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In an innovative collaboration between government, university and private industry, researchers at the University of Georgia and Gainesville State College are collaborating with Photo Science, Inc. to acquire, process and quality control check lidar and or-thoimages of forest areas in the Southern Appalachian Mountains of the United States. Funded by the U.S. Geological Survey, this project meets the objectives of the ARRA initiative by creating jobs, preserving jobs and training students for high skill positions in geospatial technology. Leaf-off lidar data were acquired at 1-m resolution of the Tennessee portion of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park (GRSM) and adjacent Foothills Parkway. This 1400-sq. km. area is of high priority for national/global interests due to biodiversity, rare and endangered species and protection of some of the last remaining virgin forest in the U.S. High spatial resolution (30 cm) leaf-off 4-band multispectral orthoimages also were acquired for both the Chattahoochee National Forest in north Georgia and the entire GRSM. The data are intended to augment the National Elevation Dataset and orthoimage database of The National Map with information that can be used by many researchers in applications of LiDAR point clouds, high resolution DEMs and or-thoimage mosaics. Graduate and undergraduate students were involved at every stage of the workflow in order to provide then with high level technical educational and professional experience in preparation for entering the geospatial workforce. This paper will present geospatial workflow strategies, multi-team coordination, distance-learning training and industry-academia partnership.

This journal suppl. entitled: Abstracts of the 26th Annual Meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology, Rome, Italy, 27-30 June 2010

To evaluate the effect of two doses of intraperitoneal bupivacaine administration for pain relief after operative gynecological laparoscopy. Prospective randomized study. The study group comprised 52 women undergoing gynecological laparoscopic surgery. A dose of either 0.125% bupivacaine 10 ml (50 mg) or 0.25% bupivacaine (100 mg) was instilled intraperitoneally at the end of the procedure. Pain scores were recorded in the postoperative period on a scale of 0–10 at 2, 4, 6 and 8 h intervals after the surgery. Any other side effect and the time and dose of analgesia required were noted. The results were compared in the two groups. One hundred milligrams of bupivacine provided pain relief for a longer duration (8 h), as compared to 50 mg of the drug (4–6 h). This difference was statistically significant. Analgesic requirement was also less in the 100 mg group. One hundred milligrams of intraperitoneal bupivacaine is much better than 50 mg in relieving pain after laparoscopic surgery.

The mode of inheritance of wheat leaf rust resistance gene Lr45 was studied at seedling stage under greenhouse conditions against leaf rust race 77-5 in two F2 populations derived from the crosses between Thatcher (Tc)+Lr45 and two susceptible cultivars Agra Local and NI5439. The genetic analysis in F2:3 progeny validated the F2 results which unambiguously showed segregation for a single dominant gene. Genetic analysis in F2 and BC1F1 generations against five other leaf rust races confirmed the single dominant gene inheritance of Lr45. Mapping was carried out with 92 microsatellite markers specific to chromosome 2A on the F2 population of the cross Agra Local × Tc+Lr45. Out of seven markers linked to the gene, four (gwm372, gwm275, gpw3167 and gwm122) were co-dominant and the other three (cfd168, cfd6 and gwm249) showed dominance, amplifying the allele only in the susceptible parent. The genetic map of 13.1 cM was constructed based on the results in 140 homozygous resistant and homozygous susceptible plants. cfd168 was the closest marker linked to Lr45, followed by gwm372. These markers were validated on the NI5439 × Tc+Lr45 F2 population, 12 different backcross lines carrying Lr45 and near-isogenic lines, mostly in Tc background isogenic for 46 different Lr genes belonging to both native and alien species. The marker gwm122 was found to be monomorphic. The closest co-dominant marker gwm372 showed reduced polymorphism. Two sequence-based primer pairs, G37294 and G372185, were designed and validated. Hence, the markers G37294 and G372185 closely linked to the gene can serve as robust co-dominant markers for utilization of Lr45 in wheat improvement.

Six varieties, Kundan (K), Galvez-87 (G), Trap (T), Chris (C), Mango (M) and PBW-348 (P) along with fast ruster, Agra Local (AL), were screened for seedling reaction and adult pant response to leaf rust. Seedlings of all six varieties were susceptible while adult plants showed lower susceptability response than Agra Local. The F1s among the varieties, and also with Agra Local, showed the values lesser than the respective mid parental values for AUDPC suggesting a polygenic mode of inheritance. ANOVA for combining ability effects indicated variation due to the GCA and SCA effects, which indicated that both additive as well as non-additive type of genetic variances, govern AUDPC. The higher values for the GCA variance over the SCA variance indicated the predominance of an additive component over the dominance component for AUDPC. Significant values for GCA effects indicated that Kundan, Galvez-87 and Trap can be used as good general combiners for AUDPC. The crosses, KxAL, GxAL and TxAL showed significant sca effects for AUDPC, which indicated the predominance of non-additive gene effects in these crosses. Additive x additive and dominance x dominance components of the 5- parameter model were highly significant and contributed maximum extent compared to the additive and dominance components in the cross KxG, while dominance and dominance x dominance components contributed maximum in the remaining crosses. Under such a situation, improvement in the character may be expected through standard selection procedure, which may first exploit the additive gene effects and simultaneously care should be taken to see that the dominance effects are not dissipated, but rather they should be concentrated.

