Multiplex methodologies, especially those with high-throughput capabilities generate large volumes of data. Accumulation of such data (e.g., genomics, proteomics, metabolomics etc.) is fast becoming more common and thus requires the development and implementation of effective data mining strategies designed for biological and clinical applications. Multiplex microbead immunoassay (MMIA), on xMAP or MagPix platform (Luminex), which is amenable to automation, offers a major advantage over conventional methods such as Western blot or ELISA, for increasing the efficiencies in serodiagnosis of infectious diseases. MMIA allows detection of antibodies and/or antigens efficiently for a wide range of infectious agents simultaneously in host blood samples, in one reaction vessel. In the process, MMIA generates large volumes of data. In this report we demonstrate the application of data mining tools on how the inherent large volume data can improve the assay tolerance (measured in terms of sensitivity and specificity) by analysis of experimental data accumulated over a span of two years. The combination of prior knowledge with machine learning tools provides an efficient approach to improve the diagnostic power of the assay in a continuous basis. Furthermore, this study provides an in-depth knowledge base to study pathological trends of infectious agents in mouse colonies on a multivariate scale. Data mining techniques using serodetection of infections in mice, developed in this study, can be used as a general model for more complex applications in epidemiology and clinical translational research.

Autorickshaws are ubiquitous in Indian cities. They play an important role in urban mobility by serving as an intermediate public transport mode and providing taxi-like services. Despite their role in urban transport, autorickshaws have received limited policy attention at the national level, which has resulted in problems with quality of service and in environmental and safety issues. Given the critical need to promote sustainable transport in a rapidly urbanizing India, this paper presents key policy focus areas for the autorickshaw sector. These policy areas are based on a structured assessment of the importance of autorickshaws in cities, their role in sustainable transport, the sustainability challenges facing the sector and opportunities to address them, and gaps in the current policy framework. Available literature, government and industry websites, and surveys of stakeholders (regulatory authorities and autorickshaw drivers) were used in this research. The key findings include the following: autorickshaw services play an important role in sustainable transport strategies for managing private motorization and encouraging the use of sustainable modes (public transport); however, as an unorganized sector, autorickshaw services face environmental and safety challenges caused by engine and vehicle design issues that need to be addressed to ensure the role of autorickshaws in sustainable transport. A policy vision is presented to promote organizational reforms and develop sustainable solutions for fuel and engine and vehicle design, and recommendations are provided on the next steps for the central government in taking the policy vision forward.

With a growing population of more than 12 million in Mumbai, India, intense stress is placed on the transport system. It is crucial that the many moving parts can function together efficiently. The nearly 110,000 auto-rickshaws of Mumbai are a ubiquitous part of this system and cater to the daily commute needs of a large section of the population. The objective of this paper is to conduct an in-depth assessment of Mumbai's autorickshaw sector to gain insights into its role in the city's transport system and the challenges that the sector faces and to present recommendations for reforms that would benefit autorickshaw drivers and users. It is envisioned that the implementation of these reforms would promote autorickshaws as part of a sustainable urban transport system for the city. The various aspects considered in the research of Mumbai's autorickshaw sector include market characteristics, regulations, operational characteristics, profile of drivers and users, financial aspects, and infrastructure. Quantitative and qualitative research methods employed over a 2-month period reveal myriad challenges within the industry, including the illegal sale of permits for more than 600 times the legal price, a loss of 95% of autorickshaw stands, tension between drivers and police, refusals of service, and an urgent need to regulate space. Autorickshaw passengers also cite advantages, such as speed of service, but autorickshaws compete directly with Mumbai's bus system. Solutions are proposed in the following focal areas: training, infrastructure, enforcement, supply and demand, fares, fleet services, and drivers.

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