Clinico-pathologic profile and pattern of p53 expression of lung adenocarcinoma in non-smokers and smokers in a tertiary cancer centre

Background: Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Smoking is undoubtedly the major risk factor of lung cancer in both genders. Adenocarcinoma is the most common form of lung cancer in both men and women and the most prevalent subtype in non-smokers. Lung cancer in never-smokers is a distinct entity with sparse studies. We studied the clinico-pathologic profile of lung adenocarcinoma and pattern of p53 expression in smokers and non-smokers. Methods: A prospective study involving 100 lung adenocarcinoma cases from January 2020 to June 2021 examined p53 expression using immunohistochemistry. Trucut biopsies, fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) cell blocks, and pleural effusion were analyzed to identify the predominant morphological subtype of the lung adenocarcinoma. Results: The most common histological pattern of lung adenocarcinoma was solid, and the presenting symptoms were cough and dyspnoea in both smokers and non-smokers. The incidence of lung adenocarcinoma was higher in non-smokers in the study. p53 expression had a significant correlation with smoking but not with stage of disease or morphological subtype of lung adenocarcinoma. Conclusions: p53 mutation has a statistical correlation with smoking in adenocarcinomas in our population. Among the adenocarcinoma cases in our study, non-smokers predominate (n=53). Even though our study showed the p53 mutation has no statistical correlation with the stage of the disease or histological subtype in adenocarcinoma, more cases need to be studied to prove this observation.

Motivation on the uptake of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in Calabarzon region, Philippines

Background: COVID-19 vaccination is essential for public health, aiming to limit virus transmission and severity of illness. The motivation for individuals to get vaccinated can vary and is influenced by a combination of factors. This study aimed to identify the factors that motivated Filipino residents in Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon Province, or the Calabarzon region to get vaccinated with the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was utilized in this study. Researcher-made survey questionnaires were distributed online through Google forms. Study participants were either fully or partially vaccinated with SARS-CoV-2 vaccines or have received their booster shots. Descriptive statistics were used to examine the extrinsic and intrinsic factors toward uptake of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. The participants’ overall knowledge and attitude were scored using Bloom’s cut-off point. Results: A total of 398 participants were approached from June to July 2022. Participants were 55.3% female, and the majority were 29 years and below (77.1%). Family/friends, lifestyle, government, community, and peers/associates were the extrinsic factors that motivated them to get vaccinated. As for the intrinsic factors, 86.4% showed adequate knowledge and 63.6% had positive attitude towards the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Conclusions: To have a successful vaccination campaign, both extrinsic and intrinsic factors must be considered when exploring the motivation of local residents to get vaccinated for COVID-19. Family/friends were the primary extrinsic factor, followed by lifestyle, government, community, and peers/associates. Most participants showed adequate knowledge and a positive attitude toward the SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Focusing on these factors may address vaccine hesitancy.

Presacral tumor, experience of two cases in Mexico and review of the literature

Presacral or retrorectal tumors are rare, they can present different histologic strains and they can also be benign or malignant. These tumors represent a challenge for the surgeon due to their location in the presacral space and due to the low incidence and written information. Various surgical approaches have been described. We present the case of two patients who were diagnosed with presacral tumors (hamartoma and schwannoma) and who underwent a posterior approach for the removal of the tumors. There are several approaches for the treatment of presacral tumors, but in our experience, the posterior approach has shown adequate results without recurrence in the medium-term follow-up. The purpose of the manuscript is to document our experience in the management of two patients.

