Paschim Medinipur Research Articles

Prevalence of Hypertension and Prehypertension among Young Adult Students of Midnapore Town, Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal, India

Background: Hypertension is one of the most prevalent public health concerns and also one of the prominent factors in affecting the cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), coronary heart diseases (CHDs). It has been termed as “Silent Killer’. About 46.0% of adults worldwide with hypertension are unaware that they have the condition. Methods: The present study aimed at the investigation on the anthropometric, derived variables and blood pressure variables. It also determined the correlation between anthropometric, derived variables and blood pressure variables. It estimated the prevalence rate of hypertension and prehypertension among the young adult students of Midnapore Town, Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal, India. The cross-sectional study was conducted among 201 young adult male students aged between 18 to 28 years. Height (HT), Weight (WT), Mid upper arm circumference (MUAC), Hip circumference (HC), Waist circumference (WC), Biceps skinfold (BSF), Triceps skinfold (TSF), Subscapular skinfold (SSF) and Suprailliac skinfold (SISF), Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP), Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) and pulse rate measurement were taken using standard procedure. Results: The overall prevalence of hypertension was found to be 10.9% among the studied participants and 44.3% was the prehypertension prevalence rate. A significant correlation (p<0.05) was found between blood pressure variables and different anthropometric and derived variables. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that there is a very strong prevalence of prehypertension and HTN among the young adult students of Midnapore town. Results of such kind of researches can be helpful in the formulation of appropriate awareness programmes in the universities and colleges.

Parenting Stress of Challenged and Non-Challenged Children: A Comparative Perspective

This study examines parenting stress among parents of challenged and non-challenged children, focusing on dimensions i.e. financial, social, family, and emotional stress. Conducted in Hooghly; Paschim Medinipur; and Kolkata, West Bengal, India, the study involved 200 parents (100 of challenged children and 100 of non-challenged children) across diverse occupations using a survey-based cross-sectional design through conveniently. Findings reveal significant gender and occupational differences in stress levels. Fathers of non-challenged children report higher financial stress, while mothers of challenged children experience greater social stress. Occupational factors influence stress differently across groups; for instance, service professionals report higher family stress among parents of non-challenged children, while farmers of challenged children report the least social stress. Age-related analyses suggest that while financial stress decreases with parenting age in non-challenged groups, emotional and overall stress increase in parents of challenged children as they age. This comparison underscores the specific stressors unique to each parenting context, offering insights into potential areas for support and intervention. The study contributes to understanding how child developmental status, gender, occupation, and age intersect to shape parental stress, thereby informing tailored approaches for alleviating stress and promoting family well-being in varied caregiving contexts.

Advanced prediction of rice yield gaps under climate uncertainty using machine learning techniques in Eastern India

The current study focuses on applying machine learning approaches to forecast future Kharif rice yield gaps in eastern India while accounting for climate change implications. To achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), food security must be prioritized. Rice yield has been predicted using Cubist, GBM, MARS, RF, SVM, and XGB machine learning methods, considering six factors: elevation, soil moisture, precipitation, temperature, soil temperature, and actual evapotranspiration. Climatic change scenarios were generated using the latest climatic Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6 MIROC6) Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSP) 2–4.5 and SSP5-8.5 datasets between 1990 and 2030. Finally, machine learning algorithms were used to identify rice yield gaps to achieve sustainable agricultural intensification. The rice yield validation was completed with 1889 field-based farmer observation records. The results suggest that Murshidabad and Purba Bardhaman districts had very high rice yields (5.60–3.45 t/ha) when using the Cubist model compared to another model. The findings also reveal a poor rice-yielding zone (1.44–0.39 t/ha) in the western region (Purulia) and a northwestern region (half of the west of Birbhum). The Cubist and RF models' maximum and minimum R2 values were 0.73 and 0.72, respectively. The R2 values were also negligible for the XGB, GBM, SVM, and MARS, machine learning models. Projections for rice production in 2030 indicate that the northern and north-eastern regions (Murshidabad and Purba Bardhaman) as well as the southeastern areas (Jhargram and Paschim Medinipur) have the highest yields, categorized as extremely very high (5.56–3.49 t/ha) and high (3.49–2.49 t/ha). A significant rice yield gap (50-40 %) was found in the center and south-east areas (Bankura, Jhargram, and Paschim Medinipur), the northern region (Murshidabad and Birbhum), and the western region (Purulia). In 2030, the north-western region (Birbhum), as well as the middle and south-eastern regions (Bankura, Jhargram, and Paschim Medinipur districts), had the highest proportion of high (50%–40 %) and very high (60%–50 %) rice yield gap. Our findings can contribute to a new viewpoint on agricultural planning and management for sustainable growth in the face of changing climate circumstances.

