Journal of Ecophysiology and Occupational Health

A Bird’s Eye View on the Fundamental Study of Rakta with Special Reference to Sharir

Seema Verma — 2024-10-09

In Ayurveda, Rakta is considered one of the seven Dhatus (tissues) that make up the body. It is closely related to the liver, spleen, and bone marrow, which are responsible for its production and maintenance. Rakta, also known as blood, is an important component of the human body. It plays a crucial role in transporting oxygen and nutrients to various organs and tissues, while also removing waste products from the body. According to Ayurveda, Rakta is also closely linked to the Pitta Dosha, which governs metabolism and transformation in the body. Imbalances in Pitta can lead to various blood disorders such as anaemia, jaundice, and bleeding disorders. In terms of Sharir (body), Rakta is circulated throughout the body via a network of blood vessels, including arteries, veins, and capillaries. The heart acts as a pump to circulate blood throughout the body, while the lungs help to oxygenate it. Rakta is described in many ways in Ayurvedic Samhitas like Dosh, Dhatu, Srotas, Sara, Dash Pranayatana, Marma, Pramana, Kala and Chikitsa of many Vyadhis etc. Overall, Rakta is an essential component of the human body, and its proper functioning is critical for good health and well-being.

Impact of Prolonged Standing on Activity Limitation and Participatory Restriction Among Security Guards: An Observational Study

Omkar Ghadi — 2024-08-29

Prolonged standing at work, lower extremity discomfort as well as the eventual development of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD) is particularly pronounced among security guards, whose job demands extended periods of standing, significantly impacting their personal and social lives. This issue can be addressed using the International Classification of Functioning (ICF) which serves as a comprehensive framework for understanding an individual’s functioning profile, essential for discerning their specific needs. Hence, this study aimed to examine the impact of prolonged standing on the activity limitations and participation restrictions experienced by security guards, utilising the ICF qualifiers, SF- 36 and Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) as a functional assessment tool. A total of 260 individuals residing in Belagavi city, Karnataka, India, aged between 25 and 65 years, employed as security guards for more than two years and engaged in standing duties for at least 4 to 8 hours per day were examined for their activity limitations and participation restrictions were conducted using ICF qualifiers, SF-36 and the LEFS. The activity limitation and participation restriction studies use frequency distribution of the ICF codes. Karls Pearsons Coefficient was used to assess the correlation between SF-36 and LEFS. The results revealed that as per the ICF questionnaire, the majority of the participants exhibited mild to moderate difficulty in performing various tasks, including squatting, kneeling, standing, moving objects with lower extremities, running and jumping (coded as d4101, d4102, d4104, d435, d4552 and d4553, respectively). Upon correlating the scores from the LEFS with each component of the SF36 questionnaire, a significant positive correlation was observed with p<0.05. In conclusion, the demanding nature of security work, characterised by prolonged standing, contributes to activity limitations and participation restrictions among security personnel. Additionally, the detailed questions provided in the ICF documentation form facilitate a thorough assessment of activity limitations and participation restrictions among security guards, making it a preferred tool for such evaluations.

Misconceptions about Severe Traumatic Brain Injuries among Health Care Professionals in a Tertiary Care Center