Effectiveness of Benson’s Relaxation Technique In Stressed PCOD Women

Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrinological disorder in women, causing metabolic dysfunction and body composition changes. As of June 30, 2022, WHO estimates indicate over 116 million women (3.4%) globally are affected by PCOS. Stress, defined as worry and mental tension from difficult situations, is a major contributor to reproductive dysfunction. Reports increasingly highlight stress’s role in PCOS manifestation. The study aims to assess the Benson relaxation technique’s effectiveness in alleviating stress in women with PCOS.Aim: To determine the effectiveness of Benson’s relaxation technique in stressed PCOD.Methodology: Study Design: Experimental study, Study setting: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College and Hospital, Department of Physiotherapy, Bangalore -560045 Sample design: Purposive sampling. Sample size: 30 patients.Result: A significant reduction in stress among PCOD women was observed with the use of Benson’s Relaxation Technique. The pre-perceived stress score before the technique was 22.63±5.26, decreasing to 18.23±5.98 post-intervention. The enhancement score was 4.40, with a t-value of 11.08. The analysis indicates a substantial stress reduction among PCOD women using Benson’s Relaxation Technique, as assessed through the Perceived Stress Scale (p<0.001).Conclusion: The study conclusively demonstrated the efficacy of Benson’s Relaxation Technique in alleviating stress among women with PCOD. The analysis revealed a significant shift in stress levels, with 33.4% transitioning from high to moderate stress, 30.3% from moderate to low, and 30% maintaining moderate stress. Only 3.3% had persistent low stress, and the same percentage had persistent high stress. The pre-intervention stress score was 22.63526, decreasing to 18.2315.98 post-intervention, yielding a noteworthy enhancement score of 4.40. This signifies a statistically significant reduction in perceived stress (p<0.001), supported by a t-value of 11.08.

Temporal evolution of postsurgical bone repair in a rabbit model: A [99mTc]Tc-MDP scintigraphic study

Abstract Bone regeneration is crucial for repairing bone tissue following various injuries. Research techniques that enable the study of metabolic changes in bone tissue under different conditions are important for understanding bone repair and remodeling. This study used bone scintigraphy to evaluate osteogenesis secondary to osteotomy in a preclinical model of New Zealand rabbits. For this purpose, we conducted a longitudinal, prospective, case-control study in which scintigraphic variables were measured in both the right forearm (case-operated) and the left forearm (control - non-operated). The study sample consisted of 10 rabbits subjected to osteotomy, followed by a 12-week postoperative evaluation period, divided into six imaging stages at 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, and 12 weeks. We observed that the operated forearm showed significantly higher external radiation than the control side, using the pinhole collimator, denoting an increase in the biodistribution and tropism of the radiopharmaceutical to the operated forearm. Among the three evaluated time points, osteoblastic activity was highest in the second week and presented a significant decline in the 8th and 12th weeks, denoting regeneration and resolution of the surgical injury; the control forearm was also influenced by the inactivity imposed by the operated forearm. This fact was notably evidenced by the reduction in the metabolic activity of osteoblasts in the left forearm. Our study suggested that bone scintigraphy was sensitive enough to semi-quantitatively differentiate the metabolic activity of osteoblasts in the operated forearm in the three temporal landmarks evaluated in the study.

Clinical insights into dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare, locally aggressive cutaneous soft tissue sarcoma, it is the second most common skin sarcoma after Kaposi's sarcoma. The cause of DFSP remains unknown. The case of a 54-year-old female patient with a diagnosis of Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans is presented, displaying a typical clinical presentation. It is characterized by an initial lesion in the form of a reddish spot on the anterior region of the chest, which showed slow growth until the development of a multinodular and irregular lesion with multiple recurrences. The lesion is resected, confined to the superficial layers of the skin, with 3 cm margins, confirming the histopathological diagnosis of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans with clear margins. DFSP is an uncommon cutaneous sarcoma that is typically low- to intermediate-grade, and while it has a limited likelihood of metastasis, it exhibits a notable tendency for local recurrence. The risk of recurrence is closely linked to the extent of surgical resection.

