This study aims to synthesise silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using natural plant extract as an alternative method to tackle the global health threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). The extract of Aloe vera leaves was mixed with silver nitrate solutions (AgNO3) at an appropriate concentration and incubated at room temperature for 24 hrs. The characterisation of nanoparticles for the determination of shape, size, and crystalline parameters was done using TEM, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. A change in colour from pale yellow to brown indicated nanoparticle synthesis, for which the surface plasmon resonance peak ranged from ~410 to ~430 nm, observed in UV-Vis spectroscopy. The concentration-dependent increase in AgNPs size ranged from 20 nm with 0.1 mM AgNO3 to 500 nm with 10.0 mM AgNO3. The AgNPs were crystalline structures with a crystallite size range of 21.71 to 26.05 nm and showed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus when prepared using 1.0 mM AgNO3. A reduction in the antibacterial activity of AgNPs was observed as the Nanoparticle size increased. Therefore, this study could represent a significant alternative to antibiotics for the treatment of S. aureus infections. Major Findings: Aloe vera extract facilitated the green synthesis of crystalline silver nanoparticles, confirmed by UV– Vis, TEM, and XRD. The size of AgNPs increased with higher AgNO₃ concentration (approximately 20–500 nm), showing a concentration-dependent formation. Small AgNPs (~50 nm) exhibited strong antibacterial activity against S. aureus, suggesting potential as an alternative antimicrobial agent.
Indian parents of children with Learning Disabilities (LD) face significant emotional challenges. Though online support platforms help to ease the pressure on parents, their impact on their psychological well-being remains understudied. This study examines the relationship between engagement with digital support platforms and mental health outcomes among 100 digitally connected urban Indian parents having children with LD in Bengaluru. A quantitative cross-sectional survey employed an adapted Social Media Use Integration Scale (SMUIS; Cronbach’s alpha = 0.82), alongside the Psychological Well-Being (PWB) scale and the Parental Stress Scale (PSS). Participants were selected via convenience sampling from parents of children aged 6 -15 years with LD. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple linear regression in the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results indicated that no significant association was found between engagement with online support platforms and psychological well-being (r = -0.038, p = 0.704) or stress (r = -0.128, p = 0.206). Barriers included limited digital literacy (28%), linguistic diversity (15%), and scepticism (22%), while facilitators included culturally relevant content (40%) and peer support (35%). Pilot testing suggested moderate engagement with non-social media platforms (item 9, M = 3.8). Due to the cross-sectional design, these findings reflect patterns observed at a single time point, and no causal inferences can be drawn. The results highlight the need for culturally tailored, mobile-friendly solutions. The null findings underscore the unique urban challenges, necessitating longitudinal research to address these gaps in linguistic diversity and improve scale sensitivity. Major Findings: There was no significant association between online support engagement and psychological well-being or stress of the parents, and barriers included limited digital literacy (28% of respondents), linguistic diversity (15%), and scepticism toward online resources (22%).
Background: In Ayurveda, Prakriti refers to an individual’s inherent constitution, determined at conception by the predominance of one or more Doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. This constitutional type influences metabolism, physiological functions, and disease susceptibility. Objective: To examine the relationship between dietary habits, lifestyle disorders, and Prakriti among working women aged 35–65 years in Varanasi. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 395 working women from four universities in Varanasi. Prakriti was assessed using a validated questionnaire. Lifestyle disorders were evaluated through a newly developed assessment proforma. Dietary intake was recorded using the 24-hour diet recall method, and Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated. Results: Kapha Prakriti was the most prevalent (69.9%), followed by Vata (17.2%) and Pitta (12.9%). Lifestyle disorders were reported across all Prakriti types, with a significant association observed between thyroid disorders and Prakriti (p = 0.022). Dietary analysis indicated suboptimal intake of calories and fats compared to the Estimated Average Requirement in most participants. Although BMI did not significantly correlate with Prakriti, overweight was more commonly observed in individuals with Kapha and Pitta dominance. Conclusion: The study highlights the influence of Prakriti and occupational factors on metabolic health and disease susceptibility. These findings support the integration of personalized, Prakriti-based dietary and lifestyle interventions to enhance health outcomes among working women. Major Findings: Findings suggests that not only Prakriti (inherent traits), but the external behaviours related to daily lifestyle as sitting hours, dietary preferences, and physical activity can play crucial role in occurrence of lifestyle related diseases.