Evaluating groundwater potential in water-deficit laterite zones of Eastern India using RS and GIS techniques, combining an analytical hierarchical process for sustainable water resources management

Sustainable groundwater management in water-deficit, laterite-dominated regions need urgent planning, which involve accurate identification of groundwater potential zones (GWPZs). While unsustainable water extraction has exacerbated groundwater availability in laterite zones, laterite is globally known for its limited groundwater potential but has received relatively little research attention. Therefore, the present study aims to examine the role of laterite formation on groundwater potentiality and its relationship with the stage of groundwater development in Paschim Medinipur district of West Bengal in eastern India. This study integrated cost-effective and efficient time-saving tools like remote sensing, and GIS and to produce thematic map layers for overlay analysis and analytical hierarchy process (AHP) to delineate the GWPZs precisely using n = 10 parameters, while a consistency check was performed prior to the integration of these parameters to ensure low subjectivity in the GWPZ. The three identified GWPZ classes cover 30% of ‘good’, 44% of ‘moderate’ and 26% of ‘poor’ zones. The yield data and water level fluctuation analysis revealed that 70% and 60% match the delineated GWPZs. The cross-validation with the receiver operating characteristic curve also demonstrated good (75.1%) prediction accuracy. We found that hydrogeological factors like laterite formations witness around 80% of moderate to poor GWPZ, while poor GWPZ covers half of the laterite belt. However, flood plains and valley fill deposits in the lateritic parts demonstrate moderate to good GWPZ, suggesting laterite formation at variable depths that control groundwater recharge potential. The laterite regions with lower groundwater recharge potential have experienced a 17% increase in water extraction compared to non-laterite areas. Whereas four blocks within the district are partly overlapped with laterite formations and poor GWPZ, which encounter high stages of groundwater development (70–90%), leading to semi-critical to critical conditions. It is attributed to anthropogenic perturbations and hydrogeological conditions, which need urgent planning to ensure sustainable groundwater usage.

Flood Monitoring and Mapping in the Ghatal Region of West Bengal, India

Abstract The Ghatal block of Paschim Medinipur district in West Bengal, India experiences frequent flooding due to the overflow of the rivers Dwarakeswar, Rupnarayan, Shilabati, and their tributaries. Although the Ghatal master plan was prepared and the foundation stone was placed in 1982 to reduce the flood vulnerability in this region, the plan is still not being implemented. To determine the flood vulnerability in the Ghatal block, very few research investigations have been carried out. The previous studies just applied a successful scientific methodology to evaluate flood risk; they did not engage in participatory research with local community perception. Hence, a thorough investigation is needed to manage floods in a way that increases community resilience. Using a comparative review and the geographic information system (GIS), the study seeks to identify the flood-prone locations in the Ghatal block, which is essential for flood management in any region. The article uses a multi-criteria analysis to pinpoint probable flood hazard regions. Seven parameters are used in the study to carry out the multi-criteria analytical hierarchy procedure. Based on their relative importance for the event, the criteria’s weights are determined using the Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) method, and a Suitability Index is prepared. The index indicates that the severe problem of river flooding in the Ghatal block of Paschim Medinipur needs to be looked after on an urgent basis and with path-breaking solutions, especially for the Ghatal municipality and the various gram panchayats such as Irpala, Mansuka-I, Monoharpur-I, Ajobnagar-I, Mohonpur, Dewanchak-I and the North-Eastern part of Sultanpur and the Southern part of Dewanchak-II.