Performance evaluation of the commercial aquafeeds available in the market of Pakistan on Channa marulius (Sole) / Avaliação de desempenho dos alimentos aquáticos comerciais disponíveis no mercado do Paquistão em Channa marulius (Sole)

Abstract The present study aimed to determine the effect of different levels of protein on the growth, body composition, amino acid profile and serology of Channa marulius fingerlings. The experiment was conducted in ten happas installed in earthen ponds, each stocked with 10 fishes for 90 days. Four commercial fish feeds having 25%, 30%, 32% and 40% crude protein (CP) levels were fed to fish at 3% of their wet body weight three times a day. The results of the study revealed that highest weight gain, feed conversion ratio and survival rate were observed in 30% protein feed. Meanwhile, moisture content was higher in fish fed with 30% CP feed while highest crude protein was recorded in 40% CP fed fish. Lowest fat content was observed in 32% CP feed. Amino acid profile of fish revealed better results in 30% CP feed. Total protein, glucose and globulin were also highest in fish feeding 30% CP feed, while albumin was highest in 40% CP feed. It is concluded that 30% CP feed showed better results in terms of growth, amino acid profile and serological parameters without effecting fish body composition.

Resumo O presente estudo teve como objetivo determinar o efeito de diferentes níveis de proteína sobre o crescimento, composição corporal, perfil de aminoácidos e sorologia de alevinos de Channa marulius. O experimento foi conduzido em dez happas instalados em tanques de terra, cada um abastecido com 10 peixes, por 90 dias. Quatro alimentos para peixes comerciais com níveis de 25%, 30%, 32% e 40% de proteína bruta (PB) foram dados aos peixes com 3% de seu peso corporal úmido três vezes ao dia. Os resultados do estudo revelaram que maior ganho de peso, taxa de conversão alimentar e taxa de sobrevivência foram observados em 30% de proteína alimentar. Enquanto isso, o conteúdo de umidade foi maior em peixes alimentados com 30% de PB, enquanto a proteína bruta mais alta foi registrada em peixes alimentados com 40% de PB. O menor conteúdo de gordura foi observado em rações com 32% de PB. O perfil de aminoácidos dos peixes revelou melhores resultados na ração com 30% de PB. Proteína total, glicose e globulina também foram maiores em peixes alimentados com ração com 30% de PB, enquanto a albumina foi mais alta com 40% de PB. Conclui-se que a ração com 30% de PB apresentou melhores resultados em termos de crescimento, perfil de aminoácidos e parâmetros sorológicos sem afetar a composição corporal dos peixes.

Sorghum hybrids grown in hydroponics contrast for phosphorus use efficiency / Híbridos de sorgo crescidos em hidroponia contrastam para eficiência de uso de fósforo

Phosphorus (P) use efficiency is crucial for sorghum production. P acquisition efficiency is the most important component of P use efficiency. The early-stage evaluation of plant development is a useful tool for identifying P-efficient genotypes. This study aimed to identify sorghum hybrids that are efficient in P use efficiency and assess the genetic diversity among hybrids based on traits related to P acquisition efficiency. Thus, 38 sorghum hybrids and two inbred lines (checks) were evaluated under low and high P in a paper pouch system with nutrient solution. Biomass and root traits related to P efficiency were measured. There was no interaction between genotypes and P levels concerning all evaluated traits. The biomass and root traits, except root diameter, presented smaller means under low P than high P. Efficient and inefficient hybrids under each P level were identified. The genetic diversity assessment grouped these genotypes in different clusters. The hybrids AG1090, MSK326, AG1060, 1G100, AS 4639, DKB 540, and DKB 590 were superior under low-P and high-P. Hybrids SC121, 1236020 e 1167017 presented the lowest means than all other hybrids, under both conditions. The evaluated hybrids showed phenotypic diversity for traits related to P acquisition, such as root length and root surface area, which can be useful for establishing selection strategies for sorghum breeding programs and increasing P use efficiency.