Background: Upper trapezius myalgia (trapezitis) is a common musculoskeletal condition among students, often associated with poor posture, prolonged device use, and academic stress. Physiotherapy students may be at increased risk due to additional clinical and academic demands. Aim: To determine the prevalence of upper trapezius myalgia among undergraduate physiotherapy students and to examine its association with selected lifestyle and clinical factors. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 100 undergraduate physiotherapy students aged 18-25 years at Dayananda Sagar University using simple random sampling. Demographic and lifestyle data were collected. Clinical assessment included palpation for tenderness, resisted shoulder shrug, cervical range of motion, and postural evaluation. Functional disability was assessed using the Neck Disability Index (NDI). Upper trapezius myalgia was identified based on the presence of self-reported neck/upper trapezius pain along with localized tenderness and pain on resisted shoulder shrug. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics (version 29.0). Descriptive statistics, chi-square test, independent t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Spearman’s correlation were used. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of upper trapezius myalgia was found to be 41%. No significant association was observed with gender, year of study, hand dominance, smartphone use, posture, physical activity, or academic hours (p > 0.05). However, sleep duration and academic/clinical stress showed significant associations with upper trapezius myalgia (p < 0.05). Participants with myalgia demonstrated significantly higher NDI scores (p = 0.005), and a positive correlation was observed between pain intensity and NDI scores (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Upper trapezius myalgia is prevalent among undergraduate physiotherapy students, with sleep deprivation and stress emerging as significant contributing factors. Early identification, ergonomic education, stress management, and timely physiotherapy interventions are essential to reduce the burden of this condition. Major Findings: 1) High prevalence: Upper trapezius myalgia was found in 41% of undergraduate physiotherapy students, indicating a considerable burden in this population. 2) Significant risk factors: Sleep duration and academic/ clinical stress showed a statistically significant association with upper trapezius myalgia (p < 0.05). 3) Impact on function: Students with upper trapezius myalgia had significantly higher Neck Disability Index (NDI) scores, with a positive correlation between pain intensity and disability (p < 0.05).
Background: The core muscles function as the pressure regulatory system, with the diaphragm marking the superior boundary and the pelvic floor muscles marking the inferior boundary. The posterior aspect is marked by multifidus, while the transversus abdominis comprises the inner walls of the abdominal cylinder. A dysfunction in any component of the core muscles can lead to compensation from other components of the core, leading to long-term adaptation or injury to one or more components of the core. During pregnancy, the hormonal activity and growing foetus can alter the integrity of the abdominal wall. This can further alter the mechanics of respiration during the puerperal period, as both core stability and rib cage expansion depend on coordinated diaphragm–abdominal–pelvic floor function. Objective: To evaluate the relationship between Diastasis Recti Abdominis and thoracic expansion in postpartum mothers. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 46 postpartum women (2 months to 2 years post-delivery). The Inter-recti Distance (IRD) was measured at three levels—above, at, and below the umbilicus using a digital calliper during the curl-up test, while thoracic expansion was assessed at axillary, mid-thoracic, and lower thoracic levels using an inch tape. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to analyse relationships between IRD and thoracic expansion. Results: A significant negative correlation (p < 0.001) was found between IRD at all levels and thoracic expansion at all three thoracic regions. The strongest correlation was between below-umbilical IRD and lower thoracic expansion (r = -0.911). Conclusion: The increase in inter-recti distance can have a negative influence on the thoracic expansion in postpartum women, which indicates a strong correlation between the integrity of the abdominal wall and the mechanism of breathing. This can have an impact on the activities of daily living. Early diagnosis and intervention can improve both core stability and restore normal breathing. Major Findings: A significant negative correlation was found between inter-recti distance and thoracic expansion at all measured levels in postpartum women (p < 0.001). These findings suggest that diastasis recti abdominis negatively influences respiratory mechanics in postpartum mothers.
