ResearchGate Research Articles

Socio-Emotional Well-Being and its Determinants in School Students: A Comprehensive Review

This systematic review aims to present an overview of existing research on the socio-emotional well-being of students and other associated factors. After a rigorous search through Shodhganga, SAGE Journals Online, Elsevier, Springer-Journals Archive, Research Gate, and ERIC-Education Resources Information Centre, articles were carried out from 2000 to 2024. The review resulted in the identification of a total of 26 articles based on pre-established inclusion criteria. The results indicate that the Socio-emotional well-being of school students is associated with and influenced by other significant factors like school climate, mental health, peer support, etc. The results prominently identify the directions of other research conducted in the same domain, indicate thematic research trends, and highlight gaps to be further investigated. A limited study in the Indian context with adolescents clearly shows an extensive need for research on primary school students. Context-specific research is needed to understand the socio-emotional well-being status of students in a diversified and multicultural country like India.

Fundamental aspects of selenium and selenoprotein biochemistry: applied value in oncology

The purpose of the study was to carry out a systematic analysis of the data available in the modern literature on the essentiality of selenium in biological systems and the importance of selenoproteins in oncogenesis.Material and Methods. The publications were analyzed using Scopus (415), PubMed (521), Web of Science (139), eLibrary.ru (240) databases. To obtain full-text documents, the electronic resources PubMed Central (PMC), Science Direct, Research Gate, eLibrary.ru were used.Results. The need to use selenium compounds for the prevention and treatment of malignant neoplasms is controversial, and some selenoproteins have demonstrated a permissive role in oncogenesis, thus requiring further in-depth study in neoplasms of various histogenesis.Conclusion. It is necessary to continue comprehensive molecular studies of bioorganic selenium compounds at the morphological, ultrastructural and biochemical levels in tumors of various localizations, depending on the genetic characteristics of the studied population and the geochemical characteristics of the region.

Overview Of The Main Viral And Protozoan Infections In Humans

Both viral and protozoan infections pose a serious health risk worldwide, e.g. due to their varied intensity of symptoms - from mild to even lethal. This overview focuses on some of the most important infections caused by these pathogens that still remain a huge concern in some parts of the world. Viral and protozoan infections contribute significantly not only to morbidity, but also mortality, for the most part in regions with limited access to healthcare with low vaccination coverage. Diseases on their own sometimes are mild or even asymptomatic, but the complications or the infections during pregnancy are the reasons why those diseases still remain a huge concern because they may result in serious conditions. Information searches were carried out in online databases, scientific and educational editions, including PubMed, Elsevier, Research Gate, Springer, CDC, WHO. Understanding the biology, transmission routes and severity of those infections as well as pathogenesis of agents that cause them are essential for effective treatment and decline in severe cases and complications.

Counseling Gen Alpha: Pandemic's Impact on Developmental and Mental Health

The covid- 19 pandemic has had a widespread impact on global health. Many studies have discussed its effect on various populations and continue to study measures to work on them. The upcoming research has a limited focus on Generation Alpha: individuals born after 2010 who have been exposed to these adverse effects from their formative years: the digital age, social isolation, and environmental stressors. It has left a significant impression on their developmental milestones and mental health for which the healthcare professionals and parents are not fully equipped with. This review paper aims to discuss how the flexible and adaptive nature of counseling can employ strategies to help overcome these problems and assist in the ‘digital pandemic’ that is here to stay. The review method will analyze existing literature using citation tracking, conference proceedings, internet search engines, and primarily through open peer-reviewed electronic databases like PubMed, Research Gate, and ScienceDirect.. The results and implications of the study will be highlighted in the full paper.

Comparative Study on Ground and Roof-Mounted Solar PV Systems

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are integral to sustainable energy solutions. The choice between ground-mounted and roof-mounted systems significantly impacts efficiency, cost, and installation feasibility. This study provides a comparative analysis of these two solar PV installation types to inform stakeholders and guide decision-making. This study aims to guide stakeholders, including policymakers, investors, and energy planners, in making informed decisions regarding solar PV system installations. By highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each approach, this review contributes to the broader understanding of solar PV deployment strategies and their implications for sustainable energy development. A systematic literature review was conducted to gather data from various sources including academic journals, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, PubMed, SpringerLink, Academia, and research gate. Key criteria for comparison included energy production efficiency, initial and ongoing costs, installation complexity, and long-term maintenance. The review revealed that ground-mounted systems generally offer higher energy production due to optimal tilt and orientation adjustments, and often result in lower maintenance costs due to easier access. Conversely, roof-mounted systems are usually less costly to install as they utilize existing infrastructure and may benefit from lower regulatory hurdles. However, they are constrained by roof space and orientation limitations and may face higher maintenance costs due to accessibility issues. Ground-mounted solar PV systems typically provide greater efficiency and easier maintenance but at higher installation costs. Roof-mounted systems are more cost-effective in terms of installation but may present limitations in energy production and maintenance. The choice between these systems should be guided by specific site conditions, budget constraints, and long-term energy goals.

