Una investigación etnográfica sobre la violencia médica en los centros de salud de Nepal / Ethnographic Investigation into Medical Violence in Nepali Healthcare Facilities / Uma investigação etnográfica da violência médica em centros de saúde no Nepal

Introducción: la violencia no es un subproducto inherente de las relaciones humanas, pero los con-flictos sí lo son. En este artículo se examinan los factores y circunstancias que conducen a la tensión y los conflictos entre las personas que buscan atención médica y los establecimientos médicos nepalíes y los miembros del personal que trabajan allí. Desarrollo: embebido con una revisión de la literatura relevante, a través del análisis de datos etnográficos generada a partir de la investigación de campo y el análisis de contenido de la representación de noticias seleccionada, el artículo se desarrolla en cuatro secciones diferentes. La primera parte trata sobre el contexto de las consultas médicas que resultan en el desarrollo de una relación problemática. A esto le sigue el examen de los diferentes tipos de violencia, enfrentamientos y protestas que surgen a través de tales relaciones. En la tercera parte se analizan las implicaciones de las crecientes promesas médicas y el consiguiente aumento de las expectativas, mien-tras que la última parte destaca cómo las prácticas médicas típicas que existen en los propios hospitales nepaleses aumentan la posibilidad de enfrentamientos y violencia. Conclusión: la frecuente ocurrencia de peleas y violencia médica tanto en hospitales públicos como privados en Nepal sugiere que hay una bre-cha de comunicación entre los proveedores de servicios y el paciente debido a la naturaleza esotérica de la medicina. El conflicto y la violencia hacia los proveedores de servicios también pueden prosperar en el contexto de un modelo explicativo diferencial de las dos partes. La creciente animosidad también indica una disminución de la confianza entre los proveedores de atención médica y los solicitantes en Nepal

Introduction: Violence is not an inherent by-product of human relationships, but conflicts are. This arti-cle examines the factors and circumstances that lead to tension and conflicts between health seekers, and their counterpart Nepali medical establishments, and their staff members. Development: The article is divided into four sections by embedding a relevant literature review, analyzing ethnographic data generated from field research, and analyzing the content analysis of selected news portrayals. The first section discusses the context of the medical consultations that lead to the development of a problematic relationship. This is followed by examining the various types of violence, confrontations, and protests that arise from such relationships. The implications of rising medical promises and resulting height-ened expectations are discussed in the third section. The last section focuses on how common medical practices in Nepali hospitals increase the possibility of confrontations and violence. Conclusions: The prevalence of tussles and medical violence in Nepal's public and private hospitals suggests that they can occur in any hospital, regardless of ownership. Because of the esoteric nature of medicine, there is always a communication gap between service providers and patients. Conflict and violence against service providers can thrive in the context of a two-sided differential explanatory model. The growing hostility also indicates a decline in trust between healthcare providers and patients in Nepal

Introdução: a violência não é um subproduto inerente às relações humanas, mas o conflito é. Este artigo examina os fatores e circunstâncias que levam à tensão e ao conflito entre as pessoas que pro-curam cuidados médicos e os estabelecimentos médicos nepaleses e os funcionários que aí trabalham. Desenvolvimento: incorporada a uma revisão da literatura relevante, através da análise de dados etno-gráficos gerados a partir da pesquisa de campo e da análise de conteúdo da representação noticiosa selecionada, o artigo desenvolve-se em quatro seções distintas. A primeira parte trata do contexto das consultas médicas que resultam no desenvolvimento de uma relação problemática. Em seguida, exa-minamos os diferentes tipos de violência, confrontos e protestos que surgem através de tais relações. A parte três discute as implicações das crescentes promessas médicas e o consequente aumento das expectativas, enquanto a última parte destaca como as práticas médicas típicas que existem nos próprios hospitais nepaleses aumentam o potencial de confrontos e violência. Conclusão: a frequente ocorrência de brigas e violência médica em hospitais públicos e privados no Nepal sugere-nos que podem ocorrer em qualquer hospital, independentemente do proprietário. Sempre existe uma lacuna de comunicação entre os prestadores de serviços e o paciente devido à natureza esotérica da medicina. O conflito e a vio-lência contra os prestadores de serviços também podem florescer no contexto de um modelo explicativo diferencial das duas partes. A crescente animosidade também indica um declínio na confiança entre os prestadores de cuidados de saúde e os requerentes no Nepal

