Effects of glucagon as a neurohormone on the central nervous system and glucose homeostasis

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to elucidate the possible effects of the acute/long-term infusion of glucagon in the brain as the regulatory role on the endocrine secretions of the pancreas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ninety male Wistar albino rats were divided as Control, artificial Cerebrospinal Fluid (aCSF) (120 min), Glucagon (120 min), pancreatic denervation (PD)+aCSF (120 min), PD+Glucagon (120 min), aCSF (7 days), Glucagon (7 days), PD+aCSF (7 days) and PD+Glucagon (7 days). Glucagon and solvent (aCSF) were administered after pancreatic denervation (PD) by Hamilton syringe and osmotic mini pump (1 µg/10 µl/min) in the third ventricle of the brain.

RESULTS

Acute intracerebroventricular (icv) administration of glucagon resulted in an elevation of glucagon levels and a concurrent reduction in blood glucose levels. Furthermore, in both the PD+aCSF (7 days) and PD+Glucagon (7 days) groups, there was a notable decrease in propiomelanocortin (POMC) and agouti-related protein (AgRP). Significant changes were observed in feed consumption and body weight, as well as pancreatic glucagon levels, with a simultaneous decrease in insulin levels in the PD (7 days), Glucagon (7 days), and PD+Glucagon (7 days) groups. These alterations were statistically significant when compared to the control group (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The research outcomes established that pancreas-secreted glucagon functions as a neurohormone within the brain, activating central pathways linked to blood glucose regulation. The presence of glucagon led to a decrease in POMC levels. Surprisingly, this reduction in POMC resulted in the suppression of AgRP. Contrary to expectations, the suppression of AgRP led to an increase in food intake rather than a decrease. As already highlighted in the results section, it was emphasized that POMC may play a more significant role than AgRP in influencing feeding behavior.

Novel designed analogues of quercetin against SARS-CoV2:an in-silico pharmacokinetic evaluation, molecular modeling, MD simulations based study

Here we present the design of the series of quercetin analogues and their molecular docking study involving the binding of quercetin and its analogues with SARS-CoV2 3CLpro. The scientific literature shows that quercetin compound has been successfully used against SARS-CoV by inhibiting the replication of virus in respiratory epithelial cell through the inhibition of the SARS-CoV main protease (3CLpro.) It was suggested that the modification at position 3 in quercetin structure may produce potent compounds against SARS-CoV2. A series of quercetin analogues were designed and screened for physicochemical and pharmacokinetics parameters. The activities of selected compounds against SARS-CoV2 were screened by molecular modelling and evaluated that analogues, Q5, Q6 and Q13 have the best docking scores (-8.01 to -8.17 kcal/mol) and also better than quercetin, α-ketoamide and current available inhibitors of the same target. The structure-activity relationship (SAR) study revealed that the introduction of the amino group in a designed molecule was highly promising for increasing the inhibitory activity against SARS-CoV2 3CL pro. Moreover, to check the stability and orientation of selected compounds inside the binding pocket, the molecular dynamic simulations were performed for 100 ns. Results revealed that the designed analogues Q1, Q6 and Q13 having lowest binding energies (-8.0, -8.17 and -8.06 kcal/mol respectively) as well as better physicochemical properties, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity profile show their potential to synthesize and develop as the therapeutic agents against corona virus.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Highly potent anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant activities of 3,5-disubstituted tetrahydro-2H-1,3,5-thiadiazine thiones

Four series of tetrahydro-2H-1,3,5-thiadiazine-2-thiones (series A and B including two novel enantiopure isomers), tetrahydro-2H-1,3,5-thiadiazine-6-thiones (series C) and N-3 ester derivatives of tetrahydro-2H-1,3,5-thiadiazine-6-thiones (series D) were synthesized and evaluated for their anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-oxidant activities. These THTT analogues specially series D were first time examined for their in vitro anti-inflammatory, in vivo analgesic and anti-oxidant activities. Among them lipophilic compounds (series B and D) were found to be highly active for anti-inflammatory evaluation with IC₅₀ values between 5.1-16.9 and 4.1-32.4 μM, respectively when compared with the standard drug ibuprofen IC₅₀ = 11.2 μM. The structure-activity relationship exposed the importance of lipophilic substituents especially ester and n-propyl group for inhibition of inflammation. The molecular docking studies demonstrated that all the active analogues of THTT have notable binding relations with Arg120 of the active sites of COX-1 enzyme either through CS moiety of the THTT nucleus or with COO attached at N-3 of THTT nucleus. In vivo analgesic activity of the selected THTT compounds 14, 17, 18, 19 (series B) and 28 (series D) were also carried out by acetic acid-induced writhing procedure. The compound 28 showed significant anti-nociceptive/analgesic activity at the oral dose of 5 mg/kg body weight with the percent protection (32.05 %) when compared with standard indomethacin at 10 mg/kg (48.83 %). Additionally, these compounds demonstrated the moderate level of antioxidant potential with IC₅₀ values in the range of 60.9 to 93.6 μM (standard butylated hyroxyanisole; IC₅₀ = 44.2 μM). These results indicated that this class of heterocyclic compounds may be a template specially to design better anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents.

