Tissue Conditioners in Prosthodontics - A Narrative Review
Dr. AnushaTissue conditioners are used to improve ill-fitting dentures and also to treat abused mucosal tissues underlying ill-fitting acrylic dentures. The loss of surface integrity and surface roughness of tissue conditioners is regarded as the main problem resulting in inflammation of the oral mucosa in denture-bearing areas. Tissue conditioners are soft relining materials that provide a cushioning effect to the underlying tissues and thereby heal the abused tissues of inflammation and pain. Tissue conditioners are a mixture of polymer powder and plasticizer liquid. Conditioning the tissues also heals them by therapeutically providing antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Aim: To evaluate stress and displacement in the maxillary arch, during intrusion and retraction after extraction using extra radicular (IZC screws) and intra radicular screws (miniscrews). Objectives: To evaluate the stress and displacement on the maxillary dentition, To evaluate the stress on the periodontal ligament, To evaluate the effects of varying situations and combinations, including single and two miniscrews, as well as different heights of the power arm. Method: A model of maxillary dentition along with its surrounding craniofacial region was constructed and finite element analysis was carried out on the model. Various scenarios were simulated involving the use of power arms of different positioned above and below the wire during the intrusion and retraction of the maxillary arch with a force of 100g for intrusion and 200g for retraction. Two combinations of miniscrews were utilized, either a single miniscrew or two miniscrews, in conjunction with IZC screw. Result: Application of force resulted in stress and deformation in teeth which varied with height of power arm. Stress and displacement was maximum at power arm height 4mm above the archwire. More intrusive movement was observed at power arm levels below the archwire and counterclockwise movements at power arm levels above the archwire. Stress on PDL increased with increase in height of power arm with maximum stress at 4mm above the archwire. Stress on periodontal ligament is more when single miniscrew is used than two miniscrews and stress distribution was seen to be more on the cervical aspect of Pdl during simultaneous intrusion and retraction. Conclusion: Stress and displacement depend on the level of power arm above and below the archwire. Stress on PDL is less than stress on the dentition in both scenarios. Depending on the type of tooth movement desired, position of the power arm should be altered during simultaneous intrusion and retraction.
Fluorine is an element of the 17th group in the periodic table, which is highly reactive due to its small size. Fluorine is the first element of the halogen group. It is found in groundwater in the form of fluoride ion. Fluoride ion is beneficial for teeth and bones in low concentrations. A concentration of 0.6 mg/liter of fluoride prevents tooth decay and makes the enamel safe and strong by forming a shield over it. Excess fluoride in groundwater affects human health and causes disorders like fluorosis. Therefore, BIS and WH have fixed a certain concentration of fluoride in groundwater at 1.5 mg/L which is beneficial for the health of teeth and bones. Concentrations higher than this cause fluorosis which sometimes take such a severe form that the person is confined to bed, which is called fluorosis paralysis. The fluoride concentration in the study area varies from 0.38 to 2.39, which varies with the seasons. This data was taken in December 2023. As soon as summer starts, the fluoride concentration in groundwater starts increasing, which reaches its maximum in May-June. Fluoride pollution has become a curse for the residents here. The residents here are not lucky enough to drink pure water. They are struggling with fluoride pollution for drinking water. And due to lack of pure drinking water, they are consuming water with high fluoride concentration, due to which they are facing health problems like dental fluorosis, skeletal fluorosis, joint pain, muscle pain and stiffness and fluorosis paralysis. To get rid of these problems, fluoride-free water will have to be made available to the residents here, for which defluoridation of fluoride from groundwater will have to be done. There are many methods of defluorination such as electrodialysis, coagulation, reverse osmosis, activated carbon filter and bioabsorption. But all these methods cannot be used everywhere because the use of any method depends on the environmental condition of that particular place, the concentration of fluoride in water, and the budget. But the bioabsorption method is one such method which is environmentally friendly, cheap and an economical method of removing fluoride concentration from groundwater. Through which fluoride concentration can be easily removed from groundwater at a low cost and a good thing is that bioabsorbent is easily available anywhere at a low cost.
