Volume 14 | Issue 6 |

 Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: Digital technology has become an integral part of adolescents' daily lives, providing numerous educational, social, and recreational benefits. However, excessive use of digital technologies such as smartphones, computers, internet-based applications, social media, and video games has emerged as a significant public health concern. Digital technology overuse has been associated with various physical, psychological, social, and academic problems, including sleep disturbances, eye strain, obesity, musculoskeletal disorders, anxiety, depression, social isolation, and poor academic performance. Despite these adverse consequences, adolescents often lack adequate knowledge regarding the ill effects of excessive digital technology use and its preventive measures. Therefore, educational interventions such as structured teaching programmes may play a vital role in improving awareness and promoting healthy digital practices among adolescents. Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a structured teaching programme on knowledge regarding digital technology overuse and its ill effects among adolescents in a selected high school at Mangaluru. Objectives: 1) To assess the pre-test level of knowledge regarding digital technology overuse and its ill effects among adolescents. 2) To evaluate the effectiveness of a structured teaching programme on knowledge regarding digital technology overuse and its ill effects among adolescents. 3) To determine the association between pre-test knowledge scores and selected demographic variables of adolescents. Materials and Methods: An evaluative research approach with a quasi-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design was adopted for the study. The study was conducted among 70 adolescents aged 13-15 years studying in a selected high school at Mangaluru. Participants were selected using a stratified random sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured knowledge questionnaire developed by the investigator. Following the pre-test, a structured teaching programme on digital technology overuse and its ill effects was administered. The post-test was conducted on the eighth day using the same questionnaire. The reliability coefficient of the tool was 0.78. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics such as paired t-test and Chi-square test. Results and Findings: The findings revealed that all adolescents (100%) had poor knowledge regarding digital technology overuse and its ill effects in the pre-test. Following the structured teaching programme, 91.42% of adolescents attained good knowledge and 8.58% attained average knowledge. The overall mean knowledge percentage increased from 24.94% in the pre-test to 73.77% in the post-test. The paired t-test showed a statistically significant improvement in knowledge (t = 65.22, p < 0.05), indicating that the structured teaching programme was highly effective. A significant association was found between pre-test knowledge scores and source of information, whereas no significant association was observed with other demographic variables. Conclusion: The study concluded that adolescents had inadequate baseline knowledge regarding digital technology overuse and its ill effects. The structured teaching programme significantly improved their knowledge, demonstrating its effectiveness as an educational intervention. The findings highlight the importance of implementing school-based health education programmes to promote responsible digital technology use and prevent technology-related health problems among adolescents.

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Structured Teaching Programme, Digital Technology Overuse, Ill Effects, Adolescents, Knowledge, Health Education, School Health, Effectiveness.

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The completion of the Human Genome Project (HGP) catalyzed a paradigm shift in molecular medicine, transitioning healthcare from reactive treatments to proactive, personalized interventions. However, this "Genetic Revolution" has simultaneously introduced profound ethical and existential tensions, as the ability to map the human blueprint outpaces our philosophical framework for interpreting it. Central to this tension is the shift from biological mystery to data-driven certainty; therefore, this paper investigates a critical inquiry: How does the integration of genomic data from the Human Genome Project challenge the Heideggerian conception of "authentic" human existence and individual autonomy through the lens of genetic determinism? Utilizing Martin Heidegger's phenomenological framework, the study explores the risk of "enframing" the human subject as a mere "standing reserve" of biological information. By evaluating the hierarchical implications at the individual, societal, and species levels--from the rise of "genomic capitalism" to the "market-driven eugenics" of the genetic supermarket--the research argues that biological reductionism threatens to undermine the "potentiality-for-being" essential to human agency. The findings suggest that true human flourishing in the genomic era requires a synthesis of technical precision and existential stewardship, ensuring that the human genome remains a tool for medical empowerment rather than an inescapable, deterministic script for destiny.

