JOURNAL OF ALLIED HEALTH CLINICAL RESEARCH AND INNOVATION
The Journal of Allied Health Clinical Research and Innovation (JAHCRI) is an academic, peer-reviewed, open-access journal dedicated to advancing knowledge across all domains of Allied Health Sciences and Clinical Research. We provide a platform for researchers, educators, and practitioners to share evidence-based insights, innovative methodologies, and transformative research that shape the future of healthcare delivery. JAHCRI publishes quarterly (March, June, September, and December) and welcomes submissions from multidisciplinary allied health specialities, including but not limited to: Scope of the Journal – Allied Health Specialties Covered Diagnostic Imaging & Radiology: Diagnostic Imaging Technology, Radiography, Sonography Laboratory Sciences: Medical Laboratory Science/Technology (Pathology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Transfusion Medicine) Therapeutic Sciences: Physiotherapy, Respiratory Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech-Language Pathology, Renal Dialysis Technology, Cardiac Care Technology, Anaesthesia Technology Nutrition & Dietetics: Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Public Health & Health Management: Public Health, Health Information Management Biomedical Sciences: Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering Clinical Research: Clinical Trials, Regulatory affairs, Data management, Epidemiological studies Other Allied Health Specialties: Optometry, Physician Assistant Studies, Emergency Medical Technology, Orthotics and Prosthetics Our mission is to promote innovation, collaboration, and excellence in health research, ensuring that scientific discoveries are freely accessible to researchers and professionals worldwide. Publisher : MedWise Spectrum Academy ISSN (Online) : (To be assigned) Frequency : Quarterly Language : English
Smartphone Addiction and Loneliness Among Adolescents: A Comprehensive Review of Psychological, Behavioural, and Social Correlates
Smartphone use has become nearly universal among adolescents, providing convenience, communication, entertainment, and social connectivity. However, excessive and maladaptive use, often described as smartphone addiction or problematic smartphone use, has emerged as a growing behavioural and public health concern. At the same time, loneliness remains a significant psychosocial issue during adolescence, a developmental stage characterised by increased sensitivity to peer relationships, belongingness, and social evaluation. Evidence from recent and foundational studies indicates that smartphone addiction and loneliness are closely related and may influence each other in a bidirectional manner. Adolescents experiencing loneliness often turn to smartphones as a coping mechanism for emotional relief, social reassurance, and distraction. Digital platforms can provide a temporary sense of connection; however, excessive smartphone use may reduce face-to-face interactions, contribute to social withdrawal, disrupt sleep, and impair emotional regulation. Over time, these effects may worsen feelings of loneliness and negatively impact psychosocial well-being. Several psychological mechanisms help explain this relationship, including fear of missing out, social comparison, emotional avoidance, and reduced development of social competence. In addition, factors such as depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, parenting style, and poor family communication may influence both smartphone addiction and loneliness, increasing their severity and persistence. Overall, problematic smartphone use should not be viewed merely as excessive screen time, but as a complex psychosocial issue embedded within emotional, developmental, and relational contexts. Future research should focus on longitudinal and intervention-based approaches to promote healthier digital behaviour and improve adolescent mental well-being.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Impact of Eye Cosmetics: Analysing Usage Patterns and Associated Side Effects
The use of cosmetics has been an integral part of human life for centuries, with eye cosmetics, in particular, gaining popularity for their ability to enhance the facial appearance and boost self-esteem. This narrative review explores the history, composition, and potential health impacts of commonly used ocular cosmetics, including mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow. Eye cosmetics are formulated with a variety of ingredients, such as pigments, waxes, preservatives, and colourants, which can sometimes lead to allergic reactions, skin irritation, and other health concerns. The presence of preservatives like parabens and formaldehydereleasing agents, as well as the use of fragrances and sulphates, can cause adverse effects on sensitive individuals. Furthermore, microbial contamination of cosmetics remains a critical issue, with bacteria and fungi posing risks to eye health. This review highlights the importance of consumer awareness regarding ingredient safety, proper product usage, and the potential risks associated with prolonged or improper cosmetic use. It also discusses the regulatory landscape surrounding cosmetic products, emphasising the need for stricter safety standards and transparent labelling practices. Overall, while eye cosmetics can significantly enhance appearance and self-confidence, their safety must be a primary concern for both manufacturers and consumers. By understanding the components and potential risks, users can make more informed choices to safeguard ocular health.
