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Background: The global spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is triggering a range of public health responses. E-learning tools are playing a crucial role during this pandemic but in developing countries like Nepal, technological, education/literacy background and socio-economic challenges exist. These challenges might act as a hindrance to the E-learning process. Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of E-learning during the COVID-19 pandemic among Nursing students and teachers of Nepal. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional online survey was conducted. Teachers and students of Nursing Faculties were selected from 13 different nursing colleges of Nepal who were conducting online classes during the COVID-19 Pandemic lockdown. Result: Almost half of the teachers (42.3%) got disturbed for their online class because of the electricity problem, 48.1% because of internet problems. More than half of the students (63.2%) were affected because of electricity and 63.6% internet problem, only 64.4% of the students had internet access for their online classes. However, 64.3% of students used data pack for their online class, 58.4% used mobile (cell phone), and there is a significant association of Selected Demographic variables of the respondents with most of the Statements (Attitude and Problems/Activities). (P-value <0.05) Conclusion: E-learning is a good opportunity to continue education but in the context of developing countries like Nepal it is not fully effective unless the factors affecting the E-learning process are taken into account. This finding will help to solve the actual problem faced by teachers and students while running online classes to make the education system more effective.

Green plants are one of nature’s factories, fixing inorganic chemicals into organic compounds through photosynthesis and other reactions. Microbes are one of the nature’s most effective tools, converting organic materials—dead plants and animals—into inorganic forms through decomposition and mineralization. Together, green plants and microbes are responsible for maintaining a balance between the organic and inorganic worlds, but pollutants, such as synthetic dyes, can upset this balance. Compared with synthetic dyes, natural dyes are safer and more environmentally friendly, but they are also costlier and more difficult to apply, so they are not viable in most commercial applications. Azo dyes are low cost and have high intensity and color fastness, so they are the most frequently used class of synthetic dyes. The main threats related to the dumping of untreated azo dyes into the environment come from their primary byproducts––aromatic amines––which result from the cleavage of the central azo bonds, and which have been classified as significant carcinogenic compounds, representing a great risk to humans as well as the environment. To address this threat, the degradation of synthetic azo dyes is showing promise as an approach to treating azo-dye wastewater. In this review, the classification of azo dyes and their color mechanism is presented first, and then an overview of the research on their environmental impacts is provided, including their effects on biochemical and chemical oxygen demand, water ecosystems, plants, and crops. Finally, the legislation and guidelines on azo dyes and their byproducts are discussed. Keywords: azo dyes; climate change; biochemical oxygen demand; chemical oxygen demand; aromatic amines

Objectives- The aim of the study was to assess the quality of multiple choice questions, for creating a viable question bank for future use. The purpose was also to identify the low achievers and their learning difficulties which can be corrected by counselling or modifying learning methods. Methods-The study was conducted in the department of Anatomy. A hundred First-year MBBS students took the MCQs test comprising of fifty questions. There was no negative marking and evaluation was done out of fifty marks and 50% score was the passing mark. Post validation of the paper was done by item analysis. Each item was analysed for Difficulty index, Discrimination index and Distractor effectiveness. Results- Difficulty index of 31(62%) items was in the acceptable range (p value 30-70%), 16(32%) items were too easy (p value >70%) and 3(6%) items were too difficult(p value 0.35), 9(18%) items was good (d value 0.20-0.34) and 15(30%) items were poor (d value

The purpose of this study was to examine predictors of psychological wellbeing among adolescents. A sample of 150 adolescents (13-15 years) was administered Psychological well-being scale (Ryff, & Keyes, 1995), Conner-Davidson resilience scale (Campbell-Sills & Stein, 2007) and Toronto empathy questionnaire (Spreng, McKinnon, Mar & Levine, 2009) to examine the impact of resilience and empathy on psychological well-being. Correlational analysis, t-test and multiple regression analysis were applied. Resilience and empathy were found to be positively related to psychological well-being. Resilience and empathy were retained as predictors among girls while resilience came out to be the sole predictor of psychological well-being among boys. Girls were found to be more empathetic and resilient than boys. No gender differences were found on psychological well-being.