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Human Genome Project, genetic determinism, bioethics, Heideggerian phenomenology, Dasein, molecular medicine, genomic capitalism, authenticity, pharmacogenomics, autonomy

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Logistics cost optimization has become a critical factor in enhancing organizational efficiency and competitiveness in the manufacturing and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. This study, titled "A Study on Logistics Cost Optimization with Special Reference to Hindustan Unilever Limited", aims to examine the effectiveness of logistics cost optimization practices adopted by the organization and their impact on operational performance. The research focuses on key logistics activities such as transportation management, inventory control, warehousing, route planning, technology adoption, and supply chain coordination. The study is based on both primary and secondary data. Primary data were collected from employees through a structured questionnaire, while secondary data were obtained from company records, journals, books, and relevant websites. A descriptive research design was adopted, and statistical tools such as percentage analysis, mean, and standard deviation were used for data analysis. The findings reveal that effective transportation planning, warehouse automation, inventory management, and the use of advanced technologies significantly contribute to reducing logistics costs and improving operational efficiency. Employees expressed positive perceptions regarding the organization's logistics practices and their role in cost reduction. The study concludes that continuous monitoring of logistics activities, investment in technology, and employee training can further enhance logistics performance and support sustainable business growth.

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Logistics Cost Optimization, Supply Chain Management, Transportation Management, Inventory Control, Warehouse Management, Operational Efficiency, Hindustan Unilever Limited.

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Smartwatches have become more popular in recent times due to their ability to track various health indicators, including heart rate, sleep patterns, and physical activity. The objective of this scoping review is to explore the use of smartwatches in the healthcare sector. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Embassy, Web of Science, ERIC and Google Scholar, following the methodology of Arksey and O'Malley. It is seen that the use of smartwatches is effective in diagnosing the symptoms of various diseases. In particular, the smartwatch promises to detect early symptoms of heart disease, movement disorders and Covid-19. Nevertheless, it should be emphasized that there is an ongoing debate about the reliability of smartwatch diagnostics in the healthcare system. Despite the potential benefits of using smartwatches for disease detection, it is imperative to approach the interpretation of their data with caution. Inconsistencies between smartwatches and their algorithms have significant implications for healthcare use. The accuracy and reliability of the algorithm used is important, as well as the high accuracy in detecting changes in health status through smartwatches. This requires developing medical watches and creating AI-hospital assistants. These assistants will be designed to assist with patient monitoring, appointment scheduling, and medication management tasks. These can educate patients and answer common questions, freeing healthcare providers to focus on more complex tasks.

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Health, technology, healthcare, Smart watches Wearable devices, Monitoring

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This paper explores whether GST 2.0 is primarily intended as a technical remedy to existing operational shortcomings or if it arises from deeper constitutional imperatives within India's federal structure. Through an examination of policy debates, administrative reforms, and federal fiscal dynamics, the paper evaluates the multifaceted drivers behind GST 2.0's conception. The ongoing discourse highlights that GST 2.0 represents not just a statutory adjustment but also a moment to reconsider foundational principles of fiscal federalism in India. As policymakers grapple with the need to harmonise efficiency with constitutional values, GST 2.0 is being positioned as both a response to administrative inefficiencies and an effort to recalibrate the balance of fiscal powers. These discussions underscore the complexity of implementing tax reforms in a diverse federal landscape, where technical changes must align with broader constitutional and intergovernmental considerations. Consequently, effective implementation of GST 2.0 requires consensus-building, robust stakeholder engagement, and continuous evaluation to ensure alignment with both administrative efficiency and the objectives of cooperative federalism. On this backdrop, the debate continues whether GST 2.0 can achieve a balance between streamlining tax administration and respecting the autonomy of states within the constitutional framework.

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GST, Administrative Reforms, Fiscal Powers, Constitutional Values

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Mutrashmari is one of the eight grave diseases (Ashta Mahagada) described in Ayurvedic classics. It is characterized by the formation of calculi within the urinary tract and clinically resembles urolithiasis described in modern medicine. The prevalence of urinary stone disease has increased globally due to dietary habits, sedentary lifestyle, dehydration, metabolic abnormalities, and recurrent urinary tract infections. Ayurveda explains the pathogenesis of Mutrashmari through derangement of Kapha Dosha associated with vitiated Vata and the deposition of crystallized urinary constituents within the Mutravaha Srotas. Classical texts advocate preventive as well as curative measures including Nidana Parivarjana, Shodhana Chikitsa, Shamana Chikitsa, Ashmari Bhedana Dravyas, and dietary regulation. Several medicinal plants such as Pashanabheda, Gokshura, Varuna, and Punarnava have demonstrated lithotriptic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and nephroprotective properties. Contemporary studies have also supported the efficacy of Ayurvedic interventions in reducing stone size, relieving symptoms, and preventing recurrence. The present review aims to discuss the etiopathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis, and comprehensive Ayurvedic management of Mutrashmari with its modern correlation to urolithiasis.