Nand Kishor Prasad Sah — 2024-08-29

Background: Traumatic Brain Injury is a neurological condition that affects millions of people every year and is a serious health concern- insufficient knowledge about traumatic brain injury held by both the general population and medical experts. Healthcare professionals who treat patients with TBI seem to have a general lack of understanding and misconceptions regarding brain injuries. Addressing and reducing TBI-related misunderstandings in clinical practices requires a grasp of basic concepts. Aim and Objective: The objective of this study is to assess the misconceptions about severe traumatic brain injury among health care professionals (physicians, nurses, and physiotherapists) in a tertiary care centre. Method: This is a cross-sectional study with a convenience sample of 120 healthcare professionals was employed. Participants in the study were ensured that healthcare professionals had sufficient exposure to TBI. The purpose of the 40-item selfreport questionnaire, the CM-TBI, was to measure respondents’ understanding of TBI, its consequences, and rehabilitation. Result: The results indicate that there is a significant difference between the groups regarding the assumption that recovery from a brain injury takes around five months (Chi-Square = 8.454, df = 2, p = 0.015). Similarly, the belief that a person who has a brain injury ‘just like new’ in several months also shows significant differences among the health care professional groups (Chi-Square = 25.860, df = 2, p = 0.000). Unexpectedly, replies from health care professionals to certain questions, such whether or not seatbelt use prevents more injuries than it causes or whether it is safer to be trapped within an accident than to be thrown clear, do not significantly differ from one another. Conclusion: Professional background may influence perceptions, emphasizing the importance of tailored educational interventions within each professional group to address potential misconceptions and enhance knowledge about severe traumatic brain injuries.

Study of Biological Age and Chronological Age among Diabetes and Non-Diabetes: Case-Control Study

Mahendra M. Alate — 2024-08-29

Background: Age is a gradual and irreversible pathophysiological process. There are two types of ages one is Chronological Age (CA) another is Biological Age (BA). CA starts from the date of birth and biological age indicates what current physical condition of the body of those persons. Overall in India, seventy-seven million people above the age of 18 years are surviving from diabetes and out of that almost twenty-five million are pre-diabetics. Diabetes mellitus is linked with an increased risk of serious health complications which decrease health span. Our area of interest study of BA and CA among diabetes and non-diabetes participants. Aim: Comparison of biological age and chronological age in diabetes and Non-diabetes Participants. Material and Methods: A Study was conducted in a pastoral area of western Maharashtra and collected data by house-to-house survey. Biological age was precise by using a standard instrument Omron HBF-375-IN Body Composition Monitor. We studied a total of 507 subjects, those aged 18 to 84 years, individuals with any surgical illness and physically handicapped were excluded. Results: We observed that 10.6% of people were suffering from diabetes out of 507. The Mean chronological age of diabetes mellitus participants was 64.85± 10.856 and 47.7±16.17 for non-diabetes mellitus participants. The Biological age of diabetes mellitus participants was 62.75 ± 10.6 and 49.07 ± 14.94 of nondiabetes mellitus participants. The mean difference between the biological age and chronological age of diabetes mellitus participants was 2.1851±9.37 and 1.25 ±12.5477 in non-diabetes mellitus. The difference in these means was moderately significant (t= 0.43489, p=0.6645). Conclusions: The Biological age of Non-diabetes Participants is less as compared to chronological age. Diabetes Participants have more biological ages as compared to their chronological age.

A Cross-Sectional Study to Find the Correlation Between Age and BMI with Bone Mineral Density in Pre and Post-Menopausal Women

Ankita Juyal — 2024-08-29

Osteoporosis is a silent disease and it generally leads to fragility fracture. The present study compares the Bone Mineral Density (BMD) by portable ultrasonic bone densitometer in premenopausal and post-menopausal women and also examines the association of BMD with age and Body Mass Index (BMI). A cross-sectional study was done among 79 apparently healthy females grouped as pre and post-menopausal females. An elaborate questionnaire was used and BMD was calculated based on the Tscore by a portable ultrasonic bone densitometer. Similar osteopenic changes were observed in both pre and post-menopausal females while osteoporosis was more prevalent in post-menopausal females. There was an inverse correlation between BMI and BMD in both pre and post-menopausal females but it was only significant in premenopausal women. Additionally, there was an increased frequency of osteopenic changes in our participants which suggested a higher risk of osteoporosis in women hence there is a need to treat osteopenia early to prevent osteoporosis and risk of fragility fractures.