A comprehensive germplasm evaluation study of wheat accessions conserved in the Indian National Genebank was conducted to identify sources of rust and spot blotch resistance. Genebank accessions comprising three species of wheat-Triticum aestivum, T. durum and T. dicoccum were screened sequentially at multiple disease hotspots, during the 2011-14 crop seasons, carrying only resistant accessions to the next step of evaluation. Wheat accessions which were found to be resistant in the field were then assayed for seedling resistance and profiled using molecular markers. In the primary evaluation, 19,460 accessions were screened at Wellington (Tamil Nadu), a hotspot for wheat rusts. We identified 4925 accessions to be resistant and these were further evaluated at Gurdaspur (Punjab), a hotspot for stripe rust and at Cooch Behar (West Bengal), a hotspot for spot blotch. The second round evaluation identified 498 accessions potentially resistant to multiple rusts and 868 accessions potentially resistant to spot blotch. Evaluation of rust resistant accessions for seedling resistance against seven virulent pathotypes of three rusts under artificial epiphytotic conditions identified 137 accessions potentially resistant to multiple rusts. Molecular analysis to identify different combinations of genetic loci imparting resistance to leaf rust, stem rust, stripe rust and spot blotch using linked molecular markers, identified 45 wheat accessions containing known resistance genes against all three rusts as well as a QTL for spot blotch resistance. The resistant germplasm accessions, particularly against stripe rust, identified in this study can be excellent potential candidates to be employed for breeding resistance into the background of high yielding wheat cultivars through conventional or molecular breeding approaches, and are expected to contribute toward food security at national and global levels.

To contain the infection of newly evolved leaf rust virulence(s), diverse source of germplasm need to be explored for identification of novel genes. In order to exploit wild resources, CIMMYT has developed a series of synthetic hexaploid wheat (SHW) by combining the accessions of D genome donor Triticum tauschii and T. durum. In the present study, Synthetic 45, was evaluated for effectiveness of its resistance against diverse leaf rust pathotypes. Mode of inheritance of resistance to understand the nature of genetics and molecular mapping to locate its chromosomal position were studied. Characterization of leaf rust resistance in Synthetic 45 by multi-pathotype tests showed a high degree of seedling resistance to 20 diverse pathotypes of leaf rust pathogen and adult plant resistance against two most prevalent pathotypes, 77-5 and 104-2. Inheritance studies showed that resistance in Synthetic 45 was governed by a single recessive gene. Molecular mapping and linkage with microsatellite markers, Xwmc432 and Xcfd15 have indicated that the resistance gene is located on short arm of 1D chromosome with 6.1 cM distal to Xwmc432 and 10.6 cM to Xcfd15 with 4.6 cM distance among the two markers. The gene identified in Synthetic 45 has been tentatively designated as LrSyn45.

Breeding for resistance to the three rusts of wheat usually requires incorporation of genetically independent factors conferring resistance to each rust. Linked resistance genes in some alien translocation stocks permit concurrent transference of resistance for more than one rust. Alien derived resistances, however, are often reported to be associated with reduced yield and other undesirable characters. In our experience, backcross breeding when given a limited number of backcrosses (3–6) and with suitable selection procedures has resulted in lines giving yields higher or comparable to the recurrent wheat parent Kalyansona and resistance to one, two or all three rusts without any adverse effects. Some of the rust resistant derivatives also show resistance to Neovossia indica (Karnal bunt). The derivatives thus developed when used as parents in a breeding programme have produced several improved cultivars with high yields, superior grains and diversity for resistance to rust pathogens. One of the cultivars, named ‘Vaishali’ (DL784-3), has been officially released for cultivation in the country.

Variation for adult plant resistance in near-isogenic wheat lines carrying Lrl4b, Lrl4ab and Lr30 in a ‘Thatcher’ background indicated the possible presence of novel adult plant resistance genes effective against the Indian leaf rust population. Sixty-one wheats released for cultivation in India were grown in isolated nurseries. Each nursery was separately inoculated with one of four leaf rust pathotypes which had been selected to aid identification of resistance effective only in the adult plant stage. Seven distinct response groups were recognised and a minimum of six sources of adult plant resistance were postulated. In a group of 14 wheats, resistance was explained on the basis of the seedling response genes that were identified. Similar results for two years with pathotype 77-1 gave support to the reliability of field tests. Adult plant resistance (APR) sources were either race-specific or effective against all pathotypes used. Seedlings of cultivars with APR showed susceptible reactions. The possible presence of Lr34 in Indian wheats and its role in durable leaf rust resistance are discussed.