Effect of Irrigation Levels and Straw Mulching on Yield and Water Use Efficiency of Papaya under Drip Irrigation System

Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is a significant fruit crop cultivated worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions. However, its cultivation is often constrained by limited water availability and soil moisture stress, which may significantly affect its yield and quality. This study aimed to explore the effects of irrigation levels and straw mulch on the growth and yield of papaya under a drip irrigation system. The experiment encompassed six treatments: three different irrigation levels (100%, 75%, and 50% of crop water requirement) and two mulch levels (straw mulching and no mulch). The effect of mulch levels on plant growth, yield, and water use efficiency was statistically significant. The results revealed that applying 100% of crop water requirement along with straw mulch resulted in the maximum plant height, stem girth, crown diameter, and yield compared to the no mulch treatment. The study also evaluated irrigation water use efficiency, an essential aspect of sustainable farming practices. The results indicated that the maximum irrigation water use efficiency (58.47 kg m-3) was recorded when 50% of the crop water requirement was met alongside straw mulch. Conversely, the minimum irrigation water use efficiency was observed when 100% of the crop water requirement was completed without any mulch under the drip irrigation system.

Root Morphological Characteristics of Five Rice Genotypes with Different Nitrogen Use Efficiency

While nitrogen (N) uptake in rice has been extensively studied, the influence of root morphology on this process is not fully elucidated. This study explores the root morphological characteristics and N uptake of five diverse rice genotypes under different N sources, including novel slow-release nanoclay polymer/biopolymer composite (NCPC/NCBPC) fertilizers. A greenhouse experiment was conducted using five diverse rice genotypes (Swarna, Pusa Basmati-1, Pusa-44, MTU1010 and Nagina-22) with five N treatments (T1- control (without N fertilizer), T2- 100% RDF of N through urea, T3- 75% RDF of N through urea loaded NCPC, T4- 75% RDF of N through urea loaded NCBPC-I (NCBPC prepared with wheat flour), T5- 75% RDF of N through urea loaded NCBPC-II (NCBPC prepared with maida)). The results of the study revealed that maximum overall root growth was recorded under Pusa Basmati-1 followed by Swarna, MTU 1010, Nagina-22 and Pusa-44. Among the N treatment, maximum root growth and N uptake was recorded under NCPC treatment followed by NCBPC-II, NCBPC-I, urea and control. Thus, the study reveals significant variations in root traits among genotypes and N treatments, with notable improvements observed under NCPC and NCBPC based N treatments.

Normal Serum Levels of Otolin-1 in Patients with Meniere Disease in Remission

Abstract Introduction Degenerative changes in the otolithic organs have been theorized to be caused by the mechanical obstruction to endolymphatic flow, possibly resulting in endolymphatic hydrops (ELH). Otolin-1 is an otoconial matrix protein that crosses the blood labyrinth barrier and has been found in the serum of healthy and diseased patients. Objective To measure the serum levels of Otolin-1 in Meniere disease (MD) patients and compared them with the healthy individuals. Methods This pilot, cross-sectional study was performed at our tertiary care referral center to compare the serum Otolin-1 levels of healthy individuals with those of MD patients. The blood samples were obtained during patients' visit to the vertigo clinic following remission of an acute episode. The data was analyzed using the Stata/SE version 12.0 (StataCorp. College Station, TX, USA). Comparison between the serum Otolin-1 levels in the two groups was performed using the unpaired t-test. A p-value of 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results The participants were divided into two groups, with 31 MD patients, and 30 age and gender-matched members of the control group. The serum levels of Otolin-1 in MD patients (247.6, ± 44.2 pg/ml) were not found to be significantly different from those of the control group (236.2, ± 43.5 pg/ml) (p = 0.31). Conclusion The current study reveals that the serum levels of Otolin-1 are not significantly different between the patients with MD in the interictal phase and the control group's healthy ones.

