Assessment of coastal river water quality in Bangladesh: Implications for drinking and irrigation purposes

Saltwater intrusion in the coastal areas of Bangladesh is a prevalent phenomenon. However, it is not conducive to activities such as irrigation, navigation, fish spawning and shelter, and industrial usage. The present study analyzed 45 water samples collected from 15 locations in coastal areas during three seasons: monsoon, pre-monsoon, and post-monsoon. The aim was to comprehend the seasonal variation in physicochemical parameters, including water temperature, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), salinity, total dissolved solids (TDS), hardness, and concentrations of Na+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Fe2+, HCO3-, PO43-, SO42-, and Cl-. Additionally, parameters essential for agriculture, such as soluble sodium percentage (SSP), sodium absorption ratio (SAR), magnesium absorption ratio (MAR), residual sodium carbonate (RSC), Kelly's ratio (KR), and permeability index (PI), were examined. Their respective values were found to be 63%, 16.83 mg/L, 34.92 mg/L, 145.44 mg/L, 1.28 mg/L, and 89.29%. The integrated water quality index was determined using entropy theory and principal component analysis (PCA). The resulting entropy water quality index (EWQI) and SAR of 49.56% and 63%, respectively, indicated that the samples are suitable for drinking but unsuitable for irrigation. These findings can assist policymakers in implementing the Bangladesh Deltaplan-2100, focusing on sustainable land management, fish cultivation, agricultural production, environmental preservation, water resource management, and environmental protection in the deltaic areas of Bangladesh. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of seasonal variations in the hydrochemistry and water quality of coastal rivers, aiding in the comprehension of salinity intrusion origins, mechanisms, and causes.

Chromium and arsenic bioaccumulation and biomass potential of pink morning glory (Ipomoea carnea Jacq.)

Soil contamination with heavy metals and metalloids is a global concern nowadays. Phytoremediation is an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and sustainable way of mitigating such contamination by utilizing the plants' ability to accumulate, sequester, and stabilize elements. Biomass-producing plants may outperform hyperaccumulators in terms of total elemental removal and offer more cost-effectiveness through their usable biomass. Ipomoea carnea is a wild plant in the Asian region. It is resilient, spreads rapidly in a wide range of soil conditions, and has a high potential for biomass feedstock. In this work, we have tested this plant species for its growth performance and accumulation characteristics of Cr and As. In a pot experiment, the plants could easily grow from rootless stem segments in 2 weeks when garden soils are treated with 100-500 ppm of Cr and 20-300 ppm of As. Plant growth reduction was little at the moderate level of these elements, with a significant accumulation of elements in 45 days. Within this time, in the stems and leaves, the Cr concentrations were found to be 49 and 39 ppm, respectively, when treated with 500 ppm of Cr, whereas the As concentrations were obtained as 83 and 28 ppm, respectively, for the treatment with 300 ppm of As. To estimate the biomass production potential, the plant was grown with a density of 80,000 per ha under normal field conditions (without metal stress). At the harvest, the plants consisted of 80% stems, 11% leaves, and 9% belowground portions on a dry weight basis. The dry weight of stems, leaves, and belowground parts was 31.3%, 17.9%, and 23.7%, respectively. Overall, the estimated biomass was 25.8 Mg/ha/year from three harvests. The ability to regrow from the basal part makes it useful for continuous sequestration of toxic elements over multiple harvests. Our results show that I. carnea could lower Cr and As from contaminated soils and potentially a phytoremediation candidate considering accumulation rate and high amount of usable biomass production.

Association of Low Vitamin D Level with Pelvic Organ Prolapse in Post Menopausal Women: A Case Control Study

Pelvic organ prolapse refers to protrusion of the pelvic organ into or out of the vaginal canal. One in four women in the USA suffer from some type of pelvic floor disorder including pelvic organ prolapse and frequency of pelvic organ prolapse is more with increasing age. In Bangladesh, 15.6% women suffered from pelvic organ prolapse and more than 11.0% of women require surgical correction of prolapse in their life times. According to few researches, there is an observed association between low vitamin D levels with pelvic organ prolapse but this finding is not unequivocal. This case control study has been conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Bangladesh from October 2018 to August 2020 to investigate the level of vitamin D in patients with and without pelvic organ prolapse to explore the association of low vitamin D with pelvic organ prolapse. A total 148 participants of 52 years or older attending the out or inpatient department were enrolled in the study. The study population was divided into two groups, a case group (n=74) consisting of patients with pelvic organ prolapse and a control group (n=74) comprising of women without pelvic organ prolapse. After taking informed written consent the serum vitamin D level of all participants was measured by CMIA technology with flexible assay protocols at Biochemistry and Molecular Biology department of the same institute. All necessary Data were collected on variables of interest by using the structured questionnaire pre-designed for interview, observation, clinical examination, and biochemical Data collection. Distributions were expressed by mean and standard deviation for continuous variables and by frequency and percentage for qualitative variables. Student's t-test and Chi square test were done to see the significance of differences between Group I and Group II. Odds ratio, correlation coefficient, and multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to assess the association of low vitamin D level with pelvic organ prolapse. Mean±SD level of Vitamin D in the case group was 13.96±5.18ng/ml and in the control group was 21.08±5.77ng/ml respectively. The difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). Moreover, the vitamin D levels were inversely proportionate with the severity of pelvic organ prolapse. OR (95% CI), of two groups showed risk of developing pelvic organ prolapse 5.63 times higher in women with decreased vitamin D level. Thus it can be concluded that women having low level of vitamin D have more chance of developing pelvic organ prolapse.