EXTRACTION OF OILS FROM FRUIT KERNELS WITH CONVENTIONAL AND INNOVATIVE METHODS:A REVIEW

Over recent years, the food industry has striven to reduce waste, mostly because of rising awareness of the detrimental environmental impacts of food waste. While the edible oils market is enlarging constantly, there is increasing interest in producing plant-based oils because of the presence of various bioactive components like mono and poly unsaturated fatty acids. In recent publications it has been shown that various fruit kernels represent source of these components while the conversion of bio-waste into valuable compounds is of outmost importance for ensuring sustainability of the environment. This review investigates the different methods used for extraction of oils from sour cherry, peach, apricot and olive kernels and comparison between these methods in terms of extraction yield, fatty acids profile, tocopherols yield and antioxidant activity. An overview of chemical composition, bioactivity and on the application of these oils in end markets such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals is presented. Scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Research Gate, ClinicalTrials have been used to assemble the data for this review. KEYWORDS:extraction, oil, sour cherry, apricot, peach, olive

BRAIN COMPUTER INTERFACE: THE IMPACT ON NEUROPLASTICITY AND MOTOR LEARNING-A NARRATIVE REVIEW.

Background: Neurological disorders, especially stroke, have now become the major causes of death all around the world. They are also the leading cause of impairments and disabilities among those who survive which leads to dependency in ADL’s and an impairment in overall quality of life. Even though traditional rehabilitation techniques and advances in technology (VR/AR/GAMING/ASSISTIVE DEVICES/EXOSKELETONS) play a major role in the recovery process, not all individuals show a 100% positive outcome. Research suggests that the combination of BCI with traditional rehab techniques or advanced technologies help in increasing neuroplasticity by translating the brain signals into commands that can control external devices thereby leading to improved functions and activities. Objective: The objective of this review is to summarize the available evidence and to highlight the mechanism through which the BCI’s promote neuroplasticity and enhance motor functions. Methods: Articles were searched and reviewed from PubMed, research gate, google scholar using the terms BCI, neuroplasticity, motor functions, neurorehabilitation etc. only the studies which were fully accessible; showed positive outcomes; focusing on motor recovery and neuro rehab were included and the studies which focused on other uses of BCI such as gaming, commercial applications and those that focused on measuring non motor functions and cognitive impairments were excluded. Results and Conclusion: After reviewing the articles it was concluded that BCI in combination with conventional rehab techniques and advanced technologies promote neuroplasticity thereby improving functions through repeated activation of neurons and improving coordination and motor function by enhancing the brain connectivity. Implications: The invention of BCI and its combination with other rehab processes aids in the improvement of motor recovery and an overall improvement in ADL’s and quality of life of patients suffering from various neurological disorders.

Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Therapeutic Potential of Su‘ad Kūfī (Cyperus rotundus L.): An Insight

Background: Cyperus rotundus, an important medicinal plant belonging to the Cyperaceae family, is therapeutically used in many traditional systems of medicine, such as Unani medicine, Ayurveda, Siddha, Homeopathy, Chinese medicine, etc. Aim: The prime goal of this review is to provide a scientific basis and classical references for clinical use and further scientific exploration of Cyperus rotundus. Materials and Methods: This systemic review was carried out after searching Unani classical and other ethnobotanical literature and published research work available on PubMed, SCOPUS, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Research Gate, etc. Results: Cyperus rotundus L. is the accepted botanical name of Su'ad Kūfī, Nagarmotha, or Nutgrass as referred in Unani and other traditional medicines. It is grown in India, China, the Philippines, Thailand, Taiwan, Indonesia, Korea, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Pacific Islands, South America, Africa, the Middle East, North America, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. Usually, the rhizome of this important medicinal plant is therapeutically used for various ailments, including indigestion, constipation, dysentery, neurogenic gastralgia, skin diseases, mental weakness, cardiac weakness, nervine weakness, palpitation, weakness of stomach, flatulence, retention of urine, amenorrhea, dribbling of urine, etc. It contains many important secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, sitosterol, alkaloids, saponins, terpenoids, essential oils, sugar, protein, amino acids, etc., which have been reported to possess antibacterial, anti-tumour, anticonvulsant, antidiabetic, anti-diarrhoeal, anti-inflammatory, antilipidemic, antimalarial, anti-obesity, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective pharmacological activities. Conclusion: It is concluded that abundant bioactive compounds identified and separated from Cyperus rotundus possess potential medicinal values on different systems of the body.