Assessing groundwater fluoride contamination scenario in West Bengal, India: A combined approach using meta-analysis, current research, and health risk evaluation

The present study was initiated by the findings of a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis, which synthesized all available literature on the patterns and trends of groundwater fluoride (F−) contamination in West Bengal, India. This investigation aimed to provide detailed information on F− contamination at the block level within the state, which is essential for effective monitoring and alleviation efforts addressing the acute and evolving human health concerns in affected areas. This study focuses on the six districts (South 24 Parganas, West Medinipur, Jhargram, East Bardhaman, West Bardhaman and Murshidabad) of West Bengal. Findings from more than 3000 datasets revealed that approximately 10%, 11%, 4%, and 14% of groundwater samples exceeded the safe limit of F− (1.5 mgL−1) from South 24 Parganas, Jhargram, West Bardhaman, and Murshidabad district, respectively. Notably 3% of samples from West Bardhaman displayed class V toxicity where F− concentrations exceeding >10 mgL−1. This research introduces an initial assessment of F− concentrations in groundwater from nine newly identified F− contaminated blocks (Baruipur, Sonarpur, Binpur II, Salanpur, Baraboni, Jamuriya, Pandabeswar, Kandi and Khargram) within the region. Overall, 65 blocks from ten districts have been recognized as F− contaminated zones in West Bengal till 2023. The non-cancerous health risk was found to be disproportionately higher in the western districts (Jhargram, West Bardhaman, and western part of Murshidabad) compared to their southeastern counterparts (East Bardhaman, Paschim Medinipur, and South 24 Parganas). A demographic analysis of health risk indicated infants as the most susceptible group to F− toxicity. The probabilistic health risk at P95 dose for eight blocks further corroborated the heightened vulnerability of infants. These insights offer critical implications for the policy-makers, suggesting an urgent need for tailored health policies to mitigate the risk associated with F− contamination in West Bengal.

The Gandhian Concept of Rural Reconstruction and Its Application in Paschim Medinipur District of West Bengal: an Overview

The Gandhian Concept of Rural Reconstruction and Its Application in Paschim Medinipur District of West Bengal: an Overview

Double burden of malnutrition among young adult female (18-25 years) of West Bengal, India

Globally, malnutrition affects approximately one-third of the population, manifesting in various forms of undernutrition and overnutrition. This issue is particularly prevalent in developing countries, posing significant health concerns for female. To address this, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the nutritional status and related factors among female in Paschim Medinipur District and North 24 Pargana District of West Bengal, India. This cross-sectional study was conducted involving 337 females selected through a simple random sampling technique with proportional allocation. Data collection utilized a self-administered questionnaire. Nutritional status was determined based on the World Health Organization (WHO) cut off points for underweight and overweight. Statistical significance was set at a p<0.05. The study revealed that 16.91% of participants were underweight and 17.80% were classified as overweight or obesity. A significant association (χ2=28.400; p<0.01) was noted between monthly family income (MFI) group and nutritional status among the participants. The BMI of the participants were significantly different (F= 5.791; p<0.001) in varied MFI group. It was observed that age of the participants was significantly correlated with weight (r=0.360; p<0.01), height (r=0.294; p<0.01) and BMI (r=0.257; p<0.01). The present study clearly documented that age of the female and family income had significant influence on the nutritional status of the young adult female and more than one-third of participants were suffering from double burden of malnutrition.

