Design expert assisted formulation of topical bioadhesive gel of sertaconazole nitrate

PURPOSE

The objective of this work was to develop a bioadhesive topical gel of sertaconazole nitrate with the help of response-surface approach.

METHODS

Experiments were performed according to a 3-level factorial design to evaluate the effects of two independent variables [amount of Carbapol 934 = X1) and Sodium carboxymethylcellulose (NaCMC) = X2)] on the bioadhesive character of gel, rheological property of gel (consistency index), and in-vitro drug release. The best model was selected to fit the data.

RESULTS

Mathematical equation was generated by Design Expert® software for the model which assists in determining the effect of independent variables. Response surface plots were also generated by the software for analyzing effect of the independent variables on the response. The effect of formulation variables on the product characteristics can be easily predicted and precisely interpreted by using a 3-level factorial design and generated quadratic mathematical equations.

CONCLUSION

On the basis of product characteristics viscosity, bioadhesiveness, permeation study, in-vitro release, in-vivo studies, TPA and spreadability it can be concluded that the best batch of topical bioadhesive gel of Sertaconazole nitrate would be with 1% Carbopol 934 and 1% NaCMC.

Acute toxicity of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in oral cavity cancers: Can it be predicted?

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Background: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy administration is associated with significant amount of morbidity and around 2-3% mortality in the Western world protocol settings. In developing countries where malnourishment is prevalent, the same data might not apply. Methods: This analysis was performed on a database of patients undergoing NACT for oral cancers at our center from 2010- 2012. The toxicity was graded according to CTCAE version 4.02 scale. Descriptive analysis, univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to determine factors affecting toxicity. Results: There were 528 patients, the median age was 45 years (22-78 years). The regimens administered were TPF in 35 patients (6.6%) and taxane with platinum in the rest. At least one cycle of chemotherapy was taken at our center by 94.8% (494). The median number of cycles were 2. The any grade toxicity after 1st cycle of chemotherapy were vomiting, diarrhea, mucositis, fatigue, febrile neutropenia (FN), peripheral neuropathy, hyponatremia, hypokalemia, hperkalemia, transaminitis were in 41.3% (204), 43.9% (217), 44.3% (219), 47.2% (233), 7.2% (35), 3.0% (15), 33.8% (167), 14.4% (71), 4.9% (24) and 12.3% (61).Toxicity details of second cycle of chemotherapy were available for 390 patients. The any grade toxicity after 2nd cycle of chemotherapy were vomiting, diarrhea, mucositis, fatigue, febrile neutropenia, peripheral neuropathy, hyponatremia, hypokalemia, hyperkalemia, transaminitis were in 28.6% (113), 37.3% (108), 31.3% (124), 39.3% (116), 3.1 % (12), 3.2% (13), 19.7 % (74), 7.4% (30), 3.1% (12) and 4.9% (19). For diarrhoea, female sex, nutrition (BMI below 18.5 KG/m2) and use of 3 drug regimen were predictive. For development of mucositis only nutrition was predictive. Use of 3 drug regimen and overnourishment were predictive of FN. Use of 3 drug regimen and use of docetaxel were predictive for hyponatremia. On multivariate analysis for diarrhoea only nutrition was predictive (p=0.017), for FN both drug regimen (p=0.003) and over nutrition (p=0.035) were predictive and for hyponatremia only use of 3 drug regimen was significant (p=0.017). Conclusions: 3 drug regimen, malnourishment and use of docetaxel are important predictors of acute toxicity associated with NACT in oral cancers.

Predicting complications of chemotherapy-induced febrile neutropenia: A single-center experience

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Background: Identifying the parameters associated with increased complications would help to formulate a cost-effective and rational therapy in patients with chemotherapy induced febrile neutropenia. Methods: We prospectively collected data from January 2007-December 2011 of consecutive episodes of neutropenic fever at our centre. Clinical features, laboratory characteristics and MASCC score were analysed to identify patients at higher risk for developing complications. Complications were defined as either of the following event: failure of first line antibiotics, organ failure, delay in next cycle of chemotherapy, inpatient admission and death. Results: Three hundred and eighty-eight febrile neutropenia (FN) episodes in 373 patients were included, 256 episodes of FN in hematolymphoid malignancies and 132 episodes of FN in solid tumours. The median age was 31 years (11-76 years). Two hundred and forty-four (65.4%) patients were male. One hundred forty-nine patients (39.94%) had FN during previous cycles, while primary GCSF prophylaxis was used for 205 (52.84%) cases. The median haemoglobin, nadir neutrophil count & median number of days with severe neutropenia (< 1X109/L) were 7.9 gm/dl, 0.04X109/L and 4 days respectively. A clinical focus of infection was present in 174 (44.8%) episodes, with gastrointestinal being the commonest in 70episodes (40.23%). High risk MASCC score (<21) was present in 156 episodes (40%). Complications were seen in 133(34%) instances. On Univariate analysis, age, type of malignancy, prophylactic growth factor use, clinical focus of infection, day of FN, MASCC score, nadir Hb and platelet count were significantly associated with complications. All predictive factors except age and nadir Hb could independently predict complication on multivariate analysis. Conclusions: Clinical and laboratory parameters in addition to MASCC score could help in identifying patients with FN who require hospitalisation and more intensive management strategies.