A eficiência do uso do fósforo (P) é fundamental para a produção de sorgo. A avaliação no estágio inicial do desenvolvimento da planta é uma ferramenta útil para a identificação de genótipos eficientes de P. Este trabalho teve como objetivo identificar híbridos de sorgo que sejam eficientes ao uso de P e avaliar a diversidade genética entre os híbridos com base em características relacionadas à eficiência de aquisição de P. Assim, 38 híbridos de sorgo e duas linhagens (testemunhas) foram avaliados sob baixo e alto P em sistema de pastas de papel com solução nutritiva. Características de biomassa e de raiz relacionadas à eficiência de P foram mensuradas. Não houve interação entre genótipos e níveis de P em todas as características avaliadas. As características de biomassa e raiz, exceto o diâmetro da raiz, apresentaram médias menores sob baixo P em comparação com alto P. Híbridos eficientes e ineficientes sob cada nível de P foram identificados e agrupados quanto à diversidade genética. Os híbridos AG1090, MSK326, AG1060, 1G100, AS 4639, DKB 540 e DKB 590 foram superiores sob baixo-P e alto-P. Os híbridos SC121, 1236020 e 1167017 apresentaram as menores médias que todos os outros híbridos, em ambas condições. Os híbridos avaliados apresentaram diversidade fenotípica para características relacionadas à aquisição de P, como comprimento e área superficial da raiz, o que pode ser útil para estabelecer estratégias de seleção para programas de melhoramento de sorgo e aumentar a eficiência de uso do P.

Performance evaluation of the commercial aquafeeds available in the market of Pakistan on Channa marulius (Sole)

Abstract The present study aimed to determine the effect of different levels of protein on the growth, body composition, amino acid profile and serology of Channa marulius fingerlings. The experiment was conducted in ten happas installed in earthen ponds, each stocked with 10 fishes for 90 days. Four commercial fish feeds having 25%, 30%, 32% and 40% crude protein (CP) levels were fed to fish at 3% of their wet body weight three times a day. The results of the study revealed that highest weight gain, feed conversion ratio and survival rate were observed in 30% protein feed. Meanwhile, moisture content was higher in fish fed with 30% CP feed while highest crude protein was recorded in 40% CP fed fish. Lowest fat content was observed in 32% CP feed. Amino acid profile of fish revealed better results in 30% CP feed. Total protein, glucose and globulin were also highest in fish feeding 30% CP feed, while albumin was highest in 40% CP feed. It is concluded that 30% CP feed showed better results in terms of growth, amino acid profile and serological parameters without effecting fish body composition.

Resumo O presente estudo teve como objetivo determinar o efeito de diferentes níveis de proteína sobre o crescimento, composição corporal, perfil de aminoácidos e sorologia de alevinos de Channa marulius. O experimento foi conduzido em dez happas instalados em tanques de terra, cada um abastecido com 10 peixes, por 90 dias. Quatro alimentos para peixes comerciais com níveis de 25%, 30%, 32% e 40% de proteína bruta (PB) foram dados aos peixes com 3% de seu peso corporal úmido três vezes ao dia. Os resultados do estudo revelaram que maior ganho de peso, taxa de conversão alimentar e taxa de sobrevivência foram observados em 30% de proteína alimentar. Enquanto isso, o conteúdo de umidade foi maior em peixes alimentados com 30% de PB, enquanto a proteína bruta mais alta foi registrada em peixes alimentados com 40% de PB. O menor conteúdo de gordura foi observado em rações com 32% de PB. O perfil de aminoácidos dos peixes revelou melhores resultados na ração com 30% de PB. Proteína total, glicose e globulina também foram maiores em peixes alimentados com ração com 30% de PB, enquanto a albumina foi mais alta com 40% de PB. Conclui-se que a ração com 30% de PB apresentou melhores resultados em termos de crescimento, perfil de aminoácidos e parâmetros sorológicos sem afetar a composição corporal dos peixes.

