Background: End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is the terminal stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD), requiring dialysis or transplantation for survival. India carries a disproportionately high burden of ESRD due to rising diabetes, hypertension, and environmental exposures, with Punjab emerging as a high-prevalence state. Despite the growing disease burden, community-level awareness about ESRD, dialysis, and transplantation remains poorly understood. This study aimed to assess awareness levels, identify knowledge gaps, and analyze socio-demographic determinants influencing awareness among the general public of Punjab. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 adults (≥18 years) across Punjab using a structured, pre-validated questionnaire administered via Google Forms. A purposive-cum-snowball sampling method was adopted, ensuring participation from both rural and urban areas. The tool included socio-demographic details, risk profile, and 20 knowledge-based questions on ESRD and dialysis. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 25, applying descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests to examine associations between socio-demographic variables and knowledge levels. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Of the 400 respondents, 52.5% were male and 50.5% resided in rural areas. Nearly 69% had heard of ESRD or dialysis, but only 43% were aware of kidney transplantation as an alternative treatment. Diabetes (40.5%) and hypertension (37.0%) were the most recognized risk factors, while one-third reported no knowledge of any risk factor. Knowledge regarding dialysis was variable: 70.5% correctly identified its purpose, but only 52% knew the correct frequency of hemodialysis sessions and 43.5% recognized common complications. Overall, 17% had excellent knowledge, 31% good, 34.5% fair, and 17.5% poor knowledge. Urban residence (p=0.002), higher education (p<0.001), and occupation (p=0.010) were significantly associated with better awareness, while age and gender showed no significant differences. Conclusion: Awareness of ESRD and dialysis among the general population of Punjab is moderate, with substantial gaps in recognizing risk factors, treatment details, and transplantation as a long-term solution. Education, occupation, and residence strongly influenced knowledge levels, highlighting vulnerable groups such as rural and less-educated populations. Targeted health education initiatives, integration of kidney health into primary care, and mass media campaigns are urgently needed to bridge knowledge gaps, promote early detection, and improve health outcomes in Punjab.

This study involved the preparation of a New Complexes Schiff bases (L): 2-((3-ethoxy-4-hydroxybenzylidene) amino) benzoic acid, made using the identical precursor for the electron acceptor (A): The molar ratio of the reaction between 3-ethoxy-4-hydroxy benzaldehyde and electron donors (Ds) anthranilic acid was 1:1. The Schiff base ligands were used to react the salts of the Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II) and Cd(II) complexes. The complexes Measurements of molar conductivity are not electrolytic. CHN analysis of the elements, FTIR spectra, mass spectra, 1HNMR and 13CNMR were used to characterize the Schiff base ligand (L) and the same complexes samples in order to corroborate the molecular structures. The molecular structures determine the optical and biological activity. The tetrahedral geometry surrounding both of the metals and the curved planar geometry around Cu (II).

Background: The pathophysiology of Preeclampsia (PE) remains unclear, but alterations in trace elements, particularly zinc (Zn) and Copper (Cu), have been implicated. Previous studies have reported inconsistent findings regarding their role in PE. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate serum zinc and copper levels in preeclamptic women compared with normotensive pregnant women and to assess their correlation with maternal demographic and clinical parameters. Patients and Methods: A case-control study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Azadi Teaching Hospital, Kirkuk, Iraq, from February 1 to October 1, 2020. A total of 100 pregnant women aged 16-40 years with singleton viable pregnancies between 24-38 weeks were enrolled. They were divided into two groups: 50 women with PE (case group) and 50 normotensive women (control group). Venous blood samples were collected and serum zinc and copper levels were measured using a colorimetric method (spectrophotometer). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, with independent t-tests and Pearson’s correlation applied. Results: The mean serum zinc level was significantly lower in preeclamptic women compared with controls (44.05±13.23 µg/dL vs. 96.09±15.32 µg/dL, p = 0.001). Zinc levels showed a strong negative correlation with systolic blood pressure (r = –0.780, p = 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (r = –0.783, p = 0.001), but no significant association with maternal age or BMI. Serum copper levels were also significantly lower in preeclamptic women (83.20±8.37 µg/dL) compared with normotensive women (87.42±9.21 µg/dL, p = 0.018). Copper levels were negatively correlated with systolic (r = –0.486, p = 0.001) and diastolic blood pressures (r = –0.529, p = 0.001), without significant correlation with age or BMI. Conclusion: Serum zinc and copper levels are significantly reduced in preeclamptic women compared with normotensive controls during the second and third trimesters. Both trace elements demonstrated an inverse relationship with blood pressure, supporting their potential role in the pathophysiology of PE. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring and possibly supplementing zinc and copper in pregnancy to reduce the risk and severity of preeclampsia.

