Indian Institute Research Articles

Physical Activity and Quality of Sleep Among Patient with Chronic Kidney Disease on Hemodialysis: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients on hemodialysis face issues like poor quality of sleep and reduced physical activity, which can impair their quality of life. This study aimed to assess the physical activity and quality of sleep among CKD patients on hemodialysis. This cross-sectional study was conducted at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Jodhpur. Data from 66 participants selected consecutively using self-reported standardized tools, namely, Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), were collected, along with sociodemographic variables. After receiving written informed consent, questionnaires were administered through face-to-face interviews. The majority of the individuals, 45 (68.2%), were found to be physically active with a mean score of 2280.8 metabolic equivalents (MET)-min/week. The average PSQI score was 9.24 ± 4, and 49 (74.2%) participants had a PSQI score as higher than 5, suggesting poor quality of sleep. Physical activity and quality of sleep were found to have a significant relationship (P = 0.03). Physical activity was found to have a significant relationship with age (P = 0.01), whereas quality of sleep was associated with smoking status (P = 0.04), alcohol consumption (P < 0.01), and body mass index (BMI; P = 0.03). Contrary to many studies where CKD patients on hemodialysis were found to be physically inactive, the present study showed a substantial portion of them to be physically active. Poor quality of sleep was common; hence, interventions to promote sleep quality recommended.

Identification of Population-Specific Novel Protein Biomarkers and Possible Therapeutic Targets in Gliomas by Proteomics Approach

Abstract Objective To analyze the differential proteomic profile of gliomas in patients from South India and to identify novel protein glioma biomarkers and possible therapeutic targets to tailor the treatment to individual patients. Material and Methods We have prospectively analyzed the differential proteomic profile of 34 patients with glioma imaging characteristics and compared them with that of normal brain tissue. This research was conducted at the Institute of Neurosurgery, Madras Medical College, in technical collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, over 1 year. Statistical Analysis Biological variate analysis (I-ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE (ANOVA)) was used, with p-value less than 0.05 being significant. Results Twenty proteins (10 upregulated and 10 downregulated) were differentially expressed in tumor tissue. The expression of three pro-apoptotic proteins was downregulated and the expression of three anti-apoptotic proteins was upregulated with statistical significance. The cellular functions of the 20 differentially regulated proteins were subjected to pathway analysis revealing significant alterations in heme biosynthesis, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) replication, fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling, and epidermal growth factor (EGF0 receptor signaling in glioma. Conclusion KRT18, PRS4, and EF1A2 are anti-apoptotic proteins and are significantly upregulated in gliomas. EARS2, COX5A, and LSM3 are pro-apoptotic proteins, and are significantly downregulated in gliomas. This subverts the apoptotic pathways resulting in prolonged cell survival. This study's statistically significant dysregulation of these six proteins was unique, suggesting that they might be considered population-specific biomarkers and possible therapeutic targets for patients from South India. Abnormalities of heme biosynthesis at the proteomic level were identified in this study, which has not been very well studied previously.

Cell scientist to watch – Bhavani Shankar Sahu

ABSTRACT Bhavani Shankar Sahu is an Associate Professor at the National Brain Research Centre (NBRC) in Manesar, India. He completed his PhD in cell biology and molecular genetics at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, studying links between neuroendocrine function and metabolic disease. Inspired to better understand fundamental mechanisms of neuropeptide secretion, he then completed postdoctoral research in Prof. Margaret Robinson's lab at the University of Cambridge, UK and with Prof. Alessandro Bartolomucci at the University of Minnesota and University of California San Diego, USA. In 2019, he returned to India to start his own lab at the NBRC, where he and his team investigate the biology of exocytosis in neurons and neuroendocrine cells from the molecular to the physiological level. We spoke with Bhavani over Zoom about his career journey, mentorship philosophy and enthusiasm for science outreach.

Overcoming Hurdles: Strategies for Management Education Institutions in India

Overcoming Hurdles: Strategies for Management Education Institutions in India

Role of Academic Leadership in The Context of Transformation of Higher Education in India

The higher educational institutions have started witnessing initiatives taken towards restructuring and revamping existing educational structure as envisaged by the New Education Policy 2020.Strategic planning at all hierarchical levels of institutional structure is the need of the hour. Efficient leadership is the key to ensure necessary improvements and innovation at the institutions. College level institutions constitute 86 percent of Higher Education in India. Revival in colleges will have ripple effects at large. The role and responsibility of academic leadership on all organizational levels is crucial to effectively implement the NEW Education policy 2020 in its true spirit. Literature survey has been done on academic leadership aspects and Implementation of NEP 2020 which showed relevance for further study. The main research question dealt with is to understand the roles and responsibilities of academic leaders in Higher Educational Institutes in India to achieve and sustain quality and excellence in the light of New Education Policy 2020. Devise an applicable framework for institutional development plan commensurate to curriculum and pedagogy in HEIs as propounded in NEP 2020. The paper will be useful for Management and leaders of Undergraduate level of education.