The Gram staining is one of the oldest and most important staining techniques used in microbiology first introduced in 1882 by Hans Christian Gram. The staining is the most crucial staining in microbiology and is the first step in differentiating bacteria. The gram-positive bacteria have thick cell wall because of thick layers of peptidoglycan, thus stain purple whereas gram-negative bacteria have thin layers of peptidoglycan and stains red/pink. Decolonization is most important step in gram staining as using decolorizing agent for long time can wash out all the stains from both types of bacteria Gram staining has been there used for over a century, now there have been several advancements in recent years to improve efficiency as well as accuracy of gram staining. Overall, these advancements in Gram staining have improved its efficiency, accuracy, and speed, making it a valuable tool in clinical microbiology and research laboratories. These advancements have enhanced our ability to identify and characterize bacteria, leading to better diagnosis and treatment of bacterial infections. Keywords: Gram staining, staining techniques.

Recently, smartphone addiction has become a public health concern because it leads to poor mental health; anxiety and depression among university students around the world. Therefore, the objective of the study was to identify the relationship between smartphone addiction with anxiety and depression among undergraduate students in one of a local university in Malaysia on September 2016. Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS-M), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI-M) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-M) were used as a data collection tool. Analysis of the data was done using IBM SPSS software version 21.0. A total of 369 students (299 female and 70 male; mean age=19.3±0.98) participated in this study. Descriptive analysis results showed scores of smartphone addiction, anxiety and depression students were 102.52±7.21, 10.15±8.08 and 7.96±6.21. The inferential analysis found a statistically significant positive relationship between smartphone addiction with anxiety and depression (p<0.001). Smartphone addiction was found as predictor to anxiety (B=0.052, t=4.469, p<0.001) and depression (B=0.091, t=6.067, p<0.001) respectively. The findings of this study showed university students in Malaysia were inclined towards becoming addicted to smartphone and were exposed to anxiety and depression. Implementation of health education programs and interventions that are appropriate to deal with addiction and improve mental well-being can empower students to practice healthy behaviors.

Ethnomedicines are now an important area of better treatment in many countries of the world. Euphorbia hirta Linn. (Family- Euphorbiaceae) an annual medicinal weed and it is commonly known as Asthma plant. It is not only a weed, but also it is a medicinal herb, too. These medicinal herbs are found in tropical and temperate parts of the world along with India, Bangladesh, Africa, and Australia. Extensive literature studies suggested that the various parts of the plant are reported to possess anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-tumor, anti-plasmodial, anti-fertility, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, sedative, and diuretic properties. The present review study deals with the botanical description, phytochemical, pharmacological, therapeutic, nutritional and other important biological aspects of Euphorbia hirta. The main phytochemicals found in this plant are polyphenols, flavonoids, steroids, tannins, and alkaloids. This review study may be utilized for the identification and preparation of a monograph of Euphorbia hirta.

Academic resilience is the student’s capability to deal efficiently with academic setbacks, anxiety and study pressure. In the present scenario, students are facing a lot of problems in schools as well as in society. If adequate steps are not taken to help overcome these problems, it will create pressure and stress among students. This may lead to poor academic performance and an increased dropout rate. According to Masten (2001), resilient people have the ability to tackle, overcome, or recover from grave academic threats. So, schools, colleges and universities play a major role in developing academic resilience among students. The aim of this paper is to gather and present the review of literature on academic resilience among students at national and international level. This study gives an overview of the importance of creating Academic Resilience among students and how far it supports increasing their academic achievement. In the present study 30 literatures were collected from various online and printed resources. Keywords: Academic Resilience, Academic achievement, Students.