A Mini Review of the Literature with a Special Focus on India on the Prevalence of Indian Traditional Medicine (ITM) use During Pregnancy

Background: Although pregnancy has been an integral part of women’s lives for millennia, not all women have found the process comfortable. About 65 percent of women in India consume Indian traditional herbs during pregnancy. Herbal medicines are used nowadays by up to half of the world's population. Phytomedicines isolated from plants contain a wide variety of bioactive components that can have both negative and positive effects. Many herbal plants, such as Sage (Salvia fruticosa), golden cotula (Matricaria aurea), anise (P. anisum), peppermint (Mentha aquatica), and cumin (Cuminum cyminum), etc., are used in pregnancy. To minimize the adverse effects, the use of Indian traditional medicine can be the best possible alternative. Objective: Regarding the usage of herbal medicines in India, there are large research gaps and a lack of a regulatory framework. This article aims to highlight the most common traditional Indian remedies used by pregnant women, along with their uses and any possible interactions between herbal remedies and prescription drugs. Method: Several databases, including the WHO guidelines, PubMed, Bentham Science, Elsevier, Springer Nature, Wiley, and Research Gate, were used to compile the data for the article following a thorough analysis of the various research findings connected to pregnancy and herbs for pregnancy care. Result: An overview of the use of herbal medicine is given in this review, along with information on its limitations and general safety. The prevalence of herbal medicine use during pregnancy in India is then discussed, along with the uses, adverse effects, side effects, and efficacy of the most popular herbal medications. Conclusion: The use of herbal medicine during pregnancy is a common phenomenon. The outcomes of this study showed Indian Traditional medicines are known to have numerous advantages that can be helpful during or after pregnancy, including raising milk production, reducing nausea, easing labor pains, reducing morning sickness, or reducing flatulence, however, some herbal remedies have the potential to be teratogenic, poisonous, and abortive, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy because the active components of some medicinal plants can cross the placental barrier and get to the foetus. To determine the safety of taking herbal medications, studies, especially clinical trial trials, must be conducted.

Non-success in pulmonary tuberculosis treatment: A narrative review of key contributing factors

Medical factors and non-medical factors account for a high number of difficulties in treating tuberculosis. This study aims to comprehensively examine the factors that contribute to failure in tuberculosis treatment. We searched for relevant articles in various databases, such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, Research Gate and Google Scholar. The summary of the results from several of these articles are that advanced age, the presence of comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus and HIV, low vitamin C, low body mass index, and non-adherence to treatment are the key factors for failure in pulmonary tuberculosis treatment. The role of health workers in the medical field and support from the patient's family are important to provide support to patients with tuberculosis to increase their compliance with treatment.

Recurrence of mental disorders: Evidence from surveillance analysis

Psychosis is a psychiatric disorder characterized by hallucinations and delusions and include schizophrenia spectrum disorders and mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorders. Treatment for psychosis lasts a long time with increased likelihood of hospitalization. Surveillance is used to monitor trends in mental disorders to predict and prevent recurrence. The objective of this paper was to the benefits of surveillance to prevent recurrence of mental disorders. The method consisted of a search for Google scholar, PubMed, NIHR and Research Gate. Ten articles obtained, while six were suitable for analysis based on suitability of purpose of the study. The results showed that surveillance variables consisted of risk factors, protective factors, triggers factors, and mental health indicators. The impact included socio-economic, disability, and the risk of suicide/self-harm. It is recommended to include surveillance activities in community-based psychosocial rehabilitation programs, so that recording signs or symptoms of relapse can be carried out routinely.