Remote patient monitoring at home using ambient sensors: a systematic review

Background

The world population is ageing, and their health needs imply substantial demands on health systems. Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) may help elderly patients live independently in their homes for longer. The essence of RPM is the continuity of use, which is challenging for wearable devices and patient-led technologies. Unobtrusive (ambient) sensors could be an innovative solution, such as motion detectors and similar technologies. This study aims to review the evidence on the effect of ambient sensors on healthcare use by the elderly.

Methods

This is a systematic review for narrative synthesis, searching five databases, Medline, Embase, CINHAL, Scopus and Web of Science, on 21 Feb 2022 without setting a lower time limit. No restrictions on the design of studies were applied. A meta-analysis was not feasible due to the heterogenicity of the studies.

Results

Out of 5,653 search results, 180 studies were subjected to full-text review, of which 6 studies were included in the final synthesis. All the included studies were conducted in the USA. Four studies assessed the technology's cost-efficiency, while only one reported significant cost savings. One study reported a significant reduction in hospital days and visits to a physician among the users. Using ambient sensors was associated with an increased length of stay in facilities where the elderly can live independently, including at home. The impact on the number of hospitalisations or emergency room visits was unclear.

Conclusions

Our review identified limited evidence on the effect of ambient sensors on healthcare use by the elderly. The potential has been demonstrated for ambient sensor technologies to result in cost savings; however, further research is needed to assess the impact on health outcomes.

Key messages

Xanthones: A class of heterocyclic compounds with anticancer potential

Xanthones (9H xanthen-9-one) are an important class of heterocyclic compounds containing oxygen and moiety of gamma-pirone, dense with a two-benzene ring structured, distributed widely in nature. Naturally occurring xanthones are found in micro-organisms and higher plants as secondary metabolites in fungi and lichens. Compounds of the family Calophyllaceae, Guttiferae and Gentianaceae are the most common natural source of xanthones. The structure of xanthones nucleus, coupled with its biogenetic source, imposes that the carbons are numbered according to the biosynthetic pact. The characteristics oxygenation pattern of xanthones earlier is mixed shikimate-acetate biogenesis. The major class of xanthones includes simple oxygenated, non-oxygenated, xanthonolignoids, bisxanthones, prenylated and related xanthones, as well as miscellaneous xanthones. Their great pharmacological importance and interesting scaffolds were highly encouraged by scientists to investigate either the synthesis design or natural products for cancer treatment. Because currently used antitumor drugs possess high toxicity and low selectivity, efficacious treatment may be compromised. This review is limited to the antitumor activity of xanthones and the chemistry of xanthone core, which may help provide fundamental knowledge to the medicinal chemist for new and advanced research in drug development.

Gemifloxacin-transition metal complexes as therapeutic candidates: antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-enzymatic, and docking studies of newly synthesized complexes

In the era of acquired microbial resistance (AMR), resulting in the ineffectiveness of antibiotics is of keen interest for researchers in current scenarios. Ten novel metal complexes of gemifloxacin have been synthesized by reacting it with essential and trace elements in a 2:1 ratio predetermined conducto-metrically. As these metals are either present in the body or co-administered as metallic supplements can alter the level of antibiotics. Therefore, Metal complexes of Gemifloxacin, an important member of the fluoroquinolone family, were synthesized. The possible coordination of gemifloxacin with these metals has been proposed by the electronic and elemental data obtained through molar conductance, elemental analysis, and spectroscopic techniques like ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis), infrared (IR), and proton-nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR) studies.

In the light of these studies, the monoanionic bidentate ligand behavior of gemifloxacin in complexation with metals has been revealed. For in-vitro microbial studies, these newly synthesized complexes were tested against eleven different bacteria including Gram + ve and Gram -ve organisms, and one fungal strain. The results were compared with the parent drug by applying ANOVA through SPSS software version 22. Therefore, it has been found that among all synthesized metal complexes, the G-M01 complex exhibits increased activity against B. subtilis, P. mirabilis, E. coli, K. pneumonia, and C. freundii. Complex G-M02, G-M03, G-M04, and G-M10 show more pronounced activity than Gemifloxacin against S. aureus and M. luteus. Moreover, the binding orientations of the synthesized metal complexes into the binding site of the urease enzyme revealed that all the docked metal complexes oriented away from the Ni bi-center, and the inactivation of urease is due to their interaction with entrance flap residues.

Metaphors as Tattoos on human body: Passion or Pathosis?

