Background: Maternal malnutrition during pregnancy contributes to adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Dietary diversity is an important indicator of nutrient adequacy and micronutrient sufficiency during pregnancy. However, evidence from Eastern India regarding dietary diversity and associated determinants among pregnant women remains limited.
Purpose: To assess dietary diversity and nutritional practices among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic of a tertiary care hospital in Kolkata and to determine the association of dietary diversity with food security, nutritional knowledge, and sociodemographic factors.
Methods: A hospital-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 162 pregnant women. Data were collected using a predesigned, pretested semi-structured schedule incorporating the Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W) scale, Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS), and nutritional knowledge assessment. Dietary diversity was considered adequate when â„5 food groups were consumed in the previous 24 hours. Data were analysed using SPSS version 20.
Results: The mean age of participants was 23.9±4.95 years. Overall, 57.4% of women did not achieve minimum dietary diversity, while only 13.6% had adequate nutritional knowledge. Most participants (80.2%) were food secure despite low dietary diversity. Significant associations were observed between adequate dietary diversity and husbandâs secondary or higher education (aOR=3.39, p=0.002) and adequate maternal nutritional knowledge (aOR=43.14, p<0.001).
Conclusion: Dietary diversity among pregnant women attending the tertiary care hospital was suboptimal. Improving maternal nutritional knowledge and involving male partners in nutrition counselling may enhance dietary diversity during pregnancy. Strengthening antenatal nutritional counselling and promoting diversified diets remain essential public health priorities.
Background: Due to its numerous applications in healthcare, surveillance, human-computer interaction, sports analytics, and smart environments, Human Action Recognition (HAR) using 3D skeletal data has grown in importance as a field of study. Conventional HAR techniques mainly relied on manually created features, which were unreliable and data dependent. The ability to model intricate spatiotemporal patterns in human motion has greatly improved with the development of deep learning models like CNNs, RNNs, GCNs, and hybrid architectures. The integration of optimization techniques into deep learning-based HAR systems is motivated by unresolved issues like high computational cost, sensitivity to hyperparameters, poor cross-dataset generalization, and lack of interpretability.
Purpose: This survey’s goal is to offer a thorough analysis of optimization-driven deep learning models for 3D human action recognition. The research seeks to examine cutting-edge deep learning architectures for 3D HAR and analyze how metaheuristic optimization techniques can enhance the precision, effectiveness, and generalization of models.
Methods: Using a methodical survey approach, this study covers deep learning architectures such as Transformer-based, CNN-based, RNN-based, GCN-based, and Hybrid-DNN models. Optimization techniques include Chaos Game Optimization, Whale Optimization Algorithm, Grey Wolf Optimizer, Rao-3, Wild Horse Optimization, and Sea Horse Optimization. Model comparison is conducted using benchmark datasets such as NTU RGB+D, NTU RGB+D 120, Kinetics-Skeleton, SYSU-3D, and N-UCLA. Assessment uses standard performance metrics, mainly accuracy, along with reported robustness and computational efficiency.
Results: According to the survey, optimization-driven deep learning models routinely perform better in 3D HAR than conventional and non-optimized methods. Higher recognition accuracy is attained by optimized models, frequently surpassing 90â95% on benchmark datasets. Hyperparameter tuning is greatly enhanced by metaheuristic optimization, which lowers overfitting and computational inefficiency. Despite advancements, problems like cross-dataset generalization, model explainability, and real-time processing still exist.
Conclusion: Recent developments in optimization-driven deep learning models for 3D Human Action Recognition (HAR) were examined in this survey. The analysis demonstrates that combining metaheuristic optimization techniques with deep learning architectures greatly increases recognition accuracy, generalization, and computational efficiency.
Background: MĂŒllerian duct anomalies (MDAs) significantly contribute to infertility and lead to poor reproductive outcomes. However, MDAs are usually underdiagnosed. It is important to make an appropriate diagnosis of MDAs to treat infertility. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the gold standard for the diagnosis of MDAs. However, three-dimensional ultrasonography (3D USG) has become a promising diagnosis method for MDAs.
