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The tradition of Sīrah writing goes back to the very generation of companions of Prophet Muhammad (SAAS). The very first Sīrah works that appeared distinct from the hadith works, however, did not deal with complete biography of Prophet Muhammad (SAAS), rather they addresses aspects of his socio-political life and organisation of the government during the Medinan period. This aspect of Sīrah writing came to be known in history as Maghazi. Though a bit later when comprehensive biographies of the Prophet Muhammad (SAAS) were compiled al-Maghazi were also incorporated in the Sīrah works, socio-political aspect of the Prophet’s life especially his conduct was entities of his time remained focus of various Sīrah works. A large number Sīrah works have been written by scholars from different perspectives highlighting different dimensions of it both in the past and in the contemporary times. This review article attempts to examine and review the prominent Sīrah works of modern period.

Objective The dyad of cardio-metabolic risk factors and endothelial dysfunction observed in hypopituitarism untreated for growth hormone deficiency (GHD), a characteristic of Sheehan's syndrome (SS), contributes to the increased cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. The elevated inflammatory markers reported in these patients along with conventional cardiovascular risk factors are pivotal contributors to coronary endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular events. We aim to investigate the level of conventional cardiovascular risk factors, inflammatory markers and carotid artery Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT) in patients of SS compared to group of healthy women. Methods A total of 37 SS patients fulfilling the case definition for this study and same number (n = 37) healthy age, BMI and parity matched controls were recruited for the study. The participants underwent detailed clinical, biochemical, hormone analysis and measurement of Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6)levels. CIMT assessment was also done using high-resolution echo-colour Doppler system in both cases and controls. Results Patients with SS had significantly higher mean triglyceride, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and lower high-density cholesterol concentrations. The markers of inflammation including TNF-α and IL-6 levels were significantly higher (23.41 ± 10.97 vs. 20.05 ± 2.76pg/ml; p = 0.041) for TNF- α and (37.19 ± 5.38 vs. 32.08 ± 1.18pg/ml; p = 0.004) for IL-6, compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, mean carotid intima medial thickness in patients was significantly increased in comparison to healthy controls (0.71 ± 0.07 vs. 0.59 ± 0.05mm; p = 0.001). Conclusion Our study demonstrated that patients with SS have clustering of cardiovascular risk factors that may contribute to the increased risk for cardiovascular events.

Objective: In the present study, we are reporting the clinical profile; and outcomes of COVID-19 in patients with hematological malignancy at tertiary care hospitals. Methods: Data from laboratory-confirmed 40 COVID-19 patients diagnosed between January 1, 2021 and July 31, 2021, were analyzed retrospectively. All COVID-19 patients with hematological malignancy (n=40) were included in the study. Results: In the present study, a total of 40 patients were included. Of 40, 25 (62.5%) were males, and 15 (37.5%) were females. The median age in this study was 43 years (Range, 8–70). Of these 40 patients, acute myeloid leukemia was the most common malignancy 11 (27.5%), followed by acute lymphoblastic leukemia 9 (22.5%) than non-Hodgkin lymphoma 5 (12.5%), plasma cell dyscrasia 4 (10%), chronic myeloid leukemia 4 (10%), chronic lymphocytic leukemia 3 (7.5%), acute promyelocytic leukemia 2 (5%), chronic myelomonocytic leukemia 2 (5%). Mean hemoglobin was (8.04 g/dl), white blood cell count was (10.14×109/l), platelet count was (77.7×109/l) creatinine was (0.86 mg/dl), bilirubin was (1.24 mg/dl). The overall case-fatality rate was 8 (22.5%). Conclusion: Patients with hematological malignancy are immunocompromised, and our study reveals that there is an increased case fatality rate among these patients. Hence, physicians should be aggressive in the management of COVID‐19 patients with hematological malignancy.

Snake bite is an acute life threating medical emergency and is included amonst neglected tropical diseases. 1 Every year in India 200,000 people bitten by snakes and >25% are fatal. 2 In Maharashtra, Konkan area, the green pit viper (Trimeresurus gramineus) is uncommon, though this snake has become more common. [ Figure 1 ]