Analyzing the complications of children with obesity: a systematic review of its effective management based on the latest guidelines

The epidemic of children with obesity has quickly become a significant issue for public health worldwide. Positive energy balance owing to calorie intake exceeding caloric expenditure and a genetic propensity for weight growth is the most prevalent cause of obesity. The goal of evaluating children with obesity is to identify the factors that led to their weight increase and any associated health problems. Children's weight control rests mainly on family-based lifestyle treatments, such as food changes and increased physical activity. A study was conducted to understand and evaluate the measures for effectively managing the complications in children with obesity. The study was carried out based on PRISMA guidelines. The systematic literature search was conducted between 2018 to 2023 from databases such as Medline/PubMed and psych info. Considering the inclusion criteria, 44 articles were included in the present review. The result showed that most of the studies included in this review were conducted on adolescents with obesity aged 5-19 years. Much of the research was a randomized cohort study that focused on the interventions for effective weight management in adolescents. Many studies also included parents and pregnant women as their study subjects. The findings of the studies involved in this review suggested the prognostic factors and different treatment programs that can reduce the consequences of obesity developing into adulthood. Since this is one of the first reviews of its kind, the results might prove helpful in making predictions about potential solutions to the issue of obesity and opening the door to more research into treatment strategies for reducing the adverse impacts of obesity on children.

Hand Foot Mouth Disease During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: A Multicentric Study

Objectives: This prospective observational study aimed to identify the current trend of the circulating viral strains responsible for hand foot mouth disease (HFMD) outbreak in four tertiary care centers in Rajasthan, amidst the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic (April-October 2022). Methods: Cases with suspected HFMD, presenting to our skin outpatient department were assessed clinically and serologically (IgM antibodies against coxsackie virus (CV) A6, A16 and enterovirus 71) for evidence of the disease. Results: We identified 718 new HFMD patients (161 adults) with peaks in May and August, 2022. Male:female ratio decreased with increasing age. Most children were asymptomatic. A total of 385/409 patients assessed serologically, were found positive, most commonly against CV-A6. Conclusion: Though HFMD typically affects young children, an unusually higher proportion of adults were affected during the current pandemic. There were some differences between pediatric and adult presentation of HFMD.

Modified biophysical profile in high-risk pregnancy and its correlation with perinatal outcome

Background: Aim of the present study was to evaluate the perinatal outcome in high-risk pregnancy with modified biophysical profile (MBPP).Methods: The study is observational study,65 high risk pregnant women fulfilling the inclusion criteria participated in the study. The study subjects were subjected to MBPP. Then perinatal outcomes were assessed in view of mode of delivery, maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.Results: Out of 65 cases, 78.5% had normal NST, 80% had normal AFI.3 neonates got admitted in NICU. 13 women underwent LSCS, 9 had instrumental delivery and rest delivered vaginally normal.Conclusions: The study showed that HRPs with MBPP abnormal or any of MBPP parameter abnormal have higher chances of perinatal morbidity and mortality.

Neuroimaging in eclamptic patients and its clinical implications

Background: Aim of the study is to assess the utility of neuroimaging (CT/MRI) in eclamptic patients and correlating their clinical implications and to study the role of Injection Mannitol in case of Eclampsia who did not respond to injection magnesium sulphate alone.Methods: This prospective study was conducted in Pannadhay Mahila Chikitsalya Udaipur, RNT Medical College Udaipur, Rajasthan. 50 eclamptic patients fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria were subjected to neuroimaging CT/MRI from August 2021 to August 2022. Injection Mannitol was added in eclamptic patients who did not respond to injection magnesium sulphate alone.Results: In this study neuroimaging were normal in 42% cases while 58% cases had pathological changes; PRES, haemorrhage, infarction, ischemia etc. Out of these PRES was seen in 48% cases. Mannitol was given in 14% patients and only one patient did not respond to mannitol.Conclusions: This study revealed that PRES was the main neurological component among patients. Neuroimaging helps in better management of eclampsia. Mannitol holds utility in managing the patients unresponsive to injection magnesium sulphate.