Are three drugs better than two and does docetaxel trump paclitaxel in induction therapy for locally advanced oral cavity cancers?

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Background: A variety of regimens have been used for induction chemotherapy in locally advanced head & neck cancers. Cisplatin & 5 FU drug combination is inferior to the combination of taxane & these 2 drugs. However, often in clinical practice at our center giving TPF is difficult in view of logistics & tolerance issues. In such scenarios we prefer to use 2 drug combination of platinum & taxane. However no study has addressed whether when the 2 drug combination includes taxane, is it still inferior to the 3 drug combination and which the taxane of choice is. Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of patients undergoing induction chemotherapy in oral cavity cancers from 2010-2012. We chose for analysis those patients who had a baseline scan and a follow-up scan done within 2 weeks of completion of the second cycle of induction chemotherapy. Response was scored in accordance with RECIST 1.1. Data was analyzed using SPSS, version 16. Chi- square analysis was done to compare response rates between regimens. Results: Two hundred & forty five patients were indentified. The median age was 45 years (24-70 years), 208 (84.9%) were male patients & in 154 patients (62.9%) had primary in buccal mucosa. The regimen received were TPF 22 (9%), TP (Docetaxel + cisplatin) 97 (39.6%), PP (paclitaxel+cisplatin) 89 (36.3%), TC (Docetaxel+ carboplatin) 16 (6.5%) & PC (paclitaxel + carboplatin) 21 (8.6%).The overall response rates (RR) were CR, PR,SD & PD in 4 (1.6%), 56 (22.9%), 145 (59.2%) & 40 (16.3%). On comparison, 3 drug regimen (TPF) had 50% RR as against 22% RR with 2 drug regimen (p=0.004). On comparison for taxane, docetaxel containing regimens had 30.3% RR as against 17.2% RR with paclitaxel containing regimens (p=0.018). There was no statistically significant difference in RR between patients receiving carboplatin or cisplatin. Conclusions: TPF had better RR than a 2 drug taxane-containing regimen and docetaxel leads to a better RR than paclitaxel for induction chemotherapy in locally advanced oral cavity cancers.

Role of paclitaxel and platinum-based adjuvant chemotherapy in high-risk penile cancer

Aim:

To study the efficacy and safety of paclitaxel and platinum doublet chemotherapy in penile cancer patients with high-risk features of local failure.

Materials and Methods:

Retrospective analysis was done of patients with 19 carcinoma of the penis who were offered adjuvant chemotherapy with paclitaxel and platinum combination. The data regarding the surgical details, high-risk features for which chemotherapy was offered, chemotherapy toxicity details (in accordance with CTCAE vs 3), failure pattern, and survival data were noted. SPSS version 16 was used for statistical analysis. Descriptive and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was performed.

Results:

Median age of patients was 48 years. Fifteen patients received paclitaxel in combination with cisplatin and four received paclitaxel with carboplatin in view of their low serum creatinine clearance. The treatment was completed by 12 patients (63.2%). Of 79 planned cycles, 50 were taken. The treatment was well tolerated with grade 3-4 gastrointestinal toxicity was seen in 1 patient, grade 3 neurological toxicity in one and grade 5 neutropenia in one patient. Treatment related death occured in one patient. The median follow-up was 15.33 months and 6 loco-regional relapsed had taken place. The estimated median DFS was 16.2 months and the estimated median OS was not reached. The estimated DFS for treatment completed patients was 23.13 months as against 2.16 months for patients not completing treatment.

Conclusion:

The platinum and taxane doublet chemotherapy was found to be safe and effective.