Needs of the First Generation College Girls Students in Paschim Medinipur and Purba Medinipur: A Comparative Study

Needs of the First Generation College Girls Students in Paschim Medinipur and Purba Medinipur: A Comparative Study

Impact of Kanyashree and Sabooj Sathi Schemes on the Development of Rural Areas in Southern Part of West Bengal, Eastern India

Kanyashree and Sabooj Sathi schemes are two noteworthy welfare schemes sponsored by the West Bengal government to develop the rural areas in the state. Kanyashree scheme was launched to check the early marriage of girls whereas the Sabooj Sathi scheme was aimed at empowering the students among the weaker sections of society. The present paper attempts to study the scenario of Kanyashree and Sabooj Sathi schemes, and their role in the development of rural areas in the southern parts of West Bengal in eastern India. The entire work is based on primary data and samples have been selected from three districts, i.e. Purba Medinipur, Paschim Medinipur, and Howrah. Ten sample villages were selected among the three districts and 150 samples were chosen through the purposive sampling method. Average and percentage methods and applied cartographic techniques have been considered for analysis and drawing inferences. Kanyashree remarkably controls the early marriage of girls, reduces the different social barriers that promote the marriage of teenage girls, and broadens the scope of their education. The funds generated for Kanyashree scheme are directly transferred to the beneficiaries’ accounts to meet their private coaching fees, and purchase of educational equipment. Bicycles are provided to the beneficiaries of the Sabooj Sathi scheme to make commuting to school, private coaching centres and playgrounds easy. Family members of the beneficiaries are also using bicycles to reach various places, thereby availing the scope of using it for non-academic purposes associated with numerous important domestic matters. The study found that both the schemes, i.e. Kanyashree and Sabooj Sathi contribute to empowering girl students in the study area.

Assessing the role of forest resources in improving rural livelihoods in West Bengal of India

Forest resources play a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of rural communities residing in forest-rich areas. In India, a forest-rich country, a significant proportion of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) is consumed locally, supporting numerous rural communities relying on forests for essential resources, such as firewood, timber, and NTFPs. This study focuses on two forest-dominant districts in West Bengal of India, namely, Jhargram District and Paschim Medinipur District. Furthermore, this study aims to enhance the understanding of forest-dependent communities by comparing the standard of living among different village classes. Thus, we categorized villages into three classes based on the distance from home to forests, including inner villages, fringe villages, and outer villages. Through focus group discussions and household surveys, we explored the sources of local economy, income sources of household, and reasons for economic diversification in different village classes. The study findings confirm that substantial variations existed in the income sources and the standard of living in these villages. Forest income varied dramatically among the three village classes, with inner villages having greater forest income than fringe villages and outer villages. Meanwhile, households in outer villages depended on forests and engaged in diverse economic activities for their livelihoods. Compared with inner and fringe villages, households in outer villages derived a significant portion of their income from livestock. This discrepancy can be attributed to challenges, such as inadequate transportation, communication, and underdeveloped market chains in inner villages. Moreover, these findings emphasize the need to develop sustainable forest management practices, create alternative income-generation opportunities, and improve infrastructure and market access in inner villages, as well as promote economic diversification in outer villages. Through targeted policy measures, these forest-rich regions can achieve improved livelihoods, enhanced standard of living, and increased resilience for their communities.

Understanding the Present Scenario of Women in Higher Education of Purba & Paschim Medinipur District

The global discourse on women’s participation in higher education has gained momentum, signifying a shift towards greater gender inclusivity in educational institutions. Even with significant advancements, there are still gaps in access to and involvement in higher education, especially in areas with socioeconomic difficulties like the Indian districts of Purba and Paschim Medinipur. In this sense, the importance of higher education in influencing socioeconomic growth and empowering individuals is crucial. But a variety of obstacles, like as societal and cultural norms and institutional impediments, prevent women in these regions from pursuing higher education. It is important to comprehend the current state of women’s involvement in higher education in the Purba and Paschim Medinipur districts in order to pinpoint gaps and develop focused solutions. Through an analysis of women’s college establishment trends and enrolment patterns at different levels, this study seeks to understand the current state of women’s involvement in higher education in these districts. The study indicates that despite progress, there are still gender differences in literacy and educational attainment, which adds to the reliance and oppression of women. Comprehensive approaches, such as institutional initiatives, community-based activities, and legislative interventions, are required to address these difficulties. Affirmative action guidelines, grants, gender awareness campaigns, mentorship programmes, and community service projects are among the suggestions. Policymakers, educational institutions, and communities can create inclusive and equitable higher education systems by putting these methods into practice. This will help women reach their full potential and make valuable contributions to society.

