Morphophysiological changes of Acca sellowiana (Myrtaceae: Myrtoideae) saplings under shade gradient

Abstract Understanding morphological and physiological changes under different light conditions in native fruit species in juveniles stage is important, as it indicate the appropriate environment to achieve vigorous saplings. We aimed to verify growth and morphophysiological changes under shade gradient in feijoa (Acca sellowiana (O. Berg) Burret) to achieve good quality saplings adequate to improve cultivation in orchards. The saplings were grown for twenty-one-month under four shading treatments (0%, 30%, 50%, and 80%). Growth, photosynthetic pigments, gas exchanges, chlorophyll fluorescence, and leaf anatomy parameters were evaluated. Saplings under full sun and 30% shade had higher height and diameter growth and dry mass accumulation due to higher photosynthesis rate. As main acclimatization mechanisms in feijoa saplings under 80% shade were developed larger leaf area, reduced leaf blade thickness, and enhanced quantum yield of photosystem II. Even so, the net CO2 assimilation and the electron transport rate was lower and, consequently, there was a restriction on the growth and dry mass in saplings under deep shade. Therefore, to obtain higher quality feijoa saplings, we recommend that it be carried out in full sun or up to 30% shade, to maximize the sapling vigor in nurseries and, later, this light environment can also be used in orchards for favor growth and fruit production.

Resumo A verificação de mudanças morfológicas e fisiológicas sob diferentes condições luminosas em espécies frutíferas nativas em estágio juvenil é importante, uma vez que indicam o ambiente adequado para a formação de mudas com alto vigor. Objetivou-se verificar o crescimento e as alterações morfofisiológicas sob gradiente de sombreamento em mudas de feijoa (Acca sellowiana (O. Berg) Burret) para obter mudas de boa qualidade, adequadas para fomentar os plantios da espécie em pomares. As mudas foram cultivadas por vinte e um meses sob quatro tratamentos de sombreamento (0%, 30%, 50% e 80%). Foram avaliados parâmetros de crescimento, pigmentos fotossintéticos, trocas gasosas, fluorescência da clorofila e anatomia foliar. Mudas a pleno sol e 30% de sombra apresentaram maior crescimento em altura, diâmetro e acúmulo de massa seca, devido à maior taxa de fotossíntese. Como principais mecanismos de aclimatação sob 80% de sombra, as mudas desenvolveram maior área foliar, redução da espessura do limbo foliar e aumento do rendimento quântico do fotossistema II. Mesmo assim, a assimilação líquida de CO2 e a taxa de transporte de elétrons foram menores e, consequentemente, houve restrição ao crescimento e acúmulo de massa seca das mudas no maior nível de sombreamento. Portanto, para a obtenção de mudas de feijoa de maior qualidade, recomendamos que seja realizada a pleno sol ou até 30% de sombra, para maximizar o vigor das mudas em viveiros e, posteriormente, este ambiente de luz também pode ser utilizado em pomares para favorecer o crescimento e a produção de frutos.

Morphophysiological changes of Acca sellowiana (Myrtaceae: Myrtoideae) saplings under shade gradient / Alterações morfofisiológicas em mudas de Acca sellowiana (Myrtaceae: Myrtoideae) sob gradiente de sombreamento

Abstract Understanding morphological and physiological changes under different light conditions in native fruit species in juveniles' stage is important, as it indicate the appropriate environment to achieve vigorous saplings. We aimed to verify growth and morphophysiological changes under shade gradient in feijoa (Acca sellowiana (O. Berg) Burret) to achieve good quality saplings adequate to improve cultivation in orchards. The saplings were grown for twenty-one-month under four shading treatments (0%, 30%, 50%, and 80%). Growth, photosynthetic pigments, gas exchanges, chlorophyll fluorescence, and leaf anatomy parameters were evaluated. Saplings under full sun and 30% shade had higher height and diameter growth and dry mass accumulation due to higher photosynthesis rate. As main acclimatization mechanisms in feijoa saplings under 80% shade were developed larger leaf area, reduced leaf blade thickness, and enhanced quantum yield of photosystem II. Even so, the net CO2 assimilation and the electron transport rate was lower and, consequently, there was a restriction on the growth and dry mass in saplings under deep shade. Therefore, to obtain higher quality feijoa saplings, we recommend that it be carried out in full sun or up to 30% shade, to maximize the sapling vigor in nurseries and, later, this light environment can also be used in orchards for favor growth and fruit production.