Analysis of Stress, Anxiety and Depression in Working Women During Pregnancy and in the Post-Partum Phase

Alisha Abdul Shikalgar — 2024-08-29

Aim: To evaluate the influence of lifestyle on stress and psychological changes in pregnant and postpartum women and the rate of working women suffering from stress, anxiety, and depression and its effect on their health during pregnancy and postpartum period. Methods: The study was carried out in Karad and used an observational design on 200 working women. They answered a web questionnaire which inquired about their demographics, obstetrics, as well as signs of depression, stress, and anxiety linked to pregnancy and the postpartum period. The DASS-21 Scale was used to assess these symptoms. Results: Significant severity for depression, anxiety and stress was seen among the age group of 18-20 years 21-25 and 36-40. Significant a connection was discovered between the factors responsible for depression, anxiety and stress females mostly responded to having a lack of family support and workplace and work-related discrimination. Conclusion: In conclusion, considering this study the findings were elevated in the age 18-20 and 36-40 groups. A noteworthy correlation was discovered between the factors responsible for depression, anxiety and stress females mostly responded to having a lack of family support and workplace and work-related discrimination. Programs to assist women overcome stress, anxiety, and depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period should be offered at healthcare facilities. Family counselling and awareness for attending the early bird classes in their pregnancy period.

Prevalence of Varicose Veins Among Security Guards - A Cross-Sectional Survey

A. M. Chaya — 2024-08-29

Introduction: Varicose veins, a prevalent vascular disorder characterized by enlarged and twisted veins, primarily occur in the legs and can cause discomfort, pain, and complications if untreated. Occupations involving prolonged standing or sitting, such as security guards, heighten the risk of developing varicose veins. This study investigates the prevalence of varicose veins among security guards and examines contributing factors such as age, sex, years of experience, and jobrelated activities. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using stratified random sampling to select security guards across various age and experience groups. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and clinical examinations. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression, were performed using SPSS software to explore associations between demographic/job-related factors and varicose vein prevalence. Results: The study included 100 security guards (81 males, and 19 females). The prevalence of varicose veins was approximately 15%. The age distribution was relatively even, with the majority aged 41-50 years. Experience levels varied, with most guards having 1-5 years of experience. Factors significantly associated with varicose vein prevalence included prolonged standing and sitting, with males showing a slightly higher prevalence than females. Discussion: The findings highlight a notable prevalence of varicose veins among security guards, emphasizing the role of occupational factors. Comparisons with existing literature reveal that while varicose veins are generally more common in women, the higher prevalence in male security guards underscores the need for targeted occupational health strategies. Interventions such as regular breaks, ergonomic adjustments, and compression stockings are recommended to mitigate risks. Conclusion: Varicose veins are prevalent among security guards, influenced by occupational factors like prolonged static postures. Addressing these risks through targeted interventions can improve vascular health and overall well-being in this highrisk occupational group. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to establish causality and explore gender differences in greater detail.

Geospatial Mapping the Prevalence of Interstitial Lung Diseases Identified in Tertiary Care Facility and Determining the Role of Occupation in the Occurrence: A Cross-sectional Study

Sruthi Sai Purnima Koduri — 2024-08-29

Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILD) is a class of lung diseases involving diffuse parenchyma affecting alveolar, interstitial, and small airways which worsen quality of life and cause early mortality. It is important to comprehend how various occupations affect interstitial lung diseases. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of ILD and the relationship between ILD and occupation. Methods and Materials: In June 2022, a retrospective analysis was carried out in a tertiary care facility. Using purposive sampling, 252 participants were chosen from the medical records. Occupation along with the duration, area of residence, and associated illness was evaluated using a questionnaire. The latitude and longitude of the areas were mapped using Q-GIS mapping and plotted on the map. Results: Among the 252 study participants, the majority of them (71%) were non-industrial workers and 29% were industrial workers. ILD affected 40% of the research patients. It was discovered that there were 86 cases of interstitial lung disease (84.3%) among industrial workers compared to 16 cases (15.7%) among non-industrial workers. This difference was statistically significant (p-value <0.05). In the Q-GIS Mapping, Clustering was found in Mysuru district, extension to Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. Conclusion: According to the Geospatial mapping of RespiratoryDisease cases from the past 5 years, the majority distribution is in and around Mysuru. There was a relationship between occupation and ILD was found in this study. Hence, further preventive measures are to be taken to prevent ILD in certain occupations.