Role of Sthanik Chikitsa in Shweta Pradara Associated with Madhumeha (DM Type- II): A Case Study

Shweta Pradara or excessive vaginal discharge is one of the commonest complaints among women of reproductive age group. An increase in the normal vaginal secretion develops physiologically at puberty, at ovulation, premenstrual phase and during pregnancy. Excessive discharge causes irritation and itching in the genetalia. Ayurveda explained this condition as Shweta Pradara. Shweta Pradara is a symptom which is present in most of the diseases or present as a complication. Shweta Pradara is not a disease it produces as a symptom, hence etiopathogenesis of principal disease and Shweta Pradara would be same. It is a Kaphaja disorder at the place of Apana Vayu. A 47 years old female patient suffering from intermittent Yonigata Shwet Strava since two years with aggravation of symptoms from one week presented to Prasuti Tantra Evam Stree Roga OPD. Yonigat Shwet Strava was associated with Yoni Kandu, Katishool, Yoni Daha. On enquiry, it was found that she was the known case of Type II Diabetes Mellitus since 10 years. She was taking medication for the same but her blood sugar levels were uncontrolled in spite of taking medication as per her recent investigations. In this case Shwet Pradar was the Updrava of Madhumeh, thus line of management was planned to control her sugar level by supplementing Ayurvedic drugs along with allopathic medicine for DM II (Madhumeh) and treated her with Yoniprakshalan with Triphala Kwath followed by Cutis ointment tamponing per vaginum for 14 days. She had followed the schedule of Yoni Prakshalana, oral medicines and Pathya-Apathya properly. It was observed that, symptoms were started to reduce gradually which has been depicted by documentation of investigations and local examination in this case study.

Epidemiology, Clinical Profile, Intensive Care Needs and Outcome in Children with SARS-CoV-2 Infection Admitted to a Tertiary Hospital During the First and Second Waves of the COVID-19 Pandemic in India

Objectives To compare the epidemiological, clinical profle, intensive care needs and outcome of children hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 infection during the frst and second waves of the pandemic. Methods This was a retrospective study of all children between 1 mo and 14 y, admitted to a dedicated COVID-19 hospital (DCH) during the frst (1st June to 31st December 2020) and second waves (1st March to 30th June 2021). Results Of 217 children, 104 (48%) and 113 (52%) were admitted during the frst and second waves respectively. One hundred ffty-two (70%) had incidentally detected SARS-CoV-2 infection, while 65 (30%) had symptomatic COVID-19. Comorbidities were noted in 137 (63%) children. Fifty-nine (27%) and 66 (30%) children required high-dependency unit (HDU) and ICU care respectively. Severity of infection and ICU needs were similar during both waves. High-fow oxygen (n=5, 2%), noninvasive ventilation [CPAP (n=34, 16%) and BiPAP (n=8, 5%)] and invasive ventilation (n=45, 21%) were respiratory support therapies needed. NIV use was more during the second wave (26% vs. 13%; p=0.02). The median (IQR) length (days) of DCH stay among survivors was longer during the frst wave [8 (6–10) vs. 5.5 (3–8); p=0.0001]. Conclusions Disease severity, associated comorbidities, PICU and organ support need and mortality were similar in the frst and second waves of the pandemic. Children admitted during the second wave were younger, had higher proportion of NIV use and shorter length of COVID-19 hospital stay.

SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection in deceased bodies: implications for infection prevention

Background & objectives: High transmissibility of the SARS-CoV-2 has significant implications on healthcare workers’ safety, preservation, handling, transportation and disposal of the deceased bodies. The objective of this study was to detect SARS-CoV-2 antigen in nasopharyngeal samples and its implications in handling and care of COVID-19 deceased bodies. Methods: A study was conducted at a dedicated COVID-19 centre on deceased individuals from April to December 2020. Rapid antigen test (RAT) and reverse transcription (RT)-PCR was compared on all the SARS-CoV-2 positive cadavers recruited in the study. Results: A total of 115 deceased individuals were included in the study. Of these, 79 (68.7%) were male and 36 (31.3%) were female and majority were in the age group of 51-60 yr [31 (27%)]. SARS-CoV-2 antigen test was positive in 32 (27.8%) and negative in 83 (72.1%) individuals. The mean time interval between deaths to the sample collection was 13.2 h with interquartile range of eight to 20 h. Reverse transcription (RT)-PCR was used as the reference test and 24 (20.9%) cases were true positive; 93.6 per cent [95% confidence interval (CI) 88.8-98.4%] sensitivity, 45.2 per cent (95% CI 35.5-55%) specificity, 60.2 per cent (95% CI 50.6-69.8%) positive predictive value and 88.8 per cent (95% CI 82.7-95%) negative predictive value of antigen test was computed. Interpretation & conclusions: SARS-CoV-2 antigen test was positive beyond 19 h in COVID-19 deceased individuals. Antigen test was found to be highly sensitive in the deceased. Patients, suspected of having died due to COVID-19, can be screened by this method. As infectiousness of the virus in the deceased bodies cannot be directly concluded from either the antigen or RT-PCR test, yet possible transmission cannot be completely ruled out. Strict infection control measures need to be followed during the handling and clearance of COVID-19 cadavers.