A systematic review of problematic gaming: Escapist strategy to cope with difficult life situations

ABSTRACT Gaming as an increasingly common phenomenon and is frequently used as a coping mechanism during difficult life situations, such as grief and bereavement. This coping usually takes place as an avoidant, escapist strategy, which can lead to problematic or excessive gaming, with harmful outcomes. The aim of this study was to review and collate findings from literature on gaming use as an escapist coping strategy during difficult life situations. A systematic review was carried out with the use of the databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Research Gate, and APA PsycNet, where English language studies published in peer-reviewed journals were perused. The full text of the studies selected were then reviewed and suitability for the present study was checked with the eligibility criteria. Out of the 35 texts fully reviewed, 18 studies were finalised that fit the eligibility criteria, and out of these, three themes were derived – “Problematic online gaming and difficult life situations”, “Problematic online gaming, coping and escapism “, and “Types of gaming”, which demonstrated the psychosocial perspective on gaming used as a coping mechanism for difficult situations. This association is further affected by the type of gaming, whether Massive Multi-player Online Role Playing Games (MMORPG) or otherwise. The aetiology (life situations as a causative factor) and manifestation (gaming used for coping), along with the type of gaming were significantly affected by personal and social factors. The study showed findings that support the view of gaming as an escapist coping strategy in difficult life situations. It is therefore important to look into provisions for better social support and individuals’ psychosocial environment while evolving interventions that enhance coping among gamers.

Molecular Targets of Plant-Derived Bioactive Compounds in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

With a significant increase in both incidence and mortality, oral cancer-particularly oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC)-is one of the main causes of death in developing countries. Even though there is evidence of advances in surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, the overall survival rate for patients with OSCC has improved, but by a small percentage. This may be due, on the one hand, to the fact that the disease is diagnosed when it is at a too-advanced stage, when metastases are already present. This review explores the therapeutic potential of natural herbal products and their use as adjuvant therapies in the treatment of oral cancer from online sources in databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Research Gate, Scopus, Elsevier). Even if classic therapies are known to be effective, they often produce many serious side effects and can create resistance. Certain natural plant compounds may offer a complementary approach by inducing apoptosis, suppressing tumor growth, and improving chemotherapy effectiveness. The integration of these compounds with conventional treatments to obtain remarkable synergistic effects represents a major point of interest to many authors. This review highlights the study of molecular mechanisms and their efficiency in in vitro and in vivo models, as well as the strategic ways in which drugs can be administered to optimize their use in real contexts. This review may have a significant impact on the oncology community, creating new inspirations for the development of more effective, safer cancer therapies with less toxic potential.

Coinfection of Toxoplasma gondii and Other Microorganisms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by the intracellular protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, which has infected a third of the global population. Immunocompromised individuals and children with congenital disorders are most likely to be impacted by toxoplasmosis, and accurate diagnosis is essential. Toxoplasmosis is associated with HIV, schizophrenia, and diabetes. However, few studies have analyzed the association with other microorganisms. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of coinfection of Toxoplasma gondii with other pathogens. From November 1997 to June 2024, PubMed, Science Direct, LAT index, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Research Gate were searched. The keywords used were "Toxoplasma and microorganism coinfection", "Toxoplasma coinfection and parasites", "Toxoplasma coinfection and Protozoans or Bacteria or Helminths or Nematodes or Trematodes or Mycobacterium", "Toxoplasma gondii in coinfection with virus", and "Human Toxoplasmosis and coinfection". Next, OpenMeta Analyst Software version 12.11 was used for meta-analysis, creating forest plots, and determining heterogeneity I2. A total of 17,535 patients in 48 articles, of whom 5848 were seropositive to T. gondii, were included in this review. Population studies showed that the prevalence of virus infection was most frequent (32%), followed by parasites (18.4%), bacteria (29.7%), and fungi (5.8%). The pooled prevalence of coinfection was found to be 29.1%, with a lower bound of 0.232, an upper bound of 0.350, a standard error of 0.030, and p < 0.001. Heterogeneity (I2) was 99.12%, p < 0.001, with a global variance tau2 = 0.042. Toxoplasma gondii is an opportunist that mainly affects immunocompromised populations. The main coinfections were found to be viral infections, with HIV ranking first, followed by cytomegalovirus, hepatitis B and C, rubella, herpes simplex 1 and 2, SARS-CoV-2, and coxsackie virus.