Exploring the Awareness Level of B. Ed. College Teachers on Copyright Laws for E-Content Protection

This research paper attempt to explore the awareness level of B. Ed. College Teachers in West Bengal, India, regarding copyright laws for e-content protection as an important aspect of intellectual property rights education. Basic objectives of this study is to measure the current awareness level among the B. Ed. College Teachers, understanding the factors that influence their awareness, and providing recommendations to enhance their awareness level. To achieve these objectives, a descriptive survey research design was adopted by the researcher, employing a semi-structured questionnaire to collect data from the B. Ed. College Teachers situated in three distinct districts of West Bengal; North 24 Parganas, Murshidabad, and Paschim Medinipur. Participants of this study were B. Ed. College Teachers in West Bengal, and a sample size of 151 respondents were purposively selected using the stratified sampling technique. Here in this study, researcher used descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, and thematic analysis to analyse the data. Findings of this study revealed the existing level of awareness among B. Ed. College Teachers concerning copyright laws and regulations relevant to protection e-content. Additionally, this research identified various influential factors that shape their level of awareness. And this research significantly contributes to our understanding on the awareness level of B. Ed. College Teachers in West Bengal, India, pertaining to the copyright and e-content protection.

PLAY PARTICIPATION OF ADOLESCENT SCHOOL GOING CHILDREN

Play is a spontaneous, creative, pleasurable and normal activity of the child. It is an integral part of children’s everyday experience, from the earliest days of life through adolescence and into adulthood. Through play the child attains fullness physically and mentally. When the body and mind are alert and fresh, life is full of joy. The aim of the present study is to study the overall statuses of participation of adolescent school going children in play activities and to compare participation of adolescent school going children in play with respect to their gender, family structure and district. The sample of the study consists of 400 Upper Primary and secondary adolescent school going children from six schools of Paschim Medinipur and South-24 Parganas district in West Bengal. The sample was drawn on the basis of non-probability convenient sampling technique. To measure the overall statuses of participation of adolescent school going children in play activities, a three point Likert type Play Participation Scale was developed by the investigator. Collected data were analyzed using the statistics- Mean, Standard Deviation (SD) and Percentage analysis. t- Test analysis was conducts with SPSS programme. Hypotheses were tested at probability level of 0.05. Results of the research showed that most of the adolescent school going children i.e. 92.5% average participation in play activities. Most of them i.e. 67.25% opined that they have low participation per day in play activities and almost negligible percentage i.e. 5.5% of them opined average participation in it. Significant differences in the play participation were found among adolescent school going children with relation to their gender and district. No significant difference in the play participation was found among adolescent school going children with relation to their family structure.

A STUDY ON INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION REGARDING ITS EPIDEMIOLOGY, ETIOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT IN A PERIPHERAL MEDICAL COLLEGE

Objectives: The intestinal obstruction is a widespread emergency problem in our surgical practice day by day. It is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in our health system. It is caused by adhesions, hernias, malignancies, endometriosis, inflammatory bowel disease stenosis, intussusception, and others. Our research aims to identify the etiology, epidemiology, and clinical presentations of the pathology so that we can manage the disease as early as possible for better outcomes in our peripheral institution. Methods: The study was performed on 100 cases of the age group 12–76 years admitted in the surgical ward of Midnapore Medical College and Hospital, Paschim Medinipur (W.B.) from December 2016 to June 2018. Cases of acute intestinal obstruction who underwent operation were included in our research to establish the pathology of intestinal obstruction. Results: In our study, the incidence of acute intestinal obstruction is 1.6% of total surgical cases. Maximum patients (25%) were in the age group 51– 60 years. The most common cause of intestinal obstruction was obstructed/strangulated hernia (40%). The most common symptoms were pain abdomen (88%), abdominal distension (84%), and vomiting (78%). An X-ray revealed presence of air-fluid levels in 75% of patients. The overall mortality rate was 10%. Conclusion: The morbidity and mortality of intestinal obstruction are dependent on early diagnosis, prompt resuscitation, and proper management. The critical determinants of the morbidity are age of the patient, duration of the disease, existing comorbidity, and delay in treatment. X-ray in erect view is an essential mode of diagnostic method and obstructed hernia is the most common etiology of obstruction in our research study.