Effect of COVID-19 on Quality of Life in Geriatric Population Using ICF: An Observational Study

Prashant Naik — 2024-08-29

Aim: The present study aimed to study the effect of COVID-19 on the quality of life in the geriatric population using ICF in and around Belagavi city. Settings and Designs: Observational study design was implemented in and around Belagavi city. SF-36 and ICF documentation were explained to the subjects and collected. Subjects and Methods: Sixty-five participants from the age group of 65 and above were taken based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Both SF-36 and ICF documentation was explained to them in regional language and collected from them. Statistical Analysis Used: Correlation was performed. Statistical significance was considered where the p-value (0.001) was kept as highly significant. Results: This study investigated the impact of COVID-19 on the elderly population (65+) using the International Classification of Functioning (ICF). Analysis of the SF-36 questionnaire revealed significant impairments in social functioning (56.25%), particularly community life, recreation, and spirituality (ICF codes d-910, d-920, d-930). Additionally, pain (54.3%) significantly affected all 20 ICF code sets, with d-415, d-430, and d-450 being the most impacted. General health also showed a 48% decline. These findings highlight the multifaceted negative impact of COVID-19 on the functioning of the elderly population.

Efficacy of Static Stretching Versus Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) Stretching on Hip Adductor Flexibility in Recreational Football Players

Nikita Gurudas Malani — 2024-08-29

Adductor strain is most commonly seen in football players. To help ease groin pain and improve the flexibility of muscles, stretching techniques like ballistic stretching, static stretching, etc can be used. Static hip adductor stretching and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) stretching, which is relatively new, are two effective techniques to increase muscle flexibility. This study examines the effects of these two stretching techniques on tight hip adductors. Method: Fifty people were chosen based on the inclusion criteria. There were two groups of subjects. PNF and static adductor stretching were administered to Group A. Group B received adductor stretching. These methods were used for three different days. Using a goniometer, the abduction range of motion was measured before the start of the first session and at the conclusion of the last one. Flexibility was measured before the first session and at the end of the previous treatment session by groin flexibility test. The inter-group analysis for Range of Motion (ROM) between Group A versus Group B showed a statistically significant difference by using an unpaired ‘t’ test. Results: Group A’s post-intervention flexibility values were 17.23, whereas group B’s were 13.5. There was a sizeable difference between Group A and Group B in the intergroup analysis of flexibility. The unpaired “t” test was used for this purpose. Conclusion: It is concluded that PNF stretching exercises had a statistically significant effect on the abduction range of motion and groin flexibility scores.

Determinants of Domestic Accidents in the Urban Field Practice Area of a Medical College in South India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Kavya G. Upadhya — 2024-09-09

Background: Domestic accident is one of the five leading causes of death due to injuries in industrialized and developing countries. It is often determined by various factors like human, environmental and psychosocial factors. The resulting injury can largely be reduced by prompt identification and elimination of the risk factors. Not many studies are available regarding domestic accidents, their determinants and awareness. With this background the present study was carried out. Objectives: To assess the factors contributing to domestic accidents, to describe the immediate care given to manage domestic accidents, to find out the health seeking pattern and treatment outcomes among subjects with domestic accidents, to determine the association between domestic accidents and various socio-demographic characteristics. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done in the urban field practice area of a medical college in South India. Probability Proportional to Population Size (PPPS) was the sampling technique used. All individuals residing in the area for a minimum period of 6 months were included in the study. A total of 5282 study subjects were interviewed using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Data was entered into Microsoft excel and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: In the present study the prevalence of domestic accidents was 9.6%. Falls accounted for 47.7% of the domestic accidents. The most common human factor contributing to domestic accidents was visual impairment followed by illiteracy which was the most common psycho-social factor noted. Most of the study subjects, i.e., 82%, were treated at home and majority of them i.e., 91.1% recovered completely. A statistically significant association was found between domestic accidents and various socio-demographic characteristics. Conclusion: The prevalence of domestic accidents was 9.6%. The major determinants (human, environmental and psychosocial factors) of domestic accidents were visual impairment, Diabetes, Arthritis, Slippery floors, Kitchen clutter and Illiteracy.

