002418   Ahmad I (Scientist-in-Charge, Fibre Toxicology Div, Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, M.G. Marg, Post Box, 80, Lucknow-226 001) : Asbestos exposure through usage of cosmetic powders. Chem envir Res 2007, 16(3-4), 299-301.

8 ref

002417   Ahmad A;Khalique N;Khan Z (Community Medicine Dep, JNMC, AMU, Aligarh) : Knowledge regarding STDS, AIDS and reproductive health among male adolescents. Indian J Prev Soc Med 2007, 38(3-4), 159-65.

Assesses the level of knowledge regarding reproductive health matters including STDs and AIDS in school going male adolescents. To find out their most preferred source of first information regarding reproductive health. A cross-sectional study was undertaken in school children. 390 students (10-19 yrs) formed the study population. The study tools consisted of a self-developed, pre-tested, questionnaire. Statistical Analysis was done by using SPSS 10 package. The mean age of students was 14.02 yrs (14.4 yrs in urban and 13.6 yrs in rural). Most lacked adequate knowledge of various issues of Reproductive Health (RH). The urban male adolescents had better knowledge as compared to rural counterparts. Knowledge regarding STDs was poor. 51.2% students knew something about AIDS. The most preferred source of information was television (40.2%) and friends (16.5%). Recommendation: Rural areas should be given importance in the AIDS awareness campaigns. A useful strategy for communication in this age group would be through peer educators.

4 tables, 10 ref

002416   Ahathya R S;Sudhakar U;Mammen B;Ambalavanan N (Periodontics Dep, Meenakshmi Ammal Dental College & Hospital, Chennai) : The double lateral sliding bridge flap for coverage denuded root surfaces. Kerala dent J 2007, 30(2), 7-10.

Three case reports are presented that demonstrate the use of the Double lateral sliding bridge flap for root coverage of mandibular anterior teeth. The primary concept of the technique is that a connected soft tissue flap is slid over the area of recession after releasing the tension at the vestibular end. The original attached gingiva is used to cover the recession, and the vestibular alveolar mucosa is pushed in place of gingiva. The interproximal sutures maintain the flap but its coronal position must not be dependent on their tension. Miller's Class I & III gingival defects were treated. Complete root coverage was achieved in two cases with Miller's Class I recession that exhibited no radiographic evidence of bone loss. Partial root coverage was achieved in case 3 with Miller's Class III gingival defect, that exhibited radiographic evidence of bone loss. Although majority of the exposed root surface was covered, about 2 mm of root remained exposed, which seemed to closely correspond to the amount of bone loss that was noted radiographically.

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002415   Agrawal S;Roy R (NO, , 31, Somnath Nagar Society, Naranpura Cher Rasta, Naranpura, Ahamadabad-13) : Caroverine. Antiseptic 2008, 105(3), 142-45.

14 ref

002414   Agrawal S;Prabhu V V (NO, , GM Medical Services, Lincoln Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Ahmedabad-380 014) : Comparative clinical trial evaluating efficacy and safety of fixed dose combination of nimesulide (100 mg) and racemethionine (50 mg) (namsafe) vs. reference drug (nimesulide) and other NSAIDS in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Antiseptic 2008, 105(4), 187-91.

Sixty consecutive patients, of either sex, above the age of 18 years with symptoms of osteoarthritis participated in this open, randomized, comparative clinical trial carried out over three months. Patients were randomized into five groups; Group A (Paracetamol 500 mg) Group B (Ibuprofen 400 mg), Group C (Nimesulide 100 mg), Group D (Diclofenac 50 mg), and Group E (Fixed dose combination of Nimesulide (100 mg), and Racemethionine (50 mg) (Namsafe). The efficacy parameters were Pain intensity, pain on movement, tenderness and swelling. The liver function tests were carried out to estimate the effect of the drugs on the hepatic profile. The Wilcoxon signed rank test and the Kruskal wallis (one way AN OVA) test were utilized to evaluate the significance of the change from baseline to the final visit. The treatment with combination of Nimesulide and Racemethionine gave the best relief from Tenderness. With respect to Pain Intensity and Pain Movement, combination of Nimesulide and Racemethionine with Nimesulide efficacy was comparable. The Liver Function Test Data at the end of 6 months show that combination of Nimesulide and Racemethionine treated group showed the least rise in the SCOT and SGPT levels, whereas in the other treatment groups it was very pronounced. Thereby, combination of Nimesulide and Racemethionine is found to be better for the long term treatment of Osteoarthritis in patients. The combination of the two agents, namely Nimesulide and Racemethionine is expected to augment the safety profile of Nimesulide, without influencing the effectiveness of the analgesic agent i.e. Nimesulide.

3 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

002413   Agrawal A;Jaiswal S S;Roy N;Harish;Baskaran V (Surgery Dep, Armed Forces Medical College, Pune-411 040, Email: omez@rediffmail.com) : Unusual presentation of pleomorphic adenoma parotid. Indian Practnr 2007, 60(12), 787-90.

Pleomorphic adenomas rarely arise from the deep lobe of the parotid gland. Discusses the successful management of this condition in a 66 year old lady along with review of literature.

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002412   Aggarwal R;et al. (NO, , GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals - South Asia, Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai-400 030, Email: sanjoy.k.datta@gsk.com) : Reactogenicity of a combined hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccine in healthy Indian children and adults. Indian J Gastroenterol 2007, 26(5), 248-9.

1 table, 11 ref

002411   Agarwal S;Salhan S (NO, , YZ-25, Sarojini Nagar, New Delhi-110 023, Email: nkgupta@pmo.nic.in) : Septic abortion - current scenario in a tertiary care hospital. J Obstet Gynec India 2008, 58(2), 147-51.

The study was planned to incidence of septic abortion and reasons thereof, besides their socio-demographic profile, abortion providers, procedures used, complications faced, treatment provided, and attitude of patients towards contraception. All patients admitted with septic abortion during the period April 2001 and December 2003 were included in the study. Results: Seventy-five women, averaging 27.9 (±4.9) years, sought abortion for reasons like limiting family (44%), spontaneous bleeding (20%), economic limitation (13.3%), spacing etc from dais (36%), ANMs (16%), nurses (22.6%) and even doctors (22.6%). Instrumentation or crude methods were used on an average of 11.8 days prior to hospital admission for pain in abdomen, distension, fever bleeding etc. Septic shock was seen in nine. Various grades of sepsis/pelvic inflammation were seen in all. In 47 patients (62.6%) who underwent laparotomy, uterine perforation (40%), bowel injury (30.7%), peritonitis with blood/pus or fecal fluid (48%) were the commonest findings. Fourteen deaths (18.7%) occurred. The study highlighted the high mortality and morbidity associated with illegal abortions by unskilled providers. Unfortunately patients still approach them due to illiteracy, poverty and privacy.