Implementation of High Tech Kitchen using LSTM
MS. J. Sowmya, Mrs. R. GowriKitchen object detection is an emerging field that leverages machine learning techniques to improve safety, efficiency, and automation in domestic and commercial kitchen environments. This study proposes a novel approach to detect key kitchen objects, specifically humans, fire, and groceries, using a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network. The model focuses on temporal dependencies and sequential data to identify the presence and behavior of these objects in real-time. By utilizing video footage or image sequences, the LSTM can effectively learn patterns over time, allowing for more accurate detection compared to static image models. This approach is particularly useful for detecting dynamic and time-sensitive events such as fire outbreaks or human activities in the kitchen. The model leverages pre-trained Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) for feature extraction, which are then fed into the LSTM for temporal analysis. The LSTM's ability to remember relevant information over time makes it suitable for environments like kitchens, where object interactions evolve sequentially. This framework has the potential to be applied in smart kitchens for enhanced monitoring, early hazard detection, and grocery inventory management. The key contributions of this work include: (1) the use of LSTM for sequential object detection in kitchen environments, (2) real-time detection and classification of humans, fire, and groceries, and (3) improved detection accuracy through temporal analysis of video frames. This system aims to increase safety by detecting fires and human presence while also streamlining kitchen operations through grocery identification and monitoring.
"Scar Wars: Triamcinolone in the Battle against Keloid and Hypertrophic Scars in OMFS"
1 Dr. Melwin Ebenezer J; 2 Dr. Balakrishnan RKeloid and hypertrophic scars are challenging conditions frequently encountered in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS). These scars result from excessive fibroblast proliferation and abnormal collagen deposition, often causing functional limitations and psychological distress. Triamcinolone acetonide, a synthetic corticosteroid, is widely recognized for its anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic properties, making it a valuable treatment option. This review examines the efficacy of triamcinolone in OMFS, its mechanisms of action, and its role in combination therapies. While monotherapy demonstrates significant improvements in scar reduction, integrating triamcinolone with surgical excision, laser therapy, and other adjunctive treatments enhances outcomes and minimizes recurrence. Findings underscore the importance of individualized treatment protocols and the need for further research into advanced therapeutic strategies.
Toxic Leadership: A Systematic Literature Review
1Dr. Vijayudu Gnanamkonda 2Dr. S Krishnamurthy NaiduThe present study focused on answering ‘Toxic Leadership’ through a few questions, and the solutions are from the literature. The authors tried to draw conclusions based on the available literature. No assumptions are made to prove or disprove the present study. The present organization’s leadership (top/middle-level management) style is causing many disturbances in employees' lives. Many research studies elaborated on better management principles and leadership styles. But, from time to time, organizations are experiencing some new leadership approaches that are biased and built on personal attitudes (self/own). Sometimes this self/owned leadership style intriguing, unethical practices in the organizations, causing many intellectual disturbances and mental stress in employees. Hence, the authors thought, this kind of study may give various solutions, i.e., to understand toxic leaders and leadership styles. How do toxic leaders influence the employee group? The conditions that make the leader toxic and how to deal with toxic leaders.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming orthodontic care by enhancing diagnostic accuracy, enabling predictive modelling, and supporting individualized treatment strategies. AI systemshave demonstrated exceptional accuracy in cephalometric landmark identification, facial growth prediction, and treatment outcome forecasting. These technologies facilitate automation in image analysis, improve workflow efficiency, and reduce human error, thereby enhancing the quality and consistency of clinical care. In orthodontic diagnostics, AI-powered models are now capable of interpreting 2D and 3D radiographic data with accuracy comparable to experienced clinicians. Predictive algorithms are being developed to estimate treatment duration, assess risk factors such as root resorption, and simulate post-treatment outcomes. Natural language processing (NLP) also contributes by extracting clinical insights from unstructured data, supporting evidence-based decision-making. Despite these advancements, challenges persist. Concerns about algorithmic bias, data security, regulatory standards, and ethical considerations must be addressed to promote fair, ethical, and accountable implementation of AI technologies in clinical settings. As orthodontics increasingly adopts digital innovations, artificial intelligence is emerging as a key driver—enabling improvements in diagnostic accuracy and clinical efficiency but also redefine the future of dentofacial orthopaedic care.
