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Artificial intelligence (AI) has been used in physical therapy diagnosis and management for various impairments. Physical therapists (PTs) need to be able to utilize the latest innovative treatment techniques to improve the quality of care. The study aimed to describe PTs’ views on AI and investigate multiple factors as indicators of AI knowledge, attitude, and adoption among PTs. Moreover, the study aimed to identify the barriers to using AI in rehabilitation. Two hundred and thirty-six PTs participated voluntarily in the study. A concurrent mixed-method design was used to document PTs’ opinions regarding AI deployment in rehabilitation. A self-administered survey consisting of several aspects, including demographic, knowledge, uses, advantages, impacts, and barriers limiting AI utilization in rehabilitation, was used. A total of 63.3% of PTs reported that they had not experienced any kind of AI applications at work. The major factors predicting a higher level of AI knowledge among PTs were being a non-academic worker (OR = 1.77 [95% CI; 1.01 to 3.12], p = 0.04), being a senior PT (OR = 2.44, [95%CI: 1.40 to 4.22], p = 0.002), and having a Master/Doctorate degree (OR = 1.97, [95%CI: 1.11 to 3.50], p = 0.02). However, the cost and resources of AI were the major reported barriers to adopting AI-based technologies. The study highlighted a remarkable dearth of AI knowledge among PTs. AI and advanced knowledge in technology need to be urgently transferred to PTs.

Normal aging results in alterations in the structure and function of the brain, causing impairment in cognitive function and dependency in performing activities of daily living. A multicomponent physical activity program has been recommended to maintain physical and cognitive function in elderly individuals. The present study aimed at measuring the effect of such an exercise program on the cognitive function and activities of daily living(ADL) function in community dwelling elderly individuals. 52 elderly adults living in the community and ambulating independently were selected purposively and underwent a 10-week multi-component exercise program which included aerobic exercise, strength training, balance exercises and functional training. The participants were assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Barthel Index(BI) at baseline and every two weeks up till 10 weeks. The data obtained was analysed usind descriptive statistics and t-test for finding the effect of the intervention program on the outcome measures. The results showed a significant difference in the pre- to post-intervention scores of both the outcome measures. A multicomponent exercise program was seen to be effective in improving the cognitive function and level of ADL activity in community dwelling elderly individuals. Such an exercise program should be recommended to all elderly adults in order to maintain their cognitive and overall functioning and to improve their productivity.

Background: There have been widespread adverse effects and association between smoking and tobacco use across published researches, but very few studies have been investigated on the beneficial effects that accompany a long-term cessation of smoking. Comparing the lung function with normal subjects might significantly use the results obtained, if positive, to encourage current smokers to quit smoking and quitters to continue to refrain from smoking.  Aims: To determine the impact of cessation of smoking on lung function parameters in quitters as compared to smokers and non-smokers. Materials and Methods: The cross sectional observational study was on smokers, non-smokers, and quitters in rural area of Mangalore city. A total of 150 individuals were selected for the study, 50 each from all 3 groups of smokers, non-smokers and quitters using convenient sampling method using convenient sampling process. All participants were examined for Pulmonary Function Test parameters. The analysis was carried out using the Analysis of the variance test to determine the impact of smoking cessation in lung function parameters. Results: Significant differences were observed between quitters, smokers and non-smokers in terms of lung function parameters using ANOVA (FVC-p<0.001**, FEV1-p<0.001**, FEV1/FVC-p=0.04** PEFR difference between the groups was not significant with p=0.25). Analysis of PFT parameters using Tukey’s multiple post-hoc procedures revealed that FVC and FEV1 showed a significant differences between the quitter group when compared to the smoker group p<0-001**. Conclusion: Smoking cessation was followed by substantial change in lung function parameters FVC and FEV1 between the quitters as opposed to the smoker community.

Obesity is a global epidemic. A rise in obesity has been fueled by the COVID–19 enforced lockdown, having a massive impact on health, leading to over-eating and poor diet and sleep, as well as a reduction in physical activity and exercise and loneliness, as there is a need to stay healthy, fit and stronger and rebuild some of the healthy habits. It is related to improved risk of illness and death with ideal body weight. Physical activities with modifications of exercise and calorie intake together are considered as cornerstones in the prevention and management of obesity. Genetic factors, lifestyle factors such as financial status, home, and working environment and social relationships, play significant roles in developing and modifying weight control. Periodic weight gain is common during such times as holidays, the COVID-19 lockdown, and winter months. This review includes the most important aspects of obesity management were discussed, such as diet and nutrition, physical activity and exercises, lifestyle and environmental changes. Adherence to lifestyle measures with healthy eating habits and more physical activity, around the home to be encouraged among people, to offset the resultant obesity is what we recommend them and also discover new ways of raising the spirits while isolated.