AI Concepts Integration in Developing E-Muhadathat Kits For Non-Arabic Speakers

Recent educational reforms focus on strategically integrating technology into teaching, aligning with the principles of the fourth industrial revolution (IR 4.0). Among the swiftly evolving technologies in language learning is Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly in the form of Natural Language Processing (NLP). This technology has been applied to create the E-Muhadathat kit, an interactive Arabic conversation simulation tool designed to enhance communication skills for non-Arabic speaking students in Malaysian public universities. This study aims to investigate the role of AI in education, address the challenges in developing AI-based Arabic language learning software, and propose a model for the E-Muhadathat kit tailored for non-Arabic speakers. This literature review uses documentary methods to gather information from journals, conference proceedings, articles, dissertations, and digital books from databases such as Google Scholar, Springer Link, Science Direct, and Research Gate. The collected data undergoes descriptive analysis based on thematic categorization. The findings indicate that the concept of AI consists of three core components: machine learning, deep learning, and neural networks. Arabic linguists have recognized several challenges in developing AI-based software, such as orthographic, morphological, syntactic, anaphoric, and semantic ambiguities. Moreover, the E-Muhadathat kit's design integrates machine learning and deep learning techniques, featuring applications for both spoken and written language. The study's findings support educators and researchers aiming to create Arabic language software tailored for non-native speakers in Malaysian higher education institutions. As a result, the study advocates for further investigation into the use of AI in Arabic language education to enhance the communication abilities of non-native speakers in Malaysia.

The Application of Ficus Species in the Treatment of Neurological Disorders

Background Neurological diseases represent a pressing global health concern; the World Health Organization reports that neurological conditions rank as the second leading cause of death worldwide. In the last quarter century, we have witnessed a remarkable 36% surge in global neurological mortality rates. Several factors, including oxidative stress, genetic variability, natural aging process, inflammation, hypertension, diabetes, infections, vitamin deficiencies, metabolic imbalances, chemical exposures, endocrine disorders, and dietary supplements, are implicated in the initiation and progression of various neurological diseases. Purpose This comprehensive review aims to shed light on the neuroprotective attributes of distinct Ficus and their phytoconstituents that have been harnessed for treating neurological diseases and demonstrating neuroprotective effects. Methods A literature search was conducted to obtain information about the study of neurological disease and their treatment using database and search engine like Google Scholar, Research gate, monograph, reference book, SciFinder, PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Science Direct. Results Ficus species have exhibited remarkable neuroprotective qualities through various mechanisms of action. Moreover, these plants contain a diversity of bioactive such as flavonoids, polyphenols, terpenoids, tannins, alkaloids, glycosides, sterols, and vitamins that proven effective in enhancing memory, reducing anxiety, increasing neurotransmitter levels, mitigating neurodegeneration, and playing pivotal roles in neuroprotection. Conclusion This review consolidates the promising potential of Ficus species in the treatment of neurological diseases, paving the way for future scientific research in the development of novel herbal neuroprotective medications.

Effectiveness of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Technique in Neurological Conditions: An Updated Review

Abstract Objective This updated review aims to identify the effectiveness of dynamic neuromuscular stabilization (DNS) techniques in neurological conditions. Method A literature search was carried out from 2013 to 2024 on PubMed, Google Scholar, Research Gate, and Scopus databases. Following keywords were used to identify the relevant articles such as dynamic neuromuscular stabilization, reflex-mediated DNS, neurological conditions, DNS, cerebral palsy, stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, neurodegenerative conditions, ataxia, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis with Boolean operators. All the full-text, English-written articles based on inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in the review irrespective of their experiment study design, only the review article was excluded. Results This updated review included 10 articles related to neurological conditions including, stroke, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and cerebral palsy. The results show significant differences in various outcome measures of the included studies. Conclusion The findings suggest that DNS is an effective approach to use in the rehabilitation protocol of neurologically impaired patients and is beneficial in improving their health outcomes and overall quality of life. This review concludes that more evidence is required in this area of research with good quality research and long follow-up periods.