3 tables, 11 ref

002410   Agarwal N;Goel S;Agarwal R (Orthopaedic Surgery Dep, J.N. Medical College, Aligarh-202 002) : Every pain has a reason. Indian Practnr 2007, 60(10), 645-6.

Pain, the most common symptom in medical practice has presented in various different situations masking different reasons of it. Making a definitive diagnosis about the cause of pain sometimes can be very challenging and demanding for the doctor. Two such interesting clinical situations are presented with initial dilemma about the cause, later they were revealed with the aid of proper follow up and investigations.

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002409   Juyal R;Bansal R;Kishore S;Negi K S (Community Medicine Dep, Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences, Swami Rama Nagar, Doiwala, Dehradun (Uttarakhand), & 3. Professor, Subharti Medical College, Meerut Uttar Pradesh) : Pattern of substance abuse among students in a district of Uttaranchal. Indian J Prev Soc Med 2007, 38(3-4), 166-71.

Studies the pattern of substance abuse among adolescents in district Dehradun. Randomly selected two intercolleges (one rural and one urban). Overall prevalence of substance abuse was 31.3% for regular users. Regular use of almost all mentioned substances was more in urban area as compared to rural area. Among ever users, use of arecanut was found to be maximum (55.3%). Most of the substances abusing students were using single substance. Multiple substance users were more among urban students (17.9%). Shop was the main source for obtaining various substances.

4 tables, 8 ref

001572   Yadav R;Rajeev Kumar (Urology Dep, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Email: rajeev02@gmail.com ) : Virtual versus real cystoscopy. Indian J Urol 2007, 23(1), 85-6.

Forty-seven consecutive patients (28 men and 19 women, age range, 35-72 years) under evaluation for painless gross hematuria were prospectively studied. Unenhanced followed by contrast enhanced CT images were taken (detector array, 4 x 5 mm; beam pitch, 1.5) on a 4-MDCT scanner (Multidetector CT, Light Speed QX/I, GE Healthcare). Delayed scanning dedicated for bladder evaluation was also performed after the patient had sensation of bladder fullness. Adequate mixing of contrast and urine in the bladder was ensured by postural changes prior to acquisition of delayed bladder scans. The obtained data was subsequently processed for reconstructing virtual cystoscopy (by volume-rendering algorithm) and multiplanar images reconstruction (transverse, coronal and sagittal planes at a slice thickness of 1 mm). Positive findings on imaging were noted as any polypoidal lesion, surface irregularity or focal wall thickening. In order to systemically indicate the location of lesion, the bladder was divided into six sites including anterior, posterior, superior, inferior, right and left sites. Conventional cystoscopy was performed by urologist within a week after CT. The image findings on virtual cystoscopy and multiplanar reconstructed images were independently evaluated by two radiologists blinded to the findings of conventional cystoscopy. Results of the source CT images and reconstruction techniques were compared with the gold standard i.e. conventional cystoscopy using the McNemar test. Agreement between the two observers was evaluated using kappa statistics. A total of 40 bladder sites in 25/47 (53%) patients had lesions on conventional cystoscopy. Fifteen patients had a single positive site, six had two positive sites, three had three positive sites and one had four positive sites. The interobserver agreement was excellent for virtual cystoscopy, fair for multiplanar reconstruction and good for source CT images. For both observers, the sensitivity for lesion detection by bladder site was significantly greater with virtual cystoscopy (Observer 1, 95%; Observer 2, 90%) than with multiplanar reconstruction (78% and 60%) and source CT (68% and 65%) images (P< 0.05), whereas the specificity by bladder site and the sensitivity and specificity by patient did not differ with the three methods (P >0.05). For determining the presence or absence of lesion at each site, virtual cystoscopy was more accurate than multiplanar reconstruction and source CT images for both observers (P< 0.05).

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001571   Yadav R J;Adhikari T;Pandey A;Singh P (National Institute of Medical Statistics, Indian Council of Medical Research, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi-110 029) : Indigenous systems of medicine in UP: extent of utilization. Indian J Prev Soc Med 2007, 38(1-2), 88-95.

Estimation of different parameters at the state level, appropriate weighting has been done for two categories of districts. Further, to arrive at All India estimate, states were given weight in proportion to their population. Analysis has been done on the perception about these systems among the community, the satisfaction level including expenditure incurred according to literacy level and their Income level also. The information has been analyzed for preference of ISM&H in normal and serious ailments as well as their reasons for preference as well as for no preference. It has been observed from the analysis that ISM&H was preferred by more than one third in case of normal ailments. The utilization was higher in case of high utilization districts and lower in case of low utilization districts. The sick persons availing ISM&H treatment were about 18% in high utilization district and few in the low utilization district. Of those who preferred ISM&H, the reasons were mainly no side effect and effective. Slow progress due to ISM&H was the main reason for not preferring the system.

11 tables, 4 ref

001570   Vishnukanta;Rana A C (Pharmacology Dep, B N (PG) College of Pharmacy, Udaipur-313 002) : Melia azedarach: a phytopharmacological review. Pharmacog Rev 2008, 2(3), 173-9.

Ayurveda is a traditional Indian medicinal system being practiced for thousands of years. Considerable research on pharmacognosy, chemistry, pharmacology and clinical therapeutics has been carried out on ayurvedic medicinal plants. Natural products, including plants, animals and minerals have been the basis of treatment of human diseases. The current accepted modern medicine or allopathy has gradually developed over the years by scientific and observational efforts of scientists. However, the basis of its development remains rooted in traditional medicine and therapies. Melia azedarach Linn, commonly known as mahanimba belongs to family Meliaceae. It is large evergreen tree found throughout India and very similar to neem. Traditionally it is used as anthelmintic, antilithic diuretic, emmenagouge, astringent and stomachic. Varies scientific studies reported the analgesic, anticancer, antiviral, antimalarial, antibacterial, antifeedent and antirertility avtivity of this plant. So the objective of the present review is to highlight the phytochemical and pharmacological information of this plant.

58 ref

001569   Vijjan V;Dubey D (Urology Dep, SGPGIMS, Lucknow, Email: ddubey@sgpgi.ac.in) : New therapeutic targets in the treatment of prostate cancer. Indian J Urol 2007, 23(1), 61-6.