India is the highest TB burden country in the world having an estimated incidence of 26.9 lakh cases in 2019. With a population of 1.32 billion, India has the highest burden of drug resistant TB (DR-TB) in the world. North zone of India is the second highest MDR-TB prevalent zone after the West zone of India. MDR TB treatment involves prolonged treatment with injectable second-line drugs, associated with more adverse effects, suboptimal treatment outcomes and higher risks of mortality compared to patients with drug-sensitive TB and those with lesser resistant forms of TB. Materials methods: This retrospective study was conducted in the department of Microbiology Government Medical College Anantnag, data was analyzed from March 2017 to February 2018. Non-sterile specimens were processed by Modified Petroff Method. Sterile specimens were concentrated by centrifugation and smear and cultures was inoculated from the sediment. CBNAAT assay was performed by Gene Xpert (Cepheid) 4 system according to the manufacturers’ recommendations. Results: Of the total 1497 clinically suspected tuberculosis specimens collected, 1370 (91.5%) were pulmonary and 127 (8.5%) were presumptive extra pulmonary tuberculosis received from different anatomical sites. Maximum clustering of cases was seen in 10-20 years age group. Out of the total 1497 samples 200 were CBNAAT confirmed Mycobacterium Tuberculosis positive samples. In which 155 were pulmonary and 45 were extra pulmonary. The average percentage positivity rate (i.e. percentage of MTB positive samples out of total samples tested) was 13.3% (200/1497). Rifampicin resistance (RR-TB) was seen in 5.5% (11/200) samples. Out of the samples detected positive (200): 155 were pulmonary samples and out of these 155 pulmonary samples 8 were found to be RR MTB 5.1% (8/155). Also out of the 200 positive samples 45 were extra pulmonary and out of these 45 extra pulmonary samples 3 were found to be RR MTB 6.6% (3/45). Conclusion: In this study we found that in our region 5.5% cases of TB were RR-TB, 3.2% were new cases and 13% RR-TB was seen in previously treated cases of MTB. The screening of drug resistance has to be expanded to offer universal DST including expanded DST .The second and most important activity is to strengthen drug resistance surveillance under the various national programs with inclusion of laboratories in the private sector as well. The state level regional studies also give us the opportunity to plan and execute intervention prioritization, based on the drug resistance trends observed.

INTRODUCTION Glutathione S-transferase (GST) gene deletion or polymorphic sequence variations lead to decreased enzyme activity that influences susceptibility and response to tyrosine kinase inhibitors in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). We aimed to analyze relation of different GST gene sequence variants with susceptibility and response to Imatinib in CML. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 150 CML cases and equal number of age and gender matched healthy controls were genotyped for five GST polymorphisms by multiplex-PCR and PCR-RFLP techniques. BCR-ABL1 transcripts were quantified by quantitative Real Time PCR (qRT-PCR). RESULTS GSTT1, GSTO1, and GSTO2 SNPs revealed no association, while as GSTM1null genotype was observed to protect against the development of CML (OR = 0.53, P = .01). GSTP1 variant genotypes AG (OR = 2.1, P = .003) and GG (OR = 5.6, P

Inherited polymorphic sequence variations in drug transport genes like ABCB1 impact a portion of patients with hematologic malignancies that show intrinsic or acquire resistance to treatment. Keeping in view inter-individual sensitivities for such drugs, we through this case–control study tested whether ABCB1 C3435T and G2677T polymorphisms have any influence on the risk and treatment response in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). Genotyping for ABCB1 polymorphisms was performed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism in 100 CML and 80 B-ALL patients along with 100 age and gender matched healthy controls. ABCB1 C3435T and G2677T polymorphism showed no association with CML. Genotype distribution revealed significant higher frequency of TT genotype for both SNPs in B-ALL cases and associated with increased B-ALL risk (OR 2.5, p = 0.04 for 3435TT; OR 2.4, p = 0.04 for 2677TT). There was no significant difference in genotype frequency of 3435C > T and 2677G > T among resistant and responsive groups for the two leukemia types. Kaplan–Meier survival plots revealed significantly lower event free survival in CML and B-ALL patients that were carriers of 3435TT genotype (p