Electrocardiographic Changes and Their Association With Disease Severity in Adults With Sickle Cell Anemia at a Tertiary Care Center: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Introduction Sickle cell anemia (SCA), a severe hematological disorder, is characterized by the presence of sickle-shaped erythrocytes that obstruct capillaries and restrict blood flow. This pathophysiology not only promotes systemic complications but may also influence cardiac function. Cardiac complications are a leading cause of mortality in SCA patients, yet the specific electrocardiographic (ECG) changes associated with disease severity are not thoroughly understood. This cross-sectional study aimed to explore ECG abnormalities in adults with SCA and correlate these findings with disease severity. Methods An observational cross-sectional study was conducted over 18 months, from January 2022 to June 2023, among 140 SCA patients at the Sickle Cell OPD of All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Raipur, Raipur, India. Steady-state SCA (HbS >50%) patients screened by high-performance liquid chromatography were enrolled. A history, physical examination, complete blood count, and ECG were done for all cases. The disease severity score was calculated using the Adegoke and Kuti severity scores, and their association with various ECG changes was studied. The chi-square test (Fisher's exact test, wherever applicable) was used for comparing the proportion. The correlation was done using the Pearson correlation coefficient or Spearman's rho. Results Out of 140 patients, the mean age of the study participants was 26 ± 6 years. More than half of the cases (80; 57%) fall under the 18-27 age group, with a male-to-female ratio of 4:3. A total of 99 (70.7%) of the participants had mild disease, and 41 (29.3%) had moderate disease. The QT interval was significantly higher among patients with mild disease compared to those with moderate disease (p-value: <0.01). QTc dispersion and prolonged QTc interval were significantly higher among patients with moderate disease compared to mild disease (p-value <0.01, 0.04, respectively). Sinus tachycardia and right ventricular hypertrophy with p-pulmonale were significantly higher in moderate severity (p < 0.01). A significant positive correlation was observed between QTc dispersion, P-wave dispersion, and severity (r: 0.19, 0.17; p-value: 0.02, 0.04, respectively). Conclusion As the disease severity progressed, the ECG changes studied had a higher distribution and significance. ECG is a readily and widely accessible investigation that can be used to screen all SCA patients for early recognition of various underlying cardiac complications.

Empathy Among Medical Students: An Exploratory Cross-Sectional Survey.

Context In the context of healthcare, effective communication and empathy are fundamental skills for physicians, as empathy correlates positively with patient satisfaction, compliance, treatment adherence, and lower rates of physician burnout, depression and anxiety. This study aimed to assess empathy levels and related factors among undergraduate medical students. Methods A cross-sectional study in a Central Indian medical institute examined empathy levels and factors associated with it among medical students, utilizing various scales and statistical analyses. Results This study found that while empathy levels were relatively high among undergraduate students, there was a decline as they progressed through medical education, particularly after the first year of clinical exposure. The study identified several factors associated with empathy levels, including perceived stress, emotional separation, and social support. Notably, individuals experiencing higher levels of stress and emotional separation tended to have higher empathy levels. Conclusions The study's findings suggest that medical education should incorporate interventions to enhance empathy, including addressing stress, providing social support, and exposing students to the emotional aspects of patient care.

Employee Well-Being in Higher Educational Institutes of India –A Study of LPU Employees

With rising expectations for high-quality instruction, research output, and global competitiveness, India's higher education industry has seen significant change recently. Amidst these shifts, there is now more attention on the topic of employee well-being in higher education institutions. The nature of work in academia settings, with its high standards, demanding schedules, and frequently difficult workloads, calls for a closer look at the variables affecting the wellbeing of those who contribute to the mission of LPU using Lovely Professional University as an example, this case study offers a distinctive viewpoint on employee well-being in the context of Indian higher education. LPU's quick development, wide range of academia programmers, and dedication to building a lively community make it an engaging place to learn about the difficulties associated with employee well-being in the context of an evolving educational institution. In an environment where demands are high, and stress levels can be significant, prioritizing the wellbeing of faculty and staff is not just a moral support but also essential for maintaining productivity, creativity, and overall effectiveness organizational. Keywords: employee well-being, higher education, educational institutes.