Background:The trend of tattoos increases day-by-day in many of the countries but unfortunately there is no evaluation of this practice in Pakistan.The term “tattoo” is the art of making colourful designs beneath the skin. There are different types of tattoos with different colour of inks. This practice is done for many reasons including fashion, beauty, to hide skin marks, addiction to pain, to memorize something or due to any personal reasons. Some people hide their tattoos due to some restrictions. Tattooed people may face restriction in jobs. They may cause different type of skin infections and other medical conditions. Objective:Our motive of research is to evaluate the relation of tattoos with disease conditions and reasons for adaptation of tattoos in Pakistan. Methodology:The data was collected by online interviews and face-to-face interactions with participants and tattoo artists. All the participants (N=181) with permanent tattoos were asked about different questions regarding age, gender, motivations for being tattooed, opinions and side effects following tattooing etc. Results: In Pakistan, tattooing is more common among males (74.03%) than females (25.96%). The highest motivation of being tattooed was found to be fashion (31.57%) and beauty (36.31%). Greater number of participants considered tattooing as harmless (66%) and less considered it as harmful (28%), while few (N=6%) have mixed opinions. Common side effect experienced by participants was inflammation (23.36%) and then allergy (11.41%) but majority of the participants did not experience any severe side effects. People belonging to any occupation were equally influenced by tattooing but it is more common in teenagers. Conclusion:In Pakistan, tattoos trend seems to be increasing day-by-day. Most people regardless of age, occupation, religion and side effects got tattoos because of fashion and beauty and there were no severe side effects of tattooing in Pakistan. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 21 No. 03 July’22 Page: 730-740

Simultaneous determination of moxifloxacin with NSAIDs in API, dosage and serum by reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography: Application to in vitro drug interactions

Experimental design is a significant tool for optimization and validation for the development of HPLC methods to determine API in both human serum and pharmaceutical formulations. In this study, RP-HPLC method is developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of moxifloxacin and NSAIDs. In this experiment, Purospher STAR C18 column with optimum assay conditions (10:90, v/v, water: methanol, pH 2.75) used as mobile phase having flow rate of 1.5mL min^-1 and screened at 240 nm. The experimental results exhibit reliability through accuracy (98-102%), precision (0.011-1.85%) and linearity (R²>0.999) in range of 0.15-40μgmL^-1. The LOD and LOQ limits for moxifloxacin and NSAIDs are found to be 0.015 and 0.046 μgmL^-1 respectively. The significant outcomes conclude that the developed method for assay is effectively suitable to human serum and pharmaceutical formulations and there is no interference from excipients of tablets and serum. The proposed method is useful for drug-interaction and investigation of moxifloxacin with NSAIDs.

Range of factors in the reduction of hyperhydricity associated with in vitro shoots of Salvia santolinifolia Bioss

Hyperhydricity is a serious physiological disorder and affects In vitro propagation of many plants and as well of Salvia santolinifolia. The donor material to initiate the in vitro culture was the callus taken from the in vitro shoots produced on Murashig and Skoogs (MS) medium at 4.0 mg/l BA. This callus formed numerous hyperhydric shoots on culturing upon the medium of the same composition. The aim was to systematically evaluate the effect of cytokinins (Benzyladnine (BA) and N6-(-2-isopentenyl) adenine (2iP), culture vessels magnitude, medium solidification, source of nitrogen and calcium chloride for the alleviation of hyperhydricity. In the tissue cultures of S. santolinifolia BA and 2iP induced severe hyperhydricity, when other factors i.e. culture vessels magnitude and a suitable concentration of agar, ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3), potassium nitrate (KNO3) & calcium chloride (CaCl2.2H2O) were not optimized. After 30 days' culture, we observed 83.82% hyperhydric shoots at increased level (1.5 mg/l 2iP) and 81.59% at decreased levels (1.0 mg/l 2iP). On the other hand, hyperhydricity percentage at decreased (0.4%) and at increased (0.8%) levels of agar were 72.37% and 39.08%, respectively. MS medium modification with NH4NO3 (412 mg/l), KNO3 (475 mg/l) and CaCl2.2H2O (880 mg/l) was found the best medium to reduced hyperhydricity (23.6%).

Study of human knowledge and attitude toward urban birds in Faisalabad city, Pakistan

Birds are very valuable indicators of species richness and endemic patterns in a specified ecosystem, which eventually help the scientist to measure the environmental degradation. The aim of present study was to know human knowledge and attitude toward urban birds in Faisalabad city, Pakistan. The study conducted in four consecutive months: November 2019 to February 2020. Population of birds was noted from eight residential towns of Faisalabad city, data were collected through questionnaire. Faisalabad has a reasonably large population of birds and present data show that, there is a significant difference between favorite bird of residential areas and institutions. The pigeon received the most likeness in bird population among residential area residents, while the myna received the least. The most popular bird in Faisalabad institutions was the sparrow, while the least popular bird was the common myna. Bird adaptation percentage of residential areas and institutional areas of Faisalabad was the highest for parrot and sparrow respectively. People in residential areas and institutions, on the other hand, adapted least to common myna. It is concluded that people of the study area like birds and offered food and high population of birds are present in study area.

