Background Obesity is a critical global health challenge and is associated with numerous complications, including type 2 diabetes (T2D), high blood pressure, and cardiovascular diseases. The mini gastric bypass (GB) procedure presents an increasingly popular option for weight loss surgery as an alternative to more traditional GB procedures. This study will look at how effective MGB surgery is to reduce weight, improve blood glucose control, and reduce blood pressure in obese patients at 12 months. Methods A longitudinal cohort study was performed with 50 participants with obesity (BMI ≥ 30), scheduled for MGB surgery. Subjects were evaluated at four time points: pre-operatively, and at 3, 6, and 12 months post-operatively. The main variables studied were weight (kg), blood glucose (mg/dL) blood pressure (mm Hg), systolic and diastolic. The descriptive analysis was performed for each variable, and normality was investigated using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Paired t-tests, specifically with consideration of the Shapiro-Wilk test for normality, or repeated measures ANOVA as appropriate, were conducted to define the significance of changes in health parameters over time. Results The median weight loss was 30 kg at 12 months after surgery. Glycemic control improved compared to the period preoperative, as indicated by a reduction in blood glucose from a mean of 158 mg/dL to a mean of 120 mg/dL in the 12th month. Systolic BP also decreased from 151 mmHg before surgery to 130 mmHg at 1 year. Moreover, after this period, diastolic blood pressure decreased from 93.6 mmHg to 77.2 mmHg. Each of the variables decreased in value over time, and changes were most substantial in the first 6 months after surgery. Conclusion The main indications for MGB operation are morbid obesity, uncontrolled blood glucose level, and uncontrolled blood pressure. These results indicate that the MGB could be a good treatment modality for patients with severe obesity and its comorbidities. However, larger research studies with long-term follow-ups are needed to validate these findings and examine the long-term sustainability of these advantages.
This research presents a deep learning framework for the diagnosis of heart disease. The proposed model combines a Dropout-layer Induced Long Short-Term Memory (DI-LSTM) network with a Trapezoidal-based Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (T-ANFIS).The objective of this combination is to improve the computational efficiency and the diagnostic accuracy. Firstly, the ECG signals pre-processed and decomposed by removing baseline drift and smoothing. Then the most relevant features such as statistical properties, time-related factors, amplitude measurements, and pulse characteristics are extracted. We optimize these features with a Dent Map-based Red Fox Optimization (TM-RFO) algorithm, which improves search capabilities and avoids getting stuck in local minima by using Dent Map dynamics. The improved feature set is fed into a DI-LSTM framework. Dropout layers are used to improve generalization and prevent overfitting. This allows for binary classification of signals as normal or abnormal. If signals are abnormal, they go through a secondary classification using the T-ANFIS framework. To handle complex data patterns and identify conditions such as atrial fibrillation (AFib), ventricular fibrillation (VFib), and bradycardia, we use structural adaptive trapezoidal membership functions. Our framework shows that it performs better in terms of sensitivity, specificity, recall, accuracy, and precision metrics compared to existing methods.
Background: Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) pose a significant threat in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs), particularly in resource-constrained settings like India, where high patient turnover and limited infrastructure exacerbate risks. This study evaluates the implementation and effectiveness of a tailored fungal prevention bundle in reducing IFI incidence and outcomes in a tertiary care PICU.Methods: A prospective before-after interventional study was conducted from January 2023 to September 2025 at the 24-bed PICU of tertiary care hospital, enrolling 1,200 consecutive admissions (600 pre-bundle, 600 post-bundle). The bundle comprised hand hygiene (>90% compliance), central venous catheter (CVC) stewardship, targeted antifungal prophylaxis (fluconazole 6 mg/kg/day or voriconazole per IDSA guidelines), surveillance cultures, antibiotic stewardship, and multidisciplinary audits. Primary outcomes were IFI incidence per 1,000 admissions and attributable mortality. Secondary outcomes included adherence, length of stay (LOS), costs, and adverse events. Data were analysed using chi-square tests, Fisher’s exact test, and multivariable logistic regression (p<0.05).Results: Pre- and post-bundle groups were demographically similar (median age 4.0 years, 52% male). IFI incidence decreased from 50 to 18 per 1,000 admissions (64% reduction; p<0.001). Mortality fell from 55% (14/25) to 11% (1/9; p=0.007). Adherence averaged 80%, with prophylaxis in 42% of high-risk patients. LOS reduced from 40 to 25 days (p=0.01), yielding ₹90 lakh in savings. Mild hepatotoxicity occurred in 4% of prophylaxis cases.Conclusions: The fungal prevention bundle significantly reduced IFI incidence and mortality in an Indian PICU, demonstrating feasibility and cost-effectiveness. Standardized adoption could mitigate IFI burdens in similar settings.