IntroductionGlutathione S-transferase (GST) gene deletion or polymorphic sequence variations lead to decreased enzyme activity that influences susceptibility and response to chemotherapy in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). This case–control study investigated the association of GST gene polymorphisms with the etiology and therapeutic outcome of B-ALL among Kashmiri population.MethodsA total of 300 individuals including 150 newly diagnosed B-ALL patients and an equal number of age and gender matched controls were genotyped for five GST gene polymorphisms by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism technique (PCR-RFLP) and multiplex PCR techniques.ResultsHigher frequency of GSTT1null, GSTO2-AG, and GSTO2-GG genotypes was observed in ALL cases compared to controls that associated significantly with ALL risk (GSTT1null: OR = 2.93, p = 0.0001; GSTO2-AG: OR = 2.58, p = 0.01; GSTO2-GG: OR = 3.13, p = 0.01). GSTM1, GSTP1, and GSTO1 SNPs showed no significant association (p > 0.05). Combined genotype analysis revealed significant association of GSTT1null/GSTM1null (OR = 4.11, p = 0.011) and GSTT1null/GSTP1-AG (OR = 4.93, p = 0.0003) with B-ALL susceptibility. Haplotype analysis of rs4925 and rs156697 revealed that carriers of CG haplotype had increased risk of B-ALL (p = 0.04). Kaplan–Meier plots revealed significantly inferior 3-year disease-free survival for GSTO2-GG carriers (p = 0.002). Multivariate analysis confirmed GSTO2-GG as an independent poor prognostic factor for DFS (HR = 4.5, p = 0.034). Among combined genotypes, only GSTT1null/GSTP1-AG associated significantly with poorer DFS rates (p = 0.032).ConclusionThis study demonstrated that GSTT1null individually or in combination with GSTM1null and GSTP1-AG genotypes associated with increased B-ALL risk. Also, rs156697 variant genotypes (AG and GG) associated with B-ALL, whereas the GG genotype of rs156697 influenced the treatment outcome.

Introduction: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a clonal accumulation of myeloid precursors in body tissues, which ultimately leads to bone marrow failure. This is an 8-year prospective, observational study in which 254 patients were enrolled. Aim of the Study: To document the clinical profile of AML and differential outcome in M3 versus non-M3 phenotype and to see impact of different variables on its survival. Methods: Patients enrolled in the study were examined, evaluated, and given standard 3:7 induction protocol, and acute promyelocytic leukemia (APML) patients were given the ICAPL 2006 protocol. Results: In our study, males outnumbered females and most of our patients were in 20–60 years of age group. The better prognosis was in patients who were in the second decade of life. Total leukocyte count and platelet count had a significant impact on the survival of the a patient. Bone marrow morphology of M3 type has extremely good prognosis and was the most common FAB type seen in our study. Flow cytometric markers such as CD15, CD33, CD117, and myeloperoxidase had positivity among 90% of patients. Overall survival is around 40% in whole-study group, 87% in APML group, and 16.5% in non-M3 group. There are still unmet needs in managing the non-M3 patients in resource-constraint countries where allogenic transplant and newer drugs have the least access. For improving the outcome in M3 AML, further newer molecules such as Flt3 and PIK3 inhibitors are being used in trials. Conclusion: There are still unmet needs in managing the non-M3 patients in resource-constraint countries where allogenic transplant and newer drugs have the least access. For improving the outcome in M3 AML, further newer molecules such as Flt3 and PIK3 inhibitors are being used in trials.

CYP2D6 is one of the most widely investigated CYPs in relation to gene polymorphism. This study analyzed the relationship between CYP2D6 rs35742686 and rs3892097 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and potential risk factors in the development of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in Kashmiri children. We recruited 300 cases and 600 controls for genotyping and risk factors assessment. Genotypes of rs35742686 and rs3892097 were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. CYP2D6 expression analysis was done by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction in ALL cases. Conditional logistic regression models were used to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). High risk of ALL was observed in cases who carried the mutant genotypes of rs35742686 (OR = 18.15; 95% CI = 4.13–79.66, p

BackgroundHydatid disease is endemic in some regions of the world. Even in endemic regions, splenic hydatid cysts are rare, especially in pregnancy. The most serious presentation is intra peritoneal rupture, which is a surgical emergency. Exploration with splenectomy is the favoured management.Case presentationWe present a case of splenic hydatid cyst detected late in pregnancy, which presented with intraperitoneal rupture in the postpartum period. A brief review in the context is also presented.ConclusionCystic lesions located anywhere in the body in endemic regions could be hydatid cysts. Prompt treatment should be planned immediately on detection in order to prevent potentially serious complications like rupture.