Androgen deprivation therapy has become the mainstay of the treatment of advanced prostate cancer, being used in every clinical setting of the disease, from neoadjuvant to metastatic disease. Despite success in controlling the disease in the majority of men, hormonal manipulations will eventually fail. New agents are being developed for patients with hormone refractory disease. Important advances in molecular oncology have improved our understanding regarding the cellular mechanisms that regulate cell death in the prostate. It is hoped that these new insights will lead to development of more efficacious and easy to tolerate therapies for cancer prostate. This review focuses on the current literature on tumor vaccines, angiogenesis inhibitors, antisense oligonucleotides, differentiation agents, cancer-specific genes, endothelial - receptor antagonists, anti-apoptotic agents, agents acting on signaling pathways and androgen and estrogen receptors.

42 ref

001568   Vamsi Krishna M;Srinath M;Gowari Sankar D (NO, University College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: marothu_vamsi@rediffmail.com) : Principles and applications of capillary electrophoresis in new drug discovery. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2008, 2(1), 142-55.

Focusses on the use of capillary electrophoresis (CE) techniques for performing high throughput drug discovery and development applications. The various examples using CE systems for performing physicochemical profiling, chiral separations, enzyme and inhibitor activity screening, metabolomic analysis, immunoassay, protein analysis and genetic analysis were presented.

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001567   Uma S;Kelly J P;Rajasekaran S K (Physiology & Endocrinology Dep, St. Matthew's Medical University, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, Email: usenthikumar@smucayman.com) : Investigation of the value of the Tetrahymena pyriformis as a test organism for assessing the acute toxicity of antidepresants. Biomed Res 2008, 19(1), 37-40.

Antidepressants differ greatly from class to class and within individual members of a class in terms of their adverse drug profile and their toxicity in acute overdose conditions. To reduce the use of animals, a number of in vitro tests are now under investigation to determine the acute toxicity of drugs. The objective of this study was to investigate fresh water protozoa Tetrahymena pyriformis with regard to the acute toxicity of antidepressants. The cyto-toxic effects of a range of currently marketed antidepressants were evaluated using the MTT assay, and the IC50 values were determined for each. These IC₅₀ values did not correlate with the FTI (Fatal Toxicity Index) values in humans. Thus it can be concluded that the Tetrahymena pyriformis cytotoxicity assay is a poor predictor in evaluating the acute toxicity of antidepressants in humans, which is in keeping with other in vitro methodologies using mammalian cells. It can be concluded that, in the absence of credible in vitro tests, acute toxicity in intact animals will continue to be the method for predicting the acute toxicity of antidepressants.

2 illus, 1 tables, 24 ref

001566   Tiwari V;Singh A (NO, A.K.A.P.G. College, Varanasi) : Knowledge, attitude and practice of mothers regarding breast feeding in an urban area of Faizabad district Uttar Pradesh. Indian J Prev Soc Med 2007, 38(1-2), 18-22.

The practice of breast feeding was found very much popular in the urban area of Faizabad (UP.), but in most of the cases (79.25%) the breast feeding was initiated on second or subsequent days of delivery. Though in earlier days, the colostrum was discarded by the mothers believing that it was filthy and harmful to the child, but in the study majority of the mothers (70.75%) gave colostrum to their children. It was very interesting that highly educated (p<0.001) and economically sound status (p<0.01) mothers preferred colostrum feeding in comparison to their counterparts.

7 tables, 12 ref

001565   Thomas J;Manjunath A P;Rai L;Kudva R (Urology Dep, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal-576 104, Email: drjosephthomas@yahoo.co.in) : Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease diagnosed in fetus. Indian J Urol 2007, 23(3), 328-9.

2 illus, 5 ref

001564   Tharyan P (Psychiatry Dep, South Asian Cochrane Network, Prof. BV Moses Centre fo, Christian Medical College, Vellore-632 002) : Evaluating systematic reviews in urology: a practical guide. Indian J Urol 2007, 23(3), 224-33.

Systematic reviews of good quality randomized controlled trials that have little heterogeneity (variability) are considered to I provide the best source of evidence for the efficacy of interventions in healthcare. With the recent national provision for access to The Cochrane Library to all residents in India, urologists and other clinicians now have access to this reliable source of regularly updated systematic reviews. Uses six systematic reviews relevant to urologists from The Cochrane Library produced by different collaborative review groups in The Cochrane Collaboration to illustrate the methods used to minimize bias, improve transparency and provide reliable estimates of treatment effects. Issues in evaluating results, especially when subsequent trials produce discrepant results, are discussed.

2 illus, 1 tables, 32 ref,

001563   Thakur M;Dixit V K (Pharmaceutical Science Dep, Dr H S Gour Univ, Sagar-470 003, Email: vkdixit2011@rediffmail.com) : Review on some important medicinal plant of Chlorophytum spp.. Pharmacog Rev 2008, 2(3), 168-72.

Number of herbs belonging to the specie Chlorophytum are noted for their medicinal benefits in Ayurvedic, and Unani system of medicine. A lot of medicinally important attributes have been assigned to the plants of this specie. The important plants which have so far been explored include C. adescendens, C. borivilianum, C. laxum, C. tuberosum and C. comosum. Although, pandemic in usage, there is an exiguity of scientific literature proclaiming medicinal benefits of the plants belonging to Chlorophyutm spp. It is only in the recent past that there has been an opulence of research work on the medicinal cultivation and biotechnological virtues the plants in this species. The present review is a pragmatic approach to accrue the findings on this very important Spp.

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001562   Thakur A S;Rao Y N;Kabi B C;Sharma U;Singh C M (Biochemistry Dep, Chhattisgarh Institute of Medical Sciences, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh) : Antegenic studies of Mycobacterium smegmatis adenosine deaminase. Indian J Prev Soc Med 2007, 38(1-2), 23-7.

High level of adenosine deaminase was observed in Mycobacteria infected patients. This study was carried out to check the origin of enzyme, whether it is from human origin or part of it is from mycobacterial origin. The enzyme was purified from Mycobacterium smegmatis and antiserum against it was raised in rabbits. The enzyme was found highly antigenic, produced high antibody litre. The ELISA tests was carried out to check the presence of mycobacterial origin of adenosine deaminase or its antibodies in mycobacterial origin of adenosine deaminase or its antibodies in mycobacteria infected patients serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The antigenic reaction shows non significant results to reach any conclusion regarding its origin in mycobacterial infected patients.