Background: Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide. A common gait abnormality in stroke survivors is knee hyperextension (genu recurvatum), primarily resulting from impaired proprioception, muscle weakness, and poor neuromuscular control. This condition can compromise gait efficiency and increase fall and joint injury risks. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of aquatic proprioceptive training combined with bilateral prowling in reducing knee hyperextension and improving gait in post-stroke individuals. Methods: 28 post-stroke individuals were randomly assigned to two groups. Group A (n=14) received conventional physiotherapy with land-based proprioceptive training and bilateral prowling. Group B (n=14) followed the similar conventional protocol but performed proprioceptive training and bilateral prowling in an aquatic setting. Outcomes were measured at baseline, and at 2nd, 4th, and 6th weeks using the Wisconsin Gait Scale and Kinovea software. Results: Both groups showed significant improvements over six weeks. Group A shows WGS scores decreased from 27.2 to 21.1 and knee hyperextension improved from -13.6° to -10.3° (p = 0.002). Group B showed greater improvements, with WGS scores reducing from 27.9 to 19.4 and knee angles from -14.0° to -8.4° (p = 0.0001). Between-group analysis revealed significantly better outcomes in Group B, supporting the effectiveness of the aquatic-based intervention. Conclusion: Aquatic-based proprioceptive and prowling training is more effective than land-based therapy in reducing knee hyperextension and improving gait in post-stroke rehabilitation.
Background: Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a life-threatening cause of heart failure in previously healthy women during late pregnancy or the postpartum period; however, data from Bangladesh remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical spectrum and short-term cardiac outcomes of PPCM in Bangladeshi women. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bangladesh Medical University, Dhaka, from June 2024 to July 2025, involving 40 women with PPCM diagnosed using echocardiography (LVEF ≤45%). Demographic, clinical, and echocardiographic data were collected at baseline and at the six-month follow-up. Descriptive statistics were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Results: The mean age was 28.4 ± 6.1 years, with 50% aged 26–35 years and 80% being multigravida. Most patients (70%) developed postpartum symptoms, and 65% presented with severe LV systolic dysfunction (LVEF <30%). Pulmonary hypertension and intracardiac thrombi were present in 65% and 7.5% of patients, respectively. At six months, 20% achieved full recovery (LVEF ≥50%), 35% achieved partial recovery, 37.5% had persistent dysfunction, and mortality was 7.5%. All the patients received standard heart failure therapy. Conclusion: Peripartum cardiomyopathy in Bangladeshi women predominantly affects multiparous postpartum women with severe LV dysfunction. Although recovery within six months was observed in over half of the patients, early diagnosis and comprehensive management remain essential to reduce morbidity and mortality
Background Hysterectomy, particularly when conducted in women younger than 45 years, has been associated with increased risk of depression. In India, research indicates that hysterectomy is a common procedure for women, but there have been no studies on its long-term effects. We examined the patients of hysterectomy amongst women in childbearing age group of Odisha / India and associations with their mental health and well-being in later life.Aim Of The Objective: A Comparative study of depression between post hysterectomy and healthy women of reproductive age group. Material and method: Study Design: Cross-sectional study.Population: Women under 45 years who underwent hysterectomy for non-malignant reasons, compared to a control group who have not undergone the procedure.Sample Size: 120participants, with 60 in the post-hysterectomy group and 60 in the control group.Data Collection: Collected from operation theatre records of O&G Department of S.C.B Medical College, Cuttack, Odisha, with informed consent obtained. Instruments: Depression assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) & HAM -D.Statistical Analysis: Comparative analysis of depression prevalence and severity between groups, with descriptive and inferential statistics.Results: This study underscores a notable prevalence of depressive symptoms among women of reproductive age(young) who have undergone a hysterectomy for non-malignant conditions, with specific symptoms and demographic distinctions contributing to the psychological profile observed. Our findings reveal that [76.66%] of women in the post-hysterectomy group experienced depressive symptoms, as measured by the PHQ-9, significantly higher than in the control group of women without hysterectomy.Conclusions In India, evidence suggests that hysterectomy is associated with mild to moderate depressive disorder. The assessment of depression after hysterectomy to be assets & regular advice to be taken by consulting mental health professionals as a treatment option for gynaecological morbidity should consider potential health consequences in later life.
Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain among the foremost causes of illness and death across the globe. Although modern medicine has achieved significant progress, challenges persist in prevention, sustained management, and holistic care. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medical science, provides an in-depth framework for understanding heart ailments (Hridroga) through the principles of Dosha, Dhatu, Srotas, and Samprapti (pathogenesis), emphasizing preventive and therapeutic measures. Objective: This study aims to present an integrative review of the Ayurvedic perspective on the pathogenesis (Samprapti) of Hridroga and to assess therapeutic interventions through both Ayurvedic and biomedical viewpoints, identifying possible areas of convergence for improved management. Methods: A detailed literature review was carried out utilizing classical Ayurvedic scriptures—Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya—along with modern biomedical databases such as PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and the AYUSH Research Portal. Search terms included ‘Hridroga’, ‘Heart disease’, ‘Ayurveda’, ‘Samprapti’, ‘Cardiovascular therapy’, and ‘Integrative cardiology’. The inclusion criteria covered classical Ayurvedic references, experimental and clinical studies on cardiovascular treatment, and integrative research. Collected data were analyzed qualitatively to correlate Ayurvedic theories with modern pathophysiological and therapeutic concepts. Results: Ayurvedic texts describe Hridroga as a complex disorder resulting from vitiation of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, the accumulation of Ama, and blockage in the Rasa–Rakta Vaha Srotas. Modern scientific findings attribute cardiovascular disorders to factors such as endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and psychosocial imbalance. Comparative evaluation shows conceptual parallels between both systems. Therapeutic modalities like herbal remedies (Terminalia arjuna, Withania somnifera, Tinospora cordifolia), Panchakarma, Rasayana therapies, and lifestyle correction demonstrate cardioprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits. Integrative approaches that unite Ayurvedic and modern therapies have shown enhanced clinical outcomes, risk reduction, and better quality of life. Conclusion: Ayurveda offers a holistic paradigm for understanding and treating Hridroga, complementing modern cardiovascular medicine. Combined Ayurvedic and evidence-based modern strategies can provide a patient-oriented, preventive, and therapeutic framework for CVDs. Future work should emphasize well-designed clinical studies, mechanistic research, and formulation of integrative treatment guidelines to ensure safety and efficacy.
There is heightened global concern about food quality and food safety standards across the agricultural value chain. Using Gravity modelling, the study examined the impact of European Union food safety standards on performance of India’s horticultural exports of fruits, nuts and vegetable (FNV). The study considered the period 2002-2021. It analysed the growth pattern, direction of trade and magnitude of impact of the non-tariff measures on horticultural exports of FNV. Results of the study showed that the model supports a distinct demand pull from Europe and the UK for India’s fruits, nuts, and vegetables. Consistent with empirics as well as theory, variables like distance and exchange rate and tariffs were found to have a negative effect while countries’ GDPs had a positive effect. Language and historical links did not show any impact.
Background: Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) is a small-vessel necrotizing vasculitis that predominantly affects upper respiratory tract ,kidneys, lungs, and peripheral nerves. Pituitary involvement is exceedingly rare, more commonly associated with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) and proteinase 3 (PR3)-ANCA positivity. MPO-ANCA-positive vasculitis with pituitary mass formation is exceptionally uncommon. Case Presentation:We report a 63-year-old female with type 2 diabetes mellitus who presented with dyspnea, bilateral pedal edema, and neuropathic symptoms. Evaluation revealed heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (EF 30%), mononeuritis multiplex, and renal involvement. Serology was positive for MPO-ANCA, confirming AAV. Subsequently, she developed headache and bitemporal visual field defects. Brain MRI revealed a pituitary mass with suprasellar extension compressing the optic chiasma. Hormonal assays were normal. Immunosuppressive therapy led to significant regression of the lesion and systemic improvement. Conclusion:This case highlights the rare occurrence of pituitary involvement in MPO-ANCA vasculitis. Recognition of this manifestation is essential as radiological regression following immunosuppression distinguishes inflammatory infiltration from neoplasia.