The wheat-rye translocation (IBL-IRS) that carries the tightly linked genes Lr26/Sr31/Yr9, has been widely exploited in the development of wheat cultivars worldwide. This resistance, however, has become ineffective owing to the evolution of new pathotypes of Puccinia recondita that neutralize the resistance of Lr26. Inheritance studies on 'Federation * 4'/Kavkaz' revealed complementary genes derived separately from 'Federation' and 'Kavkaz' for adult plant resistance. This previously undescribed source of resistance appears to be widely effective and could therefore be used to broaden the genetic base for resistance in India. Its effectiveness in other geographical areas is unknown.

Antibiotics are prescribed in pregnancy but only few reports provide information about the actual practice of prophylactic antibiotics usage in various obstetrical conditions amongst obstetricians. The present study evaluates the practice of obstetricians of Delhi regarding prescription of antibiotics in vaginal deliveries and caesarean sections. The open-ended predesigned questionnaire study incorporated details of the obstetricians working in different hospitals of Delhi and their practice of prescribing antibiotics in vaginal deliveries, episiotomies and caesarean sections was filled by obstetricians. The data was analysed using Student's 't' test and Chi-square test. The mean age of obstetricians was 35.5 years; 90% were females and 48.9% were postgraduate students with 70% less than 5 years experience and 77.8% were working in a government hospital. In episiotomy, 18.9% obstetricians did not use antibiotics while 33.3%, 27.8% and 20% obstetricians used ampicillin, amoxicillin and cephalexin orally for 5 days respectively. Injection cefazolin was used intravenously, 1 g 12 hourly for 3 days by 34.4% and 33.3% obstetricians in elective and emergency caesarean sections respectively, while it was used for 5 days by 35.5% and 41.1% obstetricians respectively. A combination of ampicillin, gentamicin and metronidazole for 5 days was used by 30% and 25.5% obstetricians for elective and emergency caesarean sections respectively. In spite of clear evidence from Cochrane Database of Clinical Reviews that use of penicillin or first generation cephalosporins in single dose therapy is effective; the actual practice is contrary with use of multiagent antibiotics for long periods, being very rampant in actual clinical practice.

In India wheat is the second most important crop occupying 27.3 million hectare area with production and productivity of 72 million tons and 2.64 tons per hectare, respectively. To cope up the ever increasing demand which will be 109 million tons by the year 2020, the present level of productivity has to be increased to 4.4 tons per hectare. The only approach for achieving quantum jump in productivity is to restructure the wheat plant architecture which can yield up to 8 tons/hectare. The Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India has developed new plant type (NPT) wheat, utilizing a local germplasm SFW and released wheat and genetic stocks, which has high 1000 grain weight (45–50g), high number of grain per spike (90–100), higher biomass, thick, broad, semi erect and dark green leaves, thick stem, plant height 85–100 cm and good root system. Efforts are on to increase the productive tillers in these wheats along with diverse genes for resistance to diseases in order to break the yield barrier

Managing ‘KNOWLEDGE’ has always been a major challenge in modern day organizations, especially now when the current global business environment is turbulent as well as unpredictable. The study of ‘VEDANTA'acquiring ultimate knowledge through the study of Indian Vedic literature provides a flexible and a holistic solution to this Global challenge. Vedic scriptures written in Sanskrit language are a vast source of KNOWLEDGE pertaining to Science and Technology and other fields such as Metallurgy, Bio-Technology, Genetic Technology and Spiritual Science etc. Western countries realised the tremendous importance of this wealth of knowledge available in the Vedic scriptures and translated the same into English language from Sanskrit for better understanding. These countries, having gained knowledge about science and technology, then applied the same for their research programmes successfully in various fields to make modern day lives comfortable and prosperous. This business model was made from purely materialistic point of view. The spiritual science aspect was not included in the business model. Integrating Vedic Spiritual Science with the modern technologies and innovations is likely to bring more peace, prosperity, progress, productivity and happiness (P4H) in any organisation. Further, for the enhancement of Global Business, it is proposed to incorporate a new Business Model by synthesizing materialistic aspects as well as spiritual aspects based on the Strategic Flexibility Model of Flowing Stream Strategy (FSS.

Aggressive angiomyxoma is a rare tumour, which presents as a painless expanding mass in the vulvo-vaginal region. It usually occurs in 2nd to 3rd decades of life. It behaves like a low-grade sarcoma with high propensity for local spread and recurrence and can involve vulva, perineum, vagina and urinary bladder. It is difficult to differentiate clinically this tumour from other mesenchymal tumours occurring in this region. Microscopically it must be differentiated from malignant tumours with myxoid change, like liposarcoma and myxoid leiomyosarcoma. Hence, histopathologic examination has a central role in diagnosis of this tumour. We are presenting a case of young woman, who came with history of swelling in vulva and perineum. Imaging studies in the perineal region revealed a large pelvic mass. Fine needle aspiration cytology was inconclusive due to scanty material. Enucleation of mass was attempted in first surgery but complete extirpation could not be performed. The swelling recurred within few weeks after surgery and required irradiation. A second surgery, however, was successful in complete removal of the tumour.