Purpose: The aim of the present study was to analyze the diagnostic accuracy of 3D USG in the diagnosis of MDAs.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital over 18 months. A total of 30 patients with suspected MDAs were included in the study. All patients underwent hysterosalpingography (HSG), 3D USG, and MRI. The diagnostic performance of HSG and 3D USG was evaluated. Agreement between different modalities was also analyzed.
Results: The most common anomalies were septate and subseptate uteruses, followed by arcuate, didelphys, and unicornuate uteruses. 3D USG demonstrated 100% sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and diagnostic accuracy, with perfect agreement with MRI (kappa = 1.00). HSG showed a sensitivity of 63.33% and an accuracy of 61.29%, with 8.33% NPV and moderate agreement with MRI (kappa = 0.51). HSG usually misclassified a septate uterus as bicornuate and failed to detect certain anomalies such as an accessory cavitated uterine mass.
Conclusion: 3D ultrasonography is a highly accurate, reliable, and non-invasive technique for diagnosing MDAs. It may serve as a first-line imaging tool, whereas HSG has limited diagnostic utility.
Background: Antimicrobial resistance among Enterobacterales remains a growing public health concern, particularly in vulnerable clinical populations.
Purpose: Psychiatric inpatients may be at increased risk of colonization with multidrug-resistant organisms due to prolonged hospitalization and healthcare exposure, yet data on their bacterial profiles and resistance patterns remain limited in Nigeria.
Methods: One hundred and two (102) fecal samples and biodata were collected from inpatients diagnosed with four selected mental disorders. Samples were cultured on EMB agar, and isolates were identified following standard microbiological procedures. An antibiotic sensitivity test was carried out by the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Multidrug-resistant (MDR) isolates were screened for carbapenemase production, which was distinguished by two phenotypic tests. Five selected phenotypes were further amplified for the presence of blaOXA-48, blaNDM, blaKPC, and blaIMI using the polymerase chain reaction technique.
Results: A higher percentage of the study participants (71.5%) were males, while 28.4% were females. A total of 102 Enterobacteriaceae bacteria were isolated and identified as Escherichia coli (43.1%), Klebsiella spp. (28.4%), Enterobacter spp. (10.7%), Proteus spp. (8.8%), Salmonella spp. (7.8%), and Shigella spp. (0.9%). Varying resistant patterns were observed among the isolates, with ÎČ-lactams having the highest frequency (51.0%), while the least resistance was recorded in chloramphenicol (24.4%). A total of 56 bacterial isolates (59.5%) were MDR, out of which 45 (80.3%) were carbapenem-resistant. Out of these, 41 (73.2%) were confirmed carbapenemase producers. Carbapenemase phenotypes recorded 48.2% and 7.1% as MBL and OXA-48 producers, respectively.
Conclusion: Carbapenemase genes were detected in all five selected multidrug-resistant Enterobacterales.
Background: Sickle cell anemia (SCA) remains a major public health concern in Nigeria, where it significantly affects the physical, emotional, and social well-being of affected individuals. Despite advancements in medical care, many patients continue to face challenges related to disease management and societal perceptions.
Purpose: This study aimed to explore the experiences and management practices of individuals living with SCA in Nigeria.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among individuals living with sickle cell anemia in Nigeria using a structured online questionnaire distributed through WhatsApp support groups. Ethical approval was obtained from the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Nigeria. A voluntary participant recruitment approach was employed, and data collected included socio-demographic characteristics, disease experiences, pain triggers, and management practices. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS and Microsoft Excel.
Result: Out of 307 individuals contacted, 66 respondents completed the survey (21.5% response rate). Most respondents were female (69.6%), aged 31-40 years (51.5%), and had the HbSS genotype (72.7%). Frequent pain crises were reported by 42.4% of participants, while 69.7% stated that sickle cell disease had negatively affected their life pursuits. Societal discrimination was experienced by 68.1% of respondents. Malaria was the most commonly reported trigger of pain crises (34%), followed by stress and extremely cold weather. Medication was the most common management strategy (47.0%), while hospital visitation was the preferred approach during crises (59%).