Sorghum hybrids grown in hydroponics contrast for phosphorus use efficiency

Abstract Phosphorus (P) use efficiency is crucial for sorghum production. P acquisition efficiency is the most important component of P use efficiency. The early-stage evaluation of plant development is a useful tool for identifying P-efficient genotypes. This study aimed to identify sorghum hybrids that are efficient in P use efficiency and assess the genetic diversity among hybrids based on traits related to P acquisition efficiency. Thus, 38 sorghum hybrids and two inbred lines (checks) were evaluated under low and high P in a paper pouch system with nutrient solution. Biomass and root traits related to P efficiency were measured. There was no interaction between genotypes and P levels concerning all evaluated traits. The biomass and root traits, except root diameter, presented smaller means under low P than high P. Efficient and inefficient hybrids under each P level were identified. The genetic diversity assessment grouped these genotypes in different clusters. The hybrids AG1090, MSK326, AG1060, 1G100, AS 4639, DKB 540, and DKB 590 were superior under low-P and high-P. Hybrids SC121, 1236020 e 1167017 presented the lowest means than all other hybrids, under both conditions. The evaluated hybrids showed phenotypic diversity for traits related to P acquisition, such as root length and root surface area, which can be useful for establishing selection strategies for sorghum breeding programs and increasing P use efficiency.

Resumo A eficiência do uso do fósforo (P) é fundamental para a produção de sorgo. A avaliação no estágio inicial do desenvolvimento da planta é uma ferramenta útil para a identificação de genótipos eficientes de P. Este trabalho teve como objetivo identificar híbridos de sorgo que sejam eficientes ao uso de P e avaliar a diversidade genética entre os híbridos com base em características relacionadas à eficiência de aquisição de P. Assim, 38 híbridos de sorgo e duas linhagens (testemunhas) foram avaliados sob baixo e alto P em sistema de pastas de papel com solução nutritiva. Características de biomassa e de raiz relacionadas à eficiência de P foram mensuradas. Não houve interação entre genótipos e níveis de P em todas as características avaliadas. As características de biomassa e raiz, exceto o diâmetro da raiz, apresentaram médias menores sob baixo P em comparação com alto P. Híbridos eficientes e ineficientes sob cada nível de P foram identificados e agrupados quanto à diversidade genética. Os híbridos AG1090, MSK326, AG1060, 1G100, AS 4639, DKB 540 e DKB 590 foram superiores sob baixo-P e alto-P. Os híbridos SC121, 1236020 e 1167017 apresentaram as menores médias que todos os outros híbridos, em ambas condições. Os híbridos avaliados apresentaram diversidade fenotípica para características relacionadas à aquisição de P, como comprimento e área superficial da raiz, o que pode ser útil para estabelecer estratégias de seleção para programas de melhoramento de sorgo e aumentar a eficiência de uso do P.

Clinical prognostication of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: insight from a prospective observational study using the shockable, witnessed, age and pH score

Background: Cardiac arrest remains a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Though there are many prognostic tools, the importance of predicting prognosis of out of hospital cardiac arrest in the emergency department (ED) using SWAP (Shockable, witnessed, age and pH) score has not been studied extensively. Methods: We conducted a hospital-based prospective observational study in Kerala, India, focusing on patients who arrived at the ED after experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). For patients who met the inclusion criteria, (all patients who came to ED with OHCA with age more than 18 years) we calculated the SWAP score using historical information and venous blood gas sample analysis. Patients who achieved return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) were closely monitored, and post-cardiac arrest care was initiated. Patients who achieved sustained ROSC were admitted, and at time of discharge, follow-up was conducted using cerebral performance category (CPC) score. Results: The SWAP score was computed for patients who experienced OHCA. The analysis revealed that patients with favorable outcomes (CPC 1 and 2) had an average SWAP score of 1, while patients with unfavorable outcomes (CPC 3, 4, 5) had an average SWAP score of 1.55. Among the total of 116 patients, 7 individuals (6.03%) survived with positive neurological outcomes (CPC 1 and 2), while 109 patients (93.96%) experienced poor neurological outcomes (CPC 3, 4, 5, and mortality). Conclusions: Patients who had a high SWAP score had a reduced likelihood of survival and sustained ROSC. Conversely, patients with a SWAP score below 2 had a higher probability of experiencing a ROSC and surviving.