Introduction: Poor menstrual hygiene prevents achieving the several Millennium Development Goals. The aim of this study was to assess menstrual hygiene practices based on sociocultural beliefs of adolescent girls in Lebanon. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted, in 2010, among 389 postmenarcheal adolescent girls aged 13 to 19 years, at five high schools in Sidon city and suburbs, using a cluster randomized sampling and self-completed questionnaires. Collected data was analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Of 389 participants, 89.5% did not follow all menstrual hygiene practices recommended, they adopted menstrual practices based on the dominant sociocultural beliefs found in the Lebanese society about these matters: 66.9% and 16.5%, respectively, did not shower in the first three days of menstruation or during all days of menstruation, and activity restrictions included physical (70.3%) and social (18.2%) activity and diet (35.5%). A significant association was found between describe menstrual hygiene practices based on sociocultural beliefs and type of school, religion, both parents’ education levels, as well as family monthly income. Logistic regression analyses indicated that significant variables predicting describe menstrual hygiene practices based on sociocultural beliefs were mother level education (OR = 2.8; P < 0.001), and religion (OR = 0.7; P = 0.002). Conclusion: Findings indicate the need for health school education programs during puberty; they also can help design appropriate intervention strategies.

Rhizome of Zingiber officinale (ginger) is extensively used in medicinal purpose. Ayurveda literatures highlight administration of ginger in both of communicable and non-communicable diseases. Recent advances in analytical chemistry, cytology and microbiology recommend application of ginger in various disease conditions as well as recommendations in Ayurveda literature. The current study focused on review ethno medicinal value of Z. officinale including antiviral effect, radioprotective effect, anti-inflammatory effect, anticancer effect and antioxidant effect with special reference to Ayurveda recommendations. The study elaborates; ginger is effective in viral infections and revitalizing the body at disease conditions according to both of Ayurveda and modern concepts through enhancing appetite, immunity and re-boosting weakened physiological functions of the human body. Active ingredients which available in ginger such as 6-gingerole, 6-shogaol, 6-paradol, zingerole and zerumbone are responsible in upgrading enzyme actions and balancing circulation through rejuvenating the body with physical re-strengthening.

The feature of the chemistry of pyrazole, Thiazole and Benzimidazol as pharmacologically important scaffolds was described in number of reviews in which main approaches to the synthesis of mentioned and their biological activity were analyzed. however, the pyrazole/pyrazoline-thiazolidine, benzimidazole-based hybrid as biologically active compound is poorly discussed in the context of pharmacophore hybrid approach. therefore, the purpose of this review is to summarize the data about the synthesis and modification of heterocycles system with thiazolidine and pyrazoline/pyrazole fragments in molecules as promising object of modern bio-organic and medicinal chemistry. The description of biological activity was focused on SAR analysis and mechanistic insight of new Heterocycles. Keywords: Heterocycles, Pyrazole, Thiazole, Benzimidazole.

Background: Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is associated with alterations in cardiovascular autonomic regulation and is frequently accompanied by a substantial burden of vascular and metabolic comorbidities. This study evaluated the gender distribution, comorbidity profile, and short-term changes in 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) among patients with AIS during hospitalization. Methods: This prospective observational cohort study included 64 adults with AIS admitted to a tertiary care center in Northern India over a 12-month period. Patients aged ≤75 years with clinically and radiologically confirmed AIS and a National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of 5–15 were enrolled using purposive sampling. Demographic characteristics and comorbidities were recorded at admission. Twenty-four-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) was performed within 24 hours of admission and repeated at discharge. Mean 24-hour systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were compared using paired-samples t-tests. Results: Of the 64 participants, 46 (71.9%) were male and 18 (28.1%) were female. Isolated hypertension was present in 15 (23.4%) participants, isolated diabetes mellitus in 9 (14.1%), and concomitant hypertension and diabetes mellitus in 6 (9.4%). Mean 24-hour SBP decreased significantly from 137.19 ± 9.10 mmHg at admission to 132.50 ± 8.13 mmHg at discharge (p < 0.001). Similarly, mean 24-hour DBP decreased from 71.56 ± 5.94 mmHg to 67.50 ± 5.51 mmHg (p < 0.001). Conclusion: This Northern Indian AIS cohort demonstrated a predominance of male patients and a substantial burden of hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Significant reductions in 24-hour SBP and DBP were observed between admission and discharge. These findings indicate short-term changes in ambulatory blood pressure during hospitalization and support further investigation of cardiovascular autonomic and blood pressure patterns following AIS. Key words: Acute Ischemic Stroke; Autonomic Recovery; Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring; Blood Pressure; Hypertension; Diabetes Mellitus; Autonomic Nervous System

