ABSTRACT
Introduction and Aims: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in adults has poor prognosis. The epidemiologic profile of patients varies greatly in different geographic locations and so do the cytogenetic abnormalities and the FAB subtype of the AML. We intended to study the clinical profile, cytogenetics, and outcomes with standard of care treatment on our population in India. Methods: This was a retrospective study with systematic review of 203 case records. Primary objectives were to know the demographic profile of AML, prevalence of various FAB subtypes, cytogenetic abnormalities, and treatment outcomes at our center, which is a referral center of oncology. Two treatment outcomes considered in study for patients of AML were achievement of remission status of the bone marrow postintensive induction chemotherapy and sustenance of the remission for 6 months, once remission is achieved. Secondary objective was to study these outcomes in non-M3 AML in relation to cytogenetics. Results: Median age was 39 years. The most common FAB subtype observed was AML M2. About 65.6% patients achieved complete remission (CR), and 42.4% patients could sustain it for next 6 months. Cytogenetics correlated with prognosis but not age. Conclusions: Our population differs from the Western population regarding lower age, lower prevalence of adverse cytogenetics, and higher prevalence of favorable cytogenetic abnormalities. Cytogenetics had a good correlation with CR rates after chemotherapy as well as its sustenance
ABSTRACT
Background: Nutmeg a well-known spice used as a folk medicine in India to treat stomach ailments. Worldwide it is commonly used for food preservation and fragrance. Abundant references were given for nutmeg in ayurveda, unani, and siddha as a single drug or as an important constituent in formulations. Objective: In the present study, nutmeg aqueous extract (NMAET) was evaluated against isoproterenol (ISO)-induced hepatotoxicity and oxidative stress. Materials and Methods: Antioxidant enzymes, liver functions tests, and lipid profi le tests were performed using standard procedures. Histological examination of liver was done by fi xing in formaldehyde solution and hematoxylin staining. Results: Oral administration of NMAET effectively inhibited the ISO-induced changes in the activities of hepatic marker and antioxidant enzymes in plasma and heart tissue along with lipid peroxidation levels. The liver sections of ISO administered rats showed massive fatty changes, necrosis, ballooning degeneration, and broad infi ltration of the lymphocytes and the loss of cellular boundaries; these changes were completely absent in groups treated with extract. Analysis of variance and Duncan’s Multiple Range tests were used to perform statistical analysis. Conclusion: Results suggest that the NMAET possess signifi cant potential as hepatoprotective and antioxidative agent against ISO-induced damage in rats.
ABSTRACT
Present paper deals with the Pharmacognostical study of leaf and petiole of Wrightia arborea [Dennst] Mabb., for its identification and to distinguish it from the co-existing weeds and adulterants with the help of its macroscopic and microscopic characters. From the Microscopical observation the paracytic stomata is present in lower epidermis whereas it is absent in upper epidermis. Multicellular, uniseriate and unbranched trichomes were also observed
Subject(s)
Plant Extracts/pharmacology , Plant Leaves/chemistry , Plants, MedicinalABSTRACT
PURPOSE: To assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices among the different health care workers (HCWs) on nosocomial infections. METHODS: A total of 150 HCWs, doctors (n=50), nurses (n=50) and ward aides (n=50) were included. A questionnaire was administered to the HCWs to assess their knowledge, attitudes and practices on nosocomial infections. A scoring system was devised to grade those (KAP score). They were further subjected to a series of similar questionnaires at intervals of 6, 12 and 24 months after an education module. Subjects in each category of staff (n=10) were observed for compliance to hand washing practices in the ward in the post-education period. Statistical analysis was done using statistical software. RESULTS: The study showed an increase in the number of subjects in each category scoring good and excellent in the post-education questionnaire; however this declined with the progress of time. It was observed that the compliance level to hand washing practices differed among the different HCWs. Total compliance was 63.3% and ward aides were most compliant 76.7% (adjusted Wald 95% CI= 58.80-88.48). CONCLUSIONS: Education has a positive impact on retention of knowledge, attitudes and practices in all the categories of staff. There is a need to develop a system of continuous education for all the categories of staff. In order to reduce the incidence of nosocomial infections, compliance with interventions are mandatory.