in this paper, the behavior is different from data observed with a conventional metal working fluid formulation. A substantial dependence of the anti-wear effect on the adsorption of boundary lubricating components is inferred from a study of correlation between monomer concentration and extent of wear. These experiments were conducted on surfactant concentrations exceeding critical micelle concentration (CMC) to various degrees. Findings also indicate a particular potential to optimize lubrication performance by exploiting synergetic effects observed in a combination of two different types of alkoxylated compounds. The investigated types of formulations offer particularly good prospects for effective contaminant removal without loss of active matter. This is favorable from an occupational health and environmental standpoint, due to the possibility to exchange biocides with mechanical means of microbial control and an improved potential for a long service life.

Model metalworking fluids, characterized by phase separation of functional components at elevated temperatures, were studied. Results of membrane filtration experiments with three oils of differing chemical nature confirm the feasibility of specific removal of finely dispersed contaminant oils without the simultaneous loss of active components from adequately formulated fluids. Prerequisites are that membrane materials and pore sizes be suitably chosen and that operating temperatures be kept below the cloud point of the least soluble component. The most suitable filter in the present study was a hydrophilic regenerated cellulose membrane with a NMWL of 100,000 dalton. Complete oil removal was attained if membrane pore sizes did not exceed 0.1 μm. It was also found that intrinsically water-soluble boundary lubricants of the polyglycol ether type are retained by membranes in the presence of PPG-1800, which serves as a precipitation promoter above the cloud point. This is of considerable practical importance...

This paper reports an investigation on the role of transition-metal ions in producing ferromagnetism in CeO2 nanoparticles by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). Several samples of CeO2 nanoparticles annealed at 200, 300, 400, and 500 degrees C, doped with 5% Ni and 5% Co ions, characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermogravimetry analysis (TGA) and mass spectroscopy (MS), were investigated by X-band EPR at 4, 10 and 300 K, and by magnetometry at 300 K. Magnetic properties and EPR/FMR (Ferromagnetic Resonance) spectra of these nanoparticle samples were found to depend strongly on the annealing temperature (T(A)), oxygen stoichiometry, and dopant-ion species. Different behavior of saturation magnetization in the samples with the dopants, Co and Ni, is found to be due to different-inward and outward-surface diffusion of these impurity ions, respectively, during annealing. A detailed simulation of EPR/FMR spectra of isolated Co and Ni ions carried out here provides in-depth details on the role of the doped ions and oxygen (O-) defects played in the observed magnetic properties.

A novel reaction for the dechlorination of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) as well as most other chlorinated aromatic and aliphatic compounds is evaluated and discussed in terms of its potential for analytical purposes. The active dechlorinating agent is prepared through the reaction of molten sodium or potassium with polyethylene glycols (MW >200), in the absence of oxygen, to form the corresponding alkali metal glycolate, a powerful nucleophilic agent. Special emphasis is given to the mechanistic aspects of the reaction and their importance in terms of achieving high and reproducible yields with analytical quantities of substrate, in short periods of time. The contribution of the techniques: ESR, NMR, IR, UV, MS, GC-ECD, LC-EC, CIDNP-NMR, conductimetry and chloride analysis (amperometric) in elucidating the reaction mechanism and providing valuable kinetic data is illustrated. This reaction can potentially be applied to the determination of PCBs in waste oils.

The experimentally observed impurity-ion Gd3+ EPR linewidth behaviour in PrxLa1-xF3 host crystals as a function of x, the fraction of the host paramagnetic ions Pr3+, has been shown to be satisfactorily explained by the formation of paramagnetic percolation clusters and the resulting spin diffusion.

Systematics of X-band (about 9.50 GHz) EPR measurements in the temperature range 4.2-295 K on single crystals of Gd3+-doped Dy(BrO3)3.9H2O and Eu(BrO3)3.9H2O reveal that the Dy(BrO3)3.9H2O single crystal undergoes two structural phase transitions at 67+or-0.5 and 18+or-0.5 K (the phase transition detected here at 18 K being the first ever reported), while the Eu(BrO3)3.9H2O single crystal undergoes only one structural phase transition at 63+or-0.5 K The Gd3+ EPR spin Hamiltonian parameters at 295 and 77 K have been estimated for the two host crystals. The present Gd3+ EPR results on the heavier R(BrO3)3.9H2O (R=Dy, Eu) crystals are found to be significantly different from those on the lighter R(BrO3)3.9H2O (R=Pr, Nd, Sm) single crystals; a comparison of the features of Gd3+ EPR data in the lighter and heavier compounds has been provided.