Background: Chronic tonsillitis is a recurrent infection of the palatine tonsils, often leading to persistent microbial colonization and systemic inflammatory responses. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the bacterial profile of tonsillar flora in children with chronic tonsillitis and assess its correlation with serum ferritin and white blood cell (WBC) indices. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted by board-certified otolaryngologists in private ENT clinics across Kirkuk City, Iraq, from June 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024. It aimed to evaluate the correlation between tonsillar bacterial flora and systemic inflammatory markers, specifically serum ferritin and white blood cell (WBC) indices, in paediatric patients with chronic tonsillitis. Fifty children under 12 years scheduled for elective bilateral tonsillectomy were enrolled following strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. All patients underwent standardized ENT evaluation. Tonsillectomies were performed under general anaesthesia using cold dissection or bipolar electrocautery and core tonsillar tissues were aseptically collected for microbiological analysis. Samples were cultured on blood, MacConkey and chocolate agar and incubated under aerobic and microaerophilic conditions. Bacterial identification was performed using conventional and automated methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing followed CLSI guidelines using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Preoperative blood samples were analysed for serum ferritin using ELISA and for CBC parameters with automated haematology analysers to assess inflammatory response. Results: The study showed that Streptococcus pyogenes was the predominant pathogen, isolated in 20 cases (40%), Staphylococcus aureus followed with a significant proportion of 15 cases (30%). Elevated serum ferritin levels (>100 ng/mL) were observed in 60% of cases. Antibiotic sensitivity was highest for ceftriaxone (88%) and ciprofloxacin (82%). A statistically significant positive correlation was found between serum ferritin and total WBC (r = 0.52, p < 0.01) and neutrophil percentage (r = 0.47, p < 0.05), while no significant correlation was found with lymphocyte count (r = -0.12). Patients infected with S. aureus had the highest ferritin levels (134.6 ± 18.2 ng/mL), compared to those with negative cultures (68.5 ± 9.3 ng/mL). Logistic regression identified S. aureus infection (OR = 3.25, p = 0.02) and neutrophilia (>65%) (OR = 2.89, p = 0.03) as independent predictors of elevated ferritin. Conclusion: Chronic tonsillitis in children is frequently associated with S. pyogenes and S. aureus, which provoke elevated systemic inflammatory markers. Correlating serum ferritin with WBC indices offers valuable insight into disease severity and could guide clinical decision-making.

Background: Childhood malnutrition and maternal nutritional anemia remain significant public health challenges in India, perpetuating an intergenerational cycle of poor health outcomes. Despite relatively high literacy rates, Shimla district in Himachal Pradesh faces persistent nutrition-related disparities influenced by socio-cultural norms, dietary misconceptions, and service utilization patterns. This study assessed community-level knowledge and misconceptions regarding childhood malnutrition and maternal nutritional anemia among women in Shimla. Materials and Methods: A community-based, descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 women aged ≥18 years, either currently pregnant or mothers of children aged 0–59 months, residing in Shimla district. A structured, bilingual, pre-tested questionnaire was disseminated via Google Forms, with supplementary in-person assistance in areas with limited internet access. The tool assessed socio-demographic profile, maternal health indicators, knowledge of childhood malnutrition and maternal anemia, and related misconceptions. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with Chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression to identify independent predictors of good knowledge (overall score ≥12/20 in each domain). Results: While 70.0% of women demonstrated good to very good overall knowledge, significant gaps persisted in identifying MUAC cut-offs (63.5%), recognizing bilateral pitting edema (65.5%), understanding dietary iron enhancers (64.0%), and recalling deworming schedules (63.0%). Higher education (AOR 5.14 for graduates), professional occupation (AOR 2.86), higher income (>₹30,000/month: AOR 3.94), and ≥4 ANC visits (AOR 2.45) were independent predictors of good knowledge. Misconceptions, such as anemia affecting only poor women, were reported by 47.5% of participants. Conclusion: Despite encouraging overall awareness levels, technical knowledge gaps and socio-cultural misconceptions persist among women in Shimla, underscoring the need for targeted, context-specific behavior change communication. Strengthening ANC-based nutrition counseling, promoting anthropometric literacy, and integrating hybrid digital–community outreach can enhance maternal and child nutrition awareness and contribute to breaking the cycle of hidden hunger.