Introduction: Social media addiction has emerged as a growing concern among young adults, particularly nursing students who are frequent users of digital platforms. Recognising the need for awareness and preventive strategies, this study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a structured teaching program in improving knowledge regarding social media addiction among nursing students at SGT University, Gurugram, Haryana. Methodology: This quantitative pre-experimental study was conducted among 100 undergraduate nursing students selected through a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire divided into two sections: demographic variables and knowledge-related questions on social media addiction, symptoms, and prevention. Pre-test and post-test scores were compared to measure the effectiveness of the teaching intervention. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, paired t-test, and chi-square test, were used for data analysis. Findings: Pre-test results indicated that 63% of students had inadequate knowledge, while only 6% had adequate knowledge. After the structured teaching program, adequate knowledge levels increased to 33%, and inadequate knowledge dropped to 7%. The mean score improved significantly from 8.14 (35.39%) in the pre-test to 14.69 (63.87%) in the post-test. A statistically significant improvement was observed (p < 0.001). No significant associations were found between demographic variables and knowledge scores, except for the source of information (p = 0.043), where internet-based learning showed a positive influence. Conclusion: The study confirms that structured teaching programs are effective in enhancing knowledge about social media addiction among nursing students. It highlights the need for integrating digital well-being education into the nursing curriculum and suggests further research on long-term behavioural outcomes and broader student populations. Major Findings: The structured teaching program boosted nursing students’ knowledge of social media addiction from 8.14±3.99 (35%) pre-test to 14.69±3.62 (64%) post-test. No demographic factors were found to be significant with other variables except internet sources (p=0.043).
Background: Recreational football players often experience cervical discomfort and reduced functional performance due to repetitive heading and inadequate neck conditioning. While multiple therapeutic approaches are available to address cervical pain and dysfunction, Muscle Energy Technique (MET), a form of manual therapy, has emerged as a potentially effective intervention, offering therapeutic benefits for enhancing cervical function and optimizing sportspecific performance. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of MET in reducing cervical pain and enhancing heading performance among recreational football players thereby promoting good health and overall well-being. Methods: This randomized controlled trial included 30 recreational football players, with 15 in MET group and 15 in the control group. The MET group received Muscle Energy Technique in combination with conventional therapy, while the control group underwent only conventional therapy for 45 minutes per session, three times per week, over a period of four weeks. Pre- and post-treatment assessments included Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), F-MARC battery test, Cervical range of motion (ROM) and Manual muscle testing. Data were analyzed with the level of significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Participants in both groups showed statistically significant reductions in cervical pain intensity but a greater gain was found in the MET group of 5.27 ± 1.49 to 2.53 ± 1.25. In the MET group (Group A), the mean front-sided heading score improved markedly from 1.80 ± 1.21 at baseline to 4.93 ± 1.58 post-intervention, showing a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.001). Similarly, the mean right-sided heading score increased from 1.93 ± 1.87 to 4.27 ± 1.75, which was also statistically significant (p < 0.001). Similarly, the participants in MET group (Group A), had a highly significant improvement (p < 0.001) in all directions of cervical movement and cervical muscle strength after treatment as compared to control group. Conclusion: Muscle Energy Technique is an effective and safe intervention for reducing cervical pain and improving heading performance in recreational football players. Major Findings: Muscle Energy Technique resulted in greater reductions in cervical pain and Greater improvements in heading performance and cervical function compared to conventional physiotherapy alone.
Microplastics have become ubiquitous environmental pollutants found in soil ecosystems, food systems, water, and air. There is growing evidence that these particles can enter the human body by ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact, which raises questions about possible physiological and neurological effects. The objective of this study is to compile the most recent research on the origins of microplastics, exposure routes, and possible health impacts on humans, with a focus on neurological and eco-physiological processes. Numerous organ systems, including the digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological systems, may be impacted by microplastics’ potential to cause oxidative stress, inflammation, endocrine disruption, and cellular toxicity. Additionally, new research suggests that microplastic particles may be able to pass through biological barriers like the blood–brain barrier and cause neurotransmitter imbalance and neuroinflammation. This Review talks about Chronic Neurodegeneration: Chronic inflammation that triggers a cycle of neuronal deterioration, including multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and other neurological illnesses in humans. Additionally, the paper talks about how MPs may facilitate the entry of other toxic substances into fish, which affects humans in the form of bioaccumulation. These toxins can accumulate in fish that consume MPs, endangering both the fish and the humans who consume them. Significant information gaps about long-term human exposure and toxicity thresholds still exist despite expanding research. In order to limit human exposure to microplastics, environmental policies and mitigation measures must take these mechanisms into account. Major Findings: The major findings suggest that microplastics get into the human body through the contaminated food chain, where microplastics cause neurotoxicity, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Substantial knowledge gaps are present about the long-term effects on human health.
Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb. and Cryptolepis buchanani Reider are medicinal plants widely used in Ayurvedic, Unani, and tribal healthcare systems for the management of metabolic, inflammatory, and infectious diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition and antimicrobial activity of leaf and bark extracts of these plants. Qualitative phytochemical screening was conducted, and bioactive compounds were identified using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Antimicrobial activity was assessed against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, and Staphylococcus aureus using the agar well diffusion method. The bark extract of P. marsupium demonstrated broadspectrum antimicrobial activity against all tested pathogens, whereas its leaf extract showed consistent inhibitory activity. The leaf extract of C. buchanani showed selective antimicrobial activity, whereas the bark extract exhibited minimal inhibition. GC–MS analysis revealed several phytochemicals that may contribute to the antibacterial properties of these plants. The findings validate the traditional medicinal use of P. marsupium and C. buchanani and suggest their potential as natural sources of antimicrobial agents for developing plant-based therapeutics to address bacterial infections and antibiotic resistance. Major Findings: Pterocarpus marsupium bark and leaves showed strong broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. Cryptolepis buchanani leaves showed selective activity, whereas the bark showed minimal effect. GC–MS identified bioactive compounds supporting antimicrobial activity and traditional use.
Background: The IT sector plays a vital role in fostering technological progress and boosting global economy. However sedentary nature of work and extended computer usage associated with IT job can contribute to strain and discomfort especially in the neck, shoulder and lower back leading to Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMS). Objective: The objectives of the study were to determine the prevalence and risk factors of WRMS among IT professionals. Methods: This crosssectional descriptive study was conducted between 2nd January and 31st March 2025, involving a cohort of 300 information technology professionals employed in Bangalore. Participants of male and female employees were selected through purposive sampling. Data collection encompassed demographic data Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and Rapid Office Strain Assessment (ROSA) Scale. The descriptive and inferential analysis were used for analysis. Results: A high prevalence of WRMS was observed, with 82.7% of participants reporting symptoms in at least one body region. The lower back (68.3%), shoulder (34.0%), and upper back (28.7%) were the most prevalent locations affected. Additionally, 22.0% of participants reported that their symptoms prevented them from performing normal work, and 18.0% experienced trouble during the past 7 days. 68.3% of the participants were in action level 1 (low MSDs risk), Male participants (OR = 2.54, 95% CI: 1.38–4.69, p < 0.01), commuting by car (OR = 2.46, p < 0.01) or by two-wheelers (OR = 4.36, p < 0.01), and those with weekly computer usage exceeding 40 hours (OR = 2.46, p < 0.01) had significantly higher odds of developing work-related musculoskeletal symptoms (WRMS). Additional significant associations were observed for years of working (p < 0.01), monitor type used (p < 0.01), mode of transportation (p < 0.01), and frequency of rest breaks during work (p < 0.01). Conclusion: These findings indicate that both individual and workplace-related factors contribute to the risk of WRMS among office employees. Major Findings: A high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms (82.7%) was observed, with the lower back, shoulder, and upper back being the most affected regions; 22% of participants reported difficulty in performing normal work and 18% experienced recent symptoms, while most (68.3%) were in the low-risk category, and significant risk factors included male gender, commuting by car or two-wheeler, prolonged computer use (>40 hours/week), along with work experience, monitor type, mode of transportation, and frequency of rest breaks, indicating that both individual and workplace factors contribute to WRMS risk.
Background: Security guards usually work for long hours, often standing or sitting without changing their posture. Staying in the same position for too long can cause tiredness, muscle pain, and long-term musculoskeletal problems. The Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) scale helps identify how harmful a person’s working posture is and whether they are at risk of developing Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs). Objective: To assess the posture of security guards during their working hours and identify their level of risk for musculoskeletal problems using the REBA method. Materials and Methods: This observational study included 100 security guards from different areas of Bengaluru. A questionnaire was used to collect details about their age, work type, daily working hours, and any discomfort they experienced. Their working posture was then evaluated using the REBA scale. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, likelihood ratio tests, and Pearson correlation. A p-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Out of 100 guards, 72 percent were in the medium-risk category, 20 percent were in the high-risk category, and only 8 percent were in the low-risk category according to REBA scoring. A large number of guards (86%) reported discomfort during work, mainly in the lower back and legs/feet. Age, height, and weight showed a positive correlation with the REBA score, meaning these factors increased the risk of poor posture. Conclusion: Most security guards are at medium to high risk for developing musculoskeletal problems due to standing or sitting for long hours without changing posture. There is also a lack of ergonomic awareness and training. Providing posture education, regular breaks, better workplace ergonomics, and routine assessments can help reduce this risk. Major Findings: 72% of security guards were classified under medium ergonomic risk and 20% under high risk using REBA. 86% reported musculoskeletal discomfort, mainly affecting the lower back and lower limbs.