Hepaticoduodenostomy for Biliary Reconstruction After Surgical Resection of Choledochal Cyst: a 25-Year Experience

We reviewed our experience of hepaticoduodenostomy done for choledochal cyst from 1982 to 2007 at our center. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of hepaticoduodenostomy as a mode of biliary reconstruction after surgical resection of choledochal cyst, to look for any complications associated with hepaticoduodenostomy, with review of the literature. A total of 56 patients underwent hepaticoduodenostomy after surgical resection of choledochal cyst, of which 54 patients underwent primary cyst excision with hepaticoduodenostomy and 2 patients underwent redo surgery (hepaticoduodenostomy). Most of the patients had an uneventful postoperative recovery. Early complications were biliary leak in three patients which subsided on conservative treatment. Long-term complication was seen in only one patient who developed anastomotic stricture 18 years after primary resection of choledochal cyst and hepaticoduodenostomy. Hepaticoduodenostomy is a relatively safe procedure with very low complication rates. It requires a single anastomosis and is simple to perform.

Metronomic chemotherapy in advanced oral cancers

CONTEXT

To assess the feasibility of metronomic chemotherapy in the palliative care setting.

AIMS

To study the toxicity profile and efficacy of metronomic chemotherapy for palliation in oral cavity cancers.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Subjects receiving metronomic chemotherapy from August 2010 to January 2011 for palliation in oral cancers subjected to certain criteria were included. Metronomic chemotherapy offered was a combination of twice daily celecoxib 200 mg and weekly methotrexate 15 mg/m 2 .The chemotherapy was continued till disease progression, intolerable side effects or patients' desire to stop. The toxicity profile was reported in accordance with common terminology criteria for adverse events (CTCAE) version 4.02. The efficacy was noted in terms of symptom control, response rates, progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

SPSS version 16 has been utilized. Descriptive analysis has been presented. The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed for estimation of the PFS and OS.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients with a median age of 50.5 years, 13 males and 5 females, participated in the study. Five patients had received no previous treatment while the rest had some form of previous treatment. ECOG performance status was 1 in 14 patients and 2 in 4 patients. Grade 3-4 mucositis was seen in one patient. Clinical benefit rate was 66.67%. The estimated median PFS and median OS were 5.2 months and not reached respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of metronomic chemotherapy seems promising and well tolerated in this setting. Large trials are warranted to confirm these results.

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by definitive local treatment in locally advanced carcinoma maxillary sinus

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Background: Locally advanced carcinoma of maxillary sinus has been historically reported to have poor prognosis. We evaluated the role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in improving the outcome in these patients. Methods: 41 patients with locally advanced borderline resectable (stage IVa) or unresectable maxillary carcinoma (stage IVb) were treated with induction chemotherapy between 2008 and 2011. The protocol included 2 cycles of chemotherapy, response assessment and multidisciplinary clinic review for definitive local treatment. The demographic profile, response to induction therapy, toxicity of chemotherapy, definitive treatment received, time to treatment failure (TTF) and overall survival (OS) were analysed. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to determine factors associated with response, TTF and OS. Results: The cohort of 41 patients had a median age of 48 years (22-71) with male preponderance (80.5%). The chemotherapy included two drugs (platinum and taxane) in 34 patients (82.9%) and three drugs (platinum, taxane and 5 FU) in 7(17.1%) The taxane utilized was docetaxel in 22 patients (53.7%) and paclitaxel in 19 patients (46.3%). There was no complete response, stable disease in 18 (43.9%), partial response in 16 (39%), and progression in 7 (17.1%) patients. All patients competed two cycles of chemotherapy, adequate dose intensity was maintained in 33 patients (78%) and there were no deaths. Post-induction, the treatment planned included surgery in 12 (29.3%), CT-RT in 24 (58.5%), radical RT in 1 (2.4%), palliative RT in 1 (2.4%) and palliative chemotherapy in 3 ( 7.3%) patients. Overall, the median TTF was 10.2 months. With 16 deaths, the median OS was not reached. Only response post-induction was significantly associated with better TTF (p=0.02). Grade 3 tumor (p=0.04) and baseline serum albumin more than 4 mg/dl (p=0.02) were associated with better OS. Grade 3-4 neutropenia, febrile neutropenia and loose motions were seen in 21.1%, 23.8% and 15.8% respectively. Conclusions: In unresectable maxillary carcinoma, induction chemotherapy has clinically significant benefit with acceptable toxicity. Response to induction was the only significant factor for improved TTF.