Background: Benign thyroid swellings are among the most common endocrine disorders requiring surgical evaluation. Although ultrasonography and fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) are widely used for preoperative assessment, the clinicopathological spectrum and surgical outcomes vary across populations. This study evaluated the demographic profile, clinical presentation, ultrasonographic characteristics, cytological findings, histopathological diagnoses, and surgical outcomes in patients with benign thyroid swellings in a tertiary care teaching hospital in North Karnataka. Methods: An observational study was conducted among 40 consecutive patients with benign thyroid swellings who underwent surgical management at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Demographic characteristics, clinical findings, thyroid function tests, ultrasonographic findings including TI-RADS classification, FNAC (Bethesda system), operative procedure, postoperative outcomes, and histopathological diagnoses were recorded. Statistical analysis was done using descriptive statistics in terms of frequency and percentages. Results: The mean age of the study population was 39.7 ± 10.8 years, with a marked female predominance (90.0%). Slowly progressive thyroid swelling was observed in 80.0% of patients. Among the study participants, TI-RADS 2 comprised the largest ultrasonographic category (52.5%), Bethesda category II constituted 55.0% of FNAC diagnoses and histopathology showed Hashimoto's thyroiditis (32.5%) as the most common diagnosis, followed by colloid nodules (30.0%), follicular adenoma (27.5%), and Hurthle cell adenoma (10.0%). The most frequently performed surgical procedure for management of benign thyroid swelling among the study participants was hemithyroidectomy. Conclusion: Benign thyroid swellings predominantly affect women in the fourth decade of life. TI-RADS 2 and Bethesda category II were the most frequent ultrasonographic and cytological category respectively seen among the study participants. Hashimoto's thyroiditis was the most common histopathological diagnosis, followed by colloid nodules and follicular adenoma. These findings support the use of an integrated diagnostic approach compounding clinical evaluation, ultrasonography, FNAC, and histopathological examination for accurate classification and appropriate management of benign thyroid swellings. Keywords: Benign thyroid swelling, Bethesda, Fine-needle aspiration cytology, Histopathology, TI-RADS, Thyroidectomy

Introduction: Amrutadi Ashmarihar Yog is classical herbo-mineral formulation indicated for the management of Mutrashmari (Urolithiasis). Despite its therapeutic significance, comprehensive pharmaceutico-analytical evaluation of the formulation has not been adequately documented. Scientific validation through pharmaceutical preparation and analytical assessment is essential to establish its quality, identity, purity, and safety. Materials and Methods: The formulation was prepared using authenticated raw materials following the classical pharmaceutical procedures described in Rasa Tarangini. The pharmaceutical study included purification of Shilajatu and Vatsanabha, preparation of Pashanabheda Ghana, Yavakshara, and formulation of Amrutadi Ashmarihar Yog. The prepared formulation was subjected to organoleptic, physicochemical, chromatographic, spectroscopic, and safety evaluation. Analytical parameters included pH, loss on drying, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, water- and alcohol-soluble extractive values, particle size analysis, High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and heavy metal analysis using ICP-MS. Results: The prepared formulation was obtained as a fine, homogeneous, dark brown to blackish-brown powder with a characteristic odour and bitter, slightly saline, and astringent taste. The physicochemical parameters were found to be: pH 5.69, loss on drying 8.64%, total ash 44.75%, acid-insoluble ash 1.50%, water-soluble extractive 39.95%, alcohol-soluble extractive 11.98%, and particle size passing through 40-mesh sieve 97.51%. HPTLC generated a characteristic chromatographic fingerprint with distinct bands, while FTIR confirmed the presence of characteristic functional groups corresponding to phytochemical and mineral constituents. Heavy metal analysis showed compliance of cadmium and lead with the applicable limits, whereas arsenic and mercury were observed slightly above their respective cited reference limits. Conclusion: The formulation exhibited characteristic physicochemical, chromatographic and spectroscopic profiles. ICP-MS analysis showed that cadmium and lead were within their cited permissible limits, whereas arsenic and mercury were above their respective cited limits. Key words: Amrutadi Ashmarihar Yog; Mutrashmari; Urolithiasis; Vatsanabha, Shilajatu; Yavakshara; Pashanbheda; HPTLC, FTIR