Associative role of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase and thymidylate synthase 6bp del gene polymorphism in preterm delivery

Objective: Preterm delivery is a major adverse birth outcome, approximately 15 million babies are born prematurely every year. There are several causes for preterm deliveries. This study focuses on folate metabolic pathways. Dietary folate plays a crucial role in premature labor. We examined the relationship between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) (C677T) and thymidylate synthase (TYMS) 6bpdel polymorphism. Materials and Methods: A total number of 300 pregnant women were selected for this study; among which ( n = 150) were preterm and ( n = 150) were term delivery cases. The selected samples were further processed for molecular polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. The demographic profile of birth status resulted significantly with ( P = 0.0001) proving chances of high infant mortality due to prematurity. Results: The genotype distribution of MTHFR C677T showed significant data ( P = 0.0021) whereas insignificant genotypic distribution was observed for the TYMS gene ( P = 0.067). Our results imply that genes that are involved in the folate pathway play a crucial role in early pregnancy. Conclusion: Advanced and better strategies can be brought to an improved intervention of folate at the time of pregnancy which will help to reduce the rate of premature deliveries.

Immunohistochemical Analysis of the Expression of Cytokeratins in Acquired Cholesteatoma and Its Clinico-Radiological Correlation

Background and Objectives@#Cholesteatomatous chronic otitis media acquires epithelial proliferation and differentiation characteristics, which render it able to erode the underlying bone and cause complications. We attempt to characterize the cholesteatoma epithelium by observing the expression of cytokeratins (such as 34ße12, CK17, and CK13) and Ki67 among patients with cholesteatoma with different aggressiveness as compared to disease-free controls. @*Subjects and Methods@#In this prospective study (2017-2021), we enrolled all consenting consecutive patients with cholesteatomatous chronic otitis media. They were staged in accordance with the staging guidelines of the European Academy of Otology and Neurotology and the Japanese Otological Society. Bony external auditory canal (EAC) skin specimens of the patients undergoing tympanoplasty were chosen as controls. We did an immunohistochemical analysis of the cholesteatoma specimens and normal bony EAC controls by observing the expression of 34ße12, CK17, CK13, and Ki67 across the layers of the epithelium. Fisher’s exact test and chi-square test were used to evaluate any statistical significance between the cases and the controls, and the subgroups were made based on the clinical stage. @*Results@#An increased expression of CK17 (p<0.001), CK13 (p<0.03), and Ki67 (p<0.001) was observed in cholesteatoma specimens when compared to normal bony EAC controls. Also, there was a loss of expression of 34ße12 in a subset of cholesteatoma specimens, all of which showed full-thickness expression of CK13. There was no difference in the expression of cytokeratin among specimens from patients belonging to different subgroups based on clinical stage, age, sex, duration of ear symptoms, or type of hearing loss (conductive vs. sensorineural). @*Conclusions@#The majority of cholesteatoma specimens significantly overexpressed CK17, CK13, and Ki67 when compared to normal bony EAC skin controls, while a subset showed loss of expression of 34ße12, which provides some insight into its pathogenesis.

Clinical and Social Outcomes of Cochlear Implantation in Older Prelinguals

Background and Objectives@#Cochlear implantation in late implanted prelinguals necessitates a complex decision-making process for clinicians and patients due to the uncertainty of achieving adequate benefit in auditory and speech perception. This study longitudinally evaluated clinical and social outcomes of prelingually deaf children with implantation in their late childhood. @*Subjects and Methods@#A total of 113 (49 females and 64 males) participants, with an age range of 5-15 years, were assessed for the pre-implant parameters such as hearing loss etiology, aided responses, anatomical aspects, and psychological evaluation. The Category of Auditory Performance, Speech Awareness Threshold, Speech Reception Threshold, and Speech Discrimination Score were administered to assess the patient’s auditory skills. Further, the Speech Intelligibility Rating scale was administered to evaluate the patient’s speech intelligibility at 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 months post-surgery. Subjectively perceived benefits were evaluated using the satisfaction rating scale and a questionnaire. @*Results@#The statistical results showed a significant impact of cochlear implantation in all domains. Positive impact and improvement post-implantation were noted in all the spheres, including auditory, linguistic, social, and educational. @*Conclusions@#The study highlighted that the outcomes of a cochlear implant at a later age might not parallel with the implantation at a younger age. However, this still provides measurable benefits even after a longer period of auditory deprivation.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided coiling and glue is safe and superior to endoscopic glue injection in gastric varices with severe liver disease: a retrospective case control study