Resumo A verificação de mudanças morfológicas e fisiológicas sob diferentes condições luminosas em espécies frutíferas nativas em estágio juvenil é importante, uma vez que indicam o ambiente adequado para a formação de mudas com alto vigor. Objetivou-se verificar o crescimento e as alterações morfofisiológicas sob gradiente de sombreamento em mudas de feijoa (Acca sellowiana (O. Berg) Burret) para obter mudas de boa qualidade, adequadas para fomentar os plantios da espécie em pomares. As mudas foram cultivadas por vinte e um meses sob quatro tratamentos de sombreamento (0%, 30%, 50% e 80%). Foram avaliados parâmetros de crescimento, pigmentos fotossintéticos, trocas gasosas, fluorescência da clorofila e anatomia foliar. Mudas a pleno sol e 30% de sombra apresentaram maior crescimento em altura, diâmetro e acúmulo de massa seca, devido à maior taxa de fotossíntese. Como principais mecanismos de aclimatação sob 80% de sombra, as mudas desenvolveram maior área foliar, redução da espessura do limbo foliar e aumento do rendimento quântico do fotossistema II. Mesmo assim, a assimilação líquida de CO2 e a taxa de transporte de elétrons foram menores e, consequentemente, houve restrição ao crescimento e acúmulo de massa seca das mudas no maior nível de sombreamento. Portanto, para a obtenção de mudas de feijoa de maior qualidade, recomendamos que seja realizada a pleno sol ou até 30% de sombra, para maximizar o vigor das mudas em viveiros e, posteriormente, este ambiente de luz também pode ser utilizado em pomares para favorecer o crescimento e a produção de frutos.

Influence of the addition of nanohydroxyapatite to scaffolds on proliferation and differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells: a systematic review of in vitro studies

One of the main challenges of tissue engineering in dentistry is to replace bone and dental tissues with strategies or techniques that simulate physiological tissue repair conditions. This systematic review of in vitro studies aimed to evaluate the influence of the addition of nanohydroxyapatite (NHap) to scaffolds on cell proliferation and osteogenic and odontogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells. In vitro studies on human stem cells that proliferated and differentiated into odontogenic and osteogenic cells in scaffolds containing NHap were included in this study. Searches in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, OpenGrey, ProQuest, and Cochrane Library electronic databases were performed. The total of 333 articles was found across all databases. After reading and analyzing titles and abstracts, 8 articles were selected for full reading and extraction of qualitative data. Results showed that despite the large variability in scaffold composition, NHap-containing scaffolds promoted high rates of cell proliferation, increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity during short culture periods, and induced differentiation, as evidenced by the high expression of genes involved in osteogenesis and odontogenesis. However, further studies with greater standardization regarding NHap concentration, type of scaffolds, and evaluation period are needed to observe possible interference of these criteria in the action of NHap on the proliferation and differentiation of human stem cells.

Connaissances, attitudes et perceptions de la césarienne chez les gestantes suivies en CPN dans 6 maternités de Kinshasa / NA

Objectifs: Evaluer le niveau de connaissances, décrire les attitudes ainsi que les perceptions des gestantes sur la césarienne. MéthodesIl s'agissait d'une étude descriptive transversale qui s'est déroulée durant la période allant du 01 Février au 30Avril 2023 (soit 3mois) dans les services des consultations prénatales (CPN) des 6 6 structures de la Ville Province de Kinshasa ; les Cliniques Universitaires de Kinshasa (CUK), le Centre Hospitalier Roi Baudoin 1, l'Hôpital Saint Joseph(HSJ), les Maternités de Kintambo, de Binza et de Kingasani. Un total de 481 gestantes était interrogé dans l'ensemble des formations sanitaires sélectionnées. Les données sociodémographiques et celles relatives à la connaissance, attitude et perception sur la césarienne ont été récoltées par interview et analysées à l'aide des statistiques descriptives. L'évaluation de connaissances était faite selon la cotation suivante; moins de 50% de bonnes réponses (MAUVAISES) ;entre 50% et 70% de bonnes réponses (MOYENNES) et plus de 70% de bonnes réponses ( BONNES ). L'échelle de Likert a servi à l'évaluation des attitudes et perceptions sur la césarienne. Résultats Sur les 481 gestantes interviewées, seulement 16,1% avaient un antécédent personnel de Césarienne, l'âge de moyen de gestantes était de 29 ans, mariées pour la plupart (87,9%), employée (56,4%) avec un niveau d'étude secondaire (49,3%) et un niveau socio-économique moyen (53,8%). La source d'information sur cette intervention était diversifiée chez 39,8% de gestantes et les CPN n'ont contribué que dans 22,4%. Le niveau de connaissance était satisfaisant chez 73, 3% de gestantes. L'attitude des gestantes était négative chez 70,1% la perception par contre était positive à 64,4 %. Conclusion: La majorité de gestantes avait un niveau suffisant de connaissances sur la césarienne et une perception positive alors qu'elle garde une attitude négative face à cette intervention.