Sex-based differences in clinical outcomes and resource utilization of type 2 myocardial infarction

Background

Sex-based differences in clinical outcomes have been previously well described in type 1 myocardial infarction (MI). However, type 2 MI is common in contemporary practice with scarce data regarding sex-based differences of clinical outcomes and resource utilization.

Purpose

To examine the association of sex category with clinical outcomes and resource utilization in hospitalizations with type 2 MI.

Methods

The Nationwide Readmission Database 2018 was queried for hospitalizations within the United States with type 2 MI using The International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) diagnosis code I21.A1. Comorbidities and outcomes were identified using the corresponding ICD-10 codes. Complex samples multivariable logistic and linear regression models were used to determine the association between type 2 MI and outcomes (in-hospital mortality, index length of stay [LOS], hospital costs, discharge to nursing facility, and 30-day all-cause readmissions) in females compared to males with type 2 MI.

Results

A total of 252,641 hospitalizations [119,783 (47.4%) females and 132,858 (52.6%) males] were included in this analysis. Females with type 2 MI were more likely to be older (72.8 years vs. 69.7 years; P&lt;0.001), admitted on the weekend (26.5% vs. 25.9%; P=0.02), and have a higher prevalence of chronic pulmonary disease (35.6% vs. 32.0%; P&lt;0.001), obesity (17.9% vs. 15.7%; P&lt;0.001), neurological disorders (22.9% vs. 22.3%; P=0.02), deficiency anemias (7.5% vs. 6.6%; P&lt;0.001), and hypothyroidism (22.1% vs. 10.1%; P&lt;0.001) compared to males with type 2 MI. Female with type 2 MI was associated with lower in-hospital mortality, shorter LOS, less hospital costs, and increased nursing home discharge compared to males with type 2 MI. Females and males with type 2 MI had similar rates of 30-day all-cause readmission [Table 1].

Conclusion

Among type 2 MI hospitalizations, females have lower in-hospital mortality, less hospitalization cost, shorter LOS, but increased rates of nursing home discharge compared to males. Thirty-day all-cause readmission was similar between males and females with type 2 MI.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Molecular Epidemiology of Plasmodium species in Conflicted Federally Administered Tribal Area (FATA) Pakistan

Military conflicts have been significant obstacles in detecting and treating infectious disease diseases due to the diminished public health infrastructure, resulting in malaria endemicity. A variety of violent and destructive incidents were experienced by FATA (Federally Administered Tribal Areas). It was a struggle to pursue an epidemiological analysis due to continuing conflict and Talibanization. Clinical isolates were collected from Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Orakzai agencies from May 2017 to May 2018. For Giemsa staining, full blood EDTA blood samples have been collected from symptomatic participants. Malaria-positive microscopy isolates were spotted on filter papers for future Plasmodial molecular detection by nested polymerase chain reaction (nPCR) of small subunit ribosomal ribonucleic acid (ssrRNA) genes specific primers. Since reconfirming the nPCR, a malariometric study of 762 patients found 679 positive malaria cases. Plasmodium vivax was 523 (77%), Plasmodium falciparum 121 (18%), 35 (5%) were with mixed-species infection (P. vivax plus P. falciparum), and 83 were declared negative by PCR. Among the five agencies of FATA, Khyber agency has the highest malaria incidence (19%) with followed by P. vivax (19%) and P. falciparum (4.1%). In contrast, Kurram has about (14%), including (10.8%) P. vivax and (2.7%) P. falciparum cases, the lowest malaria epidemiology. Surprisingly, no significant differences in the distribution of mixed-species infection among all five agencies. P. falciparum and P. vivax were two prevalent FATA malaria species in Pakistan's war-torn area. To overcome this rising incidence of malaria, this study recommends that initiating malaria awareness campaigns in school should be supported by public health agencies and malaria-related education locally, targeting children and parents alike.

Diversity, distribution and relative abundance of the mosquito fauna (Diptera: Culicidae) of Malakand and Dir Lower, Pakistan