Baby-step chemotherapy as a way to deliver chemotherapy in poor PS small cell lung cancer

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Background: Majority of patients with SCLC present with advanced stage and poor ECOG performance status. Hence delivery of adequate dose of chemotherapy is compromised. We hypothesized that initial low-dose chemotherapy might improve PS and enable administration of standard-dose chemotherapy, thus extending benefit of chemotherapy to otherwise ineligible patients. Methods: 30 patients with ECOG performance status 2-4 received low-dose chemotherapy consisting of either single agent carboplatin at AUC 2 or an abbreviated course of platinum-etoposide. Patients whose PS improved got full-dose chemotherapy with the standard regimen of platinum-etoposide. Demographic details, toxicity, time to progression and overall survival were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to determine factors associated with TTP and OS. Results: Median age was 58 years with male predominance. The PS was IV in 9, III in 20 and II in 1 patient. Extensive-stage and limited-stage disease was seen in 24 and 6 patients respectively.15 patients received single-agent carboplatin, 10 patients abbreviated cisplatin-etoposide, 1 patient each cyclophosphamide and cisplatin-etoposide and 3 patients refused chemotherapy. Major grade 3-4 toxicity was mucositis in 1, loose motions in 1 and hyponatremia in 4 patients. There was no grade 3- 4 haematological toxicity. The median number of dose-reduced cycles was 1 and 3 patients received more than 2 cycles. 22 patients were eligible and willing for full-dose chemotherapy. The median time to start of full-dose chemotherapy was 11.5 days (4-26 days). The median number of cycles of standard-dose chemotherapy was 5 (1-6) with 16 completing planned schedule. Grade 3-4 toxicity was neutropenia in 50%, febrile neutropenia in 25%, loose motions in 25% and hyponatremia in 40%. The overall TTP and OS was 182 days and 263 days respectively. Presence of SIADH (p = 0.02) and completion of standard treatment (p = 0.001) had a positive impact on TTP while completion of treatment (p = 0.01) and normal LDH (p = 0.03) had a positive impact on OS. Conclusions: Low-dose chemotherapy is well-tolerated and might help in extending the benefit of standard-dose chemotherapy to otherwise ineligible patients.

Palliative chemotherapy in head and neck cancers: A tertiary care center experience with weekly paclitaxel and cetuximab

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Background: The concept of combination of paclitaxel and cetuximab is an intersesting prospect as both these agents have single agent acitivity, minimal toxicity and hold a biological rationale for combination. The aim of our study was to see the safety,efficacy and feasibility of administration of this combination in a outpatient setting. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of the prospectively collected data, of patients offered weekly paclitaxel and cetuximab from May 2010-May 2011. The standard schedule of cetuximab along with 80 mg/m2 of weekly paclitaxel was administered till either disease progression or withdrawl of patient's consent. The toxicity profile was noted in accordance with CTCAE version 4.02 and response in accordance with RECIST criteria. SPSS version 16 has been utilized for analysis. Descriptive statistics are been presented and analyis of estimation of overall and progression free survival has been done with Kaplan-Meier survival method. Results: 42 patients with a median age of 52 years (35-81 years) were included. The KPS score was 60 in 1 (2.4%),70 in 11 (26.2%) and 80 in 30 patients(71.4%). Nearly half of our patients 22 (52.4%) had a primary in oral cavity. Except 3 (7.1%) patients rest all had received some form of previous treatment. The median event free period(EFP) from previous first line treatment was 231 days, it was below 180 days in 38.5% of patients. Best response observed was CR in 1 patient (2.4%), PR in 11 (26.2%), SD in 17 (40.5%) and PD in 13 (30.9%). Grade 3-4 skin changes were seen in 3 patients, grade 3-4 neuropathy was seen in 3 patients and there were no episodes of grade 3-4 gastrointestinal or haematological toxicity. The overall estimated median PFS and OS were 128 and 256 days. The median estimated PFS for patients with EFP less than 6 months versus more than 6 months was 115 and 165 days respectively (p = 0.132). Conclusions: The combination of paclitaxel and cetuximab was found to be safe, feasible and appears to be clinically beneficial.

Left renal vein ligation: a technique to mitigate low portal flow from splenic vein siphon during liver transplantation

Low portal vein flows in liver transplant have been associated with poor allograft survival. Identifying and ameliorating causes of inadequate portal flow is paramount. We describe successful reversal of significant splenic vein siphon from a spontaneous splenorenal shunt during liver transplant. The patient is a 43-year-old male with cirrhosis from hepatitis C and Budd-Chiari syndrome, who had a variceal hemorrhage necessitating an emergent splenorenal shunt with 8 mm PTFE graft. Imaging in 2006 revealed thrombosis of the splenorenal shunt and evidence of a new spontaneous splenorenal shunt. The patient developed hepatocellular carcinoma and underwent transplant in 2009. After reperfusion, portal flows were low (150-200 mL/min). A mesenteric varix was ligated without improvement. Due to adhesions, direct collateral ligation was not attempted. In order to redirect the splenic siphon, the left renal vein was stapled at its confluence with the inferior vena cava. Portal flows subsequently increased to 1.28 L/min. Postoperatively, the patient had stable renal and liver function. We conclude that spontaneous splenorenal shunts can cause low portal flows. A diligent search for shunts with understanding of flow patterns is critical; ligation or rerouting of splanchnic flow may be necessary to improve portal flows and allograft outcomes.