Background and Objectives: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and Hepatitis B virus (HBV) co-infections are common due to their overlapping modes of transmission. Since, there has been a rapid increase in the HBV cases and sparse literature regarding the viral co-infections in Belagavi, the current study aimed to assess the prevalence and factors influencing the co-infection of HCV and HIV among Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positive patients in Belagavi. Methodology: Serum samples were collected from 3278 subject and screened for HBsAg by Rapid Test and later positive samples were confirmed by HBsAg ELISA. The samples were further screened for HCV ELISA (Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) and HIV rapid test and ELISA for confirmation. Data analysis was done using Chi- square test and categorical outcomes were studied using percentage. p<0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Of the 75 HBsAg positive patients, prevalence peaked in the age range of 33-47 years. Sexual contact (18.67%) was the common mode of transmission. HBsAg + HIV co-infection was 5%, while HBsAg + HCV and HBsAg + HCV + HIV coinfection was found to be 0%. Conclusion: The study observed a high prevalence of HBsAg and HIV co-infections among the Belagavi population, emphasizing the need for a thorough screening for all the HBV patients.
The post-COVID-19 pandemic period has ushered in significant lifestyle changes, including shifts in dietary habits, physical activity, and stress levels, particularly in urban settings. This retrospective cohort study investigates the impact of these changes on the incidence of coronary heart disease (CHD) among urban adults in a tertiary care hospital in Western India from January 2022 to December 2024. Using medical records of 1,200 patients, we compared CHD incidence pre- and post-pandemic, adjusting for confounders like age, sex, and comorbidities. Results indicate a 15% increase in CHD incidence post-pandemic, associated with reduced physical activity (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.3-2.5) and increased consumption of processed foods (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2-2.1). These findings underscore the need for targeted public health interventions to mitigate CHD risk in urban populations
Background: Candida auris, a multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen, poses a significant threat in urban Indian intensive care units (ICUs) due to its high transmissibility and resistance to antifungals. This study investigates the genomic epidemiology and novel resistance markers of C. auris in hospital-acquired infections across urban Indian hospitals.Methods: From January 2023 to September 2025, 184 C. auris isolates were collected from 172 patients in six tertiary care ICUs. Clinical samples (blood, urine, respiratory, wound) and environmental swabs were analyzed. Isolates were identified via MALDI-TOF MS and ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 PCR. Antifungal susceptibility testing followed CLSI M27-A3 guidelines for fluconazole, voriconazole, micafungin, amphotericin B, and flucytosine. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was performed using Illumina NextSeq 2000, with variants identified via ResFinder 4.3.0. Phylogenetic and transmission analyses used IQ-TREE and TransPhylo. Statistical associations were assessed with chi-square, Fisher’s exact, and Poisson regression tests (p<0.05). Results: Out of 184 isolates, 66.3% were from bloodstream infections. Incidence rose from 1.8 to 4.2 cases per 10,000 ICU-days (p<0.001). Resistance rates were 92.4% (fluconazole), 75.0% (voriconazole), 34.8% (micafungin), 15.2% (amphotericin B), and 7.6% (flucytosine); 14.1% were pan-resistant. WGS identified Clade I (64.1%), Clade IV (29.3%), and Clade III (6.5%), with novel markers: TAC1B p.Arg673fs (28.3%, OR: 5.1 for fluconazole resistance, p<0.001), ERG11 g.-245A>G (20.7%), and FKS1 p.Ser645Pro (13.0%). Nosocomial transmission accounted for 68% of cases, with Clade I showing higher transmissibility (R0=1.8). Environmental positivity was 33.9%. Mortality was 38.4%, highest in pan-resistant cases (OR: 2.9, p=0.008).Conclusion: C. auris in urban Indian ICUs exhibits escalating resistance and transmission, driven by novel genomic markers. Routine WGS and enhanced infection control are critical to mitigate this public health threat.
Congenital anomalies of the coronary arteries are rare but clinically significant causes of myocardial ischemia in infants. We present the case of a 45-day-old female infant with complete occlusion of the left main coronary artery (LMCA) leading to severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction. The child presented with fever, cough, excessive forehead sweating, and feeding difficulties. Echocardiography revealed severe left ventricular dysfunction, while coronary angiography demonstrated complete occlusion of the LMCA with retrograde filling of the left anterior descending (LAD) artery through inter-coronary collaterals. Surgical angioplasty was advised, but definitive treatment was deferred due to financial constraints. This case highlights the importance of considering coronary artery anomalies in infants presenting with heart failure and ischemic changes on electrocardiography.