Introduction: Tuberculosis continues to pose a considerable public health challenge in India. Although antitubercular drugs are vital for effective treatment, they can lead to significant adverse reactions, one of which is drug-induced erythroderma. This severe inflammatory skin disorder is marked by extensive erythema and scaling that can affect more than 80% of the body’s surface area. Case Presentation: We present a 75-year-old male who was admitted with a onemonth history of widespread skin redness and scaling, accompanied by loose stools for the past three days. He had been undergoing antitubercular treatment for tuberculosis for 5 months. A thorough cutaneous examination revealed numerous erythematous, hyperpigmented plaques exhibiting scaling and superficial fissures, affecting the entire face, with some lesions on the lower lip, as well as hyperpigmented patches on the buccal mucosa and lower extremities. The patient also reported experiencing itching for the last 20 days and complained of bleeding per rectum while passing stools over the past three days. Management and Outcome: Given the clinical findings and the patient’s history of antitubercular medication use a diagnosis of erythroderma, secondary to isoniazid was established after rechallenging. The patient’s antitubercular regimen was modified, and he received supportive treatment aimed at enhancing skin barrier function and reducing inflammation. Discussion and Conclusion: This case underscores the necessity of recognizing drug-induced erythroderma in patients undergoing antitubercular therapy who exhibit extensive skin involvement. Timely diagnosis and effective management of the underlying condition, along with supportive care, are essential for enhancing patient outcomes.
Background: The hamstring muscle complex, comprising the semitendinosus, semimembranosus, and biceps femoris, is essential for lower limb biomechanics and postural stability. Tightness in the hamstrings is a common issue that can impair movement efficiency, contribute to conditions like low back pain, leg strains, and plantar fasciitis, and disrupt the muscle’s tension-length relationship. Biomechanical studies show that hamstring lengthening peaks during the terminal swing phase of gait, and dysfunction here can affect gait mechanics. Additionally, ergonomic factors, such as improper chair height, can exacerbate hamstring discomfort, with prolonged sitting either increasing tension or overstretching the muscles. This research explains the correlation between the height of the chair and hamstring tightness. Objective: To investigate the correlation between prolonged sitting and hamstring tightness among desktop workers. Methods: An observational study was conducted among desktop workers. 118 participants were screened and assessed for hamstring tightness using a sit-and-reach test. Results: The Pearson correlation coefficient (“r”) was used to find the relation between hamstring length and chair height. There was no correlation (p > 0.05) between hamstring length and chair height. Conclusion: The study found no significant correlation between chair height and hamstring tightness among the participants. This suggests that chair height alone may not be a determining factor in the development of hamstring tightness. Other factors, such as prolonged sitting duration, overall posture, and individual flexibility levels, may have a more significant impact.
The study aimed to investigate the relationship between binge-watching influence and personality among college students. A total of 200 participants, aged 18-24, were surveyed using self-report questionnaires. The Binge-Watching Addiction Scale (BWAS) was used to measure binge-watching levels, while the Big Five Inventory was used to assess personality traits. The results showed a significant positive correlation between binge-watching addiction and neuroticism, with higher scores indicating higher neuroticism in overall personality. Conversely, lower scores indicated lower neuroticism. The study used Pearson’s correlation with a significance criterion to establish a significant link at a 0.01 level. The findings suggest significant relationships between the variables, potentially predicting or influencing each other. The results do not suggest causality, necessitating further research to ascertain the direction and significance of these relationships. Major Finding: There was a substantial positive link observed between binge-watching addiction and neuroticism, indicating that people with higher binge-watching inclinations scored higher on neuroticism. The Pearson correlation analysis confirmed the relationship at a significance level of 0.01, showing a statistically significant link between the two variables.