Decontamination of laryngoscope blades: is our practice adequate?

BACKGROUND

The laryngoscope has been identified as a potential source of cross-infection, because of blood and bacterial contamination. In India, there are no guidelines for cleaning and disinfection of anesthesia-related equipment. Practices for decontamination of laryngoscopes vary widely and in most healthcare institutes, laryngoscope blades are re-used after cleaning with tap-water.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We prospectively compared two techniques for decontamination of laryngoscope blades - a) washing with tap-water and b) washing with tap-water followed by disinfection by immersing in 5% v/v (volume/volume, 1:20 dilution) aldehyde-free biguanide agent for 10 min. We calculated the cost-effectiveness of using 5% v/v aldehyde-free biguanide agent for disinfection of laryngoscopes. We also conducted a survey to assess the decontamination practices in other Indian hospitals.

RESULTS

Overall bacterial growth was 58% (29 out of 50 blades) after tap-water cleaning (of which 60% were pathogenic organisms) versus 3.4% (one out of 29 blades) after tap-water cleaning followed by immersion in disinfectant (all of which were commensals). The cost of disinfection with biguanide was Indian Rupees 1.13 (20 US cents) per laryngoscope. Most hospitals in India do not have guidelines regarding laryngoscope decontamination between uses, and cleaning with tap water is a commonly used method.

CONCLUSION

Cleaning of laryngoscope blades with tap-water is a commonly used but inadequate method for decontamination. Washing with tap-water followed by disinfection with 5% v/v aldehyde-free biguanide for at least 10 min is an effective and inexpensive alternative. National guidelines for the decontamination of anesthesia equipment are necessary.

Prenatal sonographic diagnosis of fetal persistent urogenital sinus with congenital hydrocolpos

We report a case of persistent urogenital sinus with hydrocolpos and associated renal anomalies diagnosed prenatally at 30 weeks' gestation. The prenatal findings were confirmed on postnatal ultrasonography and genitogram with voiding urethrogram. The imaging features and a review of the literature are discussed. The possibility of hydrometrocolpos secondary to urogenital sinus should be considered on prenatal sonography in the presence of a presacral cystic mass with clear urine or turbid contents and a fluid-debris level (cervical or vaginal secretions). Because the prognosis and neonatal management of isolated hydrocolpos (which usually resolves spontaneously) differ greatly from those of hydrocolpos associated with a cloacal malformation, it is important to diagnose prenatally any associated anomalies in order to allow optimal postnatal management.

MR spectroscopy indicates diffuse multiple sclerosis activity during remission

OBJECTIVE

To test the hypothesis that diffuse abnormalities precede axonal damage and atrophy in the MRI normal-appearing tissue of relapsing-remitting (RR) multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, and that these processes continue during clinical remission.

METHODS

Twenty-one recently diagnosed mildly disabled (mean disease duration 2.3 years, mean Expanded Disability Status Scale score of 1.4) RR MS patients and 15 healthy matched controls were scanned with MRI and proton MR spectroscopic imaging ((1)H-MRSI) at 3 T. Metabolite concentrations: N-acetylaspartate (NAA) for neuronal integrity; choline (Cho) for membrane turnover rate; creatine (Cr) and myo-inositol (mI) for glial status were obtained in a 360 cm(3) volume of interest (VOI) with 3D multivoxel (1)H-MRSI. They were converted into absolute amounts using phantom replacement and normalised into absolute concentrations by dividing by the VOI tissue volume fraction obtained from MRI segmentation.

RESULTS

The patients' mean VOI tissue volume fraction, 0.92 and NAA concentration, 9.6 mM, were not different from controls' 0.94 and 9.6 mM. In contrast, the patients' mean Cr, Cho and mI levels 7.7, 1.9 and 4.1 mM were 9%, 14% and 20%, higher than the controls' 7.1, 1.6 and 3.4 mM (p = 0.0097, 0.003 and 0.0023).

CONCLUSIONS

The absence of early tissue atrophy and apparent axonal dysfunction (NAA loss) in these RR MS patients suggests that both are preceded by diffuse glial proliferation (astrogliosis), as well as possible inflammation, demyelination and remyelination reflected by elevated mI, Cho and Cr, even during clinical remission and despite immunomodulatory treatment.