Introduction: Worldwide antibiotic prescription in surgical practices are inappropriate quite often, reasons being inappropriate indication, inappropriate antibiotic prophylaxis, continuation of empiric therapy despite negative cultures in a stable patient, and a lack of awareness of susceptibility patterns of common pathogens. Extended-spectrum b-lactamase, Carbapenemase resistant and multidrug-resistant strains of organisms causing intrabdominal infections, have developed. The occurrence of MRSA surgical site infection (SSI) has a significant impact on clinical and economic outcomes, notably an increase in postoperative mortality. Opportunities: There is an array of web of factors which affect the occurrence of SSI and antibiotics should not be answer or replacement to any of those factors. Narrow spectrum antibiotic active against the most probable pathogen to be encountered during operation, for a short period of time in adequate doses should be utilized. Broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents don’t result in lower rates of postoperative SSI compared to narrower spectrum. Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy, parotidectomy, chest tube insertion and other clean procedures don’t warrant use of prophylaxis. For most patients who have had their wounds opened and adequately drained, antibiotic therapy is unnecessary. Antibiotics should be discontinued at time of incision closure (exceptions include implant-based breast reconstruction, joint arthroplasty, and cardiac procedures and liver transplantation. Hospital-specific antibiograms are important to guide the usage of diverse antibiotic agents to decrease resistance among pathogens. In intrabdominal infections source control is still integral and most important to the treatment of most patients. Routine use of antimicrobial therapy is not appropriate for all patients with intra-abdominal infections e.g. Patients with uncomplicated diverticulitis. In uncomplicated IAIs, when the focus of infection is treated effectively, the administration of antibiotics is unnecessary beyond prophylaxis e.g. Acute unperforated appendicitis removed surgically. In case of intraabdominal infections selection of empirical antimicrobial therapy depends on various factors which include probable contaminating pathogen/s, individual risk assessment and possibility of resistant pathogens. Higher risk patients are those, with severe sepsis/septic shock, elevated APACHE II score (>10), multiple medical comorbidities, problematic or delayed source control. The possibility of resistant pathogens is low in community acquired infections (CAI) in contrast to healthcare or hospital-associated infection (HAI). In Lower risk patients with community-acquired IAI, narrower-spectrum therapy ( coli, Bacteroides) is recommended and there is no need for anti-enterococcal or antifungal therapy. In Higher risk patients with community-acquired IAI, broader-spectrum therapy is recommended with selective use of anti-enterococcal and antifungal therapy. In Patients with healthcare/hospital-associated IAI, broader-spectrum therapy is recommended with additional agents for resistant pathogens. Do not use clindamycin as an anti-anaerobic agent in combination regimens for the empiric treatment in adults and children unless metronidazole cannot be used. Duration of antimicrobial therapy can be significantly shortened to 4-7 days under most of the circumstances. Routine addition of an aminoglycoside to other agents having broad spectrum gram negative coverage provides no additional benefit in intrabdominal infections. Conclusion: Antibiotics are a treasure but not unlimited. Appropriate use is the need of the hour to save our present and future generations from the menace of antimicrobial resistance. JMS 2018;21(1):54-60

The well-established molecular pathogenesis of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) and its consequences for laboratory testing and clinical management illustrate a classic paradigm for the importance of molecular diagnostics in targeted drug therapy. The success of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), Imatinib, as the currently recommended first-line treatment of early chronic phase CMLhas both fueled the need for timely and reproducible molecular testing of the BCR-ABL fusion transcript in diagnosis and monitoring. As ongoing research continues to refine guidelines for monitoring residual disease in patients undergoing TKI therapy, an understanding of molecular technologies and their interpretation is critical. In this regard, we at Cancer Diagnostic and Research Centre, Immunology and Molecular Medicine established a gold standard RT-PCR and RQ-PCR technique to diagnose and monitor residual disease in CMLpatients. JMS 2016; 19(2):82-84

The techniques of single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) is developed and based on that of conventional laparo-endoscopic surgery. At first, surgeons wanted to devise a method for visceral surgery with no incision on body’s surface, which is called natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES). As early as the 1970s, Dr. Raimund Wittmoser, the “father” of modern thoracoscopic surgery of the autonomic nervous system, used a single-intercostal incision through which he inserted a multifunctional port which contained all the instruments and optics. Another example of SILS in early times is the application of laparoscopic instrumentation to resect lesions in the rectum or sigmoid colon. Using the anus as the portal of entry, trans- anal endoscopic microsurgery (TEMS) employs a specialized multichannel trocar to reach lesions located 8 to 18 cm away from the anal verge. Compared to NOTES, SILS is easier, safer, more applicable and convenient for surgeons to master and the main reason is that physicians, but not surgeons always use endoscopes. However, laparoscope has been a tool for surgeons for a long time.