Background: The thyroid gland is a vital endocrine organ regulating metabolism, growth, and development. Ultrasonographic assessment of thyroid morphometry provides important insights into gland size and structure, helping distinguish physiological variation from pathological enlargement. Sex-based differences and population-specific reference values are important for accurate evaluation. This study aimed to assess the ultrasonographic dimensions and volumes of the thyroid lobes and isthmus in a healthy Kashmiri adult population and evaluate sex-based differences. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 healthy adults (150 males, 150 females) at the Post Graduate Department of Radiodiagnosis in collaboration with the Post Graduate Department of Anatomy, GMC Srinagar. Length, width, and depth of both thyroid lobes and the isthmus were measured using high-resolution ultrasonography. Volumes were calculated using the ellipsoid formula (Length × Width × Depth × 0.524). Sex-based differences were analyzed statistically, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Males exhibited consistently larger thyroid dimensions and volumes compared to females. The mean right lobe measured 5.2 ± 0.5 cm in length, 1.8 ± 0.3 cm in width, and 2.0 ± 0.2 cm in depth in males, versus 4.8 ± 0.4 cm, 1.6 ± 0.3 cm, and 1.8 ± 0.2 cm in females. The left lobe in males measured 5.0 ± 0.5 cm × 1.7 ± 0.2 cm × 1.9 ± 0.2 cm, compared to 4.6 ± 0.4 cm × 1.5 ± 0.2 cm × 1.7 ± 0.2 cm in females. The isthmus length and thickness were 1.4 ± 0.3 cm and 0.40 ± 0.07 cm in males, versus 1.3 ± 0.2 cm and 0.35 ± 0.06 cm in females. Calculated volumes of the right lobe (9.3 ± 1.5 mL vs 7.6 ± 1.2 mL), left lobe (8.5 ± 1.3 mL vs 6.7 ± 1.0 mL), and total thyroid (17.8 ± 2.5 mL vs 14.3 ± 2.0 mL) were all significantly higher in males than females (p ≤ 0.003), reflecting clear sexual dimorphism. Conclusion: Thyroid dimensions and volumes are significantly larger in males, reflecting clear sexual dimorphism. These findings provide population-specific ultrasonographic reference values for the Kashmiri adult population, useful for clinical and diagnostic evaluation. Key words: Thyroid gland, Ultrasonography, Thyroid volume, Thyroid morphometry, Sexual dimorphism,