This study delves into the issue of blasphemy laws in Pakistan, with a particular focus on the implementation of Section 295-C of constitution, highlighting its impact on religious minorities of the country. These laws contribute to the targeted discrimination against religious minorities in a society plagued with structural social injustices. The study draws on Axel Honneth's theory of recognition to elucidate how minorities are denied equal recognition as citizens due to prevalent discrimination against them, particularly in the legal sphere governed by these laws while penetrating private and consolidating spheres. This paper employs a secondary research methodology, utilizing databases such as Google Scholar, JSTOR, and resources available at the University of Houston Library. Additional data was gathered from reports by the International Commission of Jurists, the United Nations Human Rights Council, the U.S. State Department International Religious Freedom Report, as well as verdicts from Supreme Courts and High Courts of Pakistan along with politicians' statements and relevant National Assembly bills. Findings highlight the need for reform of these laws, given the outright repeal is not possible under the current socio-political atmosphere. The recommendations to achieve the goal of bringing reforms in blasphemy laws are presented as: a) Micro-level: Awareness Raising Campaigns to foster understanding and empathy, b) Meso-level: Educational Goals to promote tolerance and inclusivity, and c) Macro-level: Legal Goals to address systemic issues and ensure equal protection under the law. The paper concludes by emphasizing the importance of a multi-pronged approach to bring about meaningful change and uphold fundamental human rights for all citizens in Pakistan.
Parental Involvement in the Education of their School-Going Children
1Shalini Agrawal; 2Shivani AgrawalParental involvement is a key factor influencing a child’s academic success, personal development, and social behaviour. This paper examines the multiple forms of parental participation in the education of school-aged children, such as assisting with homework, attending school functions, maintaining communication with teachers, and fostering a positive learning atmosphere at home. Through a combination of data from existing studies and observations, the analysis reveals that students tend to perform better academically, attend school more regularly, and exhibit higher confidence levels when parents are actively engaged in their education. However, the extent and effectiveness of such involvement are often shaped by variables like family income, parents’ education levels, cultural background, and availability of time. While many parents recognize their role in supporting their children’s learning, obstacles such as limited resources, busy schedules, and weak school-family communication often hinder meaningful participation. The benefits of involvement are found to be more significant in the early years of schooling, with diminishing impact during adolescence. Educational institutions that actively engage parents through inclusive and flexible strategies generally witness improved student outcomes. The study recommends measures such as scheduled parent-teacher interactions, educational sessions for parents, and accessible communication methods to enhance collaboration. In conclusion, strengthening the partnership between families and schools is vital for promoting student achievement and creating an equitable learning environment that benefits all children.
Coverage Optimization of Wireless Sensor Networks using Enzyme Action Optimizer
1Vishal Kumar, 2Sonia GoyalThis paper is about the coverage optimization of wireless sensor networks (WSN). Whether it is in the field of healthcare, industrial automation, agriculture and environment monitoring etc. WSNs are used in all these fields. In the recent years’ various methods, strategies and evolutionary algorithms are used to optimize the coverage, connectivity, over-coverage and energy of WSNs. In this paper the algorithm proposed is called enzyme action optimizer (EAO). The proposed algorithms inspiration is based on the enzymes catalytic behavior in biological systems. The proposed algorithm works in two phases known as exploration phase and exploitation phase and also there are two adaptive parameters in this algorithm which are adaptive factor (AF) and enzyme concentration (EC). The parameter AF is responsible for smooth transition between exploration and exploitation phases. The proposed algorithm is used for the coverage optimization of WSNs. When the proposed algorithm is compared with the other algorithms or methods, namely, cellular genetic algorithm (CGA), geometric centroid of Voronoi diagram (GCVD), Enhanced particle swarm optimization algorithm (Enhanced PSO), chaos social spider optimization algorithm (CSSO) and ant army search optimization algorithm (AASO) under the same conditions which mean with parameters like area, number of nodes and sensing range are kept same for fairness. The results show that the coverage of proposed algorithm which is EAO increases by 0.57%, 0.78%, 6.84%, 1.95% and 14.68% when compared to CGA, GCVD, Enhanced PSO, CSSO and AASO, respectively.