Conclusion: The study highlights the complex realities of living with SCA in Nigeria, characterized by frequent clinical complications, diverse management practices, and substantial psychosocial burdens.
Background: The integrative approach in medicine is steadily on the rise in the modern era. Combining knowledge from several fields allows for a deeper comprehension of complicated phenomena and creative answers to critical issues. By bridging the gaps, this holistic approach fosters synergy and advances knowledge in an array of domains.
Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to explore the scope and potential of Ayurveda-based integrative approaches in contemporary healthcare for developing evidence-based, holistic, and globally relevant models.
Methods: The scope of integrative medicine in the present era has been assimilated and analyzed through the Samhitas, standard Ayurvedic texts, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Scienceâindexed scientific journals, standard textbooks of medicine and allied health sciences, news and updates, online articles, and resources from international healthcare and medical institutions. Intending to develop evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine data and initiate collaborative integrative healthcare models, Ayurveda takes an integrative approach that considers individualized treatment plans, evidence-based practices, cultural and societal considerations, and translational methodology to achieve the P4 Medicine, aptly the Integrative Ayurveda Medicine.
Results: Ayurveda, with its holistic approach to healthcare management, has the longest uninterrupted tradition of healthcare practice. Incorporating emerging knowledge into Ayurveda whilst maintaining fundamentals shall certainly provide comprehensive opportunities to address global healthcare requirements. Western medicine has gained its current acknowledged position as mainstream modern medicine through its openness to learn from the contemporary disciplines of sciences, application of technological advancements, and continued adoption of evidence-based approach.
Conclusion: The concept of an integrative healthcare approach, particularly concerning Ayurveda, has the potential to yield significant benefits in addressing the long-term requirements of creating a more contented, joyful, and peaceful global community.
Background: Music is a universally accessible, non-invasive tool with potential therapeutic effects on stress and autonomic function. College students, frequently exposed to high levels of psychological stress, may benefit from music-based interventions for stress reduction.
Purpose: The study aimed to investigate the immediate effects of slow and fast tempo music on heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), and emotional well-being in college students with moderate to high stress levels.
Methods: A within-subject experimental study was conducted among 122 college students aged 17â25 years. Based on Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) scores, 60 individuals with moderate or high stress were selected for intervention. Resting HR and BP were measured prior to exposure. Participants were sequentially exposed to slow-beat music (âWeightless,â 71 bpm) and fast-beat music (âWorldwide Chopper,â 128 bpm) with a washout period to minimize carryover effects. HR was recorded during, and BP was measured after, each music session. A mood state questionnaire was administered post-intervention.
Results: Exposure to slow tempo music produced a significant reduction in HR and BP, suggesting enhanced parasympathetic activity. In contrast, fast tempo music induced a mild elevation in HR and BP within physiological limits, indicating sympathetic arousal. Mood questionnaire responses aligned with physiological findings, with participants reporting feelings of relaxation during slow music and feelings of energy and stimulation during fast music.
Conclusion: Slow tempo music appears to be a promising, non-pharmacological intervention for stress reduction and autonomic regulation in college students. It may aid in balancing cardiovascular responses while improving emotional well-being. Further longitudinal studies are warranted to explore long-term effects on cardiovascular health and psychological outcomes.
Background: Fatigue is an inevitable consequence of sports participation, particularly during high intensity training and competition. Acute exercise induced fatigue has been shown to impair neuromuscular performance, increasing the likelihood of errors and injury.
Purpose: To examine the effect of acute exercise induced fatigue on reaction time and handâeye coordination in collegiate athletes.
Methods: Forty male collegiate athletes aged 18â23 years were recruited through purposive sampling. Baseline demographic and anthropo metric data were collected, followed by assessment of reaction time using the ruler drop test and handâeye coordination using the alternate hand wall toss test. Participants then performed the Bruce treadmill inclined exercise protocol to induce fatigue, validated by achieving â„85% of predicted maximum heart rate and a Borg exertion score â„7. Post fatigue, reaction time and coordination tests were repeated. Data were analyzed using paired t tests, with significance set at p < 0.05, and effect sizes calculated using Cohenâs d.