Role of Mifepristone in Trial of Labour after Previous Caesarean Delivery in Intrauterine Fetal Death

When a baby dies in utero, the options are either to wait for spontaneous labour or to induce it. An obstetrician, encounters with a perplexity of choosing a management plan when this worst situation of IUFD coalesced by history of previous caesarean delivery. The ideal drug for the termination should not only be efficacious and cost-effective, but also be convenient enough to avoid operative interference arising from a wasted pregnancy. The study was aimed to evaluate efficacy, safety and compliance of oral mifepristone in trial of labour in case of IUFD after previous caesarean section. This was a cross sectional descriptive type of observational study conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh from February 2018 to August 2018. Total 50 patients were selected purposively based on inclusion criteria and diagnosed as IUFD with previous caesarean delivery. The patients were received mifepristone once and reviewed after 48 hours and those who were not attained favourable Bishop's score were counseled for mechanical induction. Antibiotics and analgesia were administered according to requirement. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 22.0. All the 50 women received 200 mg oral mifepristone. Forty-four 44(88.0%) women was delivered vaginally among them 18(36.0%) were delivered following mifepristone induction only and 26(52.0%) required additional induction method. The earliest induction to delivery interval following mifepristone was 13 hours. Twenty eight (63.6%) cases were discharged within 72-120 hours. After 48 hours following induction there was significant improvement of Bishop's score. In this study 6(12.0%) out of 50 cases were reasoned for laparotomy and blood transfusion was required for them. There was no statistically significant difference according to gestational age in mode of delivery (p>0.05). There was no difference observed in mean induction to delivery interval between second and third trimester at 5% level of significance (p>0.05). In this study, the women showed drastic improvement in cervical score following induction with mifepristone and decreased repeat caesarean rate. Eventually, the length of agony of receiving dead baby was cut short without much more ailments. Hence, mifepristone may be considered as a safe, efficacious, convenient and cost-effective induction agent for labour induction in women with dead fetus in utero in previously scarred uterus.

Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Undergraduate Medical Students of Bangladesh Regarding COVID-19 and its Vaccination

Medical students are one of the socially active, reliable, and persuading population of information, prevention and control, and incentive of vaccination to stop the current pandemic situation. Consequently, knowing the status of medical students' knowledge, about symptoms, and transmission of disease, prevention of COVID-19 and their attitudes towards a vaccine is important. This multi-center cross-sectional descriptive study was one of the first ones in Bangladesh among the undergraduate medical students who completed pathology, microbiology, and pharmacology. The study was conducted from March to April 2021, using a convenience sampling method in twelve government and non-government medical colleges. Among 1132 who completed the questionnaire, and 15 students from different centers were excluded from the pre-testing and face validation. The age of the 1117 respondents were 22 to 23 years, of which the majority of the respondents were female 749 (67.0%), and 368 (33.0%) were male. Almost all participants had correct knowledge (84.1%) about the symptoms of COVID-19. But 59.2% had wrong knowledge about transmission of disease by an afebrile person. Above 60.0 % of the participants have worn a facial mask when contacting people, refrained from shaking hands, washed hands, avoided people with signs and symptoms suggestive of COVID-19, and avoided crowded places as a practice of prevention. 37.6% of medical students showed positive attitudes about the participation of management of a COVID-19 patient. Most of the participants' decided to have a vaccine depending on its availability. But 31.5% had trust in natural immunity rather than vaccination. Most undergraduate Medical college students understood the basic information, possessed a positive attitude, and presented good practice towards the COVID-19 and vaccination. They play a crucial role in motivation and acceptance of vaccines among the general citizen to fight back against the pandemic in the country with limited resources.