3 tables, 15 ref

001561   Tabin Millo;Behera C;Singh S R;Murty O P (Forensic Medicine & Toxicology Dep, AIIMS, New Delhi-29, Email: drchitta75@yahoo.co.in) : Suicidal hanging with face masks and bound limbs-three case reports. Indian Internet J Forensic Med Toxicol 2007, 24(1), 36-8.

Reports three separate cases of suicidal hanging. In two cases mouth was closed by a piece of cloth tied over it, while in the third case a handkerchief was gagged inside the mouth. In one case the legs were tied loosely. Two of them were incomplete hanging cases. Interestingly all cases were adult male belonging to a particular community (Oriya). All of them had migrated to Delhi from Orissa for their livelihood.

4 illus, 14 ref

001560   Suresh Kumar;Madaan R;Farooq A;Sharma A (S D College of Pharmacy, Barnala, Punjab, Email: thakur_pu@yahoo.com) : Genus Pulsatilla. Pharmacog Rev 2008, 2(3), 116-23.

Review includes 84 references on the genus Pulsatilla, and comprises ethnopharmacology, morphology, phytoconstituents, pharmacological reports, clinical study and adverse effects of the prominent species of Pulsatilla. Triterpenoid saponins and flavonoids constitute major classes of phytoconstituents of the genus. A few species of this genus have medicinal value, among these, P. nigricans Stoerck. (family Ranunculaceae) has been traditionally used in the treatment of nervous disorders, and as a remedy for ovaritis, ovaralgia and sexual debility. Despite a long tradition of use of some species, the genus has not been explored properly. In the concluding part, the future scope of Pulsatilla species, especially P. nigricans, has been emphasized with a view to isolate bioactive moieties which could be used for multifarious bioloaical activities.

1 tables, 84 ref

001559   Sunita P;Jha S;Pattanayak S P (Pharmacognosy Div, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi-835 215, Email: priyashree_lenka@yahoo.com) : Health benefits of phyto-oestrogens. Pharmacog Rev 2008, 2(3), 35-42.

The plant derived compounds with estrogenic activity. The authors correctly emphasize the need for control of estrogenicity of foods containing phyto-oestrogens in view of the significant health effects of various estrogenic derivatives. This is particularly essential in the light of the current wave of enthusiasm for vegetarian food in general and phyto-oestrogens in particular. Phytoestrogens are plant-derived hormone-like diphenolic compounds of dietary origin that are present at high levels in plasma of healthy subjects. These compounds are weakly estrogenic and appear to influence the hormone dependent cancers (breast cancer, prostate cancer), viral infection, atherosclerosis, chronic heart diseases and osteoporosis, besides that the review concludes with the discussion of the effects of phyto-oestrogen on reproductive system, neuroprotective effect, retinal thickness, dementia and alcohol metabolism.

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001558   Subba Rao G;Bajaj J S (NO, NAMS, New Delhi-110 029, Email: nams_aca@yahoo.com) : Computer-aided, rational design of potent and selective inhibitors of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B(PTP 1B), a key enzyme in the insulin signaling pathway and novel therapeutic target for obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Ann Natn Acad Med Sci 2007, 43(2), 13-22.

Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) has been shown tc be a negative regulator of insulin signaling by dephosphorylating key tyrosine residues within the regulatory domain of the a-subunit of the insulin receptor. Recent gene knockout studies in mice have shown these mice to have increased insulin sensitivity and improved glucose tolerance. Furthermore, these mice also exhibited a resistance to diet induced obesity. Inhibitors of PTP1B would have the potential of enhancing insulin action by prolonging the phosphorylated state of the insulin receptor. In addition, recent clinical studies have shown that the haplotype ACTTCAG0 of the PTPN1 gene, which encodes PTP1B, is a major risk contributor to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Thus, there is compelling evidence that small molecule inhibitors of PTP1B may be effective in treating insulin resistance at an early stage. Using an in silico structure-based approach, we have designed a potent and selective, small peptide inhibitor of PTP1B. The designed peptide is found to satisfy Lipinski's rule of 5 for its suitability as a drug. Therefore, it can be considered to be a suitable lead compound for the development of new drugs in treating insulin resistance at an early stage thereby leading to a prevention strategy for T2DM and obesity.

6 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

001557   Srivastava A;Gupta N;Anant Kumar;Kapoor R; Deube D (Urology and Renal Tranplantatrion Dep, SGPGIMS, Lucknow, Email: aneesh@sgpgi.ac.in) : Transperitonal laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy: current status. Indian J Urol 2007, 23(3), 294-8.

Renal transplantation is the treatment of choice for a suitable patient with end stage renal disease. Unfortunately, the supply of donor organs is greatly exceeded by demand. In many countries the use of kidneys from living donors has been widely adopted as a partial solution. Traditionally donor nephrectomy has been performed via a open flank incision however with some morbidity like pain and a loin scar. Currently, the donor nephrectomy is increasingly being performed laparoscopically with the objective of reducing the morbidity. It is also hoped that this will lead to increasing acceptance of living donation. The first minimally invasive living donor nephrectomy was carried out in 1995 at the Johns Hopkins Medical Center and since then many centers have undertaken laparoscopic living donor nephrectomy. The laparoscopic approach substantially reduces the donor morbidity and wound related problems associated with open nephrectomy. The laparoscopic techniques thus have the potential to increase the number of living kidney donors. Attempts to review the safety and efficacy of transperitoneal laparoscopic donor nephrectomy.

5 tables, 33 ref

001556   Sriram K;Mathews M S;Gopalakrishnan G (Urology Dep, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamilnadu, Email: uro2@cmcvellore.ac.in) : Paecilomyces pyelonephritis in a patient with urolithiasis. Indian J Urol 2007, 23(2), 195-7.

Fungal organisms are increasingly implicated in nosocomial urinary tract infections. Although Candida, Mucor and Aspergillus are the most commonly identified species, rare fungi are also occasionally observed to infect humans. Misidentification of the organism could result in treatment with an inappropriate antifungal agent, which could result in a florid fungal pyelonephritis. We report the occurrence of fungal pyelonephritis in a patient with stone disease secondary to Paecilomyces variotii. This case report emphasizes the need for an accurate identification of the organism and early and appropriate treatment.

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001555   Sriram K;Kekre N S;Gopalakrishnan G (Urology Dep, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamilnadu, Email: sriram@cmcvellore.ac.in) : Primary hyperoxaluria and systemic oxalosis. Indian J Urol 2007, 23(1), 79-80.