Social Media in Higher Education: A Study on Use of Social Media by New Entrants at the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, SRI LANKA, during the COVID-19 Pandemic

The transition to online education prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on educational institutions globally, especially in developing countries. The absence of formal online learning management systems (LMS) in many of these institutions presented significant challenges. In response, many educators and higher educational institutions turned in to social media platforms and other digital tools to continue providing education and support the learning process. The present study attempts to understand social media behaviour of new entrants to the faculty of Dental Sciences of University of Peradeniya, more specifically for fulfilling their information need related to academic programs during the CORONA outbreak. The study was carried out at the Faculty of Dental Sciences during the library orientation program for new entrants. Although 117 undergraduates registered with the dental library for the academic year 2022/2023, only 112 students participated in the survey. An online questionnaire made with Google Forms was administered among the research sample.According to key findings, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Research Gate were the most popular social media platforms used by Dental Science new entrants for the purpose of academic information during the COVID-19 pandemic. More specifically, 65% of them had been used these online platforms as a tool of searching scientific and academic information related to their academic programs. There were some positive impacts of using social media for academic purposes. One significant benefit was that social media helped them to maintain better relationships with their peers during the CORONA pandemic, facilitating peer support and collaboration etc. However, the students have perceived some negative impacts of social media as well i.e. students found social media to be quite time-consuming. Despite the potential of educational benefits of social media, the study indicated a gap in awareness and utilization of them for academic purposes. A significant proportion of students, about 35%, were not aware of the educational potential of social media. The majority of respondents appeared to prioritize using social media for entertainment rather than accessing educational content or utilizing academic features available on these platforms. On top of these findings, it can be recommended that educational institutions and policymakers in Sri Lanka consider strategies to harness the educational potential of social media for undergraduates. By raising awareness and encouraging the use of social media for academic purposes, they could enhance the learning experience and make better use of digital tools to support education in the context of ongoing and future disruptions.

Ethnomedicinal and Phytopharmacological Aspects of Vernonia amygdalina (Bitter Leaf) Utilized as a Traditional Medicinal Herb

Vernonia amygdalina Delile, commonly known as “bitter leaf,” is a shrub in the Asteraceae family, widely seen in tropical regions of Africa. Vernonia amygdalina is found to be traditionally used in African medicine. Various parts of this plant, especially the leaves, are utilized to treat ailments such as fever, diabetes, and gastrointestinal issues. Research from multiple researchers has shown a wide range of phytochemical and bioactive compounds present in Vernonia amygdalina; examples are terpenoids, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, steroids, glycosides, etc., which have contributed to the medicinal properties of Vernonia amygdalina. Vernonia amygdalina has shown its therapeutic and remedial potentials due to the presence of phytochemicals which exhibit effects such as anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-diarrheal, anti-helminthic, anti-pyretic, and anti-nociceptive effects. In this article, the authors highlight recent progress in using Vernonia amygdalina and its therapeutic effects. Research, review, and case study articles were used to write this review. The articles were obtained from academic websites such as Research Gate, Google Scholar, the National Library of Medicine, African journals online, and Semantic journals, and some articles were obtained through a simple Google search. Articles that discussed the medicinal, ethanopharmacological, and therapeutic properties of Vernonia amygdalina were selected for the review. Search terms such as “Vernonia amygdalina,” “bitter leaf,” “phytochemical properties,” and “therapeutic effects” were used to search for relevant articles on the academic databases. Boolean operators such as “AND” and “OR” were used to refine the search further and ensure a comprehensive selection of articles.

Flexibar And Non-Flexibar Exercises And Its Effects On Trunk Activation- A Review Of Literature

Objective: To systematically review the randomised controlled trials to evaluate the effects of flexi-bar and non-flexi-bar exercises, specifically stabilization training, on trunk muscle activity in various postures. Methodology: The study included randomized control trials and clinical trials published between 2007-2018 , focusing on patients with upper trunk muscle weakness aged above 18. Exclusion criteria included a study with overlapping data, a study with associated disorders, or abstract-only papers. The search strategy involved a search of existing literature from databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, PEDro, and Research Gate, removing duplicates and identifying relevant articles. The full-text screening was performed, and the remaining relevant articles underwent data extraction. Surface electromyography (EMG) was used to measure the activity of selected trunk muscles, which was then normalized to maximum voluntary isometric contraction. Results: The findings of this study indicate that flexi-bar exercises resulted in higher activation of trunk muscles compared to non-flexi-bar exercises (stabilization training). The unique physical response induced by the vibration created through the swinging motion of the flexi bar triggered reflexive contractions of core muscles, leading to increased muscle activity. This suggests that flexi bar exercises may be beneficial in promoting muscular activation and potentially alleviating low back pain by evening out muscular imbalances.Conclusion: The results of this study support the use of flexi-bar exercises for activating trunk muscles, particularly when compared to non-flexi-bar exercises (stabilization training).