Ileoileal intussusception secondary to angiofibrolipoma

Intussusception is an uncommon cause of intestinal occlusion in adults, accounting for 1-5% of the causes. In this group it is important to rule out malignant tumors as the primary cause of intussusception. This pathology is explained by the invagination of a segment of the intestine onto itself. The clinical manifestations are those typical of intestinal occlusion. Within the study protocol, the CT scan shows the target sign or sausage image depending on the slice. Surgical management will be necessary in order to re-establish intestinal transit and remove tumors. We present the case of a 45-year-old woman with upper intestinal occlusion secondary to ileoileal intussusception due to submucosal angiofibrolipoma.

Bruxismo y su asociación con la disfunción temporomandibular en niños. Revisión de literatura / Bruxism and its association with temporomandibular disorders in children. Literature review

Resumen Introducción: El bruxismo está definido como una actividad oral motora que consiste en el apretamiento o rechinamiento involuntario (rítmico o espasmódico no funcional) de los dientes, con una prevalencia de 5,9% a 49,6% en niños. Lo que podría contribuir a problemas clínicos asociados con la articulación temporomandibular. La asociación entre la disfunción temporomandibular (DTM) y el bruxismo en niños aún no está totalmente establecida. Objetivo: El objetivo de esta revisión de literatura es recopilar información actualizada de estudios que hayan abordado la asociación entre el bruxismo y la disfunción temporomandibular en niños de 3 a 12 años. Metodología: Se realizó una búsqueda en las bases de datos de Scopus, Pubmed y Scielo usando los descriptores "Niño", "Niños", "Preescolar", "Bruxismo", "Bruxismo del sueño", "Disfunción Temporomandibular"; y, "Síndrome de la Disfunción de Articulación Temporomandibular". Fueron incluidos artículos publicados en los últimos 15 años en idiomas español, inglés y portugués. Fueron incluidos estudios transversales, de cohorte, casos controles y ensayos clínicos aleatorizados. Resultados: Se evaluaron 242 artículos, de los cuales solo 11 fueron incluidos de acuerdo a los criterios de inclusión. Entre los estudios incluidos, dos de ellos no encontraron asociación entre DTM y bruxismo, tres encontraron una tendencia o probable asociación y seis encontraron una asociación positiva. Conclusiones: Existen estudios que relatan asociación entre el bruxismo y las disfunciones temporomandibulares en niños de 3 a 12 años, relacionando la presencia de signos y síntomas de la DTM con el bruxismo, pudiendo ser este último, un factor de riesgo para la presencia de DTM.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Bruxism is defined as an oral motor activity that consists of involuntary clenching or grinding (non-functional rhythmic or spasmodic) of the teeth, with a prevalence rate ranging from 5.9% to 49.6% in children, which could contribute to clinical problems associated with the temporomandibular joint. The association between bruxism in children and temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) is not yet fully established. Objective: The objective of this literature review is to collect up-to-date information on studies that have addressed the association between bruxism and temporomandibular dysfunction in children ranging 3 - 12 years of age. Methods: A search was performed in the Scopus, PubMed and SciELO databases using the descriptors "Child", "Children", "Child, Preschool", "Bruxism", "Sleep Bruxism", "Temporomandibular Dysfunction" and "Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome." Articles published in the last 15 years in the Spanish, English and Portuguese languages were included. Results: A total of seventy-two articles were assessed. Only 11 articles were included according to the inclusion criteria. Among the included studies, two of them found no association between TMD and bruxism, three found a trend or probable association, and six found a positive association. Conclusion: There are studies that report an association between bruxism and temporomandibular dysfunctions in children ranging 3 - 12 years old, relating the presence of signs and symptoms of TMD with bruxism.