2 illus, 4 ref

001554   Soudarssanane M B;Thiruselvakumar D; Jayalakshmy R (Preventive and Social Medicine Dep, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (J, Puducherry-605 006) : OB Lab' method to teach professional leadership qualities in health care organization. Indian J Prev Soc Med 2007, 38(1-2), 57-63.

Organizational Behavior Laboratory (OB Lab) is a tested teaching method in Personnel Management and Industrial relations. Uses this method to teach behavioral aspects of Leadership Qualities in the health field. Attributes of a team leader (like Performance Appraisal, Support and Supervision) were taught to two batches of final year medical students (total 108) using the OB Lab method during their course on Health Care Organization (Public Health Administration) in 2005-2006. The theory of organizational behavior and relevant managerial concepts were taught initially (during the same class), before incorporating in the teaching method as 'OB Lab' to ensure consecutive practical sessions, thus strengthening the understanding of attributes of professional leadership quality. Feedback from students was very encouraging; almost all of them (98%) mentioned the 'OB Lab' as an important facilitating factor in the learning process.

3 tables, 2 ref

001553   Siva Prasad G;Ninan C K;Devasia A;Gnanaraj L; Kekre N S;Gopalakrishnan G (Urology Dep, Christian Medical College, Vellore- 632 004, Email: uro2@cmcvellore.ac.in) : Is euro-collins better than ringer lactate in live related donor renal transplantation?. Indian J Urol 2007, 23(3), 265-9.

Euro-Collins and University of Wisconsin are preferred solutions in cadaveric renal transplantation. There are no guidelines regarding the perfusion fluids in live donor renal transplantation. We studied whether Euro-Collins was better than Ringer lactate in terms of protecting allograft function. A double-blind permuted randomized trial comparing Euro-Collins and Ringer lactate was performed on 100 patients undergoing live related donor renal transplantation. Outcome variable was serum creatinine. Age, sex, donor nephrectomy and ischemia times, kidney temperature, time of first appearance of urine was not significantly different in both the groups. Fall in serum creatinine was significantly more in Euro-Collins than Ringer lactate in the first postoperative week (P-<o.o5). The time to reach nadir creatinine was 4.97 days in Euro-Collins and 7.75 days in the Ringer lactate group (P-o.o88). Serum creatinine was significantly lower in the Euro-Collins group till six months, thereafter it equalized with Ringer lactate. When individual parameters were analyzed for time to nadir creatinine, only the cold ischemia time of > 80 min was found to be significant (P-o.o24)- Twelve kidneys in Euro-Collins and 17 in the Ringer lactate group had cold ischemia times of ≥ 80 min and time to nadir creatinine was 4.33 ± 3.74 and 12.76 ± 12.68 days [P 0.035]. Renal function normalized rapidly when Euro-Collins was used. Cold ischemia time of ≥ 80 min was the most important factor affecting the graft function and perfusing with Euro-Collins could protect the allograft.

4 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

001552   Sinha M;Cherian T K;Joseph M;Sehgal A (Obstertrics and Gynaecology Dep, St. Stephens Hospital, Tis Hazari, Delhi-110 054, Email: koshycherian24@hotmail.com) : Ruptured intrafollicular ovarian pregnancy with hemopertitoneum. J Obstet Gynec India 2007, 57(3), 263-4.

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001551   Singla M;Srivastava A (Urology and Renal Transplantation Dep, SGPGIMS, Lucknow, Email: amees@sgpgi.ac.in) : Should small renal masses by managed expectantly?. Indian J Urol 2007, 23(3), 331-2.

In this retrospective analysis the authors have studied the short-term outcomes of patients whose renal masses were managed expectantly (i.e., watchful waiting) to provide insight into the natural history of small renal tumors. This study also analyzed the effects of delayed intervention in patients who required interventicn after a period of expectant management. A total of 43 patients with 46 renal masses underwent planned expectant management of enhancing solid or cystic (Bosniak IV) renal masses. A subset of these patients (13) who underwent eventual intervention was also examined. Outcomes with regard to age, gender, growth rate, subsequent interventions and clinical follow-up are reported. At a mean follow-up of 36 months 74% of patients had tumor growth with a mean (median) growth rate of 0.70 (0.35) cm per year. None of the patients had significant symptoms, disease progression or cancer-specific death. The 13 patients undergoing eventual intervention were younger than those who did not undergo intervention (56 vs. 72 years, respectively, P = 0.0006). Patients undergoing eventual intervention tended to have a higher tumor growth rate than those on continued observation (0.90 vs. 0.61 cm per year, respectively, P =0.1486). In patients undergoing eventual intervention 12 of 14 (87%) tumors were renal cell carcinoma. All were stage pTl and 12 of 13 patients were alive after a mean follow-up of 41 months (one patient died of other causes 30 months after surgery). No patient had up-staging of disease secondary to delay.

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001550   Singla A K (NO, Harper Professional Building, Suit 1017, Email: asingla@med.wayne.edu) : Male incontinence: pathophysiology and management. Indian J Urol 2007, 23(2), 174-9.

Post-prostatectomy incontinence in men is a devastating condition. It impacts the quality of life profoundly. Various types of male sling procedures have been introduced over the years. Bone anchored male sling appears to be effective and safe in intermediate term follow up. It certainly more effective than collagen implant and may provide alternative treatment option in patient with mild to moderate incontinence. In short term, other novel procedures seem to be promising. In spite of new technology, artificial urinary sphincter continues to provide high patient satisfaction and cure rates.

2 illus, 40 ref

001549   Singhal S;Vashisth S;Singh P N;Gaur R K (Physiology Dep, J N Medical College, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh-202 002) : Serotonergic influence on the levels of prolactin in depressed females. Biomed Res 2008, 19(1), 45-8.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship of serotonin level after treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in patients of unipolar depression and influence of serotonin on the secretion of prolactin. Twenty two depressed females of child bearing age, who had come for the first time in the Psychiatry Department were selected for this study. They were subjected to Hamilton rating scale and divided into mild, moderate and severe cases. Their urinary 5-hydroxy tryptamine (5-HT), 5-Hydroxy indole acetic acid (5-HIAA) and serum prolactin levels were estimated before and after 6 weeks of treatment with serotonin reuptake inhibitors. The treatment schedule decreased urinary 5-HIAA level significantly, but there was a non-significant increase in urinary 5-HT. There was also a slight increase in serum levels of prolactin. The results suggest that time period required for alteration in central neuronal serotonin may be longer than the duration of treatment with serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

1 illus, 1 tables, 17 ref

001548   Singh S;Banerjee G;Agarwal S K;Mala Kumar; Singh R K (Biochemitry Dep, CSM Medical Univ, Lucknow, Email: singhrk23a@hotmail.com) : Simple method for speciation of clinically significant coagulase negative Staphylococci and its antibiotic sensitivity/resistant pattern in NISU of tertiary care centre. Biomed Res 2008, 19(2), 97-101.

