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Barriers to Implementation and Anemia Prevalence among Adolescents under the Anemia Mukt Bharat Abhiyan: A Cross-Sectional Study
No full textAnemia remains one of the foremost nutritional and public health challenges globally, especially in low- and middle-income countries such as India. Among adolescents, the burden of anemia adversely affects growth, cognition, school performance, and lifetime well-being. In response, the Government of India launched the Anemia Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (AMB or AMBA) in 2018 (as part of Poshan Abhiyaan), with a six-by-six strategic framework aiming to reduce anemia prevalence across age groups. However, field-level gaps in implementation may undermine its effectiveness.
This cross-sectional study assessed anemia prevalence and examined barriers to AMB implementation among 300 school-going adolescents aged 10–19 years in Sarojini Nagar Lucknow. Hemoglobin reports and a semi-structured questionnaire (covering socio-demographics, dietary practices, awareness, and perceived programmatic challenges) were used. The overall anemia prevalence was 57%, with significantly higher prevalence in females (64%) than males (44%). Only 38% of adolescents were aware of AMB, and just 32% had received iron–folic acid (IFA) supplementation in the past six months. Major barriers cited included irregular IFA supply (47%), absence of health education sessions (42%), socio-cultural myths (29%), and limited parental awareness (41%). The findings underscore the persistent gap between policy and practice. To strengthen AMB’s impact, study recommend improvements in supply chain, monitoring mechanisms, school-based BCC (behaviour change communication), and community integration. Addressing systemic, operational, and socio-cultural obstacles is essential if India is to realize the vision of an “Anemia Mukt Bharat.
Recycled Bricks in Circular Construction: A Comparative Analysis of Material use and Env Performance in Shuijingfang Museum and the West Village Basis Yard
No full textAims: With the rapid acceleration of urbanization, the construction industry has generated a sharp increase in construction waste, while traditional disposal methods such as landfilling and incineration have failed to meet the requirements of sustainable development. This study aims to explore the application, challenges, and environmental significance of recycled bricks within circular construction systems, providing both theoretical and practical insights into the resource-efficient reuse of construction waste.
Study Design: A comparative case study design integrating architectural, environmental, and cultural analysis was employed to examine how recycled bricks function within different architectural contexts and sustainability frameworks.
Place and Duration of Study: The study focuses on two representative projects—the Shuijingfang Museum in Chengdu and West Village·Basis Yard in Shanghai—conducted between June 2022 and December 2024.
Methodology: Online investigations, documentary analysis, and comparative case studies were employed to examine the application and performance of recycled bricks in architectural practice. The study further applied the theoretical framework of circular construction to analyze their ecological, aesthetic, and socio-cultural implications, while identifying key challenges related to material performance, cost efficiency, and policy support.
Results: The study finds that recycled bricks enhance aesthetic, functional, and environmental performance in both cases. The Shuijingfang Site Museum uses standardized recycled bricks from demolition waste, achieving efficient material substitution at a smaller scale. West Village·Basis Yard applies diverse recycled masonry units extensively across the complex, producing greater overall carbon-reduction effects. Aligned with established LCA ranges for recycled masonry, both projects demonstrate notable environmental gains while representing two distinct circular-construction pathways—cultural expression and large-scale community application. Together, they underline the environmental and cultural value of recycled materials in contemporary architecture.
