Journal of Advanced Scientific Research

Rehabilitation Outcomes in Patients with Cervical Spondylosis Receiving Intermittent versus Continuous Cervical Traction: A Prospective Observational Study

Ravi Narayan Sinha — 2026-04-30

Background: Cervical spondylosis is a prevalent degenerative spinal condition characterized by chronic neck pain, limited mobility, and
functional disability. Cervical traction, administered either intermittently or continuously, is commonly employed in conservative management.
However, evidence comparing these two modalities remains limited.
Aim: To compare the rehabilitation outcomes of intermittent versus continuous cervical traction in patients with cervical spondylosis.
Methodology: A prospective observational study was conducted on 50 patients diagnosed with cervical spondylosis. Participants were divided
into two groups based on the traction method: intermittent (Group A, n=25) and continuous (Group B, n=25). All participants received
standard physiotherapy alongside traction therapy for 2 weeks. Outcomes assessed included pain (Visual Analog Scale), functional disability
(Neck Disability Index), cervical range of motion (goniometric measurement), and patient satisfaction (Patient Global Impression of Change).
Assessments were performed at baseline (T0), post-treatment (T1), and 4-week follow-up (T2). Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS
v26, with significance set at p <0.05.
Results: Both groups showed significant improvements over time in pain, disability, and range of motion (p <0.001). However, Group A
(intermittent traction) demonstrated significantly greater improvements in VAS and NDI scores at T1 and T2 (p <0.05). Cervical ROM and
PGIC scores were also significantly better in Group A at follow-up.
Conclusion: Intermittent cervical traction resulted in superior short-term rehabilitation outcomes compared to continuous traction in patients
with cervical spondylosis. It should be considered the preferred modality in clinical rehabilitation protocols.

Evaluation of Bio-composite as a Packaging Material from Agricultural Waste

Yashika Santwani — 2026-04-30

This study aims to explore the potential of repurposing agricultural waste to develop a biodegradable bio-composite with antimicrobial properties. The research carried out focuses on utilizing pineapple leaves, a rich source of fiber, as the primary component for the bio-composite. Fibers were extracted from pineapple leaves through chemical degradation using Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to form the base material. Tamarind seed polysaccharide and guar gum polysaccharide were incorporated for their binding capabilities, while limonene, extracted from sweet lime peels, was added to impart antimicrobial properties. By integrating these natural and biodegradable components, the study demonstrate to create an eco-friendly alternative material that not only reduces agricultural waste but also offers functional benefits. The proposed bio-composite has potential applications across various industries, contributing to sustainable waste management and environmental conservation efforts.

Advanced Modes of Inductively Coupled Plasma - Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) for Reducing Spectral Interferences on Matrix Based in Food Matrices

Priyanka Gour — 2026-04-30

Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is a highly sensitive analytical technique for determining trace and ultra-trace levels of elements in complex matrices such as food and beverages. Its accuracy can be compromised by spectral and non-spectral interferences arising from the sample matrix. This study explores the application of advanced ICP-MS operational modes, specifically, collision/reaction cell (CRC) technology using helium (He) and hydrogen (H₂) gases to reduce these interferences during the quantification of iron (Fe), arsenic (As), and selenium (Se) in packaged drinking water, representing a food-based matrix. During the analysis, potential spectral interferences such as ArCl⁺ on As-75, ArO⁺ on Fe-57, and Ar₂⁺ on Se-77 were effectively reduced using advanced ICP-MS modes, specifically CRC technology. By introducing helium (He) or hydrogen (H₂) gases into the cell, these interfering polyatomic ions are dissociated or neutralized before detection, allowing accurate and interference-free measurement. The study demonstrates that advanced interference-removal modes in ICP-MS play a crucial role in achieving precise and reliable quantification of trace elements in complex matrices such as food and beverages. The techniques provide high sensitivity, selectivity, and accuracy, making ICP-MS an indispensable tool for ensuring food and water safety in compliance with global quality standards.

Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale Guided Assessment of Postpartum Depression Level and Formulation of Structured Educational Module for Postnatal Mothers: A Hospital-Based Cross- Sectional Study

Koyel Deb — 2026-04-30

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a concerning mental health issue among postnatal mothers that adversely affects the well-being of the mother, mother-newborn bonding, and child development. Despite its high prevalence, in many healthcare setups, the early screening, identification and awareness of PPD remain inadequate, especially in developing countries. The screening tools, such as the Edinburgh postnatal depression scale (EPDS), are widely used and play a pivotal role in early identification of the depressive symptoms of PPD during the postnatal period. The objective of the current study was to assess the postpartum depression level among the postnatal mothers using the EPDS, along with examining its association with the selected socio-demographic variables and to develop a structured educational module to enhance awareness and preventive practices related to it. It is a hospital-based descriptive cross-sectional study. This study was conducted among the 100 postnatal mothers from a tertiary healthcare center in India, and they were selected via a convenience sampling technique. Data were collected through a structured socio-demographic questionnaire and standardized EPDS scale. Descriptive statistics were used for demographics and depression levels, and a chi-square test was used to find out the association between postpartum depression and selected demographic variables at a significance level of p <0.05. The study results showed that 33% of the postnatal mothers had no or minimal depression, 58% had mild, 5% had moderate and 4% had severe depression. This study also revealed a statistically significant association between maternal age and postpartum depression level (χ²=23.83, p <0.05). The study concluded that postpartum depressions are common among postnatal mothers, especially in the early postpartum period. Routine screening through EPDS and implementation of the structured educational module are essential to enhance early identification, awareness and prevention of postpartum depression.

Evaluation of the Adverse Drug Reactions reported to the Adverse Drug Reaction Monitoring Centre in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Ongole, Prakasam District

Syed Shabnam — 2026-04-30

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) is defined as a “noxious and unintended response to a drug that occurs at doses normally used in humans for diagnosis, prophylaxis, treatment, or modification of physiological functions1.” Periodic monitoring of ADRs in hospital settings is crucial to identifying risks associated with drug use and ensuring patient safety and efficacy. Aims of current study were to evaluate and analyze ADRs reported to the AMC, GMC, Ongole, to determine the severity of ADRs using the Modified Hartwig–Siegel Scale, and assessment of the causality of ADRs using the WHO-UMC scale. ADRs reported to the AMC, Government Medical Collage (GMC), Ongole between December 2022 and August 2024 were assessed. Parameters included patient demographics, suspected drugs, organ systems involved, and categorization of ADRs based on causality and severity. The WHO-UMC scale was used for causality assessment, and the Modified Hartwig–Siegel scale for severity classification. A total of 337 ADR cases were analyzed. The most affected group was adult males (n=174). Dermatological reactions were the most frequently reported. Antimicrobials, particularly amoxicillin, were the leading drug class involved. Based on causality assessment, 256 (75%) cases were classified as ‘possible’. Most ADRs (88%) were mild in severity. Antimicrobials were the leading cause of ADRs, emphasizing the need for strict antibiotic stewardship and rational prescribing practices. There is a need for increased awareness and training in pharmacovigilance.