Background: Adolescent substance abuse is a growing public health concern, often beginning at an early age and leading to adverse health, academic, and psychosocial outcomes. In Himachal Pradesh, especially Kullu district, cannabis cultivation and use have been frequently reported, yet systematic data among school-going adolescents remain limited. Objectives: To assess the prevalence, patterns, and awareness of substance abuse among school-going adolescents in Kullu district. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to April 2016 among 300 students aged 14–19 years from senior secondary schools. Data were collected using a pretested, self-administered questionnaire. Students declining consent or submitting incomplete responses were excluded. Results: Of 300 participants, 169 (56.3%) were males and 131 (43.7%) females, with a mean age of 15.9 years. Prevalence of alcohol use was 13.7%, cigarette smoking 6.3%, and cannabis use 4.7%. Alcohol and cigarette use were higher among females (17.5% and 10.7%) compared to males (10.7% and 4.7%), whereas cannabis use was more common among males (6.5% vs. 2.3%). The mean age of initiation was 14 years. Awareness of harmful effects was highest for alcohol (84.3%) and smoking (88.3%) but lower for cannabis (58%), with 42% unaware of its risks. Despite awareness, disapproval rates were modest (smoking 58.3%, alcohol 51.7%, cannabis 46%). About 6% of users reported psychosocial or academic problems linked to substance use. Conclusion: Substance abuse among adolescents in Kullu district is notable, with alcohol most prevalent, followed by smoking and cannabis. Female predominance in alcohol and smoking contrasts with most Indian studies, while cannabis use shows male predominance. Early initiation, gender differences, and limited disapproval despite awareness highlight the urgent need for targeted preventive strategies in schools and stricter regulation of substance availability.

Background: Skin cancer, while highly preventable and treatable when detected early, continues to be underestimated in India, particularly in high-altitude regions like Himachal Pradesh. The state’s increased ultraviolet (UV) exposure due to its elevation, outdoor lifestyle, and climatic conditions places its population at heightened risk. However, public awareness regarding skin cancer risks, prevention, and early detection remains largely undocumented and under-addressed. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted using a bilingual (English and Hindi) Google Form questionnaire to assess skin cancer awareness among the general population of Himachal Pradesh. The online survey, disseminated via social media and community networks, collected data from 400 residents aged 18 years and above across both rural and urban areas. The questionnaire comprised socio-demographic variables and 20 knowledge-based multiple-choice items on skin cancer risk factors, symptoms, prevention, and misconceptions. Responses were scored (0–20) and categorized into four knowledge levels. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with chi-square tests applied to explore associations between knowledge levels and demographic variables. Results: Among 400 participants, 66.8% demonstrated good to very good knowledge of skin cancer, while 11% scored poorly. High awareness was observed on UV-related risks (71.5%), protective clothing (73%), and biopsy-based diagnosis (73.8%). However, significant misconceptions persisted, including beliefs in herbal remedies (46.5%) and underestimation of risk in cloudy or cold climates. Knowledge levels were significantly associated with age (p = 0.021), education (p< 0.001), and residence (p = 0.037), with younger, urban, and more educated individuals showing higher awareness. Gender was not a significant factor (p = 0.301). Conclusion: The study reveals a moderately encouraging level of skin cancer awareness among Himachal Pradesh's residents, but also highlights critical knowledge gaps, especially in older, rural, and less-educated subgroups. The findings underscore the need for localized, demographically sensitive public health interventions that prioritize UV protection and debunk prevalent myths, particularly in underserved high-risk populations. Integrating skin cancer education into primary care and leveraging digital outreach in rural areas will be key to mitigating future disease burden in this Himalayan state.

Background: Fractures and bone injuries are common emergencies, especially in hilly terrains like Himachal Pradesh where difficult terrain, falls, and road accidents are prevalent. However, public understanding of proper fracture first aid remains poorly documented, and traditional, often harmful practices persist. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to fracture first aid and bone injury management among the general population of Himachal Pradesh. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted among 400 adults (≥18 years) across urban and rural districts of Himachal Pradesh. Using a structured, self-administered Google Form available in English and Hindi, data were collected on socio-demographics and KAP related to bone injuries and fracture first aid. Healthcare professionals and allied health students were excluded to avoid bias. Knowledge scores (max 20) were categorized as Very Good (17–20), Good (13–16), Fair (9–12), and Poor (0–8). Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests (p < 0.05) were applied using Epi Info 7 to assess associations with socio-demographic factors. Results: Among 400 participants, 64.8% demonstrated Good (36.0%) or Very Good (28.8%) knowledge of fracture first aid. High awareness was observed in areas like immobilization (70.5%), use of slings/splints (72.0%), cold compress (68.5%), and the importance of timely medical attention (72.8%). However, significant misconceptions remained, particularly regarding the dangers of tight bandaging (63.3%), offering food/water before evaluation (61.3%), and use of traditional massages (66.5%). Education level (p < 0.001), age group (p = 0.022), and rural-urban residence (p = 0.031) showed significant associations with knowledge scores, while gender did not (p = 0.215). Participants aged 26–35 and those with undergraduate or postgraduate education had the highest awareness. Conclusion: While the general population in Himachal Pradesh demonstrates encouraging awareness of basic fracture first aid, dangerous misconceptions and improper practices persist—particularly among older adults, the less educated, and rural residents. Culturally tailored first aid education campaigns, community training programs, and integration of musculoskeletal emergency preparedness into rural healthcare delivery systems are urgently needed to bridge these gaps and reduce fracture-related complications.