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Mutrashmari, Urolithiasis, Ashmari, Ayurveda, Mutravaha Srotas, Ashmari Bhedana

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Abstract The study mainly aims to explore the understanding of research methodology and statistics of the coursework students and how coursework would help them in their understanding of advanced statistics and methodology. Using a case study design, the researcher selected only one institution with a sample of 17 pre-Ph.D. student purposively. For collecting data, the researcher used a self-developed semi-structured interview schedule and analyzed the data through thematic analysis. The findings revealed that most of the students possessed a basic to moderate level understanding of research methodology and statistics before joining the coursework, and after joining the coursework, they enhanced their knowledge, confidence, and research competence. However, challenges related to advanced statistical techniques, data analysis, statistical software, and the practical application of research methods persisted.

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Research methodology, statistics, research competence

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This work encapsulates a comprehensive review of four decades of economic research involving highly relevant concepts with applications of fields like subjective well-being and happiness of individuals within the broad domain of behavioural economics. The idea is to bridge the gap between the traditional theories of economics and those relevant in the contemporary economic applications. The study draws from traditional economics to contemporary aspects like the mediating role of pleasure, subjective well-being, work-life balance, and establishing a relationship between happiness and entrepreneurial intention. The study also goes into coping strategies during pandemics, the influence of socioeconomic status on mental health, and gene-environment interactions in subjective well-being. The review's conclusion highlights the necessity for national accounts of subjective well-being to guide community and societal policy decisions. It also discusses future research possibilities and policy implications.

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Happiness economics, Subjective well-being, Affective processes, Emotional intelligence, Work-life balance

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Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common chronic liver disorders worldwide and is emerging as a serious metabolic health burden. It is characterized by excessive fat accumulation in hepatocytes in individuals with negligible alcohol intake. The increasing prevalence of obesity, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, sedentary lifestyle, and metabolic syndrome has significantly contributed to the rise of NAFLD globally. Modern medical science currently emphasizes lifestyle modification as the primary therapeutic intervention, while no universally accepted pharmacological treatment is available. Ayurveda explains liver disorders under the concepts of Yakrit Roga, Medoroga, Santarpanottha Vikara, and Agnimandya.1 Arogyavardhini Vati is a classical Kharaliya Rasayana formulation extensively used in hepatic, metabolic, dermatological, and digestive disorders. The formulation contains Katuki, Triphala, Guggulu, Shilajatu, Tamra Bhasma, Loha Bhasma, and purified mineral ingredients possessing Deepana, Pachana, Lekhana, Medohara, and hepatoprotective properties.2 The formulation acts by correcting impaired Agni, eliminating Ama, stimulating bile secretion, improving lipid metabolism, and protecting hepatocytes from oxidative stress and inflammation. Several clinical and experimental studies have demonstrated the efficacy of Arogyavardhini Vati in improving liver enzymes, lipid profile, hepatomegaly, and ultrasonographic findings in NAFLD patients.3 This review critically evaluates the role of Arogyavardhini Vati in NAFLD from both Ayurvedic and modern perspectives.

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Arogyavardhini Vati, NAFLD, Yakrit Roga, Medoroga, Fatty Liver, Ayurveda, Hepatoprotective.

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Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have emerged as an effective tool for promoting women's empowerment in rural areas. This study examines the impact of SHGs on women's empowerment in the hilly regions of Uttarakhand, focusing on the relationship between social and political empowerment and economic empowerment. Primary data were collected from 180 women SHG members and analyzed using regression analysis.

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Self-Help Groups, Women Empowerment, Economic Empowerment, Social and Political Empowerment, Uttarakhand.

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Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 and The Open Definition