Gases such as ethylene, hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 ), nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2 S) have been recognized as vital signaling molecules in plants and animals. Of these gasotransmitters, NO and H2 S have recently gained momentum mainly because of their involvement in numerous cellular processes. It is therefore important to study their various attributes including their biosynthetic and signaling pathways. The present review provides an insight into various routes for the biosynthesis of NO and H2 S as well as their signaling role in plant cells under different conditions, more particularly under heavy metal stress. Their beneficial roles in the plant's protection against abiotic and biotic stresses as well as their adverse effects have been addressed. This review describes how H2 S and NO, being very small-sized molecules, can quickly pass through the cell membranes and trigger a multitude of responses to various factors, notably to various stress conditions such as drought, heat, osmotic, heavy metal and multiple biotic stresses. The versatile interactions between H2 S and NO involved in the different molecular pathways have been discussed. In addition to the signaling role of H2 S and NO, their direct role in posttranslational modifications is also considered. The information provided here will be helpful to better understand the multifaceted roles of H2 S and NO in plants, particularly under stress conditions.

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the leading cause of death and disability in young adults. Disorders of salt and water balance are the most commonly recognized medical complications in the immediate post-TBI period and contribute to early morbidity and mortality. Objective: We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of acute (during hospital stay) and chronic posterior pituitary dysfunction in patients of head injury admitted at our tertiary care hospital. Study Design: Prospective, Observational study. Participants: 136 patients, attending tertiary care in North India with TBI with radiological evidence of head injury. Methodology: The severity of brain injury was assessed by the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), and Modified Rankin Scale (MRS) score at the time of admission. Lab measurements, apart from routine CBC and biochemical tests, included tests of serum and urinary osmolality, serum sodium, cortisol, and thyroid function test during the hospital stay. All patients were monitored closely during the hospital stay. Surviving patients were evaluated at 3, 6, and 12 months of follow-up. Urinary output and water deprivation tests were done to determine chronic posterior pituitary dysfunction. The results were compared against normative data obtained from 25 matched, healthy controls. Serum & urinary osmolality was measure by the freezing point method. Diabetes insipidus (DI) and Syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion (SIADH) were diagnosed according to standard criteria. Results: Of 136 patients admitted, 61 (44.85%) had a mild head injury (GCS, ≤8), 47 (35.55%) had a moderate injury (GCS, 9-12), and 27 (19.85%) had a severe injury (GCS, 13-15). DI occurred in 10 patients (7.4%), while SIADH was observed in 4 patients in the immediate TBI period. Risk factors for diabetes insipidus were GCS of ≤ 8 at admission, midline shift, and surgical intervention. DI was an independent risk factor for death. There was a negative correlation between the presence of DI and GCS score (r, -0.367). Most of the patients with DI (8 out of 10) died during the hospital stay. One patient persisted to have partial diabetes insipidus and another one SIADH at three months post-TBI; both patients had recovered at six months of follow-up. No new case of DI or SIADH occurred on the follow up to 12 months. Conclusion: The incidence of acute DI in severe head injury (GCS ≤ 8) could be an indicator of the severity of TBI, and associated with increased mortality as most of our patients died during the hospital stay.

Recent advances in sequencing technology have brought several novel platforms for marker development and subsequent genotyping. The high-throughput and cost effective marker techniques have changed the entire scenario of marker applications. The huge genotypic data obtained with next generation sequencing (NGS) also demands analytical tools, statistical advances, and comprehensive understanding to cope with breeding applications. In the present review, we discussed different available marker techniques, their strengths, and limitations. Emphasis was given on software tools, analytical pipelines, workbenches, and online resources available for marker development. Comparison of SNP genotyping involving complexity reduction techniques like GBS, RRL, RAD, and array-based platforms were presented in a view to describe suitability for specific purposes. We found that genotyping by whole genome re-sequencing has great potential, and could be a routine application in the near future with continuously decreasing cost of sequencing. Microsatellites, still a valuable option for breeders, have also advanced with NGS. Here a catalogue of tools for microsatellite evaluation in short sequence reads was provided. The most common applications of molecular marker like QTL mapping, genome-wide association mapping (GWAS), and genomic selection were highlighted. The present review will be helpful for the effective utilization of available resources and for the planning of crop improvement programs employing molecular marker techniques.

Twenty acid soils of West Bengal, India, representing Alfisols, Entisols and Inceptisols orders, were studied to characterize their acidity in relation to physicochemical properties. Total potentia...