The burden and determinants of reproductive tract infections in India: a population based study of women in Goa, India

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Reproductive tract infections (RTI) present major health, social, and economic problems in developing countries. Our objective was to describe the prevalence and risk factors of RTIs in a population based sample of women aged 18-45 years.

METHOD

2494 women of 3000 randomly selected from the population defined by a primary health centre catchment area consented to participate. Participants were interviewed regarding complaints and risk factors. Laboratory specimens were collected for the diagnosis of RTIs. Analyses of risk factors were carried out separately for the outcomes of sexually transmitted infections: chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomoniasis; and endogenous infections: bacterial vaginosis (BV) and candida.

RESULTS

Endogenous infections were relatively common (BV 17.8%; candida 8.5%), and sexually transmitted infections (STI) were infrequent (4.2%). Factors indicative of poverty and marginalisation were associated with STIs and BV. Gender disadvantage, particularly spousal violence, was associated with BV, while concern about a husband's extramarital relationships, an indicator of sexual risk, was associated with STI. Husband's discharge was strongly associated with STI, and a non-white vaginal discharge was associated with both STI and BV. Condom use and oral contraceptive use were associated with a reduced risk of BV.

CONCLUSIONS

Most of the population burden of RTIs is attributed to endogenous infections. Socioeconomic deprivation and gender disadvantage are associated with raised risk for BV, while the risk factors for STIs indicated that disadvantaged women were likely to be infected by their husbands.

Development and validation of risk scoring system for prediction of cancer cervix

A Hospital based group matched case-control study was conducted to devise a risk scoring system for the prediction of cancer cervix at the Gynecology Clinic, Government Medical College Hospital, Nagpur, India. The study consisted of 230 cases of cancer cervix (histopathologically confirmed) and equal number of controls, group matched for age. The risk factors considered were Illiteracy, long duration of married life (>25 years), Early Menarche (<13 years), marital status (widow, separated, divorcee), multiparity (> 3), h/o abortion, h/o tobacco use, h/o passive smoking, poor genital hygiene, (grade III & IV) and low socioeconomic status. Statistical Analysis included unconditional multiple logistic regression analysis Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. The overall predictive accuracy was calculated by Wilcoxon statistic as an equivalent of area under ROC curve. Five risk factors, illiteracy, poor genital hygiene, long duration of married life, multiparity and early menarche were identified to be significantly associated with cancer cervix. These factors were given statistical weights of 13, 10, 7, 5 and 5 respectively. A total score of 21 was found to be the best cut off for prediction and the overall predictive accuracy of the risk scoring system was calculated to be 0.74(0.67 - 0.81). In case of consistent further validation using other data sets this additive risk scoring system can be used for reducing the cost of universal screening by subjecting only high-risk subjects to laboratory screening procedure (Pap smear) in population setting.

Does neostigmine increase gastric emptying in the critically ill?--results of a pilot study

OBJECTIVE

Based on the successful use of neostigmine for the treatment of acute colonic pseudo-obstruction, we hypothesised that neostigmine would increase gastric emptying and improve tolerance to enteral feeding in the critically ill patient.

METHODS

Eleven patients intolerant of enteral feeds due to high gastric aspirates, were randomised to receive a 'study infusion' consisting of either neostigmine (0.4 mg/hr) or 0.9% saline. If, after 12 hours the patient was deemed intolerant of the nasogastric feed, the rate of the 'study infusion' was doubled. Those who remained intolerant after 24 hours of the 'study infusion' were 'crossed-over' and continued on the other infusion for a further 24 hours. Gastric emptying was assessed in each group before and after the infusion by measuring the hourly rates of feed "absorption" [(delivery rate + returned aspirates) - total aspirates] and paracetamol absorption using the area under a time-concentration curve at 120 minutes (AUC120). Differences within and between groups were analysed using Students t test and one-way analysis of variance.

RESULTS

Six patients received neostigmine first and 5 received the placebo first. Four of the 6 patients receiving the neostigmine first compared with all of those receiving placebo first required to be 'crossed-over' to the other infusion. While the hourly rates of feed "absorption" were greater for patients receiving neostigmine than for placebo, these differences did not achieve statistical significance. The mean paracetamol AUC120 for all patients who received neostigmine was 3996 mg/min/L while that for placebo was 1929 mg/min/L (p = 0.21).

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that while neostigmine may have a positive effect on gastric emptying and enteral feed absorption in critically ill patients, the results did not reach statistical significance and an adequately powered study will be required to confirm this effect.

Training course in local anaesthesia of the airway and fibreoptic intubation using course delegates as subjects

BACKGROUND

We describe a practical method of training anaesthetists in the technique of awake fibreoptic intubation. This is performed on a training course using the delegates as subjects.