Objectives: Evaluate the level of knowledge, describe the attitudes and perceptions of pregnant women about cesarean section. Methods This was a cross-sectional descriptive study which took place during the period from February 1 to April 30, 2023 (i.e. 3 months) in the prenatal consultation services (PCS) of the 6 health structures in the City Province of Kinshasa; the University Clinics of Kinshasa (UCK), Roi Baudoin 1 Hospital Center, Saint Joseph Hospital (SJH), Kintambo, Binza and Kingasani maternity wards. A total of 481 pregnant women were interviewed in all the selected health facilities.ResultsAmong the 481 pregnant women interviewed, only 16.1% had a personal history of Caesarean section, the average age of pregnant women was 29 years, most of them married (87.9%), employed (56.4%) with a secondary education level (49.3%) and a socio-economic level. average economic (53.8%). The source of information on this intervention was diversified among 39.8% of pregnant women and antenatal cares only contributed to 22.4%. The level of knowledge was satisfactory in 73.3% of pregnant women. The attitude of the pregnant women was negative at 70.1%, the perception on the other hand was positive at 64.4%.Conclusion:The majority of pregnant women had a sufficient level of knowledge about caesarean section and a positive perception while they maintain a negative attitude towards this intervention

Histological risk score and its role in predicting recurrence in early-stage oral squamous cell carcinomas

Context: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) comprises more than 90% of oral cancers and is the most common carcinoma affecting the oral cavity. Early stage T1/T2 OSCC have a heterogeneous prognosis and a significant number of patients develop loco regional recurrence (LRR) and have reduced disease free survival (DFS) with increased disease related mortality. Aims and Objectives: To assess the impact of the three parameters used in Brandwein-Gensler risk model along with lympho-vascular invasion (LVI), depth of invasion (DOI) and lymph node metastases in predicting LRR in early stage OSCC. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study on early stage T1/2 OSCC patients over a period of 2 years who received treatment by surgical resection and had follow-up data. LRR was assessed based on recurrence of OSCC at the initial site or in regional lymph nodes. Results: Out of 1135 OSCC cases during our study period a total of 207 cases befitted our inclusion criteria. Recurrence was noted in 113 (54.6%) cases. Univariate analysis identified LVI (P < 0.00001), DOI (P < 0.00001), nodal involvement (P < 0.00001), worst pattern of invasion (WPOI) (P < 0.00001), lymphocytic host response (LHR) (P = 0.004), perineural invasion (PNI) (P = 0.012) as strong statistically significant risk factors for LRR. Conclusion: Adequate assessment of simple parameters on routine H and E by incorporating Brandwein-Gensler histological risk scoring model at the initial presentation can help prognosticate and predict LRR and select patients for post-surgical adjuvant therapy.

The Ameliorative Effect of Ashwagandha- Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal on park25 Induced Neurodegeneration in Drosophila melanogaster Parkinson’s Disease Model

Ashwagandha - Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal is a perennial shrub belonging to the family Solanaceae. Ashwagandha has been used for over 3000 years in traditional Indian Ayurveda for treatment of various neurological, and stress disorders. The root of Ashwagandha (ASH) is regarded as a tonic, aphrodisiac, narcotic, diuretic, anthelmintic, astringent, thermogenic and stimulant. Ashwagandha with other herbal decoctions was recognized to treat Kampavatha (Parkinson’s Disease) since 18th century. With this wide array of ethnopharmacological relevance, Ashwagandha has been recognized as one of the prominent complementary and alternative medicine to treat many neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). There is a prominent increase in the cases of AD and PD all over the world and it demands the requirement of complementary and alternative herbal remedies with no/minimal side effects. Many genetic factors are responsible for the onset and progression of PD. Loss-of-function mutations in the parkin gene are a major cause of early onset of autosomal recessive juvenile parkinsonism (AR-JP). Drosophila park25 loss of function mutants exhibit significantly increased number of mitochondria-endoplasmic reticulum contacts and a significantly decreased number of dopaminergic neurons in the adult brain which is the main cause of PD condition. Several studies have demonstrated the ability of Ashwagandha in imparting neuroprotection, improved locomotory ability, memory and learning abilities. The challenge lies in scrutinizing the mechanism and the pathways involved in the neuroprotective properties of this well-known herb. Here in our study, we test the possible neuroprotective effect of Ashwagandha on park25 mutants of Drosophila using lifespan analysis and climbing disability as a disease marker. Parkinson’s mimicking flies were administered with aqueous extraction of Ashwagandha-root mixed with the fly food and subjected to negative geotaxis assay. We observed that there is a prominent increase in the climbing ability in park25 treated flies compared to its age-matched untreated flies. This is the first report showing that, aqueous extraction of Ashwagandha-root extract was able to ameliorate the disease phenotype in the park25 Drosophila Parkinson’s disease model.

olf413 Gene Controls Taste Recognition, Preference and Feeding Activity in Drosophila melanogaster

Recognition and responsiveness to food taste becomes a crucial event in foraging and feeding behaviour of an organism. Adjusting the feeding behaviour through a sophisticated and robust taste system is critical to fulfil their nutritional needs and facilitate its survival in environment. Palatability of food sources depends on the sensory and motor cues provided by the brain, in co-ordination with the other body systems to enable decisive feeding. Drosophila melanogaster is an apt model organism to decipher these behavioural paradigms. Octopamine a neurotransmitter, is required in regulation of feeding behavioural responses. olf413, a paralogue of TH, is a gene predicted for its involvement in octopamine biosynthesis. The biological function of this gene is yet to be unravelled. Here we propose this gene function in taste recognition, food preference and feeding activity. We test the olf413 loss of function mutants for food preference between two fruit extracts using CAFE and horizontal box methods. In our study we have used olf413 gene disruption strain, olf413MI02014 homozygous and in transheterozygous condition with another allele isolated in our lab, olf413SG1.1. The results show that olf413 mutants display a severe phenotype in feeding behaviour and there is an allele specific phenotypic distinction between the two strains. Thus implying that olf413 gene function is required for taste recognition, starvation driven initiation and execution of feeding behaviour of the flies.