The present study was conducted to evaluate the diversity, distribution (C) and relative abundance (RA) of the mosquito fauna (Diptera: Culicidae) of Malakand and Dir Lower, Pakistan. Collection of specimens (n = 1087) was made during September 2018 to July 2019 at six different habitats including freshwater bodies, rice fields, animal sheds, indoors, drains and sewage waters. Specimens were collected through light traps, pyrethrum spray, aspirators and nets and subsequently killed, preserved and then arranged in entomological boxes for identification. Three genera were identified namely Culex, Anopheles and Aedes. A total of fourteen species were identified namely: Cx. quinquefasciatus (Say, 1823), An. stephensi (Liston, 1901), Cx. tritaeniorhynchus (Giles, 1901), Ae. vittatus (Bigot, 1861), An. maculatus (Theobald, 1901), An. fluviatilis (James, 1902), Cx. vishnui (Theobald, 1901), Ae. aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762) An. subpictus (Grassi, 1899), An. dthali (Patton, 1905), An. culicifascies (Giles, 1901), An. pallidus (Theobald, 1901), Ae. albopictus (Skuse, 1894) and An. annularis (van der Wulp, 1884). Cx. quinquefasciatus was found constantly distributed in the study area with RA = 16.5% and C = 100%. An. annularis was found as a satellite species, sporadically distributed in the study area having RA = 0.9% and C = 17%. Diversity indices of mosquitoes in the studied habitats were found as, Shannon-Wiener Index (2.415), Simpson Index (9.919), Fisher's Index (2.269) and Margalef's Index (1.859). A statistically significant difference was recorded in mosquito diversity in the six habitats (Kruskal-Wallis, chi-squared, H = 17.5, df = 5, P = 0.003 at α = 0.05). The present study encompasses mosquito fauna of Malakand, Pakistan with respect to diversity, relative abundance and distribution in diverse habitats and all seasons of the year. This will assist scientists working in various fields related with epidemiology, medical and veterinary entomology, ecology and allied areas of biological sciences.

Case Report

BACKGROUND

Thyroid hormone resistance (RTH) is defined as a decrease in response to thyroid hormones in the target tissue. Most patients present with nonspecific findings. In this article, we aimed to represent a 22-year-old female patient who presented with palpitation, fatigue, and heat intolerance. She was thought to have thyroid hormone resistance and her genetic examination revealed NM_001128177.1 (THRβ): c.1034G > A (p.Gly345Asp) pathogenic variation in the THRβ gene.

CASE REPORT

A 22-year-old female patient presented with complaints of fatigue, heat intolerance and palpitations. She was taking Propranolol twice daily at admission. Her family history revealed hypothyroidism in her grandmother. Her physical examination results were as follows: height 160 cm, weight 65 kg, body mass index 25.4kg/m², body temperature 36.5°C, respiratory rate 18/min, heart rate 86 beats/min, blood pressure 120/80 mmHg. Her palms were sweaty. The heart sounds were normal, and no heart murmur was auscultated. The laboratory results were TSH: 5.31uU/mL, fT3: 6.83 pg/mL, and fT4: 2.43 ng/dL. THRβ gene mutation analysis was requested for our patient whose clinical history and laboratory results were compatible with thyroid hormone resistance. The pathogenic variation NM_001128177.1(THRβ):c.1034G>A (p.Gly345Asp) was detected after analysis.

CONCLUSION

A diagnosis of RTH requires high clinical suspicion and a genetic mutation analysis should be requested in the case of clinical suspicion. In this way, unnecessary anti-thyroid treatment can be prevented.

Onion and garlic induction of severe allergic reactions: sparse reporting cases

Background: Allergic conditions strides by food sensitization and has lousy impact on the immune system of individuals and has also provokes IgE antibody that spearhead the activation of inflammatory mechanism. The aim of this current research is to evaluate the effect and the preponderance rate of symptoms appearance in garlic and onion allergies. Methodology: The cross sectional study was conducted among general population (N=200) of Karachi from January 2017 to October 2017. Result: Through current study it is revealed that only 50 out of 200 personals showed significant results. Diverse type of symptoms used to appearance in individuals suffering with onion and garlic allergies and it is importantly notifying that some genetic correlation is supposed to exists in these individuals for transmit of these allergies. Conclusion: Onion and garlic both are esoteric allergies, these allergies rate are increasing in our population and patients suffered from very annoying symptoms including some fatal conditions also. Genetic relation is another link of developing these allergies. Limited data has been reported yet but it should be further investigated to evaluate multiple other factors contributing to these allergies. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.20(4) 2021 p.871-877

Evaluation of sulfadimidine, amprolium and triquen to treat coccidiosis in wild pigeons

Coccidiosis remains one of the major problems in poultry all over the world. Very limited data on anticoccidial drugs in wild pigeons is available. The current study was aimed to understand the comparative efficacy of sulfadimidine, amprolium and triquen in wild pigeons of Dir district, Pakistan suffering from coccidiosis. The faecal matter of wild pigeons were purchased from the local market for coccidian infection. Results revealed that 88.8% (16/18) were found infected with Eimeria spp. Three positive groups were treated with sulfadimidine (0.2mg/L), amprolium (25mg/L) and triquen. Sulfadimidine was most effective (45%) followed by amprolium (44.6%) while triquen (24.0%) showed less effectiveness against coccidiosis in pigeons. Number of oocysts were 79, 81 and 80 before treatment and 60, 44 and 44 after treatment with sulfadimidine, amprolium and triquen respectively. This study showed that sulphadimidine, amprolium and triquen could not significantly reduce the coccidiosis in pigeons. Further studies are required to clear the mechanism of anti-coccidial drugs in wild pigeons.