Conclusion: As a sustainable building material, recycled brick embodies the convergence of environmental responsibility, cultural continuity, and architectural innovation. This study concludes that integrating recycled materials within circular construction frameworks can significantly reduce ecological impact, promote material reuse, and enrich architectural expression. Future advancement requires coordinated policy support, technological innovation, and public engagement to accelerate the industrialization and normalization of green circular materials in the construction sector
Development and Sensory Evaluation of Millet-Based Cupcakes as a Functional Bakery Product
No full textMillets are high in nutrition and dietary fibre. They serve as a good source of protein, micronutrients and phytochemicals. The millets contain 7-12% protein, 2-5% fat, 65-75% carbohydrates and 15-20% dietary fibre. This study seeks to produce millet based cup cake. The preparation of millet-based cupcakes involves the careful selection and combination of ingredients to achieve desirable nutritional and sensory properties. In addition to millet flours, wheat flour was incorporated to provide structure and improve the texture of the cupcakes. Cocoa powder was added to enhance flavour and colour, while sugar contributed sweetness and tenderness to the product. Baking powder was used as a leavening agent to ensure proper rise and softness. Milk served as the liquid medium, improving moisture content and contributing to a smooth batter consistency. After preparation of cupcakes measured physical properties and sensory analysis of the developed product. The weight of cakes varied from 218 to 285 g. The volume of cakes varied from 522 to 450 ml. The bulk density of cakes varied from 0.418 to 0.629 (gm/ml). The assessment showed that samples I and J were the most preferred. The cost of production of cake incorporated with refined wheat flour and millet mixtures was approximately Rs.45.43/100 g
Effect of Solanum melongena (Garden Egg) Ethanolic Extract on Reproductive Hormones, Semen Quality, and Testicular Histology in Adult Male Wistar Rats
No full textBackground: The male reproductive characteristics like sperm count and sperm motility play an important role in male fertility. Some fruits and vegetables consumed help improve male reproductive characteristics and they include; cucumber, garden egg, guava, bell peppers, kiwis, bananas (medium size) and also oranges. Male infertility is a condition that affects millions of men worldwide, where a man has a low sperm count or abnormal sperm function, which makes it difficult for him to impregnate a woman. This study seeks to investigate the effect of Solanummelongena (Garden Egg) on Male Reproductive Parameters in Adult Male Wistar Rat. Twelve (12) male rats were used for the present study. Animals were grouped into control, low and high dose garden egg. The extract was administered orally for a duration of 21 days. Twenty-four (24) hours after the last day administration, animals were sacrificed. The testes and epididymis were harvested and used for histological studies; semen was collected for semen analysis. Data were expressed as mean ± SEM. The mean difference between the tested groups and the control was tested using a one-way ANOVA. Values were considered statistically significant when P is ≤ 0.05. Sperm count (control: 466±86.18; Low dose: 400 ±115.17; High dose: 383.33±123.13); Viability(control: 78.33±2.06; Low dose: 68.33±4.36; High dose: 75±2.89); Testosterone (Control: 1.16 ± 0.06; low dose: 1.32 ± 0.09; high dose: 1.43 ± 0.18); FSH (Control: 0.63 ± 0.05; low dose: 1.06 ± 0.06; high dose: 0.95 ± 0.04); LH (Control: 0.70 ± 0.05; low dose: 1.22 ± 0.04; high dose: 1.20 ± 0.02). Consumption of ethanolic extract of garden egg significantly reduced sperm count, viability and morphology, it may likely decrease the chances of in experimental animals
Advances and Future Prospects in Microbial Repair of Concrete Cracks
No full textConcrete crack issues have always been the focus of attention in the field of civil engineering due to their direct impact on structural stability and durability. While some traditional repair methods are effective, they also possess numerous limitations. In contrast, microbial repair technology, apart from enhancing structural bearing capacity and durability, boasts environmental-friendly characteristics. This paper reviews recent research on microbial-based concrete crack repair, analyzing key aspects such as microbial species, repair mechanisms, methods, influencing factors, and characterization techniques. The aim is to provide new perspectives and ideas for future research
Seismic Performance of RC Frame Hospital Buildings Using Friction Dampers under Multiple Earthquakes
No full textFrequent earthquakes indicate that isolated seismic events are rare, with the probability of an independent earthquake typically not exceeding 10%. Earthquakes are not isolated phenomena and may occur in quick succession under certain conditions. If buildings are not reinforced, they may suffer significant damage or even collapse when subjected to subsequent earthquakes. Currently, most international seismic design codes only consider single seismic events, i.e., the effect of the main earthquake. Studying the seismic performance of buildings under multiple earthquakes is of great significance both academically and practically, under a seismic load of 620 Gallons, the damping structure reduced inter story displacement by 18% compared to traditional design, indicating improved elasticity
Initiatives and Challenges for Promoting Online Learning among Higher Education Students
No full textBackground: Information and Communication Technology is the essential component of any Education System. It became popular with the passage of time and even after the outbreak of COVID-19. In order to make it more accessible to rural and urban students, the ministry of information and communication technology along with ministry of education have taken various initiatives to promote online learning. This trend becomes neo-normal nowadays. When initiatives were taken up for their real execution, there were challenges as well. The present investigation is an attempt on the part of researcher to know the awareness of initiatives and challenges among higher education students of Kashmir District and students enrolled in Maulana Azad National Urdu University Satellite Campus Srinagar and how to solve them scientifically.
Aims & Objectives: The present investigation would be aimed at to know the awareness of initiatives and challenges for promoting online learning among higher education students.
Method & Procedure: In the present investigation the investigators have used three research tools were administered online through Google Form on higher education students studying at different higher educational institutions of Srinagar district. Convenient sampling technique was applied and 150 higher education students were selected. Percentage analysis and t-test were used in order to analyse and interpret the data.