METHODS

The first 15 subjects underwent cardiovascular monitoring during airway fibreoptic endoscopy performed by other course members. They were subsequently interrogated by use of a questionnaire.

RESULTS

Evidence from questionnaires suggests this method of instruction is acceptable in this self-selected group of individuals. Gagging was the commonest unpleasant side-effect of airway endoscopy, although only one delegate rated this as uncomfortable. Fifty-four per cent of subjects found the procedure slightly painful; 46% reported no pain at all. Overall, the procedure was rated as acceptable by 85% of subjects and enjoyable by 15% of subjects. No delegate found endoscopy or intubation distressing. Cardiovascular monitoring revealed pulse rate and arterial pressure changes of less than 25% of baseline values. Paraesthesia developed in one individual and nasal bleeding in two cases, neither of which was clinically significant and did not interfere with endoscopy.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of course delegates as subjects for training was acceptable to anaesthetists and is associated with a low level of discomfort and morbidity.

Resistance to Scald (Rhynchosporium secalis) in Barley (Hordeum vulgare) Studied by Near-Isogenic Lines: I. Markers and Differential Isolates

ABSTRACT Near-isogenic lines (NILs) with resistance for scald in seventh generation backcross with 'Ingrid' as recurrent parent (RP) were tested with seven differential isolates of Rhynchosporium secalis in Norway and Canada. NILs of 'Turk', 'Brier', 'CI 8162', 'La Mesita', 'Hispont', 'Atlas 46', 'Modoc', 'Hudson', 'Abyssinian', 'Steudelli', and 'CI 2222' also were evaluated for field reactions. The genetic characterization of the NILs (degree of isogeneity with Ingrid) and with each other was carried out. The molecular marker pattern shows that the backcrossing program has resulted in from 86.3 to 100% RP genome in the NILs, depending on the marker system. On an average, 96% RP genome was found in the NILs. There were certain consistent (pairwise) differences between the NILs and RP on chromosomes 3H and 7H. Both chromosomes are known to contain loci conferring resistance to R. secalis, indicating successful introgression from the donors into the NILs. Approximately two-thirds of the observed RP-NIL polymorphisms were linked to the assumed resistance in the NIL. Based on the marker and phenotypic analyses of the NILs, suggestions for a more appropriate and updated terminology of genes for resistance to R. secalis in barley are made. The proposed changes in nomenclature also indicate the differentials that are available as NILs and those lacking.

5,7-Dihydroxytryptamine: regional brain concentrations following intraventricular administration to rats

The concentrations of 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine (5,7-DHT) and serotonin (5-HT) were measured in brainstem, hypothalamus and cerebral cortex 0, 2, 6, 12, and 24 hours following the bilateral, lateral ventricular injection of 5,7-DHT (100 microg/each ventricle) into adult male rats. At 6 hours, 5,7-DHT levels had decreased 99% from 0 hr values in all brain regions. Thereafter, 5,7-DHT levels continued to decline in cortex, but not in hypothalamus or brainstem; at 24 hr, but not 48 hr, 5,7-DHT peaks were still measurable in each brain region examined. Serotonin levels in all three regions also fell markedly by 2-6 hours after 5,7-DHT administration. At 24 hours, hypothalamus and brainstem 5HT levels had declined >70% and cerebral cortex approximately 50% below control values. The relevance of these findings to the protective action of monoamine reuptake blockers is discussed.

Expression profiles of endometrial leukemia inhibitory factor, transforming growth factor beta2 (TGFbeta2), and TGFbeta2 receptor in infertile bonnet monkeys