Development Technique to Analyze the Level of Parkinson Disease
Dr. Banita, Dr. Sarika ZawareThe aim research is to find the exact level of Parkinson disease with reference to the manual evaluation and the evaluation through image processing techniques. Support vector machine classifier has been used at the final stage to detect the accuracy of the system. While dealing with the image processing technique, initially collect the data based on handwriting evaluation. Various words along with some sentences have been directed to the PD patient to write in their own handwriting from which the evaluation of severity has been calculated. Hypophonia has been focused in this study for analyzing the level of PD based on rating scales available and at last compared with an innovative rating scale “ABHITA” for calculating the severity of PD. Objectives: To develop a system which detect whether the DBS is required for PD patient or not. To manually evaluation for detection of PD level as per “ABHITA” Rating scale. Findings: In total 67 patients have been analyzed who have neurodegenerative problem due to which patient unable to move normally and can’t able to hold a glass or anything in daily routine. Significance: Study indicates the clear vision of comparison between existing rating scale with a proposed rating scale ABHITA. The proposed rating scale indicates the level or stage of PD with respect to the symptoms. The study also includes some of the layout of clinical representation which is not compulsory for analyzing the PD Patients, it is only for the knowledge and to collect the dataset from various hospitals. Likewise, during manual evaluation, a questionnaire will be made in the future work to compare the handwriting evaluation with the manually collected questionnaire from different PD patients. As the PD patient is having writing issues then by communicating verbally various analysis will be done. Prior to the compilation of data or collecting of data, a consent form will be filled or submitted by the patient to participate in such survey which will be used to evaluate the degree/ level of PD and the recovery rate of the PD patients. Research analysis in the form of graphical representation has been made to make the idea clearer about the detection and solution of such PD Patients.
Livelihood Generation and Women Empowerment through Pisciculture in Coastal Odisha
Dr. Geetanjali Panda1, Shivani Mohanty2This study explores how pisciculture can improve livelihood prospects and empower women in Odisha's coastal areas. Rich aquatic resources and growing fish demand have made pisciculture as a sustainable income source for rural towns increasingly important. Through cooperative structures and self-help groups, women's involvement has resulted in higher social standing, skill development, and financial independence. Women, increasingly are being seen actively managing fish farms, marketing food, and helping in earning for their households. They are taking part in government projects and NGO interventions. A flagship program called "Fish Farming in Gram Panchayat Tanks by Women SHGs" was introduced to empower women and ensure sustainable livelihoods for them. The procedure of data collection used for this study involved the participation of twenty groups from different blocks within the area of Kendrapara, which is a small coastal district in Odisha, India. The information was obtained through the use of focussed group discussions (FGDs). Through the utilisation of purposive sampling, a number of different case studies were carried out. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the challenges that are currently being faced in coastal Odisha as well as the opportunities that exist for pisciculture to help inclusive rural development and gender equality.
P. gingivalis is a Gram-negative anaerobe and a key pathogen in periodontitis due to its potent virulence factors. Though normally part of the oral microbiome, it is capable of triggering systemic inflammation and has been implicated in several non-oral diseases, including RA, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and cancer. This study focussed in detecting Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) in subgingival plaque samples from patients with Periodontitis and/or Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using polymerase chain reaction (PCR).A total of 200 subjects were recruited and divided equally into four groups: (1) RA with periodontitis, (2) RA without periodontitis, (3) periodontitis without RA, and (4) healthy controls. Subgingival plaque was collected using sterile curettes. Genomic DNA was extracted from the samples and analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect the presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis).The bacterium was detected in significantly higher counts in periodontitis patients, regardless of RA status. Mean colony-forming unit (CFU) counts were 70?±?40 in RA with periodontitis and 60?±?42 in periodontitis-only patients. P. gingivalis was absent in healthy controls. The findings reinforce the role of P. gingivalis in periodontal disease and suggest a potential link to RA pathogenesis, given its higher prevalence in RA patients. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of PCR in detecting P. gingivalis and highlights the need to consider its systemic implications, especially in individuals with RA.