An attempt was made to speciate and antimicrobialy differentiate 150 clinically significant isolates of CoNS by practical scheme adapted from various references. Total 150 isolates were collected from NICU, Pediatrics Department, CSMMU, Lucknow from different sites and subjected to antimicrobial screening and biochemical characterization using conventional microbiological methods. Antibiotic sensitivity test was performed for all clinically significant isolates. 90% isolates were conveniently identified. S.epidermidis (40%), S.saprophyticus (14%), S.haemolyticus (12%), S.hominis (6%), S.lugdunensis (6%), S.schleiferi (2%), S.capilis (4%), S.warneri (6%), 15 isolates were not identified to the species level. Antibiotic susceptibility testing showed maximum resistance to ampicillin and penicillin with 80% and 38% strains showed the resistance to oxacillin. The increasing recognition of pathogen potential CoNS and emergence of drug resistance among them demonstrates the need to adopt simple laboratory procedure to identify and determine the prevalence and antibiotic sensitivity of CoNS. It will help in treating clinicians for first line treatment in hospital.

3 tables, 20 ref

001547   Singh P;Srivastava A (Urology Dep, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Email: anees@sgpgi.ac.in) : Update in palliative management of hormone refractory cancer of prostate. Indian J Urol 2007, 23(1), 43-50.

Hormone refractory prostate cancer (HRPC) is an incurable disease and as in the pressure sensitive adhesive era the median survival of patients is increasing, these men increasingly develop symptomatic problems as a result of advanced local and or metastatic disease during their progression to death. Recently, it has been shown that it is possible to improve survival in this group of patients with use of chemotherapy which reinforces the need of better options in palliative care. Discuses the various clinical problems (Part I) and treatment options of palliative care (Part II) and try to formulate an action plan.

62 ref

001546   Singh P;Kapoor R;Suri A;Singh K J;Mandhani A; Dubey D;Srivastava A;Anant Kumar (Urology Dep, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Email: rkapoor@sgpgi.ac.in) : Comparison of endopyelotomy and laparoscopic pyeloplasty for poorly functioning kidneys with ureteropelvic junction obstruction. Indian J Urol 2007, 23(1), 9-12.

Endopyelotomy and laparoscopic pyeloplasty are established procedures for ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) and historically a high failure rate has been observed in poorly functioning units with UPJ obstruction. The aim of this study is to compare the results of laparoscopic pyeloplasty with endopyelotomy in poorly functioning renal units, i.e., GFR under 25 ml/min. Retrospective analysis of all the patients who underwent either laparoscopic pyeloplasty or endopyelotomy for ureteropelvic junction obstruction in poorly functioning units between January 1998 and June 2005 was done. Follow-up renal scans, done at three, six, 12 months and yearly thereafter, were studied. Success was defined as symptomatic relief and/or improvement in function (10% over baseline) in renal scan. There were 23 patients in the endopyelotomy group and 15 patients in the laparoscopic pyeloplasty group with mean age of 25.3 years (9-53) and 26 years (10-44), respectively. Mean pelvic volume was 41.2 8 cc ± 9.5 and 39.1 cc ± 9.85 in the endopyelotomy group and laparoscopic pyeloplasty group, respectively. Mean preoperative GFR was 17.4 ± 5.7 ml/min and 21 ± 4.5 ml/min in the endopyelotomy group and laparoscopic pyeloplasty group, respectively and mean postoperative GFR was 21 ± 3.5 ml/min and 22 ± 3.9 ml/min, respectively. Eighteen and 11 patients were symptomatic in ethendopyelotomy group and laparoscopic pyeloplasty group, respectively while symptomatic improvement was seen in 14 and 11 patients, respectively. Mean follow-up was 12 months in the laparoscopy group and 28 months in the endopyelotomy group. Success rate was better for laparoscopic surgery group (15/15 = 100%) than for endopyelotomy (18/23 - 78.26%). Though the improvement in renal function is less in patients with UPJO with poorly functioning kidneys undergoing endopyelotomy or laparoscopic pyeloplasty, laparoscopic pyeloplasty gives better results in the form of symptomatic relief; however, renal function remains stable whichever the approach chosen.

1 table, 20 ref

001545   Singh M P;Agrawal V;Shukla R;Verma S (Neurology Dep, CSM Medical Univ, Lucknow-226 003) : Probable toxin induced polyneuropathy-case report of six individulas from a urban family of Lucknow. Ann Neurosci 2007, 14(4), 115-17.

Polyneuropathies due to toxins continue to pose a challenge to the medical profession. Early suspicion of the condition, correct identification of the toxin and timely institution of therapy is not only life saving but can also greatly reduce the morbidity burden of the condition. Reports six cases (2 females, 4 males) belonging to the same family and presenting with similar features of an acute to subacute onset, symmetrical, predominantly distal, graded, painful, sensori-motor polyneuropathy. All these patients complained of recurrent episodes of vomiting which started within 30 minutes to two hours of ingestion of home cooked vegetarian meal. After a variable period of 2-7 days the symptoms of polyneuropathy appeared. Electrophysiological studies demonstrated an axonal type of sensori-motor polyneuropathy. The temporal onset of symptoms, involvement of several individuals at the same time and a consistent and similar pattern of clinical findings were features highly suggestive of a toxin etiology. Using a structured and a logical approach in the background of the characteristic clinical picture the diagnostic possibilities were significantly narrowed down. Since the patients presented late and due to financial and technical constraints all tests could not be performed the toxin could not be confirmed.

2 tables, 8 ref

001544   Singh A;Mishra D N;Khar R K (Pharmacy Dep, Govt.Polytechnic, Adampur-125 052) : Design and development of niosomal delivery systems for ketoprofen. Agric biol Res 2008, 24(1), 75-87.