Urinary incontinence in women aged 40 and older: Its prevalence, risk factors, and effect on quality of life

Background

Urinary incontinence (UI) paves the way for many health problems ranging from discomforts of continuous wetness and irritation to social isolation and depression in women.

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of UI in women aged 40 and older as well as its risk factors and also its effect on quality of life.

Materials and Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted with 286 women included in the sample. Subjects were selected randomly. The data were collected using a questionnaire, which was prepared by the researchers, and the Incontinence Quality of Life Questionnaire. The data were analyzed using number, percentage, mean, Chi-square test, and binary logistic regression analysis in the SPSS program.

Results

It was found that 86 (30.1%) of the women experienced the symptom of UI. The women had mostly the mixed UI. The correlations between UI and age, educational level, status of employment, the presence of chronic diseases, chronic constipation, difficult birth history, and state of menopause were significant. Total mean score of the women with UI for the Incontinence Quality of Life Questionnaire was 73.62 ± 24.36 and the most affected domain of the quality of life field was social embarrassment.

Conclusions

In the present study, it was found that UI was prevalent in Turkish women and impaired their quality of life. The results can help to provide education and counseling services to women in a society-sensitive manner.

Report on Recent Advances in Treatment Options through Vitamins

Vitamins are the essential dietary components that are required in trace amounts by our body for the proper functioning of its biochemical processes and to prevent the deficiency diseases. The case of an infant having epileptic seizures at birth is discussed, which was found to be pyridoxine (vitamin B6) - dependent. It has been discovered through recent researches that vitamin K is involved in the immunology, atherosclerosis, inflammation and bone mineralization. Vitamin C is found to act as an anti-tumor agent when used intravenously in high doses. Recent researches have led us to understand that vitamins have a broader spectrum of functions than they are anticipated to have in our body and can be used to treat much more diseases when used alone, in combination or via different routes or in different concentrations or doses. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.20(2) 2021 p.234-240

Potential of essential oil combinations for surface and air disinfection

In this study, it was aimed to develop a novel disinfectant from various essential oils containing active components with antimicrobial activity. The mixture of oregano, cinnamon and clove oils (1 : 1 : 1) with 10% oil concentration (SOM) was used as potential disinfectant on various areas and showed the highest antimicrobial activity among oil combinations tested. SOM reduced the numbers of total mesophilic aerobic bacteria (TMAB; 2·27 log CFU per 25 cm² ) and Escherichia coli (4·60 log CFU per 25 cm² ) under the detection limits. Application of SOM (1, 2, 3, 4 and 6%) into incubators reduced TMAB and mould-yeast counts of incubator air by 82·9 and 100% respectively. SOM application (3%) into ambient air also reduced its TMAB and mould-yeast counts by 92 and 84·6% respectively. While ethanol is commonly used for the disinfection of environments, equipment and surfaces, SOM is an important alternative that may also be used for the disinfection of various surfaces as well as air.

Using in silico modelling and FRET-based assays in the discovery of novel FDA-approved drugs as inhibitors of MERS-CoV helicase

A Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based assay was used to screen the FDA-approved compound library against the MERS-CoV helicase, an essential enzyme for virus replication within the host cell. Five compounds inhibited the helicase activity with submicromolar potencies (IC₅₀, 0.73-1.65 µM) and ten compounds inhibited the enzyme with micromolar potencies (IC₅₀, 19.6-502 µM). The molecular operating environment (MOE) was used to dock the identified inhibitors on the MERS-CoV helicase nucleotide binding. Strong inhibitors docked well in the nucleotide-binding site and established interactions with some of the essential residues. There was a reasonable correlation between the observed IC₅₀ values and the MOE docking scores of the strong inhibitors (r ² = 0.74), indicating the ability of the in silico docking model to predict the binding of strong inhibitors. In silico docking could be a useful complementary tool used with the FRET-based assay to predict new MERS-CoV helicase inhibitors. The identified inhibitors could potentially be used in the clinical development of new antiviral treatment for MERS-CoV and other coronavirus related diseases, including coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Possible role of grape fruit in controlling hyperglycemia and associated complications: Better glycemic control in healthy subjects through fruits fibers as compared to fruit juices

Background: Diabetes is regarded as a chronic disorder, which is globally spreading at an alarming rate and individuals are being pushed down by the burden of diabetes. Different measures and control programs have been conducted for awareness of this disaster endocrine disease as its associated complications. Objective: Current study has been conducted to evaluate the hypothesis that whole fruits provide better glycemic control than fruit juices. Materials & Methods: The study includes two groups of healthy volunteers, one group was on whole fruits while another group was supplied with fruit juices of same fruits and fasting blood sugar and random blood sugar were monitored. Results: Results revealed that whole grapefruit and orange fruit play effective role in maintaining random blood sugar levels in comparison to juices. Further suggested that dietary fibers are not only effective in regulating blood sugar, but also influence on blood pressure and pulse rate. Conclusion: Based on above findings, it has been concluded that type 2 diabetes patients can achieve better glycemic control by dietary fibers rather than juices, and it may be helpful in controlling diabetes related complication such as high blood pressure. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.19(3) 2020 p.480-485