Matrix Therapy in Modern Rehabilitation: A Regenerative Approach to Musculoskeletal Recovery
Background: Musculoskeletal disorders remain a leading cause of pain, disability, and reduced quality of life worldwide. Conventional rehabilitation strategies primarily focus on symptom management and functional restoration; however, regenerative approaches targeting cellular repair mechanisms are gaining increasing attention. Matrix Therapy, based on stimulation of the extracellular matrix and enhancement of microcirculation, has emerged as a novel adjunct in musculoskeletal rehabilitation. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of Matrix Therapy in improving pain, functional mobility, and overall recovery in patients with musculoskeletal conditions. Methods: A prospective interventional study was conducted among patients diagnosed with musculoskeletal disorders. Participants received standardised Matrix Therapy sessions over a defined treatment period. Outcome measures included pain intensity assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), functional status evaluated through validated functional scales, and range of motion measured using goniometry. Pre- and post-intervention data were analysed using appropriate statistical methods to determine therapeutic effectiveness. Results: Participants demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in pain scores following Matrix Therapy intervention (p < 0.05). Improvements were also observed in functional performance and joint mobility parameters. No serious adverse events were reported. The findings suggest enhanced tissue recovery and neuromuscular function associated with extracellular matrix stimulation. Conclusion: Matrix Therapy appears to be a safe and effective adjunctive modality in musculoskeletal rehabilitation, promoting pain reduction and functional recovery. Further large-scale randomised controlled trials are recommended to substantiate these findings and explore long-term outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohammed Sheeba kauser, Kishore M K (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Investigating Factors Influencing Student Participation in Class Discussions: A Cross-Sectional Study
Background: Student participation in classroom discussions is a key component of effective learning in higher education. Various factors such as classroom environment, instructor behaviour, peer influence, and self-confidence can significantly influence students’ willingness to engage. Objective: To investigate the factors influencing student participation in class discussions among undergraduate students at the College of Allied Health Sciences. Methods: A questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 92 undergraduate students. The study assessed multiple factors affecting participation, including classroom environment, instructor encouragement, peer influence, and students’ self-confidence. Results: The findings indicate that most students perceive their classroom environment as holistic and respectful. A high proportion of students (89.3%) reported feeling encouraged by instructors, while 73.3% received encouragement from peers. Despite these positive influences, nearly half of the respondents (49.3%) expressed concerns about being judged by classmates, indicating that self-confidence and fear of judgment remain significant barriers to participation. Conclusion: Although supportive classroom environments and encouragement from instructors and peers promote participation, challenges related to self-confidence persist. Targeted interventions, such as fostering open dialogue and providing constructive feedback, are essential to create an inclusive and supportive learning atmosphere that encourages active student engagement.
Copyright (c) 2026 Preetha Devi N B, Aasini Maria Georgina (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Biomechanically-Aware Robotic Assistance in Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation: Gaps, Clinical Potential, and Research Directions
Robotic technologies are increasingly integrated into musculoskeletal (MSK) rehabilitation to augment physiotherapy by providing repetitive, task-specific training. However, many robotic interventions have yet to fully leverage biomechanical insights for personalised, safe, and effective therapy. This review surveys recent advances (2022–2025) in rehabilitation robotics that explicitly incorporate biomechanical modelling, sensing, and control. We discuss how patient-specific musculoskeletal models and real-time biomechanical feedback can improve safety, target muscle activation, and quantify progress. Wearable exoskeletons and robotic orthoses for gait and upper-limb rehabilitation have demonstrated improvements in motor function, range of motion, and spasticity. Key gaps include limited long-term evidence, lack of standardised protocols, and insufficient integration of personalised biomechanics in control algorithms (e.g. adaptive force strategies). We highlight clinical implications for allied health professionals – namely, that biomechanically-aware robots can enhance therapy intensity and objectivity while reducing therapist burden – and outline future directions. These include developing real-time adaptive controllers informed by musculoskeletal dynamics, employing artificial intelligence to personalise assistance, and rigorous clinical trials to establish efficacy. Addressing these interdisciplinary challenges will help fulfil the potential of robotics to improve outcomes in MSK rehabilitation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Niranjana C, Kishore M K (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Artificial Intelligence in Emergency Medicine: Current Evidence, Clinical Applications, and Future Directions