Niosomes of ketoprofen were prepared by lipid film formation method using span 60: cholesterol: dicetyl phosphate in a molar ratio of 47.5 : 47.5 : 5. The niosomal suspension was evaluated for vesicle stability at 4-7°C, room temperature and at 40-45 C for 1 month. The formulated niosomal suspension having mean vesicle diameter of 4.5 μm was compared with non-niosomal formulation of ketoprofen for anti-inflammatory activity using carrageenan induced rat hind paw oedema method. The results of the stability study revealed the least leaching of the drug kept at 4-7°C. However, a significant leaching of the drug was observed from niosomal formulations kept at higher temperatures. The in vivo evaluation of the ami inflammatory activity showed a higher inhibition of carrageenan induced rat hind paw oedema by niosomal formulation of ketoprofen as compared to non niosomal formulation of ketoprofen, indicating the potentiality of niosomal formulation of ketoprofen in reducing the therapeutic dose by improving its performance.

5 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

001543   Singh A;Malhotra S;Subban R (Ayu Veda, Ind-swift Ltd, Sco:102, Sce 47-C,Chandigarh-160 047, Email: amritpal12101@yahoo.com) : Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)-Hepatorprotective herb with therapeutic pontential. Pharmacog Rev 2008, 2(3), 163-7.

Extracts of the dried leaves of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale G.H. Weber ex Wiggers. (Asteraceae) are used in traditional medicine for gastrointestinal and hepatic diseases. The plant is valued as laxative and diuretic. Lately, several research and review papers have highlighted hepatoprotective property of specific herbals like Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculate Nees.) and Kutki (Piaorhha kurroa Benth.) from Traditional Indian Medicine (TIM) and milk thistle (Silybum marianum L.) from Western Botanical Medicine. Market studies show dandelion to be ingredient of liver and gall bladder preparations. Little data is available on pre-clinical and clinical studies done on the plant. Since concept of reverse pharmacology is rapidly catching up for discovering 'leads' from plants, it is worthwhile to conduct scientific studies on dandelion to support the traditional use. The studies may provide evidence in support of additional indications, both traditional and novel.

^iia45 ref

001542   Siddiqui M A;Khanna V K;Singh G;Kashyap M P; Yadav S;Chandra D;Pant A B (In Vitro Toxicology Laboratory, Industrial Toxicology Research Centre, P.O. Box:80, MG Marg, Lucknow-226 001, Email: abpant@rediffmail.com) : Cytotoxic effects of 4-hydroxynonenal in pc12 cells: involvement of neurotransmitter receptors. Ann Neurosci 2007, 14(4), 85-92.

Effect of 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE) was studied on the sensitivity of various neurotransmitter receptors in PC-12 cells. Initially, cytotoxicity profiling of HNE was carried out using HNE concentrations 0.1-50 mM for 30 min to 24h. The endpoints selected were, trypan blue dye exclusion, MTT, LDH release and neutral red uptake (NRU) assays. Significant cytotoxic responses were observed by minimum 2h of exposure, except for HNE at 50mM, where cytotoxicity was exerted even at 90min. HNE concentrations 10-50mM were found to be cytotoxic, 2-5mM cytostatic and 0.1-1 mM non-cytotoxic. Neurotransmitter receptors studies were carried out using specific radioligands with selected doses of HNE (1, 10, 25 and 50 mM for 1-8h). Significant decrease in binding of ³H-QNB, ³H-Fluinitrazepam and ³H-Ketanserin, known to label cholinergic-muscarinic, benzodiazepine and serotonin 5HT_2A receptors respectively was observed even at 1h exposure with 25 and 50 mM concentrations of HNE. Whereas, significant inhibition in binding of ³H-Spiperone to DA-D2 receptor was started at 4h of exposure and continued till 8h. Specific binding with ³H-Fluinitrazepam and ³H-Ketanserin was reached to saturation at dose of 50mM for 4h and onwards. PC-12 cells have shown particular vulnerability to cytotoxic concentrations of HNE. Experimental HNE exposure provides an intriguing model of toxicant-cell interactions, which likely involved receptors in HNE neurotoxicity, lead neurodegeneration.

8 illus, 39 ref

001541   Siddalingeshwar Neeli;Vikram Prabha;Sharan Alur;Malur P (Urology Dep, KLES Hospital, Belgaum-590 010) : Penile metastasis from primay mucinous adencarcinoma of bladder. Indian J Urol 2007, 23(3), 314-16.

Primary adenocarcinoma of the urinary bladder is not common Though penile metastascs from transitional cell carcinoma are reported, such metastases from adenocarcinoma of urinary bladder is unknown. Reports a 55-year-old male having penile metastasis from primary mucinous adenocarcinoma of bladder.

^ccr4 illus,10 ref

001540   Shukla R P;Sharma S N;Dhiman R C (NO, National Institute of Malaria Research (ICMR), Delhi) : Seasonal prevalence of malaria vectors and its relationship with malaria transmission in three physiographic zones in Uttaranchal state, India. J Vector Borne Dis 2007, 44(1), 75-7.

1 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

001539   Shravage J C;Silpa P (Obstetrics and Gynecology Dep, J N Medical College, Belgaum) : Randomized controlled trial of placental blood drainage for the prevention of postpartum hemorrhage. J Obstet Gynec India 2007, 57(3), 213-15.

To evaluate the effectiveness of placentalblood drainage via the umbilical cord in reducing the duration of blood loss in third stage of labor, and the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage. A randomized controlled trial was carried out on 200 pregnant women. In the study group the placental end of the cut umbilical cord was undamped immediately after it was cut and in the control group it remained clamped. Placenta was delivered by controlled cord traction. Intravenous methergin was given after delivery of placenta in both the groups. The duration of third stage and the amount of blood loss were noted. The results were analysed by 'Z' test and unpaired 't' test. The duration of third stage was 5 minutes in the study group and 7.4 minutes in the control group. This difference was statistically significant (P<0.001). The average third stage blood loss was 175 ml in the study group and 252 ml in the control group. This difference also was statistically significant (P< 0.001). The incidence of postpartum hemorrhage was decreased in the study group (3% vs 10%). None of the women required blood transfusion. Placental blood drainage is a simple safe and noninvasive method which reduces the duration of blood loss in third stage thereby preventing postpartum hemorrhage.

2 tables, 5 ref

001538   Shinde V;Dhalwal K;Mahadik K R (Pharmacognosy Dep, Centre for Advanced Research in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth Univ, Erandawane, Pune-38, Email: vaibhavshinde2@rediffmail.com) : Some issuses related to pharmacognosy. Pharmacog Rev 2008, 2(3), 1-5.