Presently, the most commonly used pesticides exhibiting neurotoxic effects are synthetic pyrethroids, especially the Type II pyrethroids (e.g. deltamethrin, cypermethrin, cyfluthrin, cyhalothrin, and fenvalerate). Although the toxicity of these substances to humans and other mammals is generally modest, their effects on the environment and human health are nonetheless concerning, particularly in light of their ability to interfere with the operation of the nervous system. The purpose of this review is to investigate the biomarkers linked to Type II pyrethroid-induced toxicity in rats, a crucial animal model for evaluating the effects of pesticides and other environmental toxicants. Among the biomarkers discussed are biochemical signs of oxidative stress (like glutathione depletion and lipid peroxidation), neurochemical changes (such as changes in sodium channels and acetylcholinesterase activity), genotoxic markers (such as chromosomal aberrations, nuclear abnormalities, and the micronucleus test), hematological changes, hepatotoxicity biomarkers, and reproductive toxicity biomarkers. Additionally, because these biomarkers shed light on the functional effects of exposure, behavioural indicators including motor coordination and cognitive performance are also discussed. Early identification, risk assessment, and management of pyrethroid toxicity all depend on an understanding of these indicators. This review article summarizes the state of current knowledge regarding the biomarkers of type II pyrethroid induced toxicity in rats and provides a thorough framework for further investigation and regulatory assessment. Key words: Synthetic pyrethroids, biomarkers, Oxidative stress, acetylcholinesterase, neuro-behavioural toxicity, hepatotoxicity, genotoxicity, hematological alterations, reproductive toxicity.

Introduction: Seroma formation is one of the most common complications following ventral hernia repair and is associated with patient discomfort, delayed wound healing, prolonged drain placement, and increased risk of wound infection. Quilting sutures have been proposed as a simple technique to obliterate dead space and reduce postoperative fluid accumulation. This study aimed to compare the quilting technique and conventional closure in patients undergoing ventral hernia repair. Methods: This prospective comparative study was conducted in the Department of General Surgery, Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, Chennai, over a period of 12 months. A total of 60 patients undergoing elective ventral hernia repair were included and equally allocated into two groups: quilting closure (n=30) and conventional closure (n=30). All patients underwent on-lay mesh repair with closed suction drain placement. Postoperative drain output, duration of drain placement, hospital stay, and postoperative complications were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0. Continuous variables were compared using the independent samples t-test, while categorical variables were analysed using the Chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Baseline demographic and clinical characteristics were comparable between the two groups. Postoperative drain output, used as an indirect indicator of postoperative fluid accumulation, was significantly lower in the quilting group on postoperative day 1 (41.0 ± 12.4 ml vs 51.7 ± 6.5 ml, p=0.0001), postoperative day 2 (21.7 ± 8.5 ml vs 34.0 ± 8.4 ml, p<0.0001), postoperative day 3 (13.0 ± 8.5 ml vs 25.8 ± 7.0 ml, p<0.0001), and in total drain output (75.7 ± 23.5 ml vs 111.5 ± 19.4 ml, p<0.0001). The quilting group also demonstrated earlier drain removal (3.7 ± 0.8 days vs 4.8 ± 0.7 days, p<0.0001), shorter hospital stays (4.0 ± 1.0 days vs 6.6 ± 1.1 days, p<0.0001), lower surgical site infection rates (23.3% vs 73.3%, p=0.0001), and no cases of late infection compared with 60.0% in the conventional closure group (p<0.0001). These findings suggest reduced postoperative fluid accumulation and potentially lower seroma formation in patients undergoing quilting closure. Conclusion: Quilting closure following ventral hernia repair was associated with lower postoperative drain output, earlier drain removal, shorter hospital stays, and reduced postoperative wound complications compared with conventional closure. The findings suggest that quilting sutures are an effective and simple technique for reducing postoperative fluid accumulation and improving recovery following ventral hernia repair. Key words: ventral hernia repair, quilting technique, seroma formation, on-lay mesh repair, drain output, surgical site infection, postoperative complications, conventional closure.