Vascular hamartoma in the distal region of the anterior face of the left forearm, a rare lesion: a case report

The word hamartoma is derived from the Greek word hamartia meaning "to err" or "to blame", with the addition of "-oma" denoting a tumor-like growth. Hamartomas are non-malignant tissue malformations characterized by defective dissemination of fully differentiated cells and soft tissue native to the affected organ. If the tissues involved are composed of blood vessels, they are called vascular hamartomas. In our manuscript we describe the case of a 16-year-old adolescent with the presence of a tumor in the distal region, anterior face of the left forearm, who underwent an excisional biopsy with histopathological report of vascular hamartoma, currently with adequate postoperative evolution. The most commonly reported site of occurrence of vascular hamartomas is on the face and they are generally asymptomatic and silent at different stages of life. The definitive diagnosis for this type of pathology is by histopathology. Vascular hamartomas are a rarely reported benign pathology, due to their low incidence, this can make timely diagnosis difficult, as well as the ideal treatment for these patients.

Effect of Harvesting Stage and Drying Method on Cowpea Leaf Nutrient Composition

Cowpea leaves are lost annually due to infestation and spoilage when being transported to clients and the losses at the local markets are brought on by inadequate postharvest handling procedures and market glut, particularly during peak seasons. High moisture content from the cowpea leaves at harvest stage may contribute to increased spoilage hence lowering quantity and quality. The choice of appropriate harvesting stage and drying method can help to reduce this problem. The aim of this study was to determine the best harvesting stage and efficient drying method that would maintain high leaf nutrient composition. Cowpeas variety M66 was used for the research and the treatments included three harvesting stages (21, 35 and 49 days after sowing [DAS]), three drying methods (open sun, solar dryer and oven. Data was collected on iron, calcium, crude fibre, beta carotene, protein and moisture content. The data was subjected for variance using Statistical Analysis System 9.2 edition and significantly different means separated using least significant difference at 5%. The results indicated significant (p<0.05) differences in moisture, calcium, proteins, beta carotene and crude fibre content in both trials. Harvest stage and drying method did not significantly (p<0.05) influence the iron content. Oven and solar drying methods showed better nutrient and mineral retention in the three harvesting stages when compared to the open sun drying method.

Bezoars: diagnosis, management, and potential complications in patients with psychiatric disorders

Word "bezoar" comes from Persian "pâdzahr," which means "antidote," since, in ancient times, it was believed that bezoar could cure and nullify effects of all poisons. In medical context, bezoar is the term used for conglomerates of undigested material that accumulate in de gastrointestinal tract. Case of 60-year-old female patient with repeated episodes of intestinal obstruction associated with digestive tract bleeding. She presented to emergency department with severe abdominal pain and intolerance to oral route. Computed tomography identified hypodense image suggestive of a oreign body in the small bowel lumen. During laparotomy, stone-like mass of approximately 3×5 cm was found at level of jejuno-ileal junction, 80 cm from Treitz ligament, with presence of an intestinal flange that conditions rotation of the intestinal loop on its axis. Intestinal obstruction due to bezoar is uncommon in adult patients, and symptoms are usually non-specific. It requires a high index of suspicion and effective screening for trichotillomania. In such cases, imaging studies such as tomography help to establish the diagnosis.

Effect of oral clonidine premedication on attenuating haemodynamic response to laryngoscopy and intubation during general anaesthesia

Background: Laryngoscopy with or without tracheal intubation evokes a defense mechanism that in turn alters patients’ haemodynamic responses in terms of increased heart rate (HR) and arterial blood pressure (ABP). Aim of current investigation was to study the efficacy of orally administered clonidine in a dose of 3-3.5 µg/kg given 90 minutes prior to scheduled time of the surgery, in attenuating the adverse haemodynamic responses to laryngoscopy and intubation of the trachea. Methods: Eighty normotensive patients between 20-60 years of age and having ASA grade I/II physical status were subdivided in two groups with 40 patients in each; test group received clonidine in a dose of 3-3.5 mcg/kg of body weight orally, 90 min before surgery and control group did not receive clonidine premedication. Induction was done with Thiopentone intravenous injection (5 mg/kg), followed by succinylcholine (1-1.5 mg/kg). Results: Haemodynamic responses in terms of parameters like HR, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP) were recorded at pre induction and at 1, 2, 3, 5 minutes following laryngoscopy. The 1-minute post induction values of SBP, DBP, MAP were significantly less in clonidine group (p<0.001) and the significance in listed parameters between two groups persisted until 5 minutes. Increase in HR was less in clonidine group than in control group. Conclusions: Premedication with oral clonidine 3-3.5 mcg/kg of body weight, 90 minutes before laryngoscopy and intubation is an efficient, simple and inexpensive method in attenuating the haemodynamic response generated due to laryngoscopy and intubation.