Objective: The aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety profile of dapsone as a cheap second-line treatment for chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) in developing countries. Materials and Methods: A prospective study on 100 chronic ITP patients. These patients were put on dapsone after ruling out glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency and secondary causes of ITP. Results: The basic work up for secondary causes of ITP was negative. All these patients had been treated with steroids in the past. Anti-D had been given acutely in 20 patients, and intravenous immunoglobulin G had been given in 10 patients. Vincristine had been given to 20 of these patients. Dapsone was started in these patients, and 44% patients showed a response to treatment. The mean time to onset of response was 21 days. Out of these 44 patients, 21 (47.7%) went into remission and had platelet count >100,000/μl at 2 years post tapering of the treatment. Remaining 23 patients were kept on low dose dapsone and maintained their platelet counts. Adverse drug reactions included mild skin eruptions in 5% of patients, pruritus in 10% of patients, dose-related hemolysis in 1% of patients, methemoglobinemia in 1% of patients and Stevens Johnson syndrome in 1% of patients. 56 patients were nonresponders to the available, affordable conventional medical treatment and were referred to the surgical department for splenectomy, with a cure rate of 86% postsurgery. Conclusions: Dapsone is a safe, cheap and effective treatment option for patients with chronic ITP, who cannot afford the usual costlier second-line drugs.

Fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp., ciceri) is one of the major yield limiting factors of chickpea (Cicer arietinum). For eco-friendly and sustainable management of the disease, two species of antagonists (Trichoderma viride and Trichoderma harzianum) and chemical fungicide (Carbendazim 50 WP) alone or in combination with farm yard manure (FYM) were evaluated against the pathogen. The study was carried out under laboratory and field conditions. In vitro results showed that T. viride and T. harzianum alone or in combination significantly inhibited the mycelial growth of the pathogen. Different concentrations (10, 50 and 100 ppm) of Carbendazim 50 WP showed significant inhibition in the mycelia growth, and a concentration of 100 ppm completely inhibited the mycelia growth of the pathogen. Result indicates that seed treatment with T. viride and T. harzianum reduced the wilt incidence significantly, and increased the seed germination as compared to control. Application of bio-agents alone or in combination with FYM enhanced the plant growth parameters significantly, that is, dry weight, root length and grain yield. The lone treatment with carbendazim as seed treatment significantly reduced the wilt incidence, and increased seed germination and plant growth parameters as compared to control. Results of the study show that bio-agents significantly reduced the wilt incidence, and increased seed germination and plant growth parameters as compared to chemical fungicides. Key words: Chickpea, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp., ciceri, Trichoderma viride, Trichoderma harzianum, carbendazim.

A 35-year-old male patient presented to the General Surgery Out Patient Department with a history of swelling on the left lateral chest since birth. The swelling appeared during inspiration and disappeared during expiration. JMS 2018;21(1):48

Productivity of red and lateritic soils is low because of their acidity and deficiencies in few essential nutrients viz., nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, zinc, boron, molybdenum etc. We compared the effectiveness of basic slag, a low-cost liming material, with that of calcite as an ameliorant for these soils using mustard followed by rice as test crops. Experiments were conducted with three levels of each of basic slag and calcite along with a control on farmers' fields at 14 different locations. Influence of farmyard manure (FYM) and poultry manure (PM) on the effectiveness of the slag was also tested. On an average, basic slag performed better than calcite in increasing yields of both mustard and rice and left over higher amounts of available Ca, Si and Zn in residual soils. The slag also improved N, P, K and Ca nutrition of mustard and Si and Zn nutrition of rice with a favorable benefit:cost (B:C) ratio over the calcite (4.82 vs. 1.44). Effectiveness of the basic slag improved when it was applied in combination with FYM or PM (B:C, 5.83 and 6.27). Basic slag can, therefore, be advocated for use in the acidic red and lateritic soils for economically improving their productivity.

Anemia and other hematological abnormalities are common in patients with Sheehan's syndrome. The response of these abnormalities to replacement of thyroxine and glucocorticoids is not clear. The aim of the present study was to document the profile of hematological abnormalities and response to treatment in patients with Sheehan's syndrome. Forty patients of Sheehan's syndrome and an equal number of age and parity matched healthy controls were studied for prevalence of hematological abnormalities. Hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit, red cell, white cell and platelet count were significantly decreased in patients with Sheehan's syndrome compared to controls. Frequency of anemia, leucopenia, thrombocytopenia and pancytopenia was significantly higher in these patients compared to controls. After achieving euthyroid and eucortisol state, there was a complete recovery of these hematological abnormalities. We conclude that anemia and other cytopenias are common in patients with Sheehan's syndrome and replacement with thyroxine and glucocorticoids results in complete recovery of these abnormalities.