EFFECT OF EARLY AMBULATION ON MATERNAL OUTCOME AMONG POST CAESAREAN MOTHERS

The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of early ambulation on maternal outcome among post caesarean mothers. The objectives of the study was to assess the effect of early ambulation on maternal outcome among post caesarean mothers and to ?nd out the association between the maternal outcome among post caesarean mothers with selected demographic variables. This study was based on Roy's adaptation theory. The research design adopted for the study was post-test only control group design. 60 post caesarean mothers who ful?lled the inclusion criteria were selected for the study, out of which 30 post caesarean mothers were in experimental group and 30 post caesarean mothers were in control group. Non-probability purposive sampling technique was used to select the samples. The tool used to assess the effect of early ambulation was post caesarean bio physiological health parameters chart. The study was conducted in General Hospital, Neyyattinkara. The effectiveness of early ambulation was assessed by comparing the maternal outcome of post caesarean mothers in experimental group and control group. The result shows that there was a signi?cant difference in the maternal outcome among post caesarean mothers in the experimental group after performing early ambulation and there was an association between the maternal outcome among post caesarean mothers with selected demographic variables except in case of period of gestation.

Impacto do racismo nas vivências de mulheres negras brasileiras: um estudo fenomenológico / The impact of racism on brazilian black women's experiences: a phenomenological study / Impacto del racismo en las experiencias de las mujeres negras brasileñas: un estudio fenomenológico

Este artigo teve como objetivo compreender, a partir de uma análise fenomenológica, o impacto do racismo sobre vivências de mulheres negras. Foram analisados relatos escritos por mulheres que se autodeclaravam negras encontrados em sites e blogs da internet. Esta pesquisa qualitativa fenomenológica foi inspirada na proposta filosófica de Edmund Husserl, consistindo na elaboração de uma narrativa síntese que resumiu os elementos essenciais das vivências dessas mulheres. Os resultados possibilitaram compreender que as experiências de racismo vivenciadas por mulheres negras têm início na infância e as acompanham ao longo de toda a vida, causando impactos sobre sua saúde mental. A insatisfação em relação ao cabelo natural e a cor da pele surgem como sinais concretos de recusa da identidade negra; enquanto o processo de tomada de consciência, reconhecimento e aceitação da negritude impulsionam a autoaceitação e a construção de uma nova identidade como mulher negra. A troca de experiências com outras pessoas negras sobre racismo favoreceu o reconhecimento da negritude. Conclui-se que o suporte emocional de pessoas que vivenciam o mesmo tipo de sofrimento social pode ser de grande relevância no processo de superação, assim como os processos de intervenção psicológica quando pautados por atitudes de empatia e aceitação. Nesse sentido, a formação de psicólogos deve incluir conteúdos e práticas que abordem o tema do racismo como parte da realidade social.(AU)

This article aimed to understand, based on qualitative research, the impact of racism on Black women's experiences. To this end, accounts authored by women who self-identify as Black, found on websites and internet blogs were used as data sources. The phenomenological analysis of data was based on Edmund Husserl's philosophical proposal, and consisted of a narrative synthesis that summed the essential elements of these women's experiences. Results of this research enabled the understanding that experiences of racism, lived by Black women, start during childhood and accompany them throughout their lifetime, impacting their mental health. Dissatisfaction with their natural hair and skin color appear as concrete signs of turning down their Black identity; sharing their experiences with other Black people about racism helps them recognize their Blackness. The process of awareness, recognition and acceptance of Blackness drive them to self-acceptance and the construction of an identity that integrates their condition as Black women. We conclude that the emotional support given by people who live similar social suffering can be essential to the process of overcoming it, as should be the process of psychological intervention, when founded on attitudes of comprehensive empathy and acceptance. In this regard, we suggest that psychologists' education include both courses and practice that encompass the theme of racism as part of our social reality.(AU)