Report: Metformin potential in predisposing arthralgia, type II cross reactivity secondary to group A streptococcus infection & other comorbidities in treating PCOS

One of the most common endocrinological disorder affecting women in adolescence is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Women suffering from PCOS diagnosed with follicles in ovaries show enlarged reproductive organs with small filled follicles. Unusual bleeding, prolonged menstruation, unwanted hair growth, accumulation of fat and acne are the most common problems experienced by adolescents with PCOS. Nowadays, PCOS is treated successfully with the oral antidiabetic drug, metformin and hormone replacement therapy. Its off-label use is still controversial with unknown mechanisms due to patient risk versus benefit hypothesis by practitioners as they successfully treat PCOS in adolescents with metformin. But in few reported cases metformin has potential to induce back pain and swollen joints less frequently with rare cases of behavior alteration. Penicillin belongs to the beta-lactam antibiotics and is most commonly used to treat rheumatic fever although it has potential to cause allergic reactions affecting 10% of patients who exhibit IgE-mediated immunological reactions. Here, we present a case of a female diagnosed with PCOS who after treatment with metformin for more than two years, reported with hyperuricemia, migraine, neurological pain, severe joint and knee pains on shoulders and legs, and rheumatic fever. After treatment with benzathine benzyl penicillin for rheumatic fever, the patient also exhibited Type IV delayed hypersensitivity reaction.

Prevalence and Preventive Measures of Infertility in Male by Kruger’s Criteria, a Randomized Study in Private and Government Health Care Hospitals

Background: Every single couple out of 10 is in search of medical care because of infertility. Men older than 40 years and Women older than 30 years are at an increased risk of infertility. On the other hand, the estimation of male infertility is frequently underestimated or delayed. Symptomatic approaches steadily reducing the magnitude of couples classified as having idiopathic infertility. This is than perceived that no simple tests can conclude the probability of pregnancy in congregation in which the man is an infertile partner. Method: Current study is design to figure out existence, problems, and causes, associated with infertility and treatment. In the view of the fact that the investigative consequences responsible for infertility in male. For this purpose survey has been conducted at different private and government health care hospital (n=33 patient of infertility) were selected for further studies. Result: Results revealed that most of the patients are in the middle of their ages reported infertile. Primary infertility in infertile patients is 73% where as the presence of secondary infertility in the remaining respondent is 27%. Among all, 52% of the patients have co-morbid history of diabetes mellitus, 18% of them have issues about genitourinary trauma and infections, 30 patient have been identified problems related morphological count, 51% of them investigated abnormal volume of man semen. Evaluation of the study on infertility by Kruger’s strict morphology test over 75% of the men having insignificant infertility issues whereas 25% of them were observed significant infertility issues. Conclusion: It is concluded that male infertility is independent on the age factor according to our survey based study whereas, excessive use of tobacco, alcohol, high fat food consumptions, obesity, heavy weight exercises, sedative life styles, contacts with chemical or toxins, stress or psychological disturbances might provoke issues of infertility. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.18(1) 2019 p.94-99

Towards characterization of photo-excited electron transfer and catalysis in natural and artificial systems using XFELs

The ultra-bright femtosecond X-ray pulses provided by X-ray Free Electron Lasers (XFELs) open capabilities for studying the structure and dynamics of a wide variety of biological and inorganic systems beyond what is possible at synchrotron sources. Although the structure and chemistry at the catalytic sites have been studied intensively in both biological and inorganic systems, a full understanding of the atomic-scale chemistry requires new approaches beyond the steady state X-ray crystallography and X-ray spectroscopy at cryogenic temperatures. Following the dynamic changes in the geometric and electronic structure at ambient conditions, while overcoming X-ray damage to the redox active catalytic center, is key for deriving reaction mechanisms. Such studies become possible by using the intense and ultra-short femtosecond X-ray pulses from an XFEL, where sample is probed before it is damaged. We have developed methodology for simultaneously collecting X-ray diffraction data and X-ray emission spectra, using an energy dispersive spectrometer, at ambient conditions, and used this approach to study the room temperature structure and intermediate states of the photosynthetic water oxidizing metallo-protein, photosystem II. Moreover, we have also used this setup to simultaneously collect the X-ray emission spectra from multiple metals to follow the ultrafast dynamics of light-induced charge transfer between multiple metal sites. A Mn-Ti containing system was studied at an XFEL to demonstrate the efficacy and potential of this method.