Reports of pancytopenia in patients with Sheehan's syndrome are rare, because the disorder is not commonly seen in western countries. A case series of pancytopenia in three patients of Sheehan's syndrome is presented. Three women aged 22, 30, and 34 years developed Sheehan's syndrome preceded by post partum hemorrhage. During investigations, they were found to have pancytopenia with hypocellular marrow. Treatment with thyroxine and glucocorticoids resulted in complete recovery after attaining euthyroid and eucortisolemic state. Review of literature revealed the rarity of the disorder, with only four cases reported so far. Multiple anterior pituitary hormone deficiencies in Sheehan's syndrome are responsible for pancytopenia; replacement of thyroid and cortisol hormones results in complete recovery.

Melorheostosis, also known as Leri′s disease and flowing periosteal hyperostosis, is a rare cause of pain and stiffness in a limb. The appearance is of "candle greasing" down one side of one or several bones of the body. We describe a case referred to tertiary care center with suspicion of renal cell carcinoma with diffuse bone metastasis. After reassessment, the patient was diagnosed melorheostosis with renal AV malformation. He was reassured about the benign nature of the disease and is asymptomatic.

Background: Hallux valgus is a common condition that affects the forefoot. A large number of procedures are described for managing this condition. Mitchell's osteotomy and its modifications are being widely used for treating hallux valgus. However, most of the studies describe the results from the developed world. We present results of the classic Mitchell's osteotomy in hallux valgus in Indian subcontinent. Materials and Methods: Forty eight adult patients (including 12 bilateral ones) in the age range of 18-60 years with hallux valgus were managed with the classic Mitchell's osteotomy. Pain over the bunion was the reason for surgery in 53 of 60 feet and cosmesis in the remaining 7 feet. Patients with hallux valgus angle more than 20° degrees and not responding to a trial of conservative treatment were included. Patients having metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint osteoarthritis (Grade II and higher), hallux rigidus, rheumatoid arthritis, and with subluxation of MTP joint were excluded from the study. Further, patients with first metatarsal more than 3 mm shorter than second metatarsal were also excluded. Results: The average follow-up period is 3 yrs (range 18months - 6yrs). About 55 feet (83%) were painless after surgery. Forty-two (70%) patients were happy with the cosmetic results of the surgery. Metatarsalgia was the reason for dissatisfaction with the procedure in five patients. The average correction of hallux valgus and the intermetatarsal angles achieved was 19.7° and 6.9°, respectively. Using the Broughton and Winson scoring system, 37 (61.7%) feet had excellent results, 18 (30%) had good, and five (8.3%) feet had a poor results. Conclusion: The classic Mitchell's procedure is a simple procedure and gives good cosmetic and radiological results.

Depth distribution of boron (B) extractable by hot calcium chloride (HCC), potassium dihydrogen phosphate (PDP), and tartaric acid (TA) in some typical B‐deficient Inceptisols, Entisols, and Alfisols in relation to soil properties was studied. The magnitude of B extraction followed the order HCC > PDP > TA for Inceptisols, TA > HCC > PDP for Entisols, and PDP > HCC > TA for Alfisols and showed a decrease along soil depth. The low pH of TA and effective desorption of B by phosphate of PDP are attributed to their higher efficiency in extracting B in Entisols and Alfisols, respectively. A decrease in organic carbon (C), clay, and amorphous iron oxide content was responsible for the observed decrease in extractable B along depth of soil profile. The HCC showed more efficiency than PDP and TA for extracting B in soils high in organic C. Multiple regression equations explained only 21, 57, and 59% of the variability in PDP‐, HCC‐, and TA‐extractable B content in soils by the soil properties analyzed, of which o...

Objectives: For young patients receiving cancer chemotherapy, the major concern is gonadal dysfunction with impaired reproductive capacity. The impact of such therapy in patients with lymphoma was focus of this study. Methods : Semen analysis and serum FSH and LH levels were determined pretreatment, immediately after completion of therapy and at follow-up in 60 patients of lymphoma receiving chemotherapy. Results : Pretreatment infertility was present in 13.2% of patients. After completion of treatment, 76.9% developed azoospermia. However, after a mean follow up of 56.66 months, percentage of normospermic patients declined to 43.3%, recovery being better in patients of age less than 30 years. Conclusion : The effects of chemotherapy on testicular activity were significant with combination containing cyclophosphamide and procarbazine. Recovery in spermatogenesis and FSH levels to normal was seen in patients receiving cyclophosphamide, vincristine and prednisolone but was least when procarbazine was added to this. 90% patients continued to have azoospermia at 5 years in the group which received cyclophosphamide in combination with procarbazine.