Generally, this study aims to investigate the sustainability performance of the smallholder specialty coffee business from the perspectives of the producers’ cooperatives and members’ satisfaction, in southwestern Oromia, Ethiopia; where, prior studies didn’t consider sustainability performance of the smallholder specialty coffee business from the perspectives of cooperatives performance and members’ satisfaction. This study has significance as it contribute new insight to the existing literature in considering performance of the cooperatives in line with members’ satisfaction, as well as it contributes practically to the improvement alternatives to the prevailing constraints of the practices in the smallholder specialty coffee producers’ cooperatives. Concurrent-mixed, cross sectional survey research design was used. Systematic simple random and purposive sampling techniques were used to reach the sample respondents. A total sample of 381 respondents were participated. Both qualitative and quantitative data was collected from primary and secondary sources. Key informant interview, survey questionnaire, and personal observation, were used to collect data. Data analysis was through qualitative and quantitative methods. The result of the study revealed that the sample smallholder specialty coffee producers’ cooperatives were better achieved the objective of finding and providing timely market price information, training, members’ participation in coffee price setting, and keeping record of members’ coffee production practices; while their performance was low in developing members’ saving culture, investment in rural clean water development, rural access road, community health clinics and schools. The result also shown that, all the independent variables significantly & positively influence the sample cooperatives’ members’ satisfaction. Finally, having a forum of the district offices of cooperatives’ development, the producers’ cooperatives, the members themselves and other stakeholders could help to work in collaboration so as to improve the identified low and poor performance areas.
Artificial Intelligence Based Strategic Framework for Protection Against Counterfeiting in India
Avinash MandalThe intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and IPR in India presents both promising opportunities and significant challenges. Two distinct issues are being debated widely: (1) adapting legal frameworks to accommodate AI-generated content and assets' IP Rights (IPR), addressing ownership issues, and (2) leveraging AI for efficient IPR protection. The research article sets out to evaluate issue number 2 - more specifically, how various AI-driven solutions could be leveraged to address the multifaceted challenges infringing the IPR (IP rights) and brand, namely, illicit trade (counterfeiting, smuggling, diversion, infringement, etc.). The objective is to deliver an exhaustive examination of brand protection, the detrimental effects of infringement and counterfeiting on brands and their clientele, and the transformative effect of developing AI-driven solutions on IP safeguarding. Specifically, this paper advocates the adoption of a unique and effective IPR protection and anti-counterfeiting action framework, involving an integrated multi-layered approach: (a) AI-Driven Technology Layer, (b) AI-Driven Legal Tech Layer and (c ) AI-Driven Governance Layer. This unique approach, together with increased collaboration among stakeholders — which includes industry players, brands, consumers, and law enforcement — enables them to navigate the intricacies of handling challenges in IPR management in the digital, on-demand, always-connected era. This research paper also seeks to promote policies that harmonize innovation utilizing risk management, societal interests, and ethical considerations, thereby cultivating an atmosphere that supports creativity while safeguarding IP rights.