Effectiveness of Muscle Energy Technique Versus Self-Myofascial Release on Hamstring Flexibility

Revati Suresh Chavan — 2024-08-23

Background: The hamstring is the two-joint muscle, located on the posterior aspect of the thigh. The tightness of the hamstring muscle is more common than the other skeletal muscle. Lack of hamstring flexibility leads to postural changes and reduces muscle strength and length. To improve hamstring flexibility, muscle energy technique and self-myofascial release are effective. Objectives: To determine the effectiveness of muscle energy technique versus self-myofascial release by using a foam roller to improve hamstring flexibility in young individuals. Methods: 30 subjects were selected according to inclusive and exclusive criteria and they were divided into two groups, Group A treated with a self-myofascial release technique, and Group Was treated with a muscle energy technique. Results: To compare both groups, an unpaired t-test was used. The post-intervention value of flexibility in Group A is 8.4 and in Group B is 12.8. There is a significant difference between Group A and Group B for flexibility. According to the results, both techniques are effective but as a comparison, Group B i.e. muscle energy technique is more effective than Group A self-myofascial release. Conclusion: The muscle energy technique is more helpful in improving hamstring flexibility as per comparison to SMFR by using a foam roller.

Preliminary Screening of Phytochemicals and Antibacterial Activity of Medicinal Plant Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana Lamark)

Richa Mishra — 2024-08-29

The most important genus in the Rhamnaceae family is Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana Lamk). Phytochemicals present in Ziziphus have antioxidant as well as antimicrobial properties. The present study aimed to detect various phytochemicals and evaluate the antibacterial activity in the Z. mauritiana leaf extracts. Leaves from 14 cultivars/germplasm/varieties of Z. mauritiana were used to explore the presence of various phytoconstituents such as alkaloids, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, phenols, saponins, protein, steroids, tannins, lignins, and reducing sugar. These phytoconstituents have antioxidant, antibacterial, and hepatoprotective activities. The preliminary antimicrobial activity screening of Ziziphus leaf extract against bacterial strains-Bacillus subtilis (Gram-positive), Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive), Salmonella abony (Gram-negative), E. coli DH₅α (Gram-negative) were performed by using well diffusion method. The results of various phytochemicals like alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and amino acids were reported in all selected commercial varieties/cultivars/ germplasm. On the other hand, saponins were found completely absent in methanolic solvents of all varieties/cultivars. The aqueous and methanolic solvent leaf extract were tested for antibacterial activity at different concentrations (25mg/ml, 50mg/ml, and 100mg/ml) against the bacterial strains of B. subtilis, S. aureus, S. abony, and E. coli DH₅α, respectively. This study showed that the phytochemicals extracted from Z. mauritiana leaves have potential antimicrobial activities.

Impact of Janani Suraksha Yojana on Postpartum Contraception: Evidence from Two Selected Districts in Assam

Puna Das — 2024-08-26

This study explores the association between the receipt of JSY benefits and postpartum contraception use among reproductive-aged women in Assam who belong to the age group 18-49 years. The study is exclusively based on primary data collected from a sample of 260 reproductive-aged women residing in the two districts of Assam viz., Jorhat and Cachar. Surveyed women considered in the study were those who had experienced at least one live birth within the two years preceding the survey. Sample respondents were divided into two groups: those who received JSY benefits and those who did not. A binary logistic regression model is used to quantify the effect of JSY on postpartum counselling and postpartum contraception. The study findings reveal a positive impact of JSY on women’s postpartum contraception adoption within the study area. The possibility of receiving counselling on postpartum contraception and adopting postpartum contraceptives was 13.89 times and 14.94 times greater for those respondents who did not benefit from the JSY. The study reveals that JSY not only promotes institutional childbirth but also enhances postpartum contraceptive counselling and the adoption of postpartum contraceptive methods among the beneficiary women.