A questionnaire-study was undertaken among 50 women to take note of their views on awareness, information, choices and expectations on various aspects of hysterectomy performed on them. Most women (92%) did not know the type of hysterectomy and none of them was offered the alternative treatment, various types of hysterectomy done, type of anaesthesia used and hormone replacement therapy. A total of 96% wanted the surgeon to spend time with them explaining to them about various aspects of surgery and 46% thought the staff was sympathetic to them. A total of 26 women (52%) preferred to solve their problems with self-help groups (association of women with similar problems) and 84% wanted a leaflet to be distributed to them about various aspects of hysterectomy. This study concluded that Indian women to be involved in the decision making about their healthcare.

Pelvic pain is common in adolescent girls in day-to-day practice. Severity, Affect, Family and Environment (SAFE) is a recent interview strategy to approach these patients and their families.1. To find the prevalence of pelvic pain in adolescent girls. 2. To find out the feasibility and acceptability of "SAFE" approach in evaluating chronic pelvic pain in adolescent girls.200 adolescent girls aged 13-23 years were selected at random from school and colleges nearby hospital campus.A questionnaire method was adopted. Adolescent girls selected were divided into two groups, group I (with pain) and group II (without pain).It was performed using chi-square and Fischer tests with significance of p value being taken at 0.05.Out of 200 adolescent girls selected for interview, prevalence of pelvic pain was found to be 37.0%. Dysmenorrhoea was also found to have significant relationship with pelvic pain. Depression and anxiety, school absences and loss of weight were found to have significant association with pain. Pelvic pain was found to be more in adolescent girls with large family size (4 members), single parent, both parents working, ongoing marital problems at home and was less reported when there was good parent-child communication about sex and when the teenager was well prepared for menarche by the parents and the association with the above mentioned factors was found to be significant."SAFE" approach contributes in identifying health problems in adolescent girls with chronic pelvic pain.

Pelvic inflammatory disease is a common problem faced by the gynecologists in there out patient department.The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of three treatment combinations in the syndromic management of pelvic inflammatory disease in the out patient setting. SETTING DESIGN: In the medical college hospital patients presenting in gynecology out patient department were enrolled.One hundred and sixty five women with diagnosis of pelvic inflammatory disease were randomized into three equal groups getting ciprofloxacin (500 mg) and tinidazole (600 mg) combination twice daily for 7 days (Group 1), a kit containing fluconazole (150 mg), azithromycin (1 gm) and secnidazole (2 mg) as one time dose (Group 2) and Doxycycline 100mg twice daily and metronidazole 200 mg thrice daily for seven days (Group 3). Severity score was determined on first visit and after 1 week and 4 weeks when patients were called for follow up.Chisqare test, Krusker wallis test and Mann Whitney test.There was significant reduction in severity score after 1 week of treatment, which was further reduced after 4 weeks in all the three groups. Cure rate was highest in-group 1 (96%) followed by group 2 (93.5) and group 3 (91.3%) but the difference was not statistically significant. Resolution of inflammatory mass was highest in group 1. The incidence of side effects was highest and compliance was lowest in the doxycycline -metronidazole group, but the difference was not statistically significant.All the three treatment combinations were found to be equally effective in the syndromic management of pelvic inflammatory disease.

SummaryA total of 148 women undergoing caesarean section were allocated at random to either placental drainage (unclamping the cord and allowing blood to drain) or cord traction, as a method of placental delivery at time of caesarean section. The third stage was shorter with placental drainage (median 80 seconds versus 210 seconds). The incidence of manual removal of placenta was lower with placental drainage (2 versus 17 per cent). There was no difference in total maternal blood loss between the two groups. Placental drainage is a safe and effective method of placental delivery at the time of caesarean section.

As ectopic pregnancy is associated with significant maternal mortality and morbidity it may be worthwhile to find alternative surgical method to traditional laparotomy.To compare the efficacy, safety and cost effectiveness of minilaparotomy surgery for ectopic pregnancy cases with standard laparotomy method.A total of 60 patients of ectopic pregnancy were randomized for minilaparotomy and laparotomy (30 cases each) for three years from January. 1998 to March 2001 in a medical college hospital.Patients history, clinical examination, intraoperative, preoperative and postoperative data were recorded and compared in minilaparotomy and laparotomy groups.Chi-square and Fischer chi-square test is used using P value of less than 0.05 as level of significance.Mean operative time was significantly less in minilaparotomy (38 minutes) than in laparotomy group (54 minutes). Postoperative complications were fever in 4(13.33%) and 6(20%) cases, paralytic ileus in 3(10%) and 8(26.66%) cases, urinary tract infection in 2(6.66%) and 3(10%) cases and wound infection in 1(3.33%) and 5(16.66%) cases respectively in the two groups and were significantly less in the minilaparotomy cases. Mean day of mobility, starting normal diet and discharge from the hospital were 10 hours and 24 hours, 1.5 days and 3.1 days and 3.4 days and 6.9 days respectively in the two groups and were significantly less in the minilaparotomy group than the laparotomy group.Surgery by minilaparotomy technique in ectopic pregnancy cases appears to be a safe and feasible method and is superior to conventional laparotomy as there are minimum perioperative and postoperative complications and patients can be discharged early from the hospital without the need of expensive equipment.

