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ScopeProbiotic interventions are known to have been shown to influence the composition of the intestinal microbiota in geriatrics. The growing concern is the apparent variation in response to identical strain dosage among human volunteers. One factor that governs this variation is the host gut microbiome. In this study, we attempted to define a core gut metagenome, which could act as a predisposition signature marker of inherent bacterial community that can help predict the success of a probiotic intervention.Methods and resultsTo characterize the geriatric gut microbiome, we designed primers targeting the 16S rRNA hypervariable region V2–V3 followed by semiconductor sequencing using Ion Torrent PGM. Among respondents and non-respondents, the chief genera of phylum Firmicutes that showed significant differences are Lactobacillus, Clostridium, Eubacterium, and Blautia (q < 0.002), while in the genera of phylum Proteobacteria included Shigella, Escherichia, Burkholderia and Camphylobacter (q < 0.002).ConclusionWe have identified potential microbial biomarkers and taxonomic patterns that correlate with a positive response to probiotic intervention in geriatric volunteers. Future work with larger cohorts of geriatrics with diverse dietary influences could reveal the potential of the signature patterns of microbiota for personalized nutrition.

This new assessment tool is available for objective and unbiased assessment of residents through 'clinicosocial case study,' which enriches learning through comprehensive feedback. Further validation in different settings is needed.

Background: The onset of menstruation is the most important change occurring among girls during the adolescent years. A supportive ecosystem to manage menstruation hygienically and with dignity is a key priority for adolescent girls. Aim: To understand adolescent girls' knowledge and attitudes about menstruation and empower them with scientific basis of physiology of menstruation and hygiene. Methods: Four schools were selected and girls in Standard 8 to 10 were included in the study. A pre-test was conducted using a structured questionnaire to assess their knowledge and attitudes about menstruation. The questionnaire included topics concerning physiology of menstruation, menstrual hygiene and beliefs and restrictions related to menstruation. This pre-assessment was followed by an interactive educational intervention using PowerPoint presentation, videos, posters, flip charts and role play. A post-test was conducted and a private consultation session was organized to enable participants to interact with the faculty without fear/ stigma. Result: Total 360 (359 pre-test and 358 post-test) girls in the age group 12 to 17 years, from 4 schools participated in the study. Most girls [284(79.1%)] identified menstruation as a normal physiological process. Yet, a sense of impurity leading to social and cultural restrictions was quite prevalent. The knowledge about hygiene practices and common issues during menstruation was poor. The knowledge and attitudes improved significantly after the educational intervention. Conclusion: Adolescent girls showed poor knowledge and attitudes about menstruation and hygiene. A systematic educational intervention improves MHM of adolescent girls. A comprehensive and contextual adolescent health model including all stakeholders should be developed to improve health of our future generation.

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