Recurrent bacterial meningitis in children is potentially life-threatening and induces psychological trauma to the patients through repeated hospitalization. Here we report a case of recurrent meningitis in a one month old baby. The CSF and blood culture grew Salmonella enteritidis. Injection ciprofloxacin and ceftriaxone were given for 3 weeks. Baby became symptomatically better and was afebrile at discharge. Twenty eight days after discharge baby got readmitted with complaints of fever and refusal of feeds. Blood and CSF culture again showed growth of Salmonella enteritidis. Physicians should be educated about the possibility of recurrence which may occur days or even weeks after apparent successful antibiotic treatment.

Kangari, an earthenware brazier containing burning charcoal, is used for personal warming during the winter months by most of the people in Kashmir valley. Kangari is usually held close to the lower abdomen or in between the legs while squatting on the ground. The use of kangari is associated with development of skin cancer at the sites of prolonged exposure. In the present study 43 patients with Kangari cancer were analyzed prospectively with the objective of understanding their clinico-pathological profile and the response to various treatment modalities. Variables such as age, gender, grade, site of lesion etc., were evaluated for their prognostic significance.

Routine patella replacement with total knee arthroplasty has not been universally adopted because of associated patellofemoral complications such as anterior knee pain (AKP). In the proposed technique, the articular surface of the lateral facet of the patella is excised to the depth of the subchondral bone, and the medial facet is then cut parallel to the anterior surface. We evaluated any correlation between various radiographic parameters and AKP in 100 consecutive fixed-bearing posterior-stabilized total knee arthroplasties. There were no cases of fracture, avascular necrosis, subluxation, dislocation, patellar baja, or overstuffing of the patella. Anterior knee pain was present in 11% of cases, and no cases were severe or disabling. There were no correlations between AKP, range of motion, patellar size and shape, and any of the radiographic parameters.

Sheehan’s syndrome presents with panhypopituitarism after childbirth, usually preceded by post partum hemorrhage. Hematological abnormalities like pancytopenia with hypocellular marrow in these patients are reported rarely. Though multiple hormone deficiencies may contribute to Pancytopenia in Sheehan’s syndrome, complete recovery is observed after achieving eucortisolemic and euthyroid state. The predominant role of thyroxine or glucocorticoids in reversing pancytopenia in these patients has not been studied. We present the clinical, hormonal, hematological course and response to glucocorticoids in a patient of Sheehan’s syndrome presenting with pancytopenia. Complete recovery of pancytopenia was observed after achieving eucortisolemic state thus concluding that gulcocorticoid replacement is sufficient to reverse pancytopenia in these patients.

Metastasis to bone is a common manifestation of malignant tumours. However, metastasis to the bones of the foot is exceedingly rare. It usually arise from genitourinary tract and colon, with the tarsal bones accounting for half of all metastases. We report a rare case of pain and destruction of the distal phalanx of great toe, initially suspected as osteomyelitis, which on biopsy proved to be metastases from a clinically silent bronchogenic carcinoma.

Inferior dislocation of the shoulder, also called luxatio erecta, is a rare form of the otherwise common shoulder dislocation. It accounts for less than 0.5% of all shoulder dislocations. A case involving the inferior dislocation of the shoulder is reported. A brief review of the presentation and management of the condition is described.

Objective: To find the effectiveness of essential oil of lemongrass for the treatment of pathogenic organisms. Methods: Lemongrass oil was investigated for activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Bacillus cereus (B. cereus), Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis), Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), using Agar Diffusion Method and Broth Dilution Method. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined by the Broth Dilution Method. The antibiotic susceptibility test against the test organisms was performed by Disc Diffusion Method. Results: Lemongrass was found effective against all the test organisms except P. aeruginosa. Gram positive organisms were found more sensitive to lemon grass oil as compared to gram negative organisms. The test organisms were found inhibited by Lemon grass oil at lower concentrations in Broth Dilution Method as compared to Agar Diffusion Method. Conclusions: The tested organisms, particularly gram-negative organisms had shown high resistance towards different antibiotics whereas they were found to be inhibited by lemongrass oil even at lower concentration. Thus lemongrass oil is effective against drug resistant organisms. It can be suggested that use of lemongrass oil would be helpful in the treatment of infections caused by multidrug resistant organisms.