We herein report a case of a pregnant woman with previous cesarean section whose uterus herniated in an incisional hernia of the anterior abdominal wall at 34 weeks of pregnancy. Incarceration of the pregnant uterus in an incisional hernia is a rare but serious obstetric situation. Treatment is conservative till term followed by delivery and herniorrhaphy as was done in our case and it was associated with successful outcome.

The recognition of abnormality in thyroid function tests during pregnancy is important for the welfare of the mother as well as fetus. The values of serum tri-iodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in nonpregnant women are not applicable during pregnancy and also differ in iodine deficient areas. In the present study, one hundred and twenty-four apparently normal, healthy young primigravidas with no known metabolic disorders and normal carbohydrate gestational intolerance test, consecutively attending the antenatal clinic were included in the study. The serum tri-iodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in these women were estimated. In the first trimester, the mean T3 values were found to be 1.85 nmol/L, which increased to a mean of 2.47 nmol/L in the second trimester and declined in the third trimester to 1.82 nmo/L. Mean T4 levels were also seen to rise from 164.50 nmol/L in the first trimester to 165.80 nmol/L in the second trimester and then decreased in the third trimester to 159.90 nmol/L. Mean TSH levels were seen to rise progressively through the three trimesters of pregnancy from 1.20 microlU/ ml in the first trimester to 2.12 microlU/ml in the second trimester and further to 3.30 microlU/ml in the third trimester of pregnancy. Three asymptomatic pregnant women (2.5%) were found to have abnormal TSH values with normal T3 and T4 levels and good obstetric outcome. This pilot study also indicates the range to T3 as 1.7 - 4.3 nmol/L in second trimester and 0.4 - 3.9 nmol/L in third trimester, T4 as 92.2 - 252.8 nmol/L in second trimester and 108.2 - 219.0 nmol/ L in third trimester, and TSH as 0.1 - 5.5 microlU/ml in second trimester and 0.5- 7.6 microlU/ml in third trimester of pregnancy.

A 23-year old second gravida presented with 8 1/2 months of amenorrhoea. The fundal height corresponded with 36 weeks of pregnancy with a single live foetus. Ultrasonography revealed a live foetus and a cystic mass over lower sacral region. Emergency caesarean section was performed and the baby was delivered with intact sacrococcygeal teratoma. The histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of sacrococcygeal teratoma with mature neural elements. The baby had died on day 10 and the postpartum period of the mother was uneventful.

Two cases of haematocolpos in adolescent girls due to imperforate hymen are reported. Both of them presented with lower abdominal pain and urinary retention. Hymenotomy was performed in both the cases. The condition is discussed with brief review of literature.

Leaf rust of wheat, caused by Puccinia triticina Eriks. is the most regularly occurring rust disease that can cause severe yield losses. Due to relatively lower economic value of durum wheat compared to the common wheat, genetic analysis of leaf rust resistance in durum wheat has been carried out only to a limited extent. Durum wheat genotype Trinakria showed high level and broad spectrum seedling resistance to 18 Indian leaf rust pathotypes. Genetic analysis at seedling stage in F2 and BC1 populations using leaf rust pathotype 77-5 showed a single dominant gene for resistance. The leaf rust resistance gene was mapped to the short arm of 5B chromosome and Xgwm234 was the closest marker at a distance of 6.3cM. The leaf rust resistance gene present in Trinakria is tentatively named as LrTrk. In durum wheat very few Lr genes have been documented, and hence Trinakria could be a promising source of leaf rust resistance for wheat breeders. The Xgwm234 marker linked to leaf rust resistance can be used for transfer of leaf rust resistance from Trinakria to other wheat cultivars through marker assisted selection.

EDITORIAL COMMENT: Ketoconazole (Nizoral) is available in Australia but is normally not indicated as first line therapy for candidiasis, largely because of the risk of hepatic damage (occasionally fatal) and because it is relatively expensive. The approved indications are for systemic or deep mycoses where other forms of therapy have failed, or recalcitrant cases of superficial mycoses which fail to respond to local therapy. The duration of the topical treatment in this study was longer than commonly used in Australia; miconazole pessaries (100 mg) were administered for 14 days whereas the usual regimen is to use 100 mg pessaries once daily for 7 days, or 200 mg pessaries once daily for 3 days. Since colonization of the bowel by Candida is a well known factor in recurrent candidiasis it is not surprising that use of a systemic and local agent concurrently was more effective than either therapy alone. We consider that the result obtained with local treatment (78% cure, 12% recurrence) would generally be regarded as quite acceptable in clinical practice. This study shows that topical or systemic antifungal agents are quite effective at eradicating Candida albicans with an enhanced effect if both modes of administration are used concurrently. Paul Drink water, Director of Pharmacy, Mercy Hospital for Women Summary: This prospective study was carried out on 250 patients having clinical and mycological evidence of vaginal candidosis. One hundred patients received ketoconazole orally (400 mg/day for 5 days), another 100 patients received miconazole vaginal pessary treatment (one 100 mg tablet locally for 14 days), while the other 50 patients received combination therapy of oral ketoconazole and miconazole vaginal tablets. Although all 3 regimens were significantly effective in relieving patients symptoms and physical signs, the combination therapy gave the best results. There was 98% symptomatic relief with the combination therapy in contrast to 82% and 78% in the oral ketocanozole and vagina] miconazole groups respectively (p < 0.001). Mycological cure rates were also significantly higher in the combination therapy group (94% versus 80% and 76%). The relapse rate was least in the combination group 2% versus 8% and 12%. The combination therapy is recommended for the best results in vaginal candidosis.