Results: Following the fatigue protocol, mean reaction time showed a significant delay (pre fatigue: 0.189 ± 0.0026 s; post fatigue: 0.1937 ± 0.0026 s; mean difference: 0.0047 s; t = 6.08, p < 0.01; Cohenâs d = 0.96). Similarly, handâeye coordination significantly declined (pre fatigue: 29.65 ± 3.5 catches; post fatigue: 28.35 ± 3.8 catches; mean reduction: 1.3 catches; t = â4.49, p < 0.001; Cohenâs d = 0.71).
Conclusion: Acute exercise induced fatigue adversely affects both reaction time and handâeye coordination in collegiate athletes, likely due to combined central and peripheral fatigue mechanisms. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating fatigue management, adequate recovery, and reaction time training into athletic conditioning programs to optimize performance and reduce injury risk.
Background:Core muscle dysfunction is a common complication after major abdominal surgeries, often leading to delayed recovery, postural instability, and an increased risk of hernia recurrence. Conventional physiotherapy, though effective, may lack the engagement required for long term adherence. Integrating gamification into rehabilitation introduces an interactive and motivating approach that enhances neuromuscular coordination and patient participation. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a gamified digital balance platform in improving core stability among post abdominal surgery patients compared to traditional physiotherapy.
Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a gamified digital balance board in improving core stability in patients recovering from abdominal surgery by integrating interactive play based therapy with conventional rehabilitation.
Methods A quasi experimental study was conducted on 30 participants aged 30â40 years who had undergone elective or emergency abdominal laparotomy. Participants were purposively assigned to two groups: Group A (digital rehabilitation using a gamified balance board, n = 15) and Group B (conventional core exercises, n = 15). Both groups trained thrice weekly for six weeks. Core stability was assessed using McGillâs Core Endurance Tests, including trunk flexor, extensor, and side bridge endurance. Statistical analysis was performed using paired and independent t tests at a significance level of p < 0.05.
Results: Among the 30 participants (median age 35.5 years, 20 women), both groups showed significant improvement (p < 0.05), but Group A demonstrated greater gains in core stability.
Conclusion: Gamified rehabilitation using the MEND digital balance board significantly enhanced core stability compared to conventional methods. This approach presents a valuable adjunct to traditional physiotherapy, promoting better engagement and improved outcomes in post surgical recovery.
Background: The longitudinal Attitude, Ethics, and Communication AETCOM module was introduced as a part of the competency based medical education curriculum to enhance studentsâ ethical reasoning, communication, empathy, and professional conduct. While gender differences in communication and professionalism are widely reported, it is unknown how AETCOM training influences these differences over time.
Purpose: To measure attitudes toward communication skills and professionalism among medical students during AETCOM training and to find gender differences, if any, and their change with time.
Methods: A prospective study was conducted among 150 MBBS students from two Kolkata medical colleges, one government and one private. Attitudes were measured at baseline during Phase I MBBS and at endline during Phase III using the Communication Skills Attitude Scale and the Pharmacy Professionalism Instrument. Gender wise differences were tested using non-parametric methods, and correlations among scales were examined using Spearmanâs rho.
Results: At baseline, female students reported significantly higher positive attitude scores (p = .016) and professionalism scores (p < .001), and lower negative attitude scores (p = .001). By endline, these gender differences diminished (p > .05). Both genders showed overall declines in professionalism scores, while median positive and negative attitude scores remained stable for male students. A consistent negative correlation existed between positive and negative attitude scales across time (Ï â â.40 to â.50).
Conclusion: Early gender differences were attenuated with time during AETCOM exposure, with a lowering of favourable attitudes among female students as opposed to steady attitudes among male students. The overall non improvement or decline in scores points toward limited retention and potential curricular gaps in sustaining positive attitudes. Integrating reinforcement based, reflective learning and longitudinal mentorship may strengthen the impact of AETCOM.
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