Findings of the Study: In the present investigation, the investigator have found that out of 100% only 30.0% of students are aware of the National Digital Educational Architecture, while 70% of students are not aware about National digital educational architecture followed by other initiatives of government of India. A significant portion of students (50%) scored 216 and above, indicating they face substantial challenges in online learning. 28% of the students scored 68 and above, indicating a high level of positive attitude towards online learning. These students likely appreciate the flexibility and accessibility that online learning provides followed by 44% moderate attitude and low attitude
Understanding the Dietary Nutrition and Its Health Implications in Historical Food Practices
No full textFood habits, shaped by multiple motives and stimuli, are increasingly complex aspects of human behavior, often prioritizing cultural significance over nutritional value. Traditional diets, deeply rooted in cultural and historical contexts, offer significant health benefits and sustainable solutions to contemporary health challenges. These diets, such as those practiced in India and among indigenous communities, emphasize locally available, nutrient-rich foods that combat non-communicable diseases and promote overall well-being. The integration of traditional food systems into modern dietary practices can enhance food security and address the global syndemic of obesity, undernutrition, and climate change by promoting biodiversity and sustainable agricultural practices. Nutrition education is critical for individuals, communities, and public health, empowering people to make informed food choices, improve dietary habits, and reduce the risk of malnutrition and diet-related diseases. By providing knowledge and skills, nutrition education helps individuals cultivate healthy eating behaviors that can last a lifetime. Traditional knowledge systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine advocate for individualized diets that consider personal and environmental factors, further supporting health and wellness. The revival of these dietary practices not only preserves cultural heritage but also offers a promising pathway to manage lifestyle diseases and improve community health outcomes
Radon Risks in the Rare Earth Industry: A Critical Review of Exposure Pathways, Health Impacts and Policy Gaps
No full textThe accelerating demand for rare earth elements (REEs) to fuel clean energy and high-tech industries has sparked a resurgence in mining and processing activities worldwide. While the strategic and economic significance of REEs is well recognized, the radiological hazards associated with their extraction—especially from thorium- and uranium-bearing ores like monazite and bastnäsite—remain critically understudied. This review highlights radon emissions as a neglected occupational and environmental health issue within the REE supply chain. It consolidates evidence on radon generation mechanisms, exposure pathways during different production stages, and the health outcomes tied to chronic radon inhalation. Epidemiological findings from regions such as Bayan Obo and Nam Xe are presented alongside an evaluation of international regulatory frameworks, which reveal striking inconsistencies and gaps in radon-specific protections. The analysis identifies systemic deficiencies including limited monitoring mandates, outdated exposure thresholds, and inadequate community engagement. A comprehensive policy framework including modernized exposure limits, continuous surveillance, classification of REE wastes as radiological hazards, long-term health and environmental tracking, and proactive stakeholder education is proposed. Bridging these regulatory and awareness gaps is essential to ensure that the push for REEs does not impose avoidable health burdens on workers and local populations
Studies on Preparation of Probiotic Whey Beverage Using Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Sugar as Sweetener
No full textThe present study was undertaken to develop a value added probiotic whey beverage by utilizing coconut sugar as a natural sweetener. Paneer whey, a by-product of paneer production, is rich in nutrients yet underutilized, often discarded despite its environmental burden. This study aimed to optimize the formulation of a functional beverage that combines the health benefits of whey and probiotics with the nutritional value of coconut sugar a low glycemic index, mineral rich sweetener.
The experiment was carried out in two phases at the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairy Science, College of Agriculture, Dapoli. In Phase I, different concentrations (1.0%, 1.5%, 2% and 2.5%) of Lactobacillus acidophilus (NCDC-16) were evaluated to determine the optimum inoculum level based on sensory attributes. The most acceptable level (1.5%) was then used in Phase II, where coconut sugar was incorporated in five concentrations (2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, 10% and 12.5%) to assess its effect on sensory, physico-chemical and microbial quality.
Results revealed that the beverage with 7.5 per cent coconut sugar (T3) showed significant improvements in total solids, protein, ash and total sugar content. Microbial analysis confirmed the product remained safe and organoleptically acceptable for up to 11 days under refrigeration temperature (5-7°C). Cost analysis indicated a production cost of Rs. 35.05 per litre for the optimum formulation (T3).
The findings highlight that probiotic whey beverage enriched with 7.5 per cent coconut sugar offers a nutritious, cost effective and sustainable dairy based functional drink. It effectively utilizes whey and addresses whey disposal challenges