Background/Aims@#Gastric varices (GV) are present in 25% of cirrhotic patients with high rates of rebleeding and mortality. Data on endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided treatment in severe liver disease (model for end stage liver disease sodium [MELD-Na] >18 and Child-Turcotte-Pugh [CTP] C with GV) are scarce. Thus, we performed a retrospective comparison of endoscopic glue injection with EUS-guided therapy in cirrhotic patients with large GV. @*Methods@#A retrospective study was performed in the tertiary hospitals of India. A total of 80 patients were recruited. The inclusion criteria were gastroesophageal varices type 2, isolated gastric varices type 1, bleeding within 6 weeks, size of GV >10 mm, and a MELD-Na >18. Treatment outcomes and complications of endoscopic glue injection and EUS-guided GV therapy were compared. @*Results@#In this study, the patients’ age, sex, liver disease severity (CTP, MELD-Na) and clinical parameters were comparable. The median number of procedures, injected glue volume, complications, and GV obturation were better in the EUS group, respectively. On subgroup analysis of the EUS method (e.g., direct gastric fundus vs. paragastric collateral [PGC] coil placement), PGC coil placement showed decreased coil requirement, less injected glue volume, decreased luminal coil extrusion, and increased successful GV obturation. @*Conclusions@#EUS-guided treatment is more efficient and safer, and requires a smaller number of treatment sessions, as compared to endoscopic treatment in severe liver disease patients with large GV. Furthermore, PGC coil placement increases the complete obliteration of GV.

Modelling COVID-19 vaccination status and adherence to public health and social measures, Eastern Mediterranean Region and Algeria

Objective: To study the link between coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination status and adherence to public health and social measures in Members of the Eastern Mediterranean Region and Algeria. Methods: We analysed two rounds of a large, cross-country, repeated cross-sectional mobile phone survey in June­July 2021 and October­November 2021. The rounds included 14 287 and 14 131 respondents, respectively, from 23 countries and territories. Questions covered knowledge, attitudes and practices around COVID-19, and demographic, employment, health and vaccination status. We used logit modelling to analyse the link between self-reported vaccination status and individuals' practice of mask wearing, physical distancing and handwashing. We used propensity score matching as a robustness check. Findings: Overall, vaccinated respondents (8766 respondents in round 2) were significantly more likely to adhere to preventive measures than those who were unvaccinated (5297 respondents in round 2). Odds ratios were 1.5 (95% confidence interval, CI: 1.3­1.8) for mask wearing; 1.5 (95% CI: 1.3­1.7) for physical distancing; and 1.2 (95% CI: 1.0­1.4) for handwashing. Similar results were found on analysing subsamples of low- and middle-income countries. However, in high-income countries, where vaccination coverage is high, there was no significant link between vaccination and preventive practices. The association between vaccination status and adherence to public health advice was sustained over time, even though self-reported vaccination coverage tripled over 5 months (19.4% to 62.3%; weighted percentages). Conclusion Individuals vaccinated against COVID-19 maintained their adherence to preventive health measures. Nevertheless, reinforcement of public health messages is important for the public's continued compliance with preventive measures.