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly transforming emergency medicine by enhancing diagnostic accuracy, improving clinical decision-making, and optimising workflow efficiency in time-critical environments. The integration of machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), and natural language processing (NLP) has enabled significant advancements in key areas such as patient triage, medical imaging, predictive analytics, and clinical decision support. AI-driven models have demonstrated high performance in detecting acute conditions, including intracranial haemorrhage, sepsis, and cardiac events, often matching or exceeding clinician-level accuracy in specific tasks. In emergency departments, AI applications have shown potential in improving patient prioritisation, reducing overcrowding, and facilitating early identification of high-risk patients. Additionally, AI-based tools contribute to enhanced operational efficiency through better resource allocation and workflow optimisation. Despite these benefits, challenges such as data bias, lack of transparency, limited generalizability, and regulatory and ethical concerns continue to hinder widespread adoption. This review synthesises current evidence on the clinical applications of AI in emergency medicine, highlighting its impact on patient outcomes and healthcare delivery. Furthermore, it discusses key limitations and explores future directions, including the development of explainable AI systems, real-time decision support tools, and integration with wearable technologies. The successful implementation of AI in emergency medicine will depend on robust validation, ethical considerations, and seamless integration into clinical practice.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sharmila R, Praveen P, Manikandan K (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Molecular Diagnostics and Next-Generation Sequencing in Bleeding Disorders
Molecular diagnostics has become a cornerstone of modern clinical practice, enabling precise detection and characterisation of genetic and infectious diseases. Advances in molecular biology and nucleic acid analysis have transformed traditional diagnostics by allowing identification of disease-associated alterations at the DNA and RNA levels. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)–based assays have significantly improved sensitivity and specificity in pathogen detection and genetic testing, while non-PCR–based techniques have expanded diagnostic capabilities in point-of-care and resource-limited settings. More recently, next-generation sequencing (NGS) has revolutionised molecular diagnostics by enabling high-throughput, parallel analysis of multiple genetic targets. NGS is valuable in infectious disease surveillance, metagenomic pathogen detection, and the molecular diagnosis of inherited disorders. In bleeding disorders, NGS has improved understanding of the genetic basis of haemophilia A, haemophilia B, and von Willebrand disease, supporting accurate diagnosis, carrier detection, and prenatal screening. Despite these advances, disparities in access to molecular diagnostics persist, especially in low- and middle-income countries, contributing to underdiagnosis and delayed care. This review summarises the evolution of molecular diagnostic technologies, highlights current NGS applications in infectious diseases and inherited bleeding disorders, and addresses challenges and opportunities for improving diagnostic equity. Integration of advanced molecular tools into clinical practice is essential to enhance accuracy, guide therapy, and improve patient outcomes worldwide.
Copyright (c) 2026 Aasini Maria Georgina M, Vennila Anand (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Mechanical & Procedural Complications of Ventricular Septal Defect Repair: A Systematic Review
Background: Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is the most common congenital cardiac anomaly and remains a major contributor to the global burden of congenital heart disease. It may present as an isolated defect or as part of complex syndromes and can also occur secondary to acquired conditions. Both genetic predisposition and environmental exposures during foetal development significantly influence its occurrence and anatomical complexity. Despite advances in surgical techniques and transcatheter device technologies, VSD closure continues to be associated with clinically relevant mechanical and procedural complications. Objective: To systematically evaluate the evidence on mechanical and procedural complications associated with surgical and transcatheter VSD repair. Methods: This systematic review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, and Embase were searched from inception to January 2026. Studies reporting mechanical or procedural complications after surgical or transcatheter VSD repair were included. Data were extracted for study characteristics, patient demographics, VSD type, interventions, and outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using ROBINS-I and QUADAS-2, and findings were synthesised narratively due to study heterogeneity. Results: A total of 140 studies met the inclusion criteria. Mechanical complications included residual shunts, atrioventricular conduction abnormalities, valvular injury, ventricular rupture, and haemolysis. Procedural complications comprised device embolisation, arrhythmias, vascular access complications, re-intervention, and procedure-related mortality. Complication profiles varied based on repair modality, defect characteristics, and patient population. Conclusion: Mechanical and procedural complications remain significant following VSD repair. Improved procedural strategies and standardised reporting are essential to optimise clinical outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rajkumar G, Mathew Lemuel N, Yamini B (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Antifungal Susceptibility Pattern of Dermatophytes: A Hospital-Based Study
Sir, Dermatophytosis is one of the most prevalent superficial fungal infections worldwide, affecting nearly 20–25% of the global population, particularly in tropical and developing countries.[1] In recent years, increasing reports of treatment failure and recurrence have raised concerns regarding antifungal resistance among dermatophytes, emphasising the need for standardised antifungal susceptibility testing.[2,3] In this context, we conducted a hospital-based prospective study in a tertiary care centre to evaluate the in vitro antifungal susceptibility patterns of dermatophyte isolates using the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) M38-A2 broth microdilution method. A total of 100 clinical samples from skin and nail infections were processed, of which 50 isolates were subjected to antifungal susceptibility testing. The predominant species isolated was Trichophyton mentagrophytes, followed by Trichophyton rubrum and Microsporum gypseum, which is consistent with previous epidemiological studies.[4,5] The antifungal susceptibility testing revealed significant variation in the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values among different antifungal agents. Terbinafine and sertaconazole demonstrated excellent antifungal activity with low MIC ranges (0.06–2 µg/ml and 0.06–1 µg/ml, respectively). Similarly, itraconazole and voriconazole exhibited very low MIC values, indicating strong efficacy against dermatophytes. These findings are in agreement with earlier studies that have highlighted the superior activity of terbinafine and azoles against dermatophytes.