The Study was designed to discuss some of the important issues related to the subject pharmacognosy, to assess knowledge and attitude about pharmacognosy among pharmacy teachers and professionals in India, which has not been evaluated previously. The contribution of pharmacognosy in pharmacy as well as in research has got wider recognition from ancient times. Pharmacognosy, one of the oldest scientific disciplines is now undergoing major change. Currently plant based drugs are researched and formulated in modern framework of medicine rather than in the form of galenical preparations or conventional dosage. Subject is witnessing transformation from galenical to genomical. Even in the era of biotechnology and bioinformatics subject holds paramount importance because of its interdisciplinary and flexible approach. This study reports some issues along with the current level of knowledge and attitudes towards subject among teachers, professionals. Participants were 50 persons including teachers, professionals concerning with the subject, who completed a discussion as well as questionnaire measuring subject knowledge. These findings will assist in the development of an education module, to equip budding pharmacognosist, health care personnel to impart accurate and update knowledge and hasten natural product research too. Keywords: Pharmacognosy, Herbal medicine, CAM, Standardization.

^iia15 ref

001537   Sheikhzadeh M;Hosseini S A;Darvishzadeh M (Textile Engineering Dep, Isfahan Univ of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran, Email: m.sh110@cc.iut.ac.ir) : Theoretical evalution of warp tention veriations during weaving process. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(3), 377-80.

The relationship between the ratio of the applied force on warp yarn by backrest roller to the warp tension, and the radius of backrest roller, the vertical position of backrest roller and the horizontal position of backrest roller with variations in warp beam radius during weaving process has been studied. The optimum values of the parameters have been calculated using a computer programme with the aim to minimize the variation in warp yarn tension during weaving process from full to empty warp beam. The results show that the increase in vertical distance between backrest roller and warp beam radius of backrest roller and horizontal distance between backrest and warp beam towards inner side causes lower variation in the ratio of force applied on warp sheet by backrest roller and warp tension during weaving process.

^ssc4 illus, 4 ref

001536   Sharma P K;Dhingra V (NO, Regional Forensic Science Laboratory, Bhopal) : Forensic importance of vaginal epithelial/endometrial cells in rape cases. Indian Internet J Forensic Med Toxicol 2007, 24(1), 48-9.

In rape cases several exhibits like under garments, vaginal swabs, and slides are sent for examinations of spermatozoas. But in cases where condoms are used in sexual act, it is some times very difficult to get the spermatozoa on victims belonging. Describes the connection of accused with victim in this type of cases.

1 table, 5 ref

001535   Sharma M K;Lal R (Mental Health & Social Psychology Dep, National Institute of Mental Health & Social Psychology, Hosur Road, Bangalore) : Treatment retention factors amongst substance users. Indian J Prev Soc Med 2007, 38(1-2), 75-9.

The field of substance abuse, successful completion of treatment has been associated with improvement in quality of life. However, all the patients do not complete the treatment. This preliminary work has been taken up to explore treatment retention factors and their implication for treatment. This study had been carried out at National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre, All India institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi. Prospective longitudinal cohort design was used. Factors for treatment retention were screened based on the review of literature. Forty two male inpatients who met International Classification of Disease-10 criteria for substance dependence were assessed and followed up for six months. Due to categorical data, Pearson chi-square test was used to analyze the data. It indicates presence of significant association for social support, presence of physical problem and inpatient treatment completer. It may be concluded that knowledge and screening of these factors bears positive influence on outcome in substance abuse treatment.

1 table, 19 ref

001534   Sharma M K;Goel N K;Dinesh Kumar;Swami H M; Gulati R (Community Medicine Dep, Govt. Medical College, Chandigarh) : Utilization of RCH services by slum population of Chandigarh (UT). Indian J Prev Soc Med 2007, 38(1-2), 42-6.

Objectives of the study are to find out the pattern of use of important RCH practices in the slum population of colony no. 4, Chandigarh (UT) and to suggest appropriate remedial measures accordingly. Immunization coverage of 165 (46%) among children and 209 (77%) among women was lower than the national coverage of 66.3% and 77.9% respectively. A fairly large proportion 255 (72%) of deliveries took place at home, 202 (57%) conducted by untrained personnel, 10.8% used unsterilised instruments for cutting umblicus and 38.3% applied prohibited/banned materials like cow dung etc on it. Conclusion : The utilization of RCH services in the slum of Chandigarh UT, is low compared to the national figure. Perhaps it is due to the fact that study area is a slum and most of inhabitants belong to floating population having low literacy, less motivated mothers & local health functionaries and lack of health facilities. It is therefore, recommended that a renewed interest should be developed both in local health functionaries & health beneficiaries to accelerate the optimization of RCH services by giving emphasis on safe delivery practices & better immunization coverage.

4 tables, 23 ref

001533   Sharma A;Namdeo A G;Mahadik K R (Pharmacognosy Dep. Poona College of Pharmancy, Bharati Vidyapeeth Univ, Pune-411 038, Email: ajay_namdeo@rediffmail.com) : Molecular markers: new prospects in plant genome analysis. Pharmacog Rev 2008, 2(3), 23-34.

Accurate authentication is constantly necessary to prevent the adulteration of target plant with other plant species. For the standardization of botanical preparations chromatographic techniques (HPLC, TLC, HPTLC, UV spectroscopy, mass spectroscopy, gas chromatography, infrared and NMR spectroscopy) have limitations because the compositions and relative amount of chemicals in a species varies with growing conditions, harvesting periods, post-harvest processes and storage conditions. This can be misleading if the samples are deliberately adulterated with a marker compound. Also, it is difficult to distinguish closely related species due to similar chemical compounds. Ordinary chemical authentication was not reliable enough to produce easy-to-interpret results. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a more effective, accurate, reliable and sensitive technology for the authentication of herbs. In recent years DMA manipulation techniques have been adapted for the authentication of herbs which comprise of the molecular markers, sequencing of specific genes, and sophisticated hybridization setups such as DMA microarrays. DNA-based molecular markers have acted as resourceful tools in various fields like taxonomy, physiology, embryology, plant breeding, ecology, genetic engineering etc. The innovation of polymerase chain reaction was a milestone in the development of DNA markers. This facilitated the development of marker based gene tags, cloning of agronomically important genes, variability studies, pnylogenetic analysis, selection of wanted genotypes, etc. Thus DNA markers offer several advantages over conventional phenotypic markers, as they provide data that can be analyzed objectively.

^iia2 tables, 183 ref