The rising incidence of depression and anxiety among the elderly is a growing public health concern. While pharmacological treatments are widely used, they often present challenges such as side effects and dependency, highlighting the need for evidence-based psychotherapeutic alternatives. Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MBCBT) integrates mindfulness techniques with cognitive restructuring to enhance emotional regulation and reduce psychological distress. Despite its therapeutic potential, limited empirical research has evaluated its efficacy through a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) in elderly populations. This study aims to bridge this gap by assessing the impact of MBCBT on depression and anxiety in older adults. This study examines the effectiveness of MBCBT in reducing depression and anxiety among elderly individuals, evaluating pre- and post-intervention changes and its potential as a non-pharmacological alternative. A Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) was conducted with 150 elderly participants (aged 60-75 years) diagnosed with depression or anxiety, assigned to either an experimental group (10-week MBCBT intervention) or a control group (no intervention). The Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) were used for pre- and post-intervention assessments, analyzed through repeated measures ANOVA. Results indicate a statistically significant reduction in depression and anxiety symptoms among participants undergoing MBCBT. These findings support its effectiveness as a non-pharmacological psychotherapeutic intervention for elderly mental health care and highlight its potential for broader clinical applications. Major Findings: The study found that MBCBT significantly reduced depression, anxiety, and stress in elderly participants. The intervention group showed greater improvement than the control group. Large effect sizes confirmed MBCBT’s clinical relevance for geriatric mental health.
The ubiquitous presence of zinc has been reported in aquatic ecosystems. It is an essential trace element, showing both antioxidant and pro-oxidant properties. In this study, healthy specimens of freshwater fish Clarias batrachus were exposed to low and high doses of zinc for 7 consecutive days, and the level of oxidative stress was measured through Lipid Peroxidation (LPO) assay in their liver and gills. The lower and higher doses of zinc were derived from 1/8th and 1/4th of its 96-h LC50 value, respectively. A control group of specimens (without zinc exposure) was also maintained. The liver and gills of specimens exhibited differential susceptibility to zinc exposure with respect to the induction of oxidative stress. The liver, compared to the gills, showed a higher degree of LPO in response to both low as well as high levels of exposure to zinc. Significant increase in LPO was also noted in the gills, particularly under high zinc exposure. These tissuespecific responses to zinc exposure at the levels of LPO might result from differential mechanisms of their interaction. Major Findings: This study may contribute to our understanding of the mechanisms of zinc toxicity, particularly in aquatic organisms, as well as its potential implications for environmental monitoring and risk assessment.
Introduction: Prolonged usage of masks has been inevitable for healthcare workers. This study examines the impact of prolonged mask use on healthcare workers, focusing on its effects on lung function, endurance, and cognitive abilities. Method: 106 healthcare workers aged 25-45 years were included in the study conducted at selected South Bangalore, India hospitals. Spirometry, a 6-minute walk test and cognition failure questionnaire were used to assess their lung function, endurance and cognitive abilities respectively. Result: More number of female participants (64.15%) volunteered for the study. A low percentage of participants (49.06) used surgical masks and the majority did not engage in regular exercise. Around 50% of the participants had contracted COVID-19 at least once during the past 3 years. Furthermore, we found that regardless of the type of mask used, there were no significant differences in Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1), Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF) parameters, while FEV1/FVC values reached a statistical significance level. Further, the healthcare workers had no significant changes in the 6-minute walk distance and there was a slight reduction in cognitive function among them. Conclusion: The healthcare workers were invited for an observational cross-sectional study, aimed to assess the effect of prolonged use of different types of masks owing to their occupational requirements. We found that there was a clinically significant reduction in the pulmonary function parameters of the participants in comparison with the age, gender and Body Mass Index (BMI) matched normative values though it did not reach statistical significance. Also, we found that there was no difference in the age and sex-matched 6-minute walk distance scores of our study participants. The use of face masks demonstrated to have an implication on the cognitive functions of Health Care Workers (HCWs), though not severe. Major Findings: 1. No statistically significant differences in the Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT) values were documented except for the FEV1/FVC ratio between surgical and N95 mask groups. 2. The 6-Minute Walk Distance (MWD) among both, N95 and surgical mask users as well as the male and female individuals were found to be well within the prescribed ranges for that age and sex. 3. The use of face masks is known to have an implication on the cognitive function of HCWs, though not severe.