Neuropharmacological screening of Ficus Carica Linn; Fruit for Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Activity

Background: Rutin and polyphenol which are present in ficus carica linn are responsible for anti-depressant and anxiolytics effect.Aims: We have conducted the study to evaluate the anti depressant and anxiolytic effect of ficuscaricalinn on mice and compare its effect with well known prescribed anti depressant and anxiolytic drug alprazolam.Methods: Three groups of mice were marked as Control, Reference and Test. Each group comprise of 5 mice. Control group was on normal diet. Reference group was feeded alprazolam at a dose of 0.5mg/60kg while test group were provided two different dilution of ficuscaricalinn, one dilution is 250mg/ kg/100ml of water and second dilution is 500mg/kg/100ml of water. We used Light/dark box method and Elevated plus maze method to evaluate the anxiolytic effect of ficus carica linn. To determine the anti-depressant effect of ficus carica linn.Results: we was used one method that is Head Dip Method. Results were collected and observed readings and data were clearly indicating the great and pronounced anti depressant and anxiolytic effect of ficus carica linn at a dose of 500mg/kg compare with a widely prescribed drug alprazolam for its anti-depressant and anxiolytic effect.Ficus carica is well known for its numerous biological activities also found to be one of excellent distressing agent. Stress provoking several disorders could be limit by the use of ficus carica fruit in doses 250mg/kg and 500mg/kg. Ficus carica linn as a natural product may prove better therapeutic agent if more study is conducted on it.Conclusion: As this study is confined to the mice, there’s much possibilities to have similar effect in humans but require more work on it.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.17(4) 2018 p.606-611

Thymoquinone is protective against 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin induced hepatotoxicity

We investigated changes in rat liver tissues following administration of thymoquinone (TQ) against 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) induced hepatotoxicity. Fifty rats were assigned randomly to five groups of 10 as follows: control, corn oil, TCDD, TQ and TCDD + TQ. Biochemical and histopathological analyses were conducted on liver tissue. We found that 30 day TCDD administration caused histopathological changes in liver including thickening of Glisson's capsule, intracytoplasmic vacuolization in hepatocytes, sinusoidal dilation, vascular and sinusoidal congestion and inflammatory cell infiltration. TCDD administration increased malondialdehyde (MDA), total oxidant status (TOS), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels in rat liver tissue and reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and total antioxidant status (TAS) levels compared to all other groups. In the TQ treated group, GSH, SOD, CAT and TAS levels increased compared to all other groups. MDA, TOS, ALT, AST, ALP levels decreased compared to all other groups. Our histological findings were consistent with the biochemical findings. The oxidative and histologic effects of TCDD were eliminated by TQ treatment. TCDD administration caused oxidative stress in rat liver and TQ administered with TCDD prevented TCDD induced hepatotoxicity. TQ could be considered an alternative anti-TCDD toxicity agent.

Pre Diabetes: An Alarming and Frightening Situation about Life Time Syndrome (Diabetes)

 Background: Diabetes mellitus is one of the common problems in Pakistan; it is a disease that is extensively spreading within all age groups. It is a misconception that it suddenly affects a person’s metabolism and the next morning the patient becomes diabetic. Actually diabetes gives an intense era of time for recovery which is usually never identified. Aim and Objective: The aim of the study is to identify the time lap known as prediabetes which can also be taken as the prevention stage. Materials and methods: In this study 201 population sample data was collected on the basis of their age, gender, family history , life style and many other contribution factors and analyzed through SPSS. Results: It is concluded that majority of the population belonging to a different age groups are on the route that leads to diabetes and having principle symptoms of diabetes that is polyuria (increased urination), polyphagia (increased appetite), polydypsia (increased thirst), 55% of the individuals experience frequent urination, 58% of the population have been observed with increased appetite and 60% of the people have complains of increased thirst. Conclusion: It is a frightening situation as indicated by the WHO that by 2030 Pakistan will be the 4th most diabetic populated country, so the study played an important role in investigating population lying in prevention stage. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.15(4) 2016 p.565-571

Evaluation of nutritional parameters of hemodialysis patients

BACKGROUND

This study was performed to investigate nutritional parameters of hemodialysis patients by using anthropometric and biochemical measurements.

METHODS

Data from the last 6 months of 22 adult hemodialysis patients with a mean age of 61 ± 14 years were analyzed retrospectively. Dialysis vintage, normalized protein catabolic rate (nPCR), serum biochemical parameters, mid arm muscle circumference (MAMC) were determined as mean and standard deviation. Correlations between the variables were computed by coefficient p of Pearson.

RESULTS

We found significant positive correlations: age of patients versus C-reactive protein, MAMC versus LDL-Cholesterol, MAMC versus body mass index, albumin versus hemoglobin. There were also significant negative correlations: age versus serum creatinine, age versus albumin, age versus intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), dialysis vintage versus MAMC.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, age seem to be negatively associated with iPTH and albumin. As dialysis vintage increases, muscle mass seems to decrease.