Measurement and analysis of change in research scholars’ knowledge and attitudes toward statistics after PhD coursework

BackgroundKnowledge of statistics is highly important for research scholars, as they are expected to submit a thesis based on original research as part of a PhD program. As statistics play a major role in the analysis and interpretation of scientific data, intensive training at the beginning of a PhD programme is essential. PhD coursework is mandatory in universities and higher education institutes in India. This study aimed to compare the scores of knowledge in statistics and attitudes towards statistics among the research scholars of an institute of medical higher education in South India at different time points of their PhD (i.e., before, soon after and 2–3 years after the coursework) to determine whether intensive training programs such as PhD coursework can change their knowledge or attitudes toward statistics.MethodsOne hundred and thirty research scholars who had completed PhD coursework in the last three years were invited by e-mail to be part of the study. Knowledge and attitudes toward statistics before and soon after the coursework were already assessed as part of the coursework module. Knowledge and attitudes towards statistics 2–3 years after the coursework were assessed using Google forms. Participation was voluntary, and informed consent was also sought.ResultsKnowledge and attitude scores improved significantly subsequent to the coursework (i.e., soon after, percentage of change: 77%, 43% respectively). However, there was significant reduction in knowledge and attitude scores 2–3 years after coursework compared to the scores soon after coursework; knowledge and attitude scores have decreased by 10%, 37% respectively.ConclusionThe study concluded that the coursework program was beneficial for improving research scholars’ knowledge and attitudes toward statistics. A refresher program 2–3 years after the coursework would greatly benefit the research scholars. Statistics educators must be empathetic to understanding scholars’ anxiety and attitudes toward statistics and its influence on learning outcomes.

Utility of metabolic ratios in the diagnosis of tumor Thrombus on F-18 FDG PET/CT

BackgroundThis study aims to predict quantitative parameter in form of metabolic ratios to diagnose tumor thrombus on F-18 FDG PET/CT.MethodsThis is a retrospective study from Nuclear Medicine department at All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India. Patients with malignancies who underwent F-18 FDG PET/CT in our department or images sent for review from February 2020 till September 2022 were screened for tumor thrombus that comprised study group. Control group had patients with malignancy and no imaging evidence of tumor thrombus. Metabolic activities (SUVmax) of tumor thrombus, liver and descending aorta in study group, and that of IVC, liver and descending aorta in control group were recorded. Metabolic ratios of tumor thrombus to liver (SUR L) and to aorta (SUR A) in study group, and IVC to liver (SUR* L) and to aorta (SUR*A) in control group were compared using receiver operator curves.ResultsOf 2277 studies screened, 12 had tumor thrombus. The most common primary malignant site and vessel involved were lung and IVC respectively. The median (IQR) SUR L, SUR A, SUR* L and SUR* A were 2.5 (3.25), 2.6 (6), 0.67 (0.18) and 1 (0.17) respectively. Area under ROC for SUR L and SUR A were 0.983 [95% CI: 0.955–1.0] and 0.958 [95% CI: 0.90–1.0] respectively. The ideal cut-off for SUR L was 0.953 (sensitivity 92.3%, specificity 98.0%) and for SUR A was 1.42 (sensitivity 84.6%, specificity 98.0%).ConclusionMetabolic ratios of tumor thrombus to liver (SUR L) and aorta (SUR A) have good diagnostic performance and can be useful in studies with non-iodinated contrast CT.

Attitude and perception of medical and nursing undergraduates and faculty towards simulation-enhanced interprofessional education at an institute in India

Background The need for interprofessional education (IPE) has been recognized on the basis of compromised patient care due to ineffective communication and teamwork among healthcare providers. Using Simulation to enhance IPE has been advocated to achieve the competencies required for effective interprofessional collaborative practice. However, the implementation of this powerful tool and its integration into Indian medical education are a relatively recent development, gradually gaining momentum in recent years. Purpose This study was undertaken to assess the attitudes and perceptions of a group of Indian medical and nursing undergraduates and faculty towards simulation-enhanced interprofessional education (Sim-IPE) before introducing this module at the institute. Methods A descriptive correlational design was conducted using the KidSIMTM ATTITUDES scale on a convenient sample of 82 students and faculty of medical and nursing colleges. Results The total scores for the 30-item questionnaire revealed an overall positive attitude towards IPE and Simulation as a learning modality. Analysis of variance tests revealed lesser scores for students when compared to faculty. Conclusions A positive attitude towards Sim-IPE by students and faculty is promising, and it is the first step towards integrating Sim-IPE into the undergraduate curriculum in India.

