Review of the Geological Strength Index (GSI) as an Empirical Classification and Rock Mass Property Estimation Tool: Origination, Modifications, Applications, and Limitations

The geological strength index (GSI) is one of the most exceptional rock mass classification system which is used to evaluate very weak and highly jointed rock mass by different approaches and related to rock mass geomechanical properties including generalized Hoek & Brown constants, deformation modulus, strength properties, and Poisson’s ratio for an appropriate design of tunnels, caverns, and other engineering structures. The distinctiveness of this system over the rock mass rating (RMR), Q-system, and other empirical methods is as follows: it utilized field observations, blockiness of rock mass, and surface joint characteristics during the evaluation process of rock mass and efficiently espoused as an empirical tool for estimation of geomechanical properties of rock mass required for pre-post stability of engineering structures using numerical modeling. This study presents the review of the 19 years of research studies conducted by different researchers about the GSI in a systematic way, i.e., origination, modifications, applications, and limitations. Furthermore, this study will provide a better understanding to field professionals (geologists, mining and civil engineers) about the qualitative and quantitative estimation of the GSI and its application as an empirical estimating tool for an appropriate design of engineering structures in rock mass environments

SARS-CoV-2 specific IgG antibodies among participants presenting to a voluntary testing facility in Srinagar, Kashmir

Background: The tide of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has scoured the global community with India, from 30 January 2020 to 30 September 2021, reporting 33,739,980 confirmed cases and over 448,090 deaths from coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Serologic testing for SARS-CoV-2 infection among the general public will provide essential information regarding the risk of infection. So, the present study was conducted to provide relevant information on the proportion of people who hadexperienced either a recent or past infection. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adults >18 years in the Department of Community Medicine, Government medical college, Srinagar. Blood samples of the participants were tested for the presence of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG antibodies using a chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay-based serologic test. Results: A total of 2,107 participants took part in the study. The overall unadjusted seroprevalence of IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in our study was 49%. The age-adjusted seroprevalence was 52%. Conclusion: The findings of the study suggested that not only a large proportion (49%) of the participants had been infected with COVID-19 infection but many were also susceptible to infection. Therefore, infection control measures still need to be followed properly