A prospective study was performed of 100 caesarean sections (31 elective, 69 emergency) to determine the incidence of blood splashes to the masks and goggles of surgeons, assistants and scrub nurses. The rate of blood splashes was 40% on surgeons' masks, 49.29% on surgeons' goggles, 31% on assistants' masks, 21.12% on assistants' goggles, 23.1% on scrub nurses' masks and 15.71% on scrub nurses' goggles. The use of masks and protective goggles is strongly recommended to avoid body fluid contamination and acquiring disease in obstetrics.

This study was a small-scale, "quasirandomized," controlled trial carried out to determine the effectiveness and safety of cervical cerclage performed using the McDonald technique in patients with symptomatic placenta previa. Outcomes were compared in 18 women undergoing cerclage and 19 control women. Criteria for admission to the study included painless vaginal bleeding, a gestational age of 20 to 34 weeks, and sonographic confirmation of the diagnosis. Gross congenital anomalies, other complications, type 1 placenta previa more than 2 cm from the internal os, and a cervical length less than 3 cm, noted on speculum examination 24 hours after bleeding stopped, were criteria for exclusion. Patients were placed on bedrest, sedated if bleeding was present, and given steroids weekly from 28 to 34 weeks gestation. Blood was transfused as needed. The McDonald stitch was placed under antibiotic prophylaxis and tocolysis that began 1 hour before cerclage and continued for 48 hours postoperatively. If placenta previa was characterized as "minor," patients were discharged 3 days after cerclage. Pregnancies were terminated at 37 weeks gestation. All but one of the end points recorded differed significantly between the cerclage and control groups, the exception being the amount of blood transfused. Cerclage patients had fewer major hemorrhagic episodes and fewer episodes associated with blood clots or signs of hypovolemia. In none of 10 patients with minor placenta previa who had cerclage and subsequent normal-term vaginal delivery was the placenta felt on pelvic examination after removal of the stitch. Pregnancies were prolonged by a mean of 53 days in the cerclage group and 19 days in control women. The respective mean gestational ages at delivery were 37 and 31 weeks. Mean birth weights were substantially greater in the cerclage group (2549 g vs 1568 g). Eight of the 19 control pregnancies ended in perinatal death, but there were no such deaths in the 18 cerclage cases. These promising results deserve a large randomized, controlled trial that would distinguish between the effect of cerclage in women with minor and major placenta previa.

Thirty five genetically diverse bread wheat genotypes were evaluated for terminal heat tolerance in three environments by altering the sowing dates viz., non stress (E1), mild heat stress (E2) and high heat stress (E3) using physiological indices. Twelve genotypes showed the consistent performance under E1 and E3 environments. Genotypic performance varied substantially over the E1 and E3 environments. Genotypes namely, HD 2733, CL 3125, HD 2189, C 306, DBW 14, WR 544, PBW 373, HD 2932, Kundan, HD 2967, HD 2997 and L 512 showed least heat susceptibility index (HSI) for grain yield ranging from 0.1 to 0.5. These genotypes also showed least HSI for other associated characters viz., canopy temperature depression, membrane stability index, 1000 grain weight and biological yield and hence can be regarded as tolerant to terminal heat stress. Since the identified genotypes can cope up the effect of heat stress, they can be utilized for developing heat tolerant genotypes

An investigation was carried out to validate the already known molecular markers Xgwm533, Xcfa2019 & Xcfa2123, Sr24#12 & Sr24#50, Sr26#43 and BE518379, SCSS30.2 and Sr39-I & Sr39-II for stem rust resistance genes Sr2, Sr22, Sr24, Sr26, Sr31 and Sr39, respectively in wheat cultivars Kundan and UP 2338 carrying unknown stem rust resistance gene(s). The Sr2 and Sr22 gene specific SSR markers amplified the gene specific or expected allele in both Sr2 and Sr22 carrying and non-carrying cultivars. Sr24 associated STS markers (Sr24#12 & Sr24#50) amplified their respective expected fragments (500 bp and 200 bp) only in known Sr24 gene carrying cultivar, HD 2851. Two DNA markers (Sr26#43 & BE518379) known for Sr26 gene were screened. Marker, Sr26#43 amplified the specific fragment of 207 bp only in known source carrying Sr26 gene, while other marker, BE518379 functioned as null allele marker by not amplifying the critical band in Sr26 lines. SCAR marker, SCSS30.2 specific to Sr31 gene amplified the gene specific fragment in wheat cultivar UP 2338 confirming the presence of Sr31. Out of 14 entries tested for Sr39 gene including Kundan and UP 2338, the expected PCR product was not amplified in any of the entries indicating absence of Sr39 gene.