Cost-effectiveness of emicizumab prophylaxis for haemophilia A with inhibitors: an adaptive health technology assessment for the Indian setting

ObjectiveTo assess the cost-effectiveness of emicizumab prophylaxis for patients having haemophilia A with inhibitors in the Indian context using an adaptive health technology assessment (aHTA) methodology.DesignEconomic evaluation using multiple approaches...

Effect of Biochar Application on Performance of Rice in a Vertisol of Central India

The present investigation was carried out at the Research Farm of ICAR- Indian Institute of Soil Science (ICAR-IISS), Bhopal (M.P.) during the Kharif seasons of 2021 and 2022 and performance of rice crop under the application of biochar in combinations of farm yard manure and chemical fertilizers was studied. The field experiment consisted of 12 treatments involving three doses of biochar (0, 4 and 8 tha-1) with and without fertilizer (0 or 120:60:40 kg N, P2O5, K2O ha-1) and manure (0, 5 t ha-1) in four replications. Rice (cv. PB 1121) was grown consecutively for two years and various parameters viz., plant height, green seeker, number of tillers, earhead length, grains per earhead, seed index and grain yield, straw yield, total biomass and harvest index were evaluated. The results revealed that, among the parameters studied except harvest index, all parameters were influenced positively upon biochar application.

Impact of Financial Regulation on Arbitration Institutions and Corporate Compliance in India

Impact of Financial Regulation on Arbitration Institutions and Corporate Compliance in India

Causal Relationships Between Physical Activity and Arthrokinematic Integrity of the Ankle Joint-Foot Complex Across Normal and Pathological Phenomena: A Case-Control Analysis.

Introduction Muscles, ligaments, tendons, bones, and cartilage undergo age-related changes, affecting the foot-ankle joint complex biomechanics in both genders. While international studies have extensively researched these dynamics, Indian studies are limited. Our study aims to fill this gap by analyzing the anthropometric and biomechanical function of the foot-ankle joint complex in normal individuals and those with painful pathologies at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Rajkot's OPD. Methods In a two-year case-control study of the cross-sectional type conducted at AIIMS Rajkot's OPD, 158 patients with similar pain intensity on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale were examined. Anthropometric and biomechanical measurements were taken for both affected and non-affected foot and ankle joints. Cases comprised patients with foot and ankle joint pain, while controls were selected based on predefined criteria and were without such pain. Ethical approval was acquired from the Institutional Ethical Committee of AIIMS Rajkot. Results The sprain of the ankle joint and foot was the most common musculoskeletal pathology (65 out of 158 cases, i.e., 41.13%) affecting the ankle joint-foot complex. Patients involved in occupations requiring higher physical inactivity suffer more commonly from ankle joint-foot pathologies. The mean difference in the range of motion, i.e., dorsiflexion, plantar flexion, inversion, and eversion, between affected and non-affected feet was found to be lower in the patients who belonged to occupations involving low physical activity compared to those patients having occupations with high physical activity. Conclusion Reduced physical activity increases the stiffness and reduces the flexibility of the tendons, muscles, and ligaments of any joint (the ankle joint-foot complex in this study) and is associated with a higher incidence of musculoskeletal pathologies.

A Strategic Approach To Resilient And Sustainable Higher Education Institutions In India

A Strategic Approach To Resilient And Sustainable Higher Education Institutions In India

Analysis of Research Publications on Pharmacogenomics of Sulphonylurea - A Scientometric Study.

This study analysed pharmacogenomics studies on sulfonylurea research publications using the Pubmed and Scopus databases. In the end, 65 publications from the years 2015 to 2021 were noticed. The objective of this study was to analyse these studies using scientometric tools, such as frequency counts, percentages, relative growth rates, doubling times, and collectively. A maximum of 19 (29.23%) research publications were contributed during the 2020 research period. The relative growth rate tends to decrease from 2015 to 2020 and the doubling time tends to increase and decrease after 2020. Up to 2 (3.08%) research publications were contributed by Ewan R. Pearson and Chen each. The top authors have an average degree of collaboration of 0.90 and 41 (63.83%) of their research publications are articles. The United States is the major contributor with 19 (29.23%) pharmacogenomics research publications on sulfonylureas. Although the United States is the most prolific country in sulfonylurea pharmacogenomics research, there are few Indian institutions that are not listed among the most prolific institutions.