Background: Cervical lymph node metastasis is an unusual manifestation of bladder urothelial carcinoma. Case Report: A 65-year-old man presented with painless intermittent gross hematuria. Imaging showed a 4.5 × 2.1 cm broad-based posterior bladder mass without distant metastasis or hydroureteronephrosis. Complete TURBT in January 2025 demonstrated high-grade urothelial carcinoma, T1. About 90 days later, recurrent hematuria was associated with a 5-cm right supraclavicular swelling. CT showed recurrent bladder tumor with perivesical fat infiltration, pelvic and retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy, and multiple right cervical nodes. The disease was staged cT3N3M1a. Cervical node biopsy showed malignant cells, with positivity for pancytokeratin, uroplakin and GATA3, supporting metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Systemic chemotherapy was planned, but the patient condition deteriorated and died. Conclusion: A new cervical or supraclavicular mass in a patient with bladder cancer warrants prompt evaluation for metastatic disease. Key words: urothelial carcinoma; bladder cancer; cervical lymph node metastasis; supraclavicular lymphadenopathy; uroplakin; GATA3; metastatic bladder cancer

Background: Opportunistic infections (OIs) remain an important cause of morbidity among people living with HIV (PLHIV), particularly in the presence of advanced immunosuppression. Understanding the spectrum and frequency of OIs in specific regional populations is essential for improving clinical surveillance and management. This study assessed the spectrum and frequency of OIs among PLHIV attending a tertiary care hospital in Tripura, India, and examined their clinical and sociodemographic characteristics in relation to CD4 cell count. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Agartala Government Medical College and G.B. Pant Hospital, Tripura, from June 2023 to May 2025. A total of 100 adults with confirmed HIV infection who attended the hospital or ART Centre were enrolled. Sociodemographic and clinical information, ART status, laboratory findings, and CD4 cell counts were recorded using a structured case record form. OIs were identified using appropriate clinical, microbiological, radiological, and histopathological criteria. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, the chi-square test, and Fisher’s exact test, as appropriate. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Forty-five of the 100 participants had at least one OI. Tuberculosis was the most frequently observed OI, accounting for 15 cases (33.3%), followed by respiratory infections in 11 (24.4%), oral candidiasis in 9 (20.0%), skin infections in 6 (13.3%), and genital infections in 4 (8.9%). Regarding CD4 cell counts, 40 participants (40.0%) had counts <200 cells/µL, 45 (45.0%) had counts of 200–500 cells/µL, and 15 (15.0%) had counts >500 cells/µL. No statistically significant associations were observed between OI status and the evaluated sociodemographic variables, including sex, age, religion, education, occupation, marital status, and ethnicity. Conclusion: OIs represented a substantial clinical burden among PLHIV in this tertiary-care setting, with tuberculosis, respiratory infections, and oral candidiasis comprising the predominant presentations. The high proportion of participants with CD4 counts <200 cells/µL underscores the importance of early diagnosis, sustained ART, and regular immunological monitoring for reducing OI-related morbidity. Key words: HIV Infections; Opportunistic Infections; Tuberculosis; CD4 Lymphocyte Count; Antiretroviral Therapy; Cross-Sectional Studies

Background: Dietary habits established during young adulthood play a crucial role in determining long-term health and metabolic outcomes. Medical students are particularly vulnerable to unhealthy eating behaviors due to academic stress, irregular schedules, and hostel living, which may adversely affect physiological and biochemical health. This study aimed to assess dietary patterns and their association with physiological and biochemical parameters among medical students especially between day scholars and hostelers. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 150 first-year MBBS students. Dietary habits and demographic data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Anthropometry and body composition were assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Fasting blood samples were analyzed for hemoglobin, Blood Glucose, lipid profile, vitamin B12, and vitamin D3. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of the 150 first-year MBBS students was 19.72 ± 1.30 years; 62.67% were males, 37.33% were females and 79.33% were hostelers, 20.67 %were day scholars. Breakfast skipping was common (54.0%), although 79.33% of participants consumed three meals daily. No significant differences were observed between hostelers and day scholars in biochemical parameters or body composition measurements (all p>0.05). Conclusion: Breakfast skipping was highly prevalent among medical students irrespective of residence status. No significant differences were observed in biochemical parameters or body composition between hostelers and day scholars. Our findings emphasize the need to promote regular breakfast consumption and healthy dietary practices to support long-term metabolic health. Key words: Medical students; Dietary habits; Body composition; Biochemical parameters; Nutritional status.