Detection and Primary Analysis of Antibacterial Activity in the Ethyl Acetate Extract of Lantana camara L. Leaves

Lantana camara L. is generally considered an invasive plant species throughout the world. Research works carried out in recent years have proved its significance as a source of antimicrobial lead molecules. The aim of this research was to identify the antibacterial substance(s) in this plant species found locally and to test its antibacterial effect against selected bacterial strains. Plant samples were collected from the University of Dhaka campus. Ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts of the plant leaves were tested against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Pneumococcus and Klebsiella. Both the ethanol and the ethyl acetate extracts showed significant activity against Bacillus subtilis. In disk diffusion antibacterial assay, ethanol extract showed greater activity than ethyl acetate extract against Bacillus subtilis and the zones of inhibition were 14 mm and 12 mm respectively. However, ethyl acetate extract showed greater activity than ethanol extract in TLC bioautography assay. Ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts showed very little activity against Pneumococcus and Klebsiella, but no antibacterial potential against Escherichia coli. Fractionation of the ethyl acetate extract by TLC and bioautography detection of antibacterial activity in TLC encouraged further purification of the lead active compound(s). Phytochemical composition analysis of the ethyl acetate extract showed the presence of alkaloids, steroids, phenolic compounds and glycosides.

Label free flexible electrochemical DNA biosensor for selective detection of Shigella flexneri in real food samples

An effective tool for early-stage selective detection of the foodborne bacterial pathogen Shigella flexneri (S. flexneri) is essential for diagnosing infectious diseases and controlling outbreaks. Here, a label-free electrochemical DNA biosensor for monitoring S. flexneri is developed. To fabricate the biosensor, detection probe (capture probe) is immobilized on the surface of poly melamine (P-Mel) and poly glutamic acid (PGA), and disuccinimidyl suberate (DSS) functionalized flexible indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode. Anthraquinone-2-sulfonic acid monohydrate sodium salt (AQMS) is used as a signal indicator for the detection of S. flexneri. The proposed DNA biosensor exhibits a wide dynamic range with concentration of the targets ranging from 1 × 10^-6 to 1 × 10^-21 molL^-1 with a limit of detection (LOD) of 7.4 × 10^-22 molL^-1 in the complementary linear target of S. flexneri, and a detection range of 8 × 10¹⁰-80 cells/ml with a LOD of 10 cells/ml in real S. flexneri sample. The proposed flexible biosensor provides high specificity for the detection of S. flexneri compared to other target signals such as discrete base mismatches and different bacterial species. The developed biosensor displayed excellent recoveries in detecting S. flexneri in spiked food samples. Therefore, the proposed biosensor can serve as a model methodology for the detection of other pathogens in a broad span of industries.

Use of Drugs Considering Route of Administration on Drug Prescription Pattern for Bronchial Asthma in a Tertiary Level Hospital

Bronchial asthma is one of the much known long-term respiratory conditions. Incidence is increasing, in developing countries like Bangladesh. Cross-sectional type of observational study was carried out over one year (July 2017 to June 2018) in the department of Pharmacology with collaboration of the department of Respiratory Medicine and Medicine, Mymensingh Medical College and Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. A total of 160 patients were selected non-randomly for the study. Inhalation route (52.35%) was the most preferred one over oral route (47.65%). In total 245 drugs, 131 FDC drugs (Salmeterol + Fluticasone) were prescribed with inhalation therapy which is 53.46%, another 9 FDC drugs that is (Ipratropium bromide + Salbutamol) were prescribed with inhalation therapy which is 3.67%, 101 drugs (Salbutamol) were prescribed with inhalation therapy that is 41.23%, 4 drugs (Beclomethasone) were prescribed with inhalation therapy that is 1.64%. Majority of patient were taking inhalation form of anti-asthmatic drugs.

Procalcitonin versus C-Reactive Protein as a Biomarker for Prediction of Bacterial Infection in Children with Febrile Neutropenia in Acute Leukemia