Este artículo tuvo como objetivo comprender, a partir de una investigación cualitativa, el impacto del racismo en las experiencias de las mujeres negras. Fueron utilizados relatos escritos por mujeres que decían ser negras como fuentes de datos, en sitios de Internet y blogs. El análisis fenomenológico de los datos se realizó a partir de la propuesta filosófica de Edmund Husserl y consistió en la construcción de una narrativa síntesis que presentaba los elementos esenciales de las vivencias de estas mujeres. Los resultados permitieron comprender que las experiencias de racismo, vividas por las mujeres negras, comienzan en la infancia y las acompañan a lo largo de la vida, con un impacto en la salud mental. La insatisfacción con el color natural del cabello y la piel aparece como signos concretos de rechazo a la identidad negra; el intercambio de experiencias con otros negros sobre el racismo favorece el reconocimiento de la negritud. El proceso de toma de conciencia, reconocimiento y aceptación de la negritud impulsa la autoaceptación y la construcción de una identidad que integra la condición de la mujer negra. Se concluye que el apoyo emocional que brindan las personas que experimentan el mismo tipo de sufrimiento social puede ser de gran relevancia en el proceso de superación, así como los procesos de intervención psicológica, cuando se guían por actitudes de comprensión y aceptación empáticas. En este sentido, se sugiere que los cursos de formación para psicólogos incluyan contenidos y prácticas que aborden el tema del racismo como parte de la realidad social.(AU)

P2X7 receptor antagonist improves gastrointestinal disorders in spontaneously hypertensive rats

The purinergic system participates in the control of blood pressure. Hypertension promotes the occurrence of gastrointestinal disorders such as intestinal inflammation and gastric emptying delay. This study aimed i) to investigate the participation of the P2X7 receptor blocker Brilliant Blue G (BBG) on gastric emptying of solids and changes in oxidative stress in the gastric fundus, duodenum, and colon of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and ii) to study the putative relationship of this effect with the renin-angiotensin system. Rats were divided into five groups: Control, SHR, SHR+BBG, SHR+BBG+ATP, and SHR+BBG+ANG II. In the gastrointestinal tract, we assessed gastric emptying (GE) and oxidative stress markers (NOx, MPO, GSH, SOD). We observed a decrease in the GE rate (P<0.05) in SHR vs control rats (21.8±2.0% vs 42.8±3.5%). The decrease in GE was returned (P<0.05) to control levels by BBG in SHR rats (21.8±2.0% vs 41.6±3.2%). Co-administration of ATP or ANG II together with BBG bypassed the effect of the P2X7 antagonist on GE in SHR (P<0.05) (21.9±5.0% vs 25.6±3.0% vs 41.6±3.2%). The MPO activity increased (P<0.05) in the gastric fundus of SHR compared to control rats (6.12±2.26 vs 0.077±0.02 UMPO/mg tissue); this effect was prevented (P<0.05) by BBG (0.55±0.15 vs 6.12±2.26 UMPO/mg tissue). Data demonstrated that blockage of P2X7 receptors with BBG can improve the GE delay and oxidative stress biomarkers in SHR animals. This preventive effect of BBG on GE delay was abrogated by ANG II and ATP, thus prompting crosstalk between renin-angiotensin and the purinergic signaling systems underlying this phenomenon.

Management and outcome of different drug overdose cases in a tertiary care hospital – A prospective observational study

Background: Overdose is defined as any substance that is exposed excessively, which is intended for consumption. There are many drugs which are used therapeutically, but sometimes self-harm can be done with medications such as analgesics, antiepileptics, and sedatives. The high mortality and morbidity associated with drug overdose could be due to various factors such as easy availability, improper regulations for dispensing drugs, lack of control for over the counter drugs. Aim and Objective: The purpose of this study is to document the incidence of drug overdose cases, sociodemographic characteristics, and its management in a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: A prospective, observational study was conducted from January 2014 to December 2014 at Casualty and Medicine Department in a tertiary care hospital. Results: A total of 61 cases were included in the study. Drug overdose cases were seen in the age group of 21–30 years (67.2%). Intentional drug overdose is seen in 58 (95.08%) cases. In this study, 34.4% of patients presented to the hospital within 6 h of event. Paracetamol was the most common (32.7%). In most of the paracetamol overdose, cases were treated with N-acetyl cysteine, phenobarbitone overdose with forced alkaline diuresis, benzodiazepines overdose with flumazenil, and opioids overdose with naloxone. This study shows that 93.3% of patients had an uncomplicated course of stay in hospital. Conclusion: Drug overdose is a major public health concern in the society. The most vulnerable population in the society is the younger age group. Prevention strategies should be dealt in this high risk group.

Production of Fungal Pectin Lyase and Polygalacturonase from Fruit Wastes by Solid State Fermentation

Polygalacturonase (PG or PGase) and Pectin lyase (PL) are depolymerase enzymes that split the ?-1, 4-glycosidic linkages in the backbone of homogalacturonans. They are produced by microorganisms degrading pectin-containing substrates. PG and PL were produced in the solid-state fermentation (SSF) of beans testa (BT), mango peels (MP), Plantain peels (PP), and BT: MP: PP (1:1:1). Substrates were seeded with individual fungal strains namely Aspergillus tamarii, Aspergillus terreus, Aspergillus piperis, Aspergillus parasiticus and Mucor piriformis. PG production ranged from 0.0377 - 141.0095 U/g with A. tamarii, A. terreus and A. piperis producing the highest on mango peels. PL production ranged from 50.50 - 10,852.50 U/g with Mucor piriformis producing the highest on plantain peels. The pH of the fermentation medium changed during growth, metabolism, and pectinase production. The best pH for pectinase production falls within the acidic range. Unconventional substrates such as PP are viable for pectinase production, and PL yield in SSF is improved by compositing substrates.