Preface

In the creation of this volume, we find the culmination of the International Conference on Materials Engineering, Materials Chemistry, and Materials Physics (MECAP-2023), a meticulously orchestrated event by the Nanotechnology Research Centre at Sagi Rama Krishnam Raju Engineering College, Bhimavaram, India, spanning from September 25 to 26, 2023. The primary objective of the conference was to forge a vibrant platform for the convergence of experts, scholars, and students, fostering the exchange of research ideas and technological advancements. With a distinct emphasis on the cutting-edge trends and future horizons in Material Engineering and Materials Science, the conference aimed to stimulate intellectual discourse and collaboration. A pivotal role in this intellectual tapestry was played by the keynote speeches, where luminaries from esteemed institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), San Sebastian University in Chile, Northwestern Polytechnical University in China, and New York University in Abu Dhabi, showcased their profound contributions. Their presentations not only illuminated significant advancements in Material Engineering and Materials Science but also ignited fervent discussions that reverberated through both conference sessions and breaks, creating an atmosphere of dynamic exchange and exploration of key topics within the field. The meticulously curated proceedings of MECAP-2023 encompass a collection of accepted papers that domains such as Materials Engineering, Materials Chemistry, and Materials Physics. Subjected to a rigorous peer review process, these papers now grace the pages of this volume, adhering to the professional standards upheld by the Journal of Physics: Conference Series. Our heartfelt appreciation extends to the committed members of the Conference Advisory Committee, whose unwavering support and insightful suggestions have played an instrumental role in ensuring the resounding success of the conference. Gratitude is also extended to the keynote speakers, whose invaluable contributions and profound ideas have significantly enriched the conference’s success. Finally, we extend our acknowledgment to the Journal of Physics: Conference Series team for their meticulous efforts, guiding us through every stage of the publication process. List of Advisory Committee, Organizing Committee are available in the Pdf.

Importance of Professional Values in Nursing Practice: Nurses Perspective

Topic: Descriptive cross-sectional study on the Importance of professional values in Nursing Practice: Nurses PerspectiveObjectives of the study: To investigate the importance of professional values in nursing practice from nurses’ perspectives.Background: Professional values are vital components in nursing practice and nursing professionals need to be aware of these values as code of ethics to provide high-quality patient care. Nurses, as the largest health care group, have well-known and important professional values. The use of these values in nursing practice increased the quality of patients care, nurses’ occupational satisfaction, their retention in nursing and commitment to the organization.Methods: The present descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from June to September 2023.The study was conducted among the nursing officers working in All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi.Result: Results showed that the mean total attitude score was 121.35±11.80 which denotes high importance of professional values among nurses. Protect health and safety of the patient was given the highest importance and participate in peer review was given the least importance.Conclusion: The nurse educators and administrator needs to develop continuous educational programs to improve nurses’ awareness and understanding of the importance of professional values and improve the quality of care.

Exploring Menstrual Hygiene Practices and Awareness of Menstrual Cups Among Nursing Professionals: A Cross-Sectional Survey.

Menstrual hygiene management poses significant challenges globally, with widespread reliance on disposable sanitary pads contributing to health risks and environmental degradation. Sustainable alternatives like menstrual cups offer promising solutions but face barriers to adoption, including myths and misconceptions. Educational interventions are crucial in promoting eco-friendly menstrual hygiene practices. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Nagpur (Central India) among nursing officers from January to February 2022. A structured questionnaire assessed the demographic characteristics, menstrual hygiene practices, knowledge of menstrual cups, and attitude towardtheir use. Of the 101 participants, the majority were between the age group of 25 and 40 years (71, 70.3%) and were educated up to a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing (79, 78.21%). Overwhelmingly, 97 (96.03%) of the nursing officers used non-biodegradable sanitary pads. Frequent need to change and staining were cited as common difficulties. Although 97 (96.04%) of the participants had heard ofmenstrual cups, knowledge gaps existed regarding suitability for nulliparous women, material composition, cost, and lifespan. Despite expressing a desire for better alternatives by 56 (55.4%) participants, only one (0.99%) reported current menstrual cup usage, with 60 (59.4%) participants indicating future readiness to use. Discovering nurses' menstrual hygiene habits, this study sheds light on their reliance on disposable pads over menstrual cups. Improving the acceptability of menstrual cups hinges on addressing current knowledge gaps such as their feasibility for use by nulliparous women, ease of insertion, cost, and environmental sustainability. Despite hurdles like misinformation, participants show openness to embracing new options with the right guidance and education.