[6,7] In contrast, fluconazole showed relatively higher MIC values (2–64 µg/ml), suggesting reduced susceptibility among isolates. Amphotericin B also demonstrated higher MIC ranges, indicating limited effectiveness. Similar observations have been reported in previous studies, where fluconazole exhibited lower activity against dermatophytes compared to other antifungal agents.[8,9] The variability in susceptibility patterns observed in this study highlights the importance of performing antifungal susceptibility testing, particularly in cases of recurrent or non-responsive dermatophytosis. Although standardised methods such as CLSI M38-A2 provide a reliable framework, clinical correlation remains essential for appropriate therapeutic decision-making.[10,11] In conclusion, our study emphasises that terbinafine and newer azoles remain the most effective agents against dermatophytes, whereas commonly used drugs such as fluconazole may show reduced efficacy. Routine antifungal susceptibility testing can play a crucial role in guiding appropriate therapy and preventing the emergence of resistance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Veena Hemanth, Balamurali V (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Gender-Specific Health Challenges in Female Patients on Maintenance Haemodialysis
Dear Editor-in-Chief, In individuals undergoing maintenance haemodialysis, chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant global health concern. Gender-specific health issues in women have received less attention, despite improvements in survival due to medical advancements. In this population, psychological anguish, bone disease, and reproductive dysfunction are major issues that have a substantial impact on quality of life.[1] According to recent data, women receiving long-term dialysis bear a significant burden of these problems, although regular clinical care continues to overlook them. Reproductive function issues are typical in women with advanced chronic kidney disease. Anovulation, irregular menstruation, and decreased fertility might result from hormonal changes that impact the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis.[2] These concerns may have an impact on dialysis patients' pregnancy outcomes and are clinically significant, particularly for women of reproductive age.[3] Another important issue is bone health. Reduced bone mineral density and a higher risk of fracture are the results of problems in calcium, phosphate, and parathyroid hormone control caused by CKD-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD).[4] These skeletal issues lead to a decrease in physical function and an increase in morbidity. Patient outcomes are also significantly influenced by psychological well-being. Evidence suggests that depression has a significant impact on treatment adherence and quality of life in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and haemodialysis patients.[5] The psychological burden is further increased by the chronic nature of dialysis as well as social and lifestyle constraints. Even though many illnesses overlap, routine care is frequently still disjointed. A more comprehensive strategy that incorporates mental health screening, bone disease monitoring, and reproductive health evaluation may aid in early identification of at-risk individuals and enhance long-term results. In conclusion, reproductive dysfunction, poor bone health, and psychological disorders continue to be common and frequently overlooked problems among female patients despite tremendous advancements in haemodialysis therapy. These illnesses considerably lower the quality of life and constitute a severe epidemiological burden. Additionally, their coexistence leads to worse clinical results and higher morbidity. In general, quality of life is still a crucial component of haemodialysis care for female patients. To lower complications and enhance patient-centred outcomes, it is critical to recognise these risk factors and comprehend their epidemiological patterns.
Copyright (c) 2026 Vindhiya D, Pavithra S (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Editorial: Message from the Editor-in-Chief Dear Readers, It is with great pride and enthusiasm that I present this issue of the Journal of Allied Health Clinical Research and Innovation (JAHCRI). The Journal seeks to serve as a platform for researchers, clinicians, educators, and policymakers to exchange knowledge, foster dialogue, and inspire innovation. In an era where healthcare continues to evolve rapidly, the role of allied health professionals is more critical. This issue brings together a diverse collection of research articles, reviews, and opinions that reflect the dynamic and interdisciplinary nature of allied health sciences. The contributions highlight emerging trends, evidence-based practices, and innovative approaches that aim to improve patient outcomes and enhance the quality of care. Each manuscript has undergone a rigorous peer review process to ensure the highest standards of academic integrity and scientific excellence. From advancing patient-centred care to driving innovation in diagnostics, rehabilitation, and preventive health, allied health disciplines remain at the forefront of transforming global health systems. As healthcare challenges grow increasingly complex, collaboration across all disciplines becomes more essential. We strongly believe that integrating research with clinical practice is the key to addressing the current and future health needs. I extend my sincere gratitude to all authors and reviewers for their valuable contributions and to the editorial team for their dedication and commitment. Your collective efforts have made this publication possible. We encourage our valuable readers to engage critically with the content, as well as insights in their respective fields, and also to contribute to future editions of this journal. Together, let us continue to advance allied health research and innovation for the betterment of society. Dr. Pradeep J Editor-in-Chief Journal of Allied Health Research and Innovation Associate Professor, Department of Microbiology, Mahatma Gandhi Medical Advanced Research Institute, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Puducherry, India.
Copyright (c) 2026 Pradeep J (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0