Occupational Exposure to Mixed Pesticides in Northern West Bengal Tea Gardens: Impact on Acetylcholinesterase Inhibition, Oxidative Stress, and Antioxidant Markers Among Female Tea Pluckers

Ananya Bose — 2024-08-26

Due to the potential health impacts of pesticides, biomonitoring of pesticide exposure is currently a subject of significant public interest. The purpose of the present research was to evaluate the levels of oxidative stress in female tea pluckers who are vulnerable to being exposed to a combination of pesticides in the northern part of West Bengal, India. Data were collected from 82 permanent female tea pluckers of two tea gardens in Jalpaiguri district and 68 women from the general population not directly exposed to the pesticides but living in the same geographical area. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) activity were measured, and levels of Lipid Peroxidation (LPO) and Nitric Oxide (NO) were determined in plasma. The student’s t-test analyzed the disparity between the exposed and non-exposed groups. Correlation coefficient analysis was conducted to determine the relationship between AChE and biomarkers of oxidative stress. Compared to the control group plasma AChE activity was significantly decreased (17.42%) among female tea pluckers (p≤0.001). In comparison to the control group, female tea pluckers showed a significant increase in LPO and NO levels as markers of oxidative stress, as well as a significant decrease in GSH levels. Enzymatic antioxidants SOD and CAT were significantly reduced in the exposed group. Significant correlations were observed between AChE and biomarkers of oxidative stress. In conclusion, the alterations in different biochemical parameters indicate that female tea pluckers were occupationally exposed to mixed pesticides (containing organophosphates) in tea gardens. It is therefore imperative to highlight the usage of personal protective equipment by the pluckers and environmentally friendly pesticide alternatives in the tea gardens. Additional research is recommended to connect our results with the negative health impacts seen in chronic pesticide exposure, in which oxidative damage is believed to be a key factor.

Digital Competence Among Secondary School Teachers in Relation to Gender, Locale and Type of Institution

Karan Kumar — 2024-08-29

The study examined the digital competence in relation to gender, locale and type of institution of 500 teachers in secondary schools. The data was collected using the Digital Competence Scale by Shipra Shrivastva and Kiran Lata Dangwal. The result of the study showed a significant difference in digital competence of (i) male and female teachers in secondary school with male teachers being more digitally competent; (ii) between urban and rural secondary school teachers with urban teachers having higher digital competence; and (iii) between secondary school teachers from government and private schools with private school teachers having higher digital competence.

Effect of Body Mass Index on Lumbosacral Angle in Post Menopausal Women Using Inclinometer

Pavane Namrata — 2024-08-29

Background: Because of the drop in oestrogen levels, postmenopausal women typically those who have not had a menstrual period for 12 months straight experience major physiological changes. Bone density, muscle mass, and fat distribution all may be impacted by these modifications. As a result, BMI increases and changes in body composition are common in postmenopausal women, and these factors can impact the musculoskeletal system, including the spine. Weight control, core strengthening exercises, and posture training are among possible therapies for postmenopausal women to lessen the negative consequences of elevated BMI on spine health. Aim: This study uses an inclinometer to study the effect of body mass index on lumbosacral angle in post-menopausal women. The lumbosacral angle is associated with several issues that Postmenopausal women face. Postmenopausal women have a high prevalence of musculoskeletal issues. Objective: The objective is to evaluate the effect of body mass index on lumbosacral angle in post- menopausal women using an inclinometer. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study in which 96 post-menopausal women (45- 55 years) were included as per inclusion criteria using the Consecutive sampling method. Data was collected by assessing BMI, and lumbosacral angle using an inclinometer and analysis was done by INSTAT software. Result: The study included a total of 96 participants. 48 individuals were in the 40-50 age range, while 48 participants were in the 50-55 age range. So, by calculating the average of both the groups. Overall study results point to a relationship between postmenopausal women’s lumbosacral angle and body mass index. Conclusion: According to this study there is an effect of body mass index on lumbosacral angle in post-menopausal women using an inclinometer. We also found that the study showed alternation in the lumbosacral angle among postmenopausal women.