Background: Depression and heart disease are prevalent across the general population and are among the most debilitating diseases. Cardiac depression is a type of depression that may develop after a cardiac event. When left untreated, depressed patients tend to have poorer outcomes compared to cardiac patients without depressive symptoms. On average twenty-five percent of patients who experience a myocardial infarction will also develop depressive symptoms. Previous studies show a statistically significant association between myocardial infarction (MI) and depression. Patients with a history of previous depression had an elevated risk of subsequent cardiovascular events and mortality. Among cardiac diseases, MI patients had the highest risk of psychiatric outcomes. The need for early recognition and effective treatment of cardiac depression is vital to the future health of the patient. The purpose of this review is to compare two common treatments of cardiac depression: exercise and antidepressant therapy. Methods: Search results for Pub Med produced twenty-five records, sixteen records were excluded through title review, three records were excluded through abstract review. The remaining six records were assessed by full text review of which zero records were excluded. Six articles were included in this review due to their exacting subject matter and valued contribution. Results: Antidepressant users had a 30% reduced risk of a major adverse cardiovascular event (HR=0.674; 95% CI (0.440, 1.033); p = .07. In addition, results suggested that antidepressant use may provide some protection against cardiovascular disease. In studies on exercise, exercise capacity had an inverse association with nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI) and all-cause mortality. In fully adjusted models’ results ≥12 metabolic equivalents of tasks (METs) demonstrated a lower all-cause mortality, increased stamina, and decreased non-fatal MI. Conclusion: More studies are needed to determine if treatment of depression lowers the risk of future cardiac events. This review concludes that in treatment of mild to moderate depressive symptoms, exercise was safe, effective, and comparable to pharmacotherapy. Best improvements were seen when properly prescribed antidepressants were used in conjunction with a well-planned exercise program. Despite the evidence, only 15% of acute myocardial infarction patients with depression are identified and treatment of depression is often not addressed. Future directions to evaluate the complications of cardiac depression must include cooperation between cardiologists and mental health professionals to better identify cardiac patients with depressive symptoms. Additionally, insurance limitations on patients with cardiac depression must be examined.
This paper delves into digital filter design using the window function method, with emphasis on the superior capabilities of MATLAB for rapid and effective filter creation. Demonstrated through the design of a bandpass filter applied to a mixed sine wave signal, MATLAB's proficiency is highlighted. A simulation model, implemented in MATLAB, validates the filter's performance through observation of waveforms on Oscilloscopes. The paper further explores digital filters with complex coefficients, presenting a theory grounded in low-pass analog prototypes and digital design techniques. Comparative discussions on real and analytic signal processing reveal analogous signal operation requirements, emphasizing the efficiency of both approaches in processing information.
Effects of Intermittent Hypoxia Training with Parkinson's Disease
Lee Brown1, *Dr Prashant Ruchaya1,Dr Kim Hastings2,Ellese North1, Jagrut Shah1, Brigita Kilip3, Emma Chapman4, Dr Andy Galbraith, Dr Richard BuscombePurpose: This case study investigated the effects of intermittent hypoxia training (IHT) on dopamine (DA) levels in an individual with Parkinson’s disease (PD), compared to a healthy control. The aim was to assess the feasibility, safety, and potential dopaminergic response to a six-week IHT intervention. Methods: Two female participants (one diagnosed with PD and one age-matched control) completed twice-weekly sessions of low-intensity cycling in a normobaric hypoxia chamber (FiO? 14.9%) for six weeks. Peripheral oxygen saturation was monitored to ensure safety, and venous blood samples were collected at baseline, midpoint (3 weeks), and endpoint (6 weeks) to evaluate serum dopamine levels using a competitive ELISA. Results: The control participant demonstrated a progressive increase in DA concentration, reaching a 104.9% increase by the study endpoint. The PD participant also showed elevated DA levels, with a 39.3% increase from baseline. The intervention was well tolerated by both participants, with no adverse events reported. Conclusion: Preliminary findings suggest that IHT may elicit a dopaminergic response in individuals with PD, potentially supporting its use as a novel adjunctive strategy to enhance neuroplasticity and dopaminergic activity. These results support the feasibility and safety of IHT in a clinical context; however, further investigation in larger cohorts is required to determine efficacy.
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Awareness in Patients with Oral Ulcers: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Dr Kriti Shrivastava; Dr Ajita Singh; Dr Hina HandaBackground: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is implicated in oropharyngeal cancers and potentially in some oral ulcers. Public awareness regarding this link remains limited/ inadequate. Objective: To assess awareness of HPV and its potential oral health implications among patients presenting with oral ulcers. Methods: A structured questionnaire was administered to 60 patients with oral ulcers in Oral Medicine & Radiology Department of Rishiraj College of Dental Sciences and Research Centre. Results: Only 18.3% of participants were aware that HPV could affect the oral cavity. Awareness was significantly higher among younger and more educated individuals. Conclusion: There is a major gap or lack in public knowledge about HPV’s role in oral health. Awareness and Educational campaigns targeting oral and systemic implications of HPV are necessary.