Background: Rare vasculitic disorders affecting bone and joint structures pose substantial diagnostic challenges because their musculoskeletal manifestations often resemble primary orthopedic or rheumatologic diseases. Delayed identification may lead to ischemia-related bone damage, joint dysfunction, and long-term disability. Early multidisciplinary intervention is essential for improving patient outcomes. Aims and Objectives: To assess the clinical features, diagnostic modalities, therapeutic approaches, and functional outcomes in patients with rare vasculitic disorders presenting with bone and/or joint involvement. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at tertiary hospital, Belagavi, Karnataka, in the Departments of Rheumatology and Orthopedics over a 2-year period. A total of 30 clinically confirmed cases of rare vasculitis with musculoskeletal involvement were enrolled. Comprehensive clinical assessment, laboratory biomarkers, and advanced imaging including CT/MRI angiography were utilized for evaluation. Treatment planning involved multidisciplinary coordination with rheumatologists, orthopedic surgeons, radiologists, immunologists, and physiotherapists. Follow-up was performed to assess improvement in symptoms, functional mobility, and relapse pattern. Results: Among the 30 patients, inflammatory arthritis (76.7%), myalgia (63.3%), and osteitis with localized tenderness (46.7%) were predominant. Angiographic evaluation demonstrated ischemic bone changes in 30% of cases. Immunosuppressants and biologic therapy yielded significant symptom control in 83.3% of patients. Surgical intervention was required in 20% of subjects due to osteonecrosis or persistent structural complications. Functional outcomes improved in most patients following coordinated multidisciplinary care, and reduced relapse rates were noted in those with sustained follow-up. Discussion: Musculoskeletal manifestations may be the earliest indication of systemic vasculitis. In this study, multidisciplinary management at an early stage contributed to better functional preservation and fewer complications. Improved diagnostic pathways, awareness among clinicians, and regular monitoring remain essential to reduce disability burden. Future multicenter studies with larger samples are recommended to strengthen existing evidence.
Background: Liquid-based cytology (LBC) has emerged as a superior alternative to conventional smears (CS) for cytological diagnostics, offering improved smear quality and diagnostic yield. However, the high cost of LBC systems poses challenges in resource-constrained settings like Indian tertiary care hospitals. This study compares the diagnostic yield and cost-effectiveness of three LBC processing methods—ThinPrep®, SurePath®, and manual liquid-based cytology (MLBC)—against CS in an Indian context.Methods: A prospective study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in west India from January 2023 to June 2024, involving 1,200 patients with cervical, fine-needle aspiration (FNA), and serous effusion samples. Samples were split into four arms: CS, ThinPrep, SurePath, and MLBC. Diagnostic yield was assessed by smear adequacy, sensitivity, specificity, and concordance with histopathology. Cost-effectiveness was evaluated using incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs), considering direct costs (equipment, consumables, labor) and indirect costs (screening time, training). Statistical analysis used chi-square tests and ANOVA.Results: LBC methods significantly reduced unsatisfactory smears (ThinPrep: 0.7%, SurePath: 0.9%, MLBC: 1.5% vs. CS: 9.2%; p<0.001). ThinPrep showed the highest sensitivity (97.8%) and specificity (95.6%) for epithelial lesions, followed by SurePath (96.5%, 94.8%) and MLBC (94.2%, 93.1%), compared to CS (88.4%, 90.2%). Concordance with histopathology was highest for ThinPrep (76.8%). ThinPrep’s ICER was ₹12,500 per additional satisfactory smear, SurePath ₹10,800, and MLBC ₹4,200, compared to CS. MLBC was the most cost-effective in high-volume settings due to lower equipment costs.Conclusion: All LBC methods outperformed CS in diagnostic yield, with ThinPrep offering the highest accuracy but at a greater cost. MLBC provides a cost-effective alternative for Indian hospitals with limited budgets, balancing diagnostic yield and affordability. Adoption of LBC should consider sample volume, infrastructure, and financial constraints. | Background: Liquid-based cytology (LBC) has emerged as a superior alternative to conventional smears (CS) for cytological diagnostics, offering improved smear quality and diagnostic yield. However, the high cost of LBC systems poses challenges in resource-constrained settings like Indian tertiary care hospitals. This study compares the diagnostic yield and cost-effectiveness of three LBC processing methods—ThinPrep®, SurePath®, and manual liquid-based cytology (MLBC)—against CS in an Indian context.Methods: A prospective study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in west India from January 2023 to June 2024, involving 1,200 patients with cervical, fine-needle aspiration (FNA), and serous effusion samples. Samples were split into four arms: CS, ThinPrep, SurePath, and MLBC. Diagnostic yield was assessed