Effects of passive smoking on pulmonary functions of individuals in an urban area

Background: Passive smoking is a world health problem and part of the tobacco epidemic which victimizes mostly adolescents. Research articles have addressed the relation between passive smoking and respiratory efficiency in adult population and escalated the hazard of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer among adult passive smokers. The present study was conducted to analyze the effects of exposure to passive smoke on pulmonary functions among nonsmoking individuals. Aim and Objectives: The study was determined to assess the effects of passive smoking on pulmonary functions among individuals in urban region. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted on smokers, passive smokers, and nonsmokers (control), aged between 17 and 25 years. Ninety healthy individuals were placed in three different groups on the basis of questionnaire (Group A: active smoker, Group B: passive smoker, Group C: control). Study was done with the help of spirometer and pulse oximeter. Results: Forced expiratory flow25–75%, Forced expiratory volume in 1 second/Forced vital capacity % values were significantly reduced in passive smokers as compared to control individuals (P < 0.001, P < 0.05). SpO2 level was decreased in passive smokers and active smokers, but it was not statistically significant. Conclusions: The present study showed a strong association between passive smoking and pulmonary abnormalities in individuals exposed to passive smoke. Health hazards caused by passive smoking should be controlled by creating awareness and regular health check-ups among people.

A Cross-sectional study on oxidative stress markers in type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and their correlation with blood sugar levels

Background: Among major metabolic disorders of glucose metabolism, diabetes mellitus is the most common one, in which Insulin deficiency and insulin resistance are the common observations. It is a renowned fact that long-standing hyperglycaemia is associated with oxidative stress, caused by an increase in the reactive oxygen species. Adenosine deaminase(ADA) is a purine metabolic enzyme that degrades adenosine. Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) maintains antioxidant levels by maintaining reduced glutathione in the cells. Ceruloplasmin is a known acute phase reactant. Aim: 1. To Study and compare the levels of Serum FBS, PPBS, ADA, GGT and Ceruloplasmin in T2DM patients and nondiabetic subjects. 2. To study the correlation between these parameters and blood sugar levels in cases. Materials and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was done at Subbaiah medical college in Shimoga, taking 50 T2DM patients and 50 controls. Serum levels of fasting blood sugar(FBS), Postprandial blood sugar (PPBS), Adenosine deaminase, Gamma-glutamyl transferase and Ceruloplasmin were estimated. Data were analysed in SPSS software 17 using independent student t test. p < 0.01 was considered significant. Results: Increased levels of ADA, GGT and ceruloplasmin in cases were found, and they were statistically significant. Pearson correlation of these inflammatory markers with FBS and PPBS showed a positive significant correlation.

Silicea terra200cH evaluated by two different spectroscopy methods: a pilot study

Spectroscopy has been shown to bea useful method to study the physicochemical properties of homeopathic preparations. Aim: In this pilot study, we comparedtwo methods (photon scattering and visible-light spectroscopy) in the physicalevaluation of Silicea terra200cH. Methodology: Italian test: Two sampleshave been examinedand compared: Silicea terra200cH and Sac lac200cH, both preparedin water solution, diluted and succussed according to German Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia(Cemon Lab, Italy).Lactose was includedbecause the first 3 potencies of Silicea terraaremadeby trituration in lactosepowder.Measurements were made using an innovative Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) camera developedby Daniele Gullà, called MIRA/CORA(proprietary name). Slight variations in chrominance and luminance due to micro-vibrational 3D phenomenawere analyzed.Allmeasurements have been performed in a dark room at a constant temperature of 22°C +/-0,2°C usingafilter with very narrow spectral bands (10 nm).The measurements have been repeated three times on both Silicea terra200cH and Sac lac200cHwithin a few minutes aftereach other.Brazilian test: In the second test, performed in Brazil, variations in absorbance were used to identify Silicea terra200cH compared with Sac lac200cH andcompared withanother control solution of non-succussed 30% alcohol, using six solvatochromic dyes, following the method developed by Cartwright [1,2]. Both homeopathic samples were imported from Italy(the same sample bottles used in the Italian test),in Brazil they have beendiluted 1:100 in 30% hydro-alcoholic solution, and submitted to 100 succussions using an automatic mechanical arm (Denise, AUTIC, Brazil) prior to being tested. Samples were inserted into dyes solutions and evaluated by visible spectroscopy (FEMTO Spectrophotometer, Brazil). Dyes were prepared in ethanol P.A., according to previous established methods [3]. Three series in triplicate were performed and the results were analyzed by ANOVA / Tukey, comparing both samples and the unsuccussed 30% hydroalcoholic control solution.Results: Italian test: Measurements of the mean entropy of the signals, statistically elaborated with T Student test,yielded a two tailed p value < 0.05, where the entropy of the signal recorded from the Silicea terra200cHsample was statistically lower than the 200cH Sac lacsample.Brazilian test: Among all tested dyes, only BDN(4-(Bis-(4-(dimethylamino)-phenyl)methylene)-1(4H)-naphthalenone) showed aninteraction with Silicea terra200cH, reproducing the conclusions obtained in [3].Conclusions: Two different spectroscopic methods were able to show signal differences betweenSilicea terra200cH andSac lac200cH, suggesting that changes in solvent organization could be involved in the homeopathic signaling process, along withchanges in dipole moments of solvent and dyes. The results are potentially in line witha recent publishedpaper [4], that supportsthe propositionthatthe lower entropy of the verum signal compared with controls could beexplained by increased coherent vibrations of the verum sample, as theoretically explained in previous literature [5].