The 21st century demands education that equips learners with the skills to address global challenges, such as inequality, environmental sustainability, and social justice. Design thinking (DT) and Project-based Learning (PBL) have emerged as an innovative pedagogical approach to develop critical thinking, empathy, and problem-solving abilities. This study explores the integration of DT and PBL in K-12 curricula by focusing on a case study involving 6th grade learners addressing social challenges through the FIDS (Feel, Imagine, Do, Share) framework. The study employed a qualitative approach, analysing reflections and semi-structured interviews with learners and teachers engaged in a client project. The findings revealed the development of cognitive and socio-emotional competencies, including empathy, creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration, in the learners. However, challenges included balancing academic rigour with project demands, but iterative reflection sessions fostered resilience and adaptability. Integrating DT and PBL with citizenship curricula cultivates socially responsible learners who are empowered to navigate complex challenges. By embedding experiential and reflective learning into curricula, DT and PBL enable learners to become empathetic, action-oriented changemakers by aligning education with global needs for equity and innovation. This approach bridges theoretical knowledge with constructive applications, addressing gaps in traditional teaching methods. While this single-site case study limits generalisability, the replicable FIDS framework provides a scalable model for diverse educational contexts.
This paper explores the mental healthcare-seeking behaviors of university students and the marketization of mental healthcare services. It critiques current psychiatric, psychological, and therapeutic approaches to mental health, emphasizing the influence of profit-driven incentives on treatment options. The research highlights the depoliticization of student mental health and the impact on help-seeking behaviors. Through qualitative interviews with mental health experts, six key themes emerged: anxiety and depression, the biomedical model, individualized treatment, competitive individualism, government inadequacy, and commercialization of mental healthcare. The findings underscore the urgent need for awareness and education among university students, recognizing mental health as a structural issue. By challenging the legitimacy of existing mental healthcare services and fostering an intersectional discourse, it may be possible to create transformative change in addressing the mental health crisis.
MGNREGA is a crucial governmental scheme for the people living in villages for their personal development along with development of the villages. This scheme works on the principle o f suistanble development. Now there we find many flaws in the implementation parts. Without implemtation the laws seem to be dead so the actual implementation is in right way or not, this is the main area of focus. The researcher will try to evaluate the implementation issues of this scheme. Gender equality is myth as per many intellectuals in economic sectors specially in villages. MGNREGA scheme is a stand against this myth where we can see a large number of women power is working in betterment of the villages and earning their livelihood. Government tries to improve their life and give them the comfortable condition where they learn the development and earn the money by labour. But does government treat them equally as compared to men, do the families allow them to go to work. These all are the grey areas where research is the need of the hour. The researcher will also engage herself in finding the gap of gender in the working procedure of MGNREGA. Without basic welfare we can't imagine a village to be developed. MGNREGA scheme is far than the basic welfare because it is not only working for the basic facilities but also for some extraordinary works in the villages. This results in many villages to be in process of greater ambit of development. But all the people are aware about the schemes of MGNREGA or not, this is an issue. Does needy get 100 days legal work guarantee or it is limited to very few. This research paper deals with these types of issues based in Ranchi in solution oriented approach. The researcher will also provide suggestive measures to eradicate these issues in the society.
Academic institutions currently depend heavily on the efficient management of intellectual capital (IC), especially in knowledge-intensive settings like Indian business schools (B-Schools). The purpose of this study is to look into how different demographic groups within Indian B-Schools perceive and apply Intellectual Capital Management (ICM) approaches. The study examines how demographic factors like age, gender, marital status, educational qualification and years of experience affect the comprehension and use of ICM practices. It does this by drawing on the tripartite framework of IC, which consists of Human Capital, Structural Capital, and Relational Capital. To evaluate statistically significant variations in ICM perception scores across demographic categories, a one-way ANOVA was used to analyze data from a structured questionnaire given to faculty members at a selection of Indian B-Schools. According to preliminary findings, perceptions of ICM are greatly influenced by demographic characteristics, especially in the areas of human and structural capital, such as years of teaching experience and academic designation. These results underline the necessity of inclusive, context-specific IC development methods that take into account the demographic variety found in educational institutions. By offering empirical insights into how demographic characteristics influence ICM perceptions in the context of Indian higher education, the study adds to the body of knowledge. It also provides practical suggestions for administrators and policymakers looking to improve intellectual capital frameworks in B-Schools.