by smear adequacy, sensitivity, specificity, and concordance with histopathology. Cost-effectiveness was evaluated using incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs), considering direct costs (equipment, consumables, labor) and indirect costs (screening time, training). Statistical analysis used chi-square tests and ANOVA.Results: LBC methods significantly reduced unsatisfactory smears (ThinPrep: 0.7%, SurePath: 0.9%, MLBC: 1.5% vs. CS: 9.2%; p<0.001). ThinPrep showed the highest sensitivity (97.8%) and specificity (95.6%) for epithelial lesions, followed by SurePath (96.5%, 94.8%) and MLBC (94.2%, 93.1%), compared to CS (88.4%, 90.2%). Concordance with histopathology was highest for ThinPrep (76.8%). ThinPrep’s ICER was ₹12,500 per additional satisfactory smear, SurePath ₹10,800, and MLBC ₹4,200, compared to CS. MLBC was the most cost-effective in high-volume settings due to lower equipment costs.Conclusion: All LBC methods outperformed CS in diagnostic yield, with ThinPrep offering the highest accuracy but at a greater cost. MLBC provides a cost-effective alternative for Indian hospitals with limited budgets, balancing diagnostic yield and affordability. Adoption of LBC should consider sample volume, infrastructure, and financial constraints.
Background: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection worldwide and a leading cause of cervical cancer. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, uptake remains low in many regions, including India, due to limited awareness and cultural barriers. Faculty members in academic institutions play a vital role in influencing community health behaviors. This study aims to assess the knowledge and attitudes of Sharda University faculty toward HPV vaccination to support targeted educational interventions. Method and material: This descriptive study assessed the knowledge and attitudes of 101 faculty members at Sharda University toward HPV vaccination using an online structured questionnaire. Participants included faculty without prior HPV vaccine information, while vaccinated individuals were excluded. The questionnaire covered socio-demographics, knowledge questionnaire through 29 multiple- choice questions, and attitudes via a 15-item Likert scale. The tool was validated by experts to ensure accuracy and relevance. Result: The study revealed that most participants were young faculty members aged 25-30 years, predominantly female, and from allied sciences. A majority (69.3%) had poor knowledge of HPV vaccination, while only 19.8% showed good knowledge. Attitude toward HPV vaccination was largely negative, with 90.1% displaying unfavourable views. No significant association was found between knowledge levels and demographic variables such as age, gender, education, or vaccination status. Conclusion: The findings indicate a generally low level of knowledge and a predominantly negative attitude toward HPV vaccination among Sharda University faculty. This underscores the need for comprehensive educational programs targeting all demographic groups to raise awareness. Enhancing knowledge and attitudes is crucial to improve HPV vaccine acceptance and uptake in this population.
Excessive screen use has become a major behavioral health issue in the twenty-first century. The Economic Survey of India (2024–25) highlights screen addiction as an urgent concern, warning of its long-term effects on the cognitive and social well-being of youth and professionals. Terms like digital dementia, doomscrolling, Zoom fatigue, and infobesity reflect the complex mental and social challenges that arise from constant digital exposure. While biomedical approaches provide some insights into these effects, the bio-psycho-social model offers a clearer view. It recognizes how digital overexposure disrupts mental health and social interactions. In this context, Bibliotherapy, using literature for therapeutic and educational purposes stands out as a flexible, non-pharmacological solution. By promoting sustained focus, thoughtful reflection, and emotional connection, it helps mitigate the cognitive fragmentation caused by excessive screen use. Its psychological benefits include better emotional control, emotional release, and building resilience. Additionally, its social aspect enhances connections between people through shared reading, reflective writing and discussions. These aspects align well with the goals of the AETCOM (Attitude, Ethics, and Communication) module in competency-based medical education. This article places bibliotherapy at the intersection of medical humanities, behavioural health, and digital well-being, demonstrating how it tackles both the public health issues raised by the Economic Survey and the educational needs addressed in the National Medical Commission’s reforms. By integrating bibliotherapy into the bio-psycho-social model, this theoretical paper advocates for its dual purpose: as a teaching strategy that enhances AETCOM competencies and as a preventive measure against screen addiction. The conclusion offers suggestions for integrating it into curricula, encouraging interdisciplinary research, and scaling its use, positioning bibliotherapy as an essential response to the challenges of the digital age in India.