STUDY OF FINE NEEDLE ASPIRATION CYTOLOGY IN PALPABLE BREAST LUMPS AT TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL, SURYAPET, TELANGANA

Introduction: Breast carcinoma is the second most common malignancy in India preceded by cervical carcinoma. Palpable breast lumps either self detected or identi?ed by clinician are common, ef?cient evaluation and prompt diagnosis are necessary to rule out malignancy. Clinical examination, radiological evaluation and tissue sampling – Triple assessment needed for de?nitive diagnosis. FNAC has a good sensitivity, speci?city and accuracy in the diagnosis of both neoplastic and non-neoplastic breast lumps. The present study is aimed to analyse the incidence and various cytomorphological sprectrum of breast lesions done by FNAC. Materials & Methods: This is retrospective observational study conducted in Department of Pathology, Government Medical College/ Government General Hospital, Suryapet, Telangana from January 2020 to December 2021 (2years). Clinical history was taken and FNAC done. Smears are stained with H&E stain and assessed. Results: In our study, 87 female patients were analysed. Age group of patients ranged from 15years to 70years. There was slight preponderance in right breast lesions 45cases(51.7%). Most common lesion in our study was ?broadenoma which constituted 36 cases (41.3%), peak incidence in 21-30year age group. Second most common lesion was duct cell carcinoma accounting for 27cases(31%), peak incidence seen in 41-50years age group. Conclusion FNAC is a simple, safe, cost effective procedure which is a component of triple assessment. It helps to differentiate benign from malignant lesions in majority of cases when combined with clinical and radiological examination for de?nitive management.

Differential expression of CK7, CK20, CDX2 in intestinal and pancreatobiliary types of preriampullary carcinoma

Context: Incidence of periampullary carcinoma is low, approximately 0.5–2% of all gastrointestinal malignancies. Histologic subtyping has a prognostic bearing. The purpose of this study is to differentiate periampullary carcinomas based on immunohistochemistry (IHC) by using cytokeratin 7 (CK7), cytokeratin 20 (CK20), caudal type homeobox 2 (CDX2). Aims: To analyze the usefulness of IHC as single/panel of markers that included CK7, CK20, and CDX2. Settings and Design: This was a prospective study done from January 2017 to September 2018. Subjects and Methods: A total 50 pancreaticoduodenectomy specimens were evaluated and classified as intestinal (INT) and pancreaticobiliary (PB) types based on their morphological and immunohistochemical features, respectively. The morphologic subtypes, expression of IHC markers were correlated with different histologic parameters. Statistical Analysis: Chi-square test was used to study the association between different IHC markers with histologic parameters. Probability (P) values <0.05 were regarded as statistically significant. Results: The expression of CK7, CK20, CDX2 were studied in 50 cases to classify them as INT and pancreatobiliary subtypes. CK7 has high sensitivity (88.2%), CDX2 has high specificity (96.4%), CK20+/CDX2+ has both high sensitivity (94.2 percent) and specificity (89.2 percent) in differentiating INT from pancreatobiliary subtypes. The morphologic subtypes showed correlation with two variables (tumor grade, pathologic T stage). CK20 and CK20/CDX2 expression showed a positive correlation with tumor grade, pathologic T staging, and lymphovascular invasion. Conclusions: In conclusion, morphological classification can significantly discriminate histologic types, IHC plays a moderate role. However, the combined expression of CK20 and CDX2 is helpful in subtyping.