Lower Subansiri Hydroelectric Project and the Development Discourse
Shelza JalanThis article critically examines the Lower Subansiri Hydroelectric Project (LSHEP) through the lens of developmental discourse, situating it within India's broader push for infrastructure-led national growth. Drawing on Michel Foucault’s theorization of power and discourse, the study interrogates how hydropower is framed as a symbol of progress, regional upliftment, and energy security. It unpacks how state and institutional narratives portray LSHEP as a gift of development, marginalizing local voices and silencing dissent. While official claims highlight benefits such as economic integration and modernity, civil society organizations, initially embraced but later resisted the project, reflecting a shift from hope to contestation. The analysis further explores the role of fear, repression, and the strategic use of silence in enforcing consent. Ultimately, the article argues for a rethinking of development in Northeast India, advocating participatory and ecologically sensitive alternatives that account for local histories, aspirations, and rights.
It has been widely believed that positive self-concept among nursing officers leads to higher retention rates. However, it is noticed that nurses with good self-concept are more likely to choose challenging job options, resulting in frequent turn over in health care settings. Aim: This study aimed at examining the relationship between self-concept and retention index among nurses working in a tertiary care hospital in south India. Materials and Methods: The study followed a descriptive cross sectional co-relational research design. Random sampling technique was used to recruit 179 study participants and data was collected using the tools; Nurse’s self-concept Questionnaire (NSCQ) & Nurses Retention Index (NRI) scale. Both male and female nurses having not less than one year of service and giving direct patient care were included and those who were on leave and had changes of work place during the past 6 months were excluded. Results: The study findings showed that all the nurses (100%) were having the higher level of self-concept (100%). Similarly, retention index is also higher among the majority of nurses 176(98.3%). Besides, Co-relation between nurses self-concept and retention index shows the positive co-relation (r=0.970) and it is highly significant (p<0.001). Conclusion: Self-concept among nurses is a very important entity to assess during their professional career, as disturbances in self-concept may create an adverse effect on their retention index in the working area, thereby compromising the quality of patient care. Hence, due importance should be given to take measures to improve the self-concept of nurses, through which their retention in the hospitals can be assured.
Lead exposure is an environmental health concern for lactating mothers and infants. Despite growing body of research, the impact of lead exposure on infant health outcomes remains underexplored in the oil-host communities of Rivers State, Nigeria. This study examined the Lead levels in breast milk of lactating mothers and the associated infant health outcomes in the oil-host communities of Emuoha and Eleme in Rivers State, Nigeria. The examined primary outcomes were lead levels in breast milk of lactating mothers at 6 weeks postpartum (baseline), infant weight, head circumference, morbidity (symptoms and rate of hospitatlisation), and mortality between 6 weeks baseline and 6 months end-line. A prospective cohort design was adopted to follow a random sample of 232 mother-infant dyads recruited from the communities. At baseline, breast milk samples were collected and analyzed for Lead using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. The infants were followed for 6 months to track health outcomes. A structured data extraction form was used to collect data. Data were analyzed using t-test and Chi-square test at p < 0.05 significance level. About 17.7% of the lactating mothers had Lead in breast milk above the World Health Organization safety limit. Infants born to mothers with elevated lead levels in breast milk exhibited significantly lower weight, smaller head circumferences, and higher rate of symptoms compared to those whose mothers had lower lead levels (p < 0.020). Lead exposure through breast milk negatively impacted infant health. Remediation efforts to reduce lead exposures are recommended to safeguard infant health.