Intussusception as an unusual etiology of intestinal obstruction in adults: case report and review

Intussusception is a rare entity in adults, representing 1 to 5 percent of cases of intestinal obstruction. The clinical manifestations are non-specific, a structural lesion is identified by imaging, in more than 70% of the cases. Most cases require surgical treatment. We report the case of a 65-year-old female patient, with a history of intermittent colicky abdominal pain of two months of evolution, associated with nausea, vomiting, melena, and weight loss. Assessed in the emergency department due to worsening abdominal pain and lack of defecation. Her laboratory data reported anemia and leukocytosis. Abdominopelvic CT scan reported an image compatible with intussusception. We performed an emergency exploratory laparotomy, finding the terminal ileum invaginated into the colonic lumen., caused by a gastrointestinal stromal tumor. Intussusception in adults is uncommon but it should be considered as a diagnostic possibility in patients with intestinal obstruction, intestinal bleeding, and a palpable abdominal mass. Although these are non-specific manifestations, complementing the study with chemical and imaging analyzes significantly increases the diagnostic probability. The set of data obtained should be used to select the most appropriate treatment.

Intussusception as an unusual etiology of intestinal obstruction in adults: case report and review

Intussusception is a rare entity in adults, representing 1 to 5 percent of cases of intestinal obstruction. The clinical manifestations are non-specific, a structural lesion is identified by imaging, in more than 70% of the cases. Most cases require surgical treatment. We report the case of a 65-year-old female patient, with a history of intermittent colicky abdominal pain of two months of evolution, associated with nausea, vomiting, melena, and weight loss. Assessed in the emergency department due to worsening abdominal pain and lack of defecation. Her laboratory data reported anemia and leukocytosis. Abdominopelvic CT scan reported an image compatible with intussusception. We performed an emergency exploratory laparotomy, finding the terminal ileum invaginated into the colonic lumen., caused by a gastrointestinal stromal tumor. Intussusception in adults is uncommon but it should be considered as a diagnostic possibility in patients with intestinal obstruction, intestinal bleeding, and a palpable abdominal mass. Although these are non-specific manifestations, complementing the study with chemical and imaging analyzes significantly increases the diagnostic probability. The set of data obtained should be used to select the most appropriate treatment.

Psychological distress in relation to blood pressure among Andhra Pradesh state road transport corporation bus drivers, Vijayawada

Background: One of the major health problem worldwide is elevated blood pressure (BP). Prior research had shown that hypertensives experience psychological distress, although pre-hypertensives have not yet been subject to this research. Objectives were to assess the major risk factors of increasing BP among bus drivers and to assess psychological distress in relation to BP levels. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among Bus drivers aged above 20 years, study was carried out between July to October of 2022, a sample of 135 was taken. Inferential statistics such as Pearson Chi square test and an unpaired independent-sample t-test was used to assess the difference between pre-hypertensive and hypertensive individuals on GHQ score. Results: In the present study (n=135), 47% were normotensive, 34% were in hypertensive stage and 19% were in pre-hypertensive stage. On assessment of psychological distress in relation to BP among bus drivers the mean of (General health questionnaire) GHQ-12 was found to be 17.57 among hypertensives and 17.86 among pre-hypertensives. Two tailed significance value of 0.768 was observed between pre-hypertensive and hypertensive individuals indicating that psychological distress had significant effects. Conclusions: The prevalence of hypertension and pre-hypertension was among bus drivers, leading to cardio vascular diseases which in turn causes increased morbidity and mortality, lowering individual productivity and having an impact on the national economy. The prevalence of non-communicable diseases should be monitored by lifestyle changes and periodic screenings.