Child marriage among women in West Bengal: pervasiveness, spatial variation and socio-economic connections

ABSTRACT A human rights violation, child marriage among women, is not an uncommon practice and has continued for centuries in India. Whatever its origin, the reason for its persistence is an issue that needs to be re-looked. Therefore, the present study analyzed the spatial variation of child marriage and also identified the key drivers of this practice in the high prevalence state of West Bengal, India, using the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) dataset. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to measure the strength and direction of the relationship between child marriage and socioeconomic indicators. Multiple regression analysis has been used to examine the key determinants of child marriage. The result reveals that Uttar Dinajpur, Jalpaiguri, South 24 Parganas and Puruliya districts have performed well, whereas performances of Purba Medinipur, Paschim Medinipur, Murshidabad and Birbhum districts are disappointing. The study also finds that there is a significant association between child marriage and respondents' educational level, place of residence and household wealth. Findings suggest that by increasing the higher educational and employment opportunities, economic support for poor families and increasing awareness about the adverse effects of child marriage are the effective steps to mitigate the issue.

Food taboo and food preference among the rural and urban lactating mothers of Paschim Medinipur district of West Bengal

Background: Food taboo is a prohibition against consuming certain foods and food preference refers to the way in which people choose from among available comestibles on the basis of biological or economic perceptions including taste, value, purity, ease or difficulty of preparation, and the availability of fuel and other preparation tools. This cultural practice can be studied from different theoretical perspectives. Methods: For the present study total number of 948 [Hindu rural caste (347), Hindu urban caste (356), Lodha (245) rural areas] lactating mothers were chosen for collecting data regarding their socio-demographic features and the cultural practices (food taboo and food preferences during the period of lactation) followed by them. Both interview and case study method was applied for collecting data. SPSS 16.0 was used to entry and analyse the data. Results: Reveals that hindu caste rural participants showed significantly higher preference for certain food items compared to their urban counterpart and the Lodha participants. Significantly, more number of HCR participants showed preference towards certain food items during lactation to improve the quality of breast milk. Result also shows that there were significant differences across hindu caste rural than their urban counterpart and the Lodha participants with respect to all the variables related to food taboo. Conclusions: Cultural practices have influenced the health behaviour like breastfeeding practices of the lactating mothers.

Seasonal Variations in the Antioxidant and Phytochemical Composition of Five Wild Edible Plants from Paschim Medinipur: Implications for Nutritional Value