Psychological impact of Covid-19 pandemic: Exploring the mediating role of age, gender and type of occupation

Background: The Covid 19 outbreak has been one of its kind in terms of the far reaching and widespread impact. The mental health effects of Covid 19 may shape the psychological framework of the population for many years. The present study aims to investigate the demographic determinants of age, gender and occupational type on the psychological impact of Covid 19 outbreak. Methodology: Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) & Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) were used to study the psychological impact. Role of gender, age & type of occupation in perceived stress was also studied. Independent sample t test and Pearson correlation coefficient were performed to derive inferences from the data. Results: Age, gender and type of occupation did not have much impact on the perceived stress level however the participants perceived stress level directly strongly correlates with experience of symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. Conclusion: Perceived stress was low in the initial phases of the pandemic and was not mediated by age, gender and type of occupation. The measures undertaken to curb the pandemic had a positive influence on mental health as it helped to keep perceived stress to be low. Perceived stress is directly correlated to actual experience of stress, depression & anxiety and hence avoiding sharing of stress inducing information is important. In this context, media coverage can play a part by focusing on positive news of recovery and discouraging stress triggering messages in order to keep perceived stress factor low

Synthesis of iron nanoparticles, its characterization and anti-microbial activity assessment

We report the efficacy of the Iron nanoparticles (IONPs) and assessed two different approaches for the synthesis of IONPs i.e. Polyol and co-precipitation method and further, evaluate their antimicrobial properties. Ferrous sulphate heptahydrate salts were reduced with ethylene glycol to obtain IONP and Fe+2 and Fe+3 co-precipitation reaction was performed with KOH at optimum heating. Further, synthesized (IONPs) were characterized by hydrodynamic radii measurement done by DLS clearly indicating the size of IONPs is 79.75nm in polyol based and 135.1 nm in co-precipitation method. The biological efficacy in terms of antimicrobial activity was assessed by the Kirby Bauer method, applied for both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, respectively. The ZOI values i.e. Zone of inhibition diameter was found to be clearly visible in both S. aureus and E. coli, indicating bactericidal activity. Further growth kinetics studies and bacterial genotoxicity was also assessed. Hence, IONPs synthesized are proposed to have great potential as an antibacterial agent and can be used in drug delivery.

Immunomodulatory potential of nanomaterials: Interaction with the immune system

Immunomodulation is an attractive approach to overcome the limitations of traditional therapeutic regimes against diseases. Immunomodulation-based therapies are emerging as promising alternative strategy that involves the defense mechanisms of the host to recognize and selectively eliminate diseases. Recent developments in nanotechnology have forged a revolution as development of nano-emulsions, nanotubes, and nanoparticles have provided promising strategies as novel immune-modulatorsto enhance efficacy at target sites. Moreover, interaction between nanoparticles and the immune system may cause unanticipated adverse reactions such as hypersensitivity, inflammation and necrosis. Therefore, to ensure a successful and safe clinical application of immune-modulatory nanoparticles, it is necessary to gain in-depth knowledge and a clear understanding of the multifaceted nature of the interactions between nanoparticles and immune system. Since elevated immunological responses are detrimental in elimination of exogenous or endogenous antigens, there are many bottlenecks that prevent the complete regulation of the immune system. Therefore, using nanostructures as transport vehicles to deliver immunological compounds to specific target sitesto overcome severe limitations. Different nanostructures are being exploited to develop novel adjuvants, innovative vaccines,and drugs to alter the immune system for various infectious and non-infectious diseases. The review focuses on various nanoparticle and their interplay with the immune system.

Prevalence of Internet Addiction and the Effect of Internet Usage on Lifestyle of College Students of Haryana during COVID 19 lockdown period

Introduction: Since 1990, internet usage is increasing day by day and availability of smart mobile phones and electronic gazettes like tablet, laptop etc. has given it an exponential rise. During COVID-19 lockdown period, internet usage pattern has changed a lot as per behaviour of students studying in schools, colleges, educational and coaching institutes etc. To study the prevalence of internet addictionObjective: and the effect of internet usage on lifestyle of college students of Haryana. Total 1035 students, ofMethod: various educational streams in various colleges of Haryana state were included in the study and data was collected by pretested self-designed questionnaire and young's internet addiction test questionnaire was used to assess its effect on life style. Out of 1035 students, 436(42%) participants were belowResults: average users of internet, followed by 369(36%) average users and 230(22%) excessive users of internet. Average of total score of young internet addiction questionnaire was 27.72. Various life style factors like feeling stressed while working, neglects other activities, miss a diet, checks internet many times, obsessed with phone and internet usage per day were found significantly associated with internet addiction(p<0.05). Conclusion : Excessive internet usage during COVID-19 pandemic may lead to various abnormal behavior changes which cause negative effect on various aspects of students like emotional, hyperactivity, depression, sleeping disorder etc.