A prospective observational study on management and outcome of different poisoning cases in a tertiary care hospital

Background: Acute poisoning is a worldwide health problem hastened around million deaths yearly. It was estimated that two lakhs of these deaths are mainly due to Organophosphorus compounds (OPC) poisoning. The management of these emergencies poisoning cases is very difficult and requires intensive care as well as monitoring. Despite the large number, evidence on pattern prevalence, management and outcome in India is little. Aim and Objective: The purpose of our study was to assess the socio-demographic pattern of various poisonings, pharmacotherapy and factors associated with outcome in a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: It is a prospective observational study was done from January 2014 to December 2014 at Casualty in government teaching medical college hospital. Results: 253 patients were identified to have suffered of poisoning, 47.0% (119) of these patients were poisoned by OPC followed by other poison such as pyrethroids, Organocabamates. From all assessed cases male over female dominance was observed. More poisoning cases were observed between the age group 21 and 30 years. Intentional poisoning was more common (87.74%). The time taken between the poison ingestion and treatment was found that 83.8% of patients introduced to hospital before 12 h of the incident, whereas 28.7% introduced before 3 h. The death rate was 1.97 % with male dominance. Conclusion: This study comes to a conclusion that there is load of poisoning for which some proper safety measures such as limitation of easy availability and securing the poisonous chemicals which reduce the incidence of different poisoning in susceptible patients.

Sequence analysis of the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) region of rDNA for identifying Trichogramma species and evaluating genetic diversity / Análise de sequência do rDNA da região espaçadora do transcrito interno 2 (ITS2) para identificar espécies de Trichogramma e avaliar a diversidade genética

Abstract Species of Trichogramma Westwood, 1833 (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammtidae) are frequently used as biological control agents against Lepidoptera, but practical application of these egg endoparasitoids are complicated because of their complex taxonomy. This study aimed to compare sequences of internal transcribed spacer regions of ribosomal DNA (ITS2-rDNA) of Trichogramma accessions with those deposited in GenBank in order to access the reliability of the ITS2 as a barcode for discriminating species and evaluating the genetic diversity. ITS2-rDNA sequences obtained from seventeen specimens of Trichogramma confirmed previous identifications based on morphological characteristics. Multiple sequence alignment revealed the existence of highly conserved regions in ITS2 sequences while the neighbour-joining dendrogram indicated that the specimens formed three clusters comprising T. manicobai and T. marandobai (group I), T. galloi (group II) and T. pretiosum (group III). The ITS2 marker was shown to be a powerful DNA barcode for discriminating Trichogramma species and could be used to complement the morphological approach.

Resumo Espécies de Trichogramma Westwood, 1833 (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) são freqüentemente usadas como agentes de controle biológico contra Lepidoptera, esses endoparasitóides de ovos apresentam taxonomia complexa, o que dificulta sua aplicação prática. Este estudo teve como objetivo comparar seqüências de regiões espaçadoras internas transcritas de DNA ribossômico (ITS2-rDNA) de acessos de Trichogramma com aquelas depositadas no GenBank, a fim de avaliar a confiabilidade do ITS2 barcode para discriminar espécies e avaliar a diversidade genética. As seqüências de ITS2-rDNA obtidas de dezessete espécimes de Trichogramma confirmaram identidades anteriores com base em características morfológicas. O alinhamento de múltiplas sequências revelou a existência de regiões altamente conservadas nas sequências ITS2, enquanto o dendrograma indicou que os espécimes formavam três grupos compreendendo T. manicobai e T. marandobai (grupo I), T. galloi (grupo II) e T. pretiosum (grupo III). O marcador ITS2 mostrou ser um poderoso DNA barcode para discriminar espécies de Trichogramma podendo ser usado como complemento da abordagem morfológica.

Impact of COVID-19 on education, health and lifestyle behaviour of Brazilian urology residents

ABSTRACT Objectives: To evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on clinical and surgical practice, educational activities, health and lifestyle behavior of Brazilian urology residents. Materials and Methods: A web-based survey was sent to 468 Brazilian urology residents from postgraduate years (PGY) 3 to 5 to collect data on clinical practice and training after 4 months of COVID-19. We also assessed health-related and behavior changes, rate of infection by SARS-CoV-2, deployment to the front line of COVID-19, residents' concerns, and access to personal protective equipment (PPE). Results: Massive reductions in elective and emergency patient consultations, diagnostic procedures and surgeries were reported across the country, affecting PGY 3 to 5 alike. Most in-person educational activities were abolished. The median damage to the urological training expected for 2020 was 6.0 [3.4 - 7.7], on a scale from 0 to 10, with senior residents estimating a greater damage (P< 0.001). Educational interventions developed included online case-based discussions, subspeciality conferences and lectures, and grand rounds. Most senior residents favored extending residency to compensate for training loss and most younger residents favored no additional training (p< 0.001). Modifications in health and lifestyle included weight gain (43.8%), reduced physical activity (68.6%), increased alcoholic intake (44.9%) and cigarette consumption (53.6%), worsening of sexual life (25.2%) and feelings of sadness or depression (48,2%). Almost half were summoned to work on the COVID-19 front-line and 24.4% had COVID-19. Most residents had inadequate training to deal with COVID-19 patients and most reported a shortage of PPE. Residents' concerns included the risk of contaminating family members, being away from residency program, developing severe COVID-19 and overloading colleagues. Conclusions: COVID-19 had a massive impact in Brazilian urology residents´ training, health and lifestyle behavior, which may reflect what happened in other medical specialties. Studies should confirm these findings to help developing strategies to mitigate residents' losses.