Background: Dermatophytosis, a prevalent fungal infection in urban settings, poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to its high incidence and rising antifungal resistance. Accurate identification of dermatophyte species is crucial for effective management, particularly in densely populated areas like Silvassa, India. This study combines conventional and molecular methods to isolate and identify dermatophytes from clinical skin samples in an urban population. Objective: To determine the prevalence and species distribution of dermatophytes in urban patients at NAMO Hospital, Silvassa, and to evaluate the efficacy of molecular identification using ITS region sequencing compared to conventional culture techniques. Methods: Between January and June 2025, 150 skin scrapings were collected from patients with suspected dermatophytosis at NAMO Hospital. Samples underwent direct microscopy with 10% KOH, followed by culture on Sabouraud’s dextrose agar supplemented with chloramphenicol and cycloheximide. Isolates were identified morphologically and confirmed by PCR amplification and sequencing of the ITS region. Prevalence and species distribution were analyzed, with statistical significance assessed using chi-square tests (p < 0.05). Results: Of the 150 samples, 92 (61.3%) were culture-positive for dermatophytes. Trichophyton rubrum was the most common species (42 isolates, 45.7%), followed by Trichophyton mentagrophytes (26, 28.3%), Microsporum canis (13, 14.1%), Epidermophyton floccosum (8, 8.7%), and Trichophyton tonsurans (3, 3.3%). Males (65.2%) and the 25–40 age group (52.2%) showed higher prevalence (p = 0.03). Molecular sequencing resolved identification ambiguities in 14 isolates (15.2%) and detected mixed infections in 10 cases (10.9%). A slight increase in cases was noted during monsoon months. Conclusion: The high prevalence of dermatophytosis in urban Silvassa, dominated by T. rubrum, underscores the need for precise diagnostics. Molecular identification via ITS sequencing enhances accuracy and speed, offering a valuable tool for epidemiological surveillance and clinical management in urban settings. These findings advocate for integrating molecular methods into routine diagnostics to address the growing challenge of dermatophytosis in India
Background: In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), out-of-pocket health expenditure (OOPE) dominates healthcare financing, heavily burdening young adults aged 18–30, a key demographic for economic and social progress. The link between OOPE and mental health issues in this group is understudied despite its potential impact. Aim: This systematic review examines how OOPE affects the mental health of young adults in LMICs, exploring mechanisms, inequities, and implications for patient care, safety, and service delivery. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we analyzed 38 studies (2000–2025) from PubMed, Scopus, and grey literature across 22 LMICs. Studies included cross-sectional, longitudinal, qualitative, and mixed-methods designs, focusing on OOPE and mental health outcomes (anxiety, depression, stress), with quality assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Results: OOPE, accounting for 35–70% of health spending, consumed 20–30% of young adults’ income. Most studies (84%) linked OOPE to heightened anxiety, depression, and stress, driven by economic strain, debt, caregiving, and foregone care. Low-income, rural, and female youth, particularly in Pakistan, faced amplified risks. Conclusion: OOPE significantly impairs young adults’ mental health in LMICs, undermining care, safety, and equity. Expanding insurance, boosting health budgets, and integrating mental health into primary care are essential. Longitudinal studies and underrepresented regions need further exploration.
Background: Grudhrasi (sciatica) is a common neurological disorder characterized by radiating pain from the lower back to the foot. Modern management focuses on analgesics and surgery, often with limited long-term relief. Ayurveda describes Grudhrasi among Vata Nanatmaja Vyadhis, where Vata dosha aggravation is predominant. Clinical Findings: A 66-year-old male presented with severe radiating pain in the right leg associated with stiffness and restricted movement. Clinical examinations suggested Grudhrasi. Intervention: The patient was administered Grudhrasi Kwath as per classical references, accompanied by Pathya–Apathya. The treatment was carried out over 30 days (20-12-24 to -18-01-25). Outcome: Marked reduction in pain, improved straight leg raise test (from 30° to 90°), and enhanced daily activity scores were observed. Conclusion: Grudhrasi Kwath provided significant relief with no adverse outcomes, highlighting its effectiveness as a cost-effective alternative management approach for sciatica.