The expression profiles of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), transforming growth factor beta2 (TGFbeta2), and transforming growth factor beta2 receptor (TGFbeta2R) were analyzed during the peri-implantation period in regularly menstruating, fertile bonnet monkeys and in animals in which endometrial nonreceptivity was induced by administering an antiprogestin, onapristone. Based on our previous experiences, a dose of 2.5 or 5 mg of onapristone was administered s.c. every third day during the menstrual cycle, because these dosages impair endometrial development without upsetting the normal gonadal endocrine profiles. Endometrial biopsy specimens were collected during the proliferative phase (estradiol levels about 200 pg/ml, n = 5) and peri-implantation period (Day 8 after midcycle peak in estradiol levels, n = 5) from normal ovulatory animals and during the peri-implantation period from onapristone-treated animals (n = 10). The biopsy specimens were processed to determine the expression patterns of LIF, TGFbeta2, and TGFbeta2R by immunohistochemical and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) methods. Levels of both protein and mRNA for LIF, TGFbeta2, and TGFbeta2R (analyzed by immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR, respectively) were greater in the endometrial samples collected during the peri-implantation period compared to samples collected during the proliferative phase in control animals. Treatment with either of the two doses (2.5 or 5 mg) of onapristone caused a significant (P < 0.05) down-regulation in the expression of LIF in the peri-implantation endometria. The endometrial expressions of TGFbeta2 and TGFbeta2R mRNAs were reduced significantly in animals treated with 5 mg of onapristone, but not in those treated with the lower dose. However, immunoreactive TGFbeta2 and TGFbeta2R proteins were significantly (P < 0.05) down-regulated in the endometrial samples from both the 2.5- and 5-mg-treated groups. The alterations observed in the expression patterns of LIF, TGFbeta2, and TGFbeta2R were specific, because the expression levels of epidermal growth factor receptor remained unaffected in the endometria from the treated groups. The present study demonstrates derangement in the expression profiles of LIF, TGFbeta2, and TGFbeta2R during the peri-implantation period in infertile bonnet monkeys. It may be hypothesized that TGFbeta2 function is one of the early steps in the regulation of the progesterone-driven cascade of events leading to endometrial receptivity, and that any aberration in this step may adversely affect the subsequent molecular events (i.e., expression of LIF). These data also suggest that potential aberrations in the functional network of locally produced cytokines and growth factors even may occur in an endometrium exposed to the optimal peripheral hormonal levels.

Endometrial contraception: modulation of molecular determinants of uterine receptivity

Modulation of endometrial receptivity is a promising approach for fertility regulation since it allows a contraceptive to act specifically at the endometrium. This was corroborated by our previous observations that treatment with low doses of a pure progesterone antagonist (PA, antiprogestin), onapristone (ZK 98299), in bonnet monkeys inhibited fertility by selectively retarding endometrial development, without affecting the hypophyseal-hypothalamic function. In the present study, further investigations, undertaken to analyze the molecular repertoire of a nonreceptive primate endometrium, determined expression of: steroid hormone receptors, i.e. progesterone receptor (PR) and estrogen receptor (ER); cytokines, i.e. leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF): transforming growth factor beta (TGFbeta) and its receptor (TGFbetaR); and cell adhesion molecules, i.e. integrins (alpha(v)beta(3), alpha(1)beta(1)). These studies were conducted during the different phases of the normal menstrual cycle and following treatment with different doses of onapristone (2.5 mg, 5 mg, or 10 mg every third day for one cycle) in bonnet monkeys. The molecules were analysed collectively to explore the possibility of a correlation between expression of these markers and endometrial receptivity and to investigate whether there exists a regulatory link between expression of these molecules under in vivo conditions. Three types of expression patterns of endometrial factors were observed during the peri-implantation period following onapristone treatment: 1) LIF, alpha(v)beta(3), and alpha(1)beta(1) showed significant (P < 0.02) down regulation in glandular epithelium of endometria in animals treated with all three doses of onapristone as compared to the control group. This was indicative of their critical role in the progesterone-driven cascade leading to implantation. 2) PR, TGFbeta, and TGFbetaR remained unaffected in the endometria from 2.5 mg treated animals and showed down regulation in animals treated with 5 and 10 mg onapristone as compared to the control group, thereby suggesting that the expression of these markers may not truely reflect endometrial receptivity per se. However, their facilitatory role in preparing the endometrium for implantation can not be ruled out since continued perturbation in the expression of these molecules may affect endometrial growth, remodelling, and differentiation, which in turn may render the endometrium nonreceptive; 3) ER remained unaltered in endometria of animals rendered infertile with 2.5, 5, and 10 mg onapristone. This observation indirectly suggests that onapristone-induced endometrial changes are mediated via some specific mechanisms. The present study clearly demonstrates that endometrial non-receptivity induced at low doses of onapristone is associated with changes in the expression pattern of specific molecular markers. However, no direct correlation was observed between in vivo expression of TGFbeta, LIF, and integrins, thereby lending support to the concept that there exists redundancy or multiple pathways which regulate implantation events.

Adenosine deaminase activity in leprosy

Serum adenosine deaminase (ADA) was studied in 60 patients of different types of leprosy and 50 healthy control subjects. ADA levels in patients with tuberculoid (50.50 +/- 5.22 U/L), borderline (41.14 +/- 3.89 U/L) and lepromatous leprosy (30.10 +/- .03 U/L) were higher than that in controls (17.84 +/- 2.78 U/L), thus correlating with the immunological status of patients. Patients with lepra reaction showed decreased ADA levels and higher grade of lepromin test positivity was associated with increased ADA activity.