Misconceptional views about epilepsy exist across social class system of society

Epilepsy affects over 1% of population worldwide. Studies have shown that although our understanding about epilepsy has come a long way, misconceptions about its etiology and treatment exist in rural slums. However, no study has been conducted to see whether such misconceptions exist in middle and upper socio-economic class. This study aims to explore the existence of misconceptions and social stigma in the middle and upper socio-economic class. Materials and Methods: We conducted a survey-based study about epilepsy on 227 participants, belonging to middle and upper socio-economic class. Results: The symptoms of generalized tonic-clonic seizures were correctly described by participants. However, magic, superstition and ‘jin’ were considered as the etiology by some. Incorrect treatment options, like shoe sniffing and ‘taweez’ etc., were also mentioned. Social stigmas regarding sharing information about epilepsy and marrying epileptics also existed. Discussion: Our study shows that although the general understanding about epilepsy was correct in majority of participants belonging to the middle upper socio-economic class, it was restricted to generalized tonic clonic seizures. Key misconceptions regarding the etiology and treatment of epilepsy and social stigma associated with it did exist. These findings emphasize the need to educate all segments of the society about epileps

Wandering Spleen: A Rare Condition with Splenic Torsion and Infarction in an Elderly Patient

Ectopic spleen or wandering spleen is an uncommon presentation in which the spleen’s anatomical location is different from its fixed position in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen, due to the absence of the typical peritoneal attachments; the spleen is more mobile inside the abdomen. Congenital or acquired conditions are the cause of this anomaly, which could ultimately result in torsion and splenic infarction. Less than 0.2% of wandering spleen cases are reported annually, making it a rare clinical manifestation. Splenic vascular pedicle torsion can result in complications that can cause symptoms of an acute abdomen as a result of ischemic necrosis of the spleen. Computed tomography and ultrasonography with Doppler or CEUS are essential for accurate diagnosis due to the vague clinical signs and potential complications. This case involves a 70-year-old elderly woman who complained of extreme abdominal pain and vomiting for three days. On physical examination, a tense right lower quadrant lump was palpated, when she visited the emergency room. An urgent CT scan was done for the acute abdomen which revealed torsion of the splenic pedicle in a wandering spleen

Temperature-dependent effects on some biological aspects of two ectoparasitoids of Phyllocnistis citrella (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae)

Abstract Background Temperature alters host suitability for the development of parasitoids through direct (thermal effect) and indirect (parental effect) pathways. The effects of three temperature regimes on the development and survival of two parasitoid species, Citrostichus phyllocnistoides (Narayanan) and Cirrospilus ingenuus Gahan (Eulophidae: Hymenoptera) of the citrus leafminer, Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) was evaluated. The experiment was conducted at 20, 25, and 30°C temperatures with 65 ± 2% relative humidity (R.H.) and 16h: 8h (L: D) photoperiod. Results In C. phyllocnistoides, the pre-ovipositional period was longer at 20°C, while non- significant difference was observed in the pre-ovipositional period of C. ingenuus under the effect of different temperatures (P > 0.05). The ovipositional period of C. phyllocnistoides and C. ingenuus was higher at 20°C and gradually decreased by increasing the temperature. Non- significant (P > 0.05) difference was found in post-ovipositional period of both parasitoid species. Both species exhibited the maximum fecundity at 25°C, while, the minimum fecundity was recorded at 30°C. However, the adult longevity of both parasitoid species was highest at 20°C and gradually decreased by increasing the temperature. In both parasitoids, the parasitism rate was highest at 25°C. Conclusion This study highlighted the importance of thermal effects on some parasitoid species of insect pests to predict the future of trophic dynamics in global warming situations