Relationship between Organizational Climate and Emotional Intelligence of Secondary School Teachers

Muassarat Mushtaq Mattoo — 2024-08-29

The present study was conducted to investigate the relationship between emotional intelligence and organizational climate of secondary school teachers. A sample of 1403 teachers (939 male and 464 female), (1089 govt. and 314), (297 Urban and1106 Rural) were chosen from secondary schools of Doda, Kishtwar and Ramban district of union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Organizational climate scale for teachers developed by Venita Singh and emotional intelligence scale developed by Nahid and Jamal Sajjid. The data were analysed using descriptive analyses (mean, standard deviation, t-test, and coefficient of correlation ‘r’). Result of the study exhibit that there is significant interaction between emotional intelligence and organizational climate of secondary school teachers. Thus, the null hypothesis, “ that there is no significant correlation between organizational climate and emotional intelligence ” is rejected. Further, the effect size (commonness) between organizational climate and emotional intelligence is 19%. It means two variables share 19% variance between them. The implication of this paper is to provide an insight and efficient information related to organizational climate and emotional intelligence which is prerequisite in improving teacher’s performance in schools. This study has suggested a feasible research strategy that would be helpful to gain a good organizational climate as well as maximize the emotional intelligence of teachers.

Challenges and Practical Considerations in Applying Virtual Reality among Tamil Geriatric Patients with Periarthritis Shoulder – A Qualitative Study

Veluri Rakesh — 2024-08-29

Background: Virtual Reality (VR) has shown promise in healthcare, especially in areas like cognitive training, pain management, and motor rehabilitation, yet adapting it for use among elderly individuals comes with specific limitations and barriers. Aims and Objectives: This study analyses the challenges and practical considerations in applying Virtual Reality (VR) to Tamil geriatric patients during physiotherapy management. Materials and Methods: This qualitative study, utilized in-depth interactive interviews through a Semi-structured interview to collect and analyse data. Participants 34 native Tamil geriatric patients aged more than 60 years (67.5 ±2.78) complaining of a painful restricted range of motion in the unilateral shoulder joint diagnosed as periarthritis shoulder were treated with fully immersive virtual reality technology for 7 days. Following the intervention, the patients were interviewed under 5 codes (“usability,” “comfort,” “satisfaction,” “technical issues,” and “practical consideration”) Results: Participants reported virtual reality was enjoyable and engaging, a positive impact and motivation. Dizziness and sweating during virtual reality sessions when it extended beyond 20 minutes was a concern. Several participants faced hardware problems, such as issues with headset fit, leading to discomfort and difficulties in using hand-held control buttons. Adjusting virtual reality settings, including boundaries and game-level setting, was mentioned as a practical challenge for some participants. Conclusion: Proper orientation, patient selection for virtual reality, and sufficient familiarization are essential for the success of virtual reality rehabilitation among the Tamil geriatric population

Unlocking the Triad of Health: Investigating High Blood Pressure, Obesity and their Impact on PCOS in Women

Madala Teja Kalyani — 2024-08-29

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS, is a common endocrine illness that affects 3.7% to 22.5% of fertile Indian women. It is characterised by abnormalities related to reproduction, metabolism, and hormones. This six-month prospective cohort study at Chalapathi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences examines the relationship between PCOS, obesity and high blood pressure. With 118 cases of PCOS detected among the 1246 participants who completed the comprehensive questionnaire, the study finds a substantial correlation between PCOS, obesity (p = 0.00061) and hypertension (p = 0.00061). Findings show that PCOS is more common in college students, underscoring the importance of lifestyle choices like nutrition, exercise and stress reduction. Additionally, the study finds that academics are more likely than IT workers or stay-at-home moms to have PCOS, which is associated with greater rates of obesity and hypertension. The results highlight the need for focused interventions, such as lifestyle changes and educational initiatives to reduce PCOS risk factors and enhance health outcomes. This study expands our understanding of PCOS and highlights the value of early detection and individualised treatment plans.