Using phalangeal skeletochronology, we determined the age and longevity of an Indian lesser bandicoot rat Bandicota bengalensis from the Sangli district, Southern India. Total 54 dead lesser bandicoots were collected from Sangli (2021- 2022), where rodenticides were used for pest control. Hematoxylin stained cross sections revealed 4-5 distinct Lines of Arrested Growth (LAGs) in all individuals, with similar growth marks in femur and phalangeal sections across ten different body sizes. Out of the 54 individuals examined, 3 (5.55%) lacked any LAGs. 6 bandicoots (11.11%) exhibited 1 LAG each, while 7 (12.97%) showed 2 LAGs. 13 individuals (24.07%) had 3 LAGs, 11 (20.37%) possessed 4 LAGs, and 14 (25.92%) exhibited 5 LAGs in their phalangeal cross-sections. Back-calculation indicated no evidence of endosteal resorption in these specimens. Collectively, these findings suggest that the lesser bandicoot rat likely attains a natural lifespan of approximately 5 to 6 years. Major Findings: This study used phalangeal skeletochronology to estimate the age and longevity of the Indian lesser bandicoot rat (B. bengalensis) from the Sangli district of Southern India. A total of 54 dead individuals, collected from rodenticide-treated agricultural fields between 2021 and 2022, were analyzed. Hematoxylin-stained bone sections revealed up to 5 distinct Lines of Arrested Growth (LAGs), indicating age classes from less than 1-5 years. Similar LAG patterns were observed in both phalanges and femur sections, with no signs of endosteal resorption. The findings suggest that this species may naturally live up to 5-6 years under tropical conditions.
Background and Objectives: It is observed that people frequently crack their knuckles, but little is known about how this behaviour affects hand health, particularly hypermobility and functional hand impairment. This study aimed to identify the prevalence of hypermobility and hand impairment due to habitual knuckle cracking among college-going students aged 18 to 25 in Bangalore. The objectives were to find the prevalence of hypermobility using goniometer, and to assess the severity of hand impairment using Sollerman hand function test in college going students with knuckle cracking habits. Aim: This study aims to find out the prevalence of hypermobility and functional hand impairment due to habitual knuckle cracking among college going students in Bangalore. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 150 college students aged 18 to 25 in Bangalore. Hypermobility was assessed using Finger Goniometer, while hand impairment was evaluated through the Sollerman hand function test. The collected data was analysed to determine the prevalence of hypermobility and hand impairment, as well as to compare these factors between the right and left hand. Results: The result disclosed that hypermobility and functional hand impairment was found significant on the dominant hand of the participant (p < 0.05). The comparison of hypermobility and hand impairment provided insights into the impact of habitual knuckle cracking on hand function among college students in Bangalore. Conclusion: The findings of this study imply that the long-term habitual knuckle cracking contributes in the increased joint range of motion along with its correlation with the functional hand impairment. By recognizing the impact of habitual knuckle cracking on hand function, interventions can be implemented to mitigate hand impairment and promote long-term hand health among young individuals. Major Findings: The college going students habitual of knuckle cracking had hypermobility of MCP joints of the dominant hand and grip strength was found weaker in dominant hand.
Introduction: This study was conducted to find out the prevalence of urinary incontinence in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in SDM hospital, Dharwad. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a prevalent, curable, and avoidable illness marked by ongoing respiratory symptoms and restricted airflow brought on by abnormalities of the airways or alveoli, which are typically brought on by prolonged exposure to harmful particles1. According to a study, individuals having COPD who experience chronic cough are prone to develop urinary incontinence, as coughing exerts pressure on the bladder2. The presence of urinary incontinence among COPD patients can be a strong factor in terms of exercise avoidance, physical inactivity and reduced social participation3. When UI and COPD coexist, there may be a double risk factor for the negative consequences of physical inactivity4. Aims and Objectives of the Study: To find out the prevalence of urinary incontinence in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in SDM Hospital, Dharwad. Method: A qualitative study was conducted through a questionnaire available in the languages, English and Kannada. Interpretation and Conclusion: 55 individuals participated in this study, out of which 25 of the participants complained of having symptoms of urinary incontinence. Among the 25 people having urinary incontinence, 4 of them had slight symptoms, 14 of them had moderate symptoms, 7 of them had severe symptoms and none of them had very severe symptoms. Among the 25 people having urinary incontinence, 15 were women and 10 were men. Major Findings: Among 55 individuals with COPD, 25 of them complained to have symptoms of urinary incontinence which makes up to 45.5% out of which 60% were females and 40% were males.