Background: This study was undertaken to report the results of weekly combination chemotherapy with cetuximab in recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (R/M SCCHN). Materials and Methods: Retrospective analysis of 35 R/M SCCHN patients who received cetuximab with weekly paclitaxel and platin (cisplatin/carboplatin) from SCCHN August 2006 to October 2008 at our Institute was performed. Results: Thirty-five patients (33 [94.3%] males and 2 [5.7%] females) received the planned weekly chemotherapy protocol. Median age of these patients was 52 years. Of the SCCHN 32 evaluable patients, 25 patients showed symptomatic improvement and 7 showed no improvement. Radiological responses using RECIST criteria reported CR in 1 patient (3.1%), PR in 17 patients (53.1%), and SD in 6 patients (18.8%). The remaining six patients demonstrated disease progression while two could not be assessed. Median overall survival (OS) was 8.016 months (95% CI; 6.572--9.461) and median PFS was 5.782 months (95% CI; 4.521--7.044). The major chemotherapy-related grades 2 and 3 toxicity recorded was cetuximab-induced rash reported in 24 patients. No treatment-related death within 30 days was observed. Conclusion: Cetuximab with weekly combination chemotherapy (Paclitaxel + Platinum compound) has shown promise, demonstrating comparable response and outcomes with acceptable toxicity in R/M SCCHN patients.

This report focuses on the case of a pregnant woman with a bad obstetric history who developed psychosis at the 23 rd week of gestation. She was treated with olanzapine from the 24th week until 10 days prior to delivery. No adverse events occurred during pregnancy or delivery. The Apgar score was 8/10 at one minute and 9/10 at 5 minutes.

A study was conducted on 180 women with 2 or more obstetric losses totalling 410 foetal wastages. Control cases included 100 women without obstetric losses. Significant titre of immunoglobulin M against rubella was found in 17.77% patients with 2 or more obstetric losses in contrast to 9% of control patients (p less than 0.005). Significant titre of immunoglobulin M was observed in cases of abortions (5.75%), preterm deliveries (12.67%), macerated stillbirths (8.19%), fresh stillbirths (8.69%) and neonatal deaths (8.34%).

11107 Background: In India LABC remains a common presentation of breast cancer (BC). Pathological complete response (pCR) achievement is crucial for increasing survival in LABC. Taxanes and anthracyclines are amongst agents with highest activity in BC. We retrospectively evaluated clinical and pathological responses in LABC patients (pts) treated with T and AC based chemotherapy. Methods: 32 LABC pts with clinical stage IIB, IIIA, IIIB, IIIC who had received T & AC based NAC between October 2002 and October 2006 were evaluated. Patients received doxorubicin 60mg/m2 (21 pts) or epirubicin 75 mg/m2 (11 pts) and docetaxel 75 mg/m2 (all pts) 3 weekly for 3–4 cycles followed by surgery. Most pts received same chemotherapy as adjuvant and also radiation therapy and hormonal treatment depending upon ER, PgR status. Results: Baseline characteristics of 32 pts: median age 50 years (range 26–65); all female; performance status 0–1; clinical stage IIB (3 pts), IIIA (9 pts), IIIB (16 pts), IIIC (4 pts); node positive (25 pts), hormone receptor positive (17 pts), unknown (1 pt); 29 pts received 3 cycles of NAC, 3 pts received 4 cycles of NAC. Growth factor was used in all patients. 31 pts underwent MRM; 5 pts had clinically complete response (16%), 22 pts had partial response (69%), 4 pts had stable disease (12%), 1 pt had progressive disease (3%); pathological complete response was seen in 4 pts (12 %). There were 2 events of febrile neutropenia; grade 3 or 4 neutropenia was seen in 26 pts (81%). There was no significant thrombocytopenia, cardiovascular event and hypersensitivity reaction. Conclusions: Our analysis indicates that T and AC based chemotherapy is well tolerated and effective in Indian pts with LABC with response rates similar to international studies. No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Objective: To assess training in breech delivery in the United Kingdom at the level of registrar. Method: Three hundred and nineteen registrars in obstetrics and gynecology in the United Kingdom replied to a postal questionnaire. Results: The various indications of cesarean section in breech presentation answered by respondents were: pre-term labor, pelvimetric measurement of inlet/outlet less than 11.5 cm, primigravida, no spontaneous labor, estimated fetal weight less than 2.5 kg or more than 3.5 kg, non-progression of labor in active phase, non-delivery after one hour of active pushing in second stage. A total of 190 respondents (60%) felt that they had been given sufficient training in vaginal breech delivery but only 125 respondents (39%) had the training in the United Kingdom. Conclusion: There is a high rate of cesarean section in breech presentation due to inadequate training of junior staff in vaginal breech delivery.