Seasonal fluctuations in antioxidant and phytochemical composition of five wild edible plants (WEPs): Amla (Emblica officinalis), Jamun (Syzygium cumini), Water Spinach (Ipomoea aquatica), Karonda (Carissa spinarum) and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) were investigated in Paschim Medinipur, India. Samples were collected across four seasons: monsoon, post-monsoon, winter, and pre-monsoon. TPC, TFC, and DPPH assays were performed. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) profiled key phytochemicals. This study delves into this captivating tango, seeking to: Unravel the seasonal variations in the antioxidant and phytochemical composition of these five WEPs. This exploration encompasses quantifying total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity (DPPH) across four distinct seasons: monsoon, post-monsoon, winter, and pre-monsoon; Decipher the identity and abundance of key phytochemicals within them. By employing high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), we aim to unveil the unique chemical tapestry woven in each WEP, revealing the spectrum of phenolics, flavonoids, and carotenoids that contribute to their nutritional potency; Evaluate the impact of seasonal variations on the overall nutritional value of WEPs. By linking the fluctuations in antioxidants and phytochemicals to the changing seasons, we hope to understand how to optimize the consumption of these precious bioactives, empowering communities to embrace the full nutritional potential of their local flora. TPC, TFC, and DPPH activity varied significantly across seasons (p<0.05) in all WEPs. Highest antioxidant activity was observed in Jamun (Syzygium cumini) during post-monsoon (DPPH IC50=6.2 μg/mL) and lowest in Amla (Emblica officinalis) during pre-monsoon (DPPH IC50=22.5 μg/mL). HPLC identified phenolics, flavonoids, and carotenoids, with highest diversity in Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). WEPs exhibited higher antioxidant potential during wetter seasons, coinciding with peak phytochemical levels, suggesting a defense mechanism. This study highlights the seasonality of antioxidant and phytochemical composition in WEPs, impacting their nutritional value. Consumption across seasons could optimize daily intake of these bioactives, contributing to a healthy diet in Paschim Medinipur. Further research on in vitro and in vivo bioactivity is recommended.

Evaluation of Total Phenolic Content, Free Radical Scavenging Activity, and Phytochemical Profiles of Medicinal Plants from Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal

This research paper delves into the profound exploration of antioxidants and phytochemicals present in select plants indigenous to the Paschim Medinipur region of West Bengal. The study aims to unravel the hidden medicinal potential of these plants, contributing valuable insights to both pharmaceutical and environmental sectors. A systematic analysis is conducted to identify and quantify the antioxidant compounds and phytochemicals in the chosen plant species. The research adopts a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating advanced analytical techniques and methodologies to assess the antioxidant capacities and phytochemical profiles of the selected flora. Through meticulous experimentation, the study seeks to establish a comprehensive database detailing the diverse range of bioactive compounds present in these plants. Furthermore, the investigation considers the ecological context of Paschim Medinipur, acknowledging the potential impact of environmental factors on the synthesis of antioxidants in plants. This holistic approach not only contributes to the understanding of the therapeutic potential of local flora but also provides insights into the ecological adaptations of these plants in response to regional conditions. The findings of this research hold significant implications for the development of novel pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and environmental conservation strategies. By shedding light on the antioxidant and phytochemical richness of Paschim Medinipur's plant biodiversity, this study strives to pave the way for sustainable and nature-inspired solutions for health and wellness.

Demographic Influences on Creativity and Learning Styles in Elementary School Students

The aim of this cross-sectional survey was to investigate creativity (in terms of elaboration ability, originality) and learning style preferences of 303 elementary school students randomly selected from Grade-VI, VII and VIII, from schools of Paschim Medinipur district in the state of West Bengal, India. Creativity was measured using Baqer Mehdi’s Non-Verbal Test of Creative Thinking. Learning style preferences were assessed using the Learning Style Inventory developed by Richard Oliver. Collected data were analysed concerning the age, grade, gender, and social caste of the participants through frequency, mean, standard deviation, percentage, independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA and Chi Square test. Results revealed that age positively influence elaboration ability, with younger students displayed higher originality. Originality, and overall creativity did not show significant variations across age groups. Grade-VIII students performed best in all aspects of creativity; however, significant difference was present only in elaboration ability. No significant differences based on gender and social caste were observed in all aspects of creativity. A significant age and social caste difference was observed in learning style preferences, however, grade and gender differences were not found. Majority of students preferred unimodal learning styles, with visual learners demonstrating higher elaboration and originality. Elaboration ability was significantly influenced by learning styles preferences, however originality and overall creativity were invariant. The research fills the gap in existing literature by providing a comprehensive analysis of creativity and learning style preferences, offering insights into their combined impact on elementary school students' educational experiences. The findings contribute to the fields of education and social sciences, guiding educators and policymakers in adopting personalized learning approaches based on individual learning styles. This study underscores the significance of understanding creativity and learning styles concerning demographic factors, promoting inclusive and equitable educational practices for elementary school students.