17141 Background: Gefitinib is an orally active EGFR-TKI (Epidermal Growth Factor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor) that demonstrated, clinically meaningful anti tumor activity, favorable toxicity profile in phase II trials involving patients with advanced pretreated NSCLC. The aim of this study was to assess the antitumour activity (time to disease progression) and toxicity profile of Gefitinib. Methods: Twenty five patients of NSCLC advanced were included in this study who have failed at least one chemotherapy regimen and completed at least one month Gefitinib (250 mg/day) therapy. The study included 18 male and 7 female patients with, a median age of 60 years (32–80 years) and performance status ECOG 0-I 64%. The histologically included were Adenocarcinoma 56%, Squamous Cell Carcinoma 40% and Large Cell Carcinoma 1%. 64% patients had failed to response to 1 (CT) chemotherapy regimen, 28% to 2 CT and 8% to 3 CT regimens. Results: A total of 25 patients (18 male, 7 female) were evaluated for response. 2 Complete Response (CR) and 1 Partial Response (PR) were observed with an Overall Response Rate (ORR) of 12% (CR+PR). All the three patients were with Adenocarcinoma histology. A total of 14 patients (56%) had Stable Disease (SD). This led to an Overall Disease Control Rate (CR+PR+SD) of 68% (17 patients). The Median Time to Progression (TTP) was 3.8 months using the SAS method for statistical analysis (95% CI 4.4–9.3). The number of previous chemotherapy regimens did not alter the response to therapy. All the patients were evaluated for toxicity profile assessment (25 patients). The most frequent toxicity observed was Asthenia in 52% of patients. Other toxicities were Diarrhaea 24%, Skin Disorders 32%, Anorexia 32%, Vomitings 44%. Only 1 patient had grade IV skin related toxicity. No deaths related to Gefitinib treatment were reported. Conclusion: Gefitinib shows antitumour activity in pretreated patients of advanced NSCLC. Gefitinib therapy of (250 mg/day) has a favourable toxicity profile and is well tolerated. Gefitinib is a viable therapy in NSCLC patients who have limited treatment options. No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most frequent type of NHL. Different chemotherapy regimens tested in the past showed RR of appx 80% with no improvement in prognosis & OS. CHOP regimen has been the standard treatment for these patients (pts). Rituximab has improved response rates & survival in CD20 positive lymphoma pts, especially elderly (GELA trial: CR 73% vs. 63%). We retrospectively evaluated pts of DLBCL treated with R-CHOP regimen between April 2001 & June 2005. All pts had biopsy and IHC of lymph node/extranodal site, & CT scan of neck, chest, abdomen; BM biopsies; CBC, serum chemistries; 2D echocardiography/MUGA scans. All pts received Rituximab (375mg/m2) & CHOP 3 weekly for a maximum of 8 cycles. Pts who received at least 1 & 3 cycles of R-CHOP were evaluable for toxicity and response respectively. In total, 36 pts were included for analysis. The median age was 53 years, 10/36 pts (27.8%) were >60 years. 25/36 were male (69.4%). ECOG performance status: 0–1 in 30/36, and 2–4 in 6/36. 11/36 had B-symptoms, 16/36 had high LDH, 6/36 had bulky disease. Extranodal involvement was present in 19/36; 10/36 had ≥2 sites of extranodal involvement. Lymph nodal swelling was most common presentation in 24/36 (66.7%), followed by pain 10/36 (27.8%), weight loss 9/36 (25%), fever 7/36 (19.4%), skin nodules 3/36 (8.3%). Extranodal sites were: bone marrow 5/36, bone 4/36, skin 3/36, GIT 3/36, pleural effusion 2/36, lungs 2/36, other soft tissue 2/36, and parotid, nasopharynx, orbit, adrenal, testes, kidneys-1 each. Gallium scan at base line, done in 12/36, was positive in 11 pts (91%). Stage distribution was as follows: stage-I none, stage-II 10/36 (27.8%), stage-III 13/36 (36.1%), stage-IV 13/36 (36.1%). IPI scoring was-low risk 13/36 (36.1), low intermediate 9/36 (25.0%), high intermediate 13/36 (36.1) & high risk 1/36 (2.8%). A total of 199 cycles of R-CHOP were administered with a median of 6 cycles per patient. Of the 33 pts evaluable for response, 22 achieved CR (66.7%), 9 PR (27.3%), 1 each SD & PD. There were 2 treatment related mortalities. Toxicities were: grade III/IV neutropenia in 12/36 (33.3%), thrombocytopenia 4/36 (11.1%), peripheral neuropathy 2/36 (5.6%). Mild hypersensitivity to Rituximab was seen in 2/36 (5.6%) pts. Only 1 patient had cardiac toxicity in form of CHF. Our study showed response rates (94%) and toxicity profile similar to what has been reported in other studies with R-CHOP. The follow-up is too short to evaluate survival rates. Keywords: DLBCL, Rituximab, CHOP.

815 Background: Capecitabine (C) is a fluropyrimidine carbamate derivative, which is an easily administered, tumor activated and tumor selective cytotoxic agent. C has shown promising efficacy in M...