Febrile neutropenia (FN) is a frequently occurring treatment-related complication with significant morbidity and mortality for childhood acute leukemia. Early diagnosis and assessment of severity are essential steps for early comprehensive treatment to reduce FN-related morbidity and mortality. Biomarkers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) can be used to assess and predict the bacterial infection in children with febrile neutropenia. The objective of the study was to determine the role of procalcitonin and CRP as a biomarker for prediction of bacterial infection in children with FN in acute leukemia. This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Bangladesh from August 2020 to July 2021. Total 58 Children with acute leukemia aged 1 to <18 years with FN were analyzed in this study. A proper history and thorough physical examination were carried out. The blood sample was sent for biomarkers (Procalcitonin and CRP) within 24 hours of the onset of FN and other investigations, such as Complete blood count, Blood C/S, Urine R/E and C/S. Metabolic workup (SGPT, Serum Creatinine, Serum Electrolytes, Serum Ca+) was also done in every patient. Stool R/E & C/S, Chest X-ray, Wound swab for C/S were done when the patient presented with diarrhoea, cough, respiratory distress and focal sepsis respectively. In this study, the mean age of the patients was 6.62±4.07 years (1.10-16.0 years) and 34 patients (58.6%) were male. In 65.5% of patients, localizing signs of infection were not identified. Of the 58 patients, 12 patients (20.7%) showed positive blood culture and 2 patients (3.4%) showed positive urine culture. Klebsiella spp (41.0%) was the most frequent organism isolated followed by Acinetobacter (17.0%), Pseudomonas (17.0%) and E. coli (17.0%). The median PCT levels were significantly higher in patients with bacterial infection than patients without bacteremia (26.10μg/l versus 0.78μg/l, p=0.002) and PCT level >2μg/l was significantly associated with bacteremia. The median CRP levels in the bacteremia and without-bacteremia patients were 137.4mg/L and 54.17mg/L, respectively (p=0.036). In direct comparisons, PCT showed better overall performance than CRP with the AUC being 0.797 (95% CI 0.651-0.943) for PCT and 0.697 (95% CI 0.54-0.855) for CRP in predicting the bacterial infection. PCT and CRP both are useful biomarkers for the prediction of bacteremia, but PCT may be a superior early biomarker as compared to CRP to predict bacterial infection in children with febrile neutropenia in acute leukemia.

Development of a hematite nanotube and tyramine-based drug carrier against drug-resistant bacteria Klebsiella pneumoniae

In this study, hematite nanotube (HNT) and tyramine-based advanced nano-drug carriers were developed for inhibiting the growth of Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae). The HNT was synthesized by following the Teflon line autoclaved assisted hydrothermal process and tyramine was incorporated on the surface of the HNT to fabricate the formulated nano-drug. The nano-drug was prepared by conjugating meropenem (MP) on the surface of Tyramine-HNT and characterized using different techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR), etc. Furthermore, the drug-loading efficiency and loading capacity were measured using a UV-vis spectrometer. The pH, amount of Tyr, and HNT required for drug loading were optimized. A controlled and gradual manner of pH-sensitive release profiles was found after investigating the release profile of MP from the carrier drug. The antibacterial activity of MP@Tyramine-HNT and MP was compared through the agar disc diffusion method which indicates that antibacterial properties of antibiotics are enhanced after conjugating. Surprisingly, the MP@Tyramine-HNT exhibits a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of K. pneumoniae lower than MP itself. These results indicate the nanocarrier can reduce the amount of MP dosed to eradicate K. pneumoniae.

Evaluation of Liver Function Tests in β-Thalassemia Major Children

Thalassemia is the most prevalent single gene defect in human beings worldwide. Repeated blood transfusions along with chelation therapy are mainstay of treatment in thalassemia patients. However these recurrent blood transfusions result in iron overload which along with chelation therapy causes deterioration of liver function. Aim of the study was to evaluate the liver function tests in β-thalassemia major patients. This cross sectional study was conducted in the Department of Biochemistry, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, Bangladesh from January 2017 to December 2017. In this study, 50 diagnosed patients of β Thalassemia major (Group A) and 50 apparently healthy children (Group B) of both sexes were selected from the department of Paediatrics, Dhaka medical college. The study parameters were serum ferritin, bilirubin, AST, ALT, ALP. The results were compared statistically between groups. Serum ferritin level (mean±SD) in thalassemic major patients in Group A (890±446.38 microgram/L) which is significantly higher above normal level. Serum bilirubin in Group A (3.27±2.62 mg/dl) and in Group B (0.48±0.24 mg/dl), Serum ALT in Group A (53.06±34.0 U/L) and in Group B (16.70±4.81 U/L), AST in Group A (84.56±33.54 U/L) and in Group B (11.60±2.72 U/L) and ALP levels in Group A (422.42±226.99 IU/L) and in Group B (221.86±80.54 IU/L). All the values were significantly higher (p<0.001) in β-thalassemia patient than that of normal children. This study concludes that liver function parameters are significantly higher in β thalassemia major patients. So routine evaluation of liver function tests may be advocated for thalassemic patients to predict early onset of hepatic dysfunction.

Clinical and Demographic Predictor of the Advanced Stage of Carcinoma Cervix in a Tertiary Level Hospital of Bangladesh

Though cervical cancer is a preventable disease it is the most progressive and devastating diseases posing a threat of mortality for women of developing countries. Majority of the cases present to hospital at advanced stage when treatment is less feasible. Objective is to determine the factors associated with the advanced stage presentation to the hospital, socio-demographic factor, patterns of complications and histological types among patients with carcinoma cervix. This was an observational descriptive type of cross-sectional study carried out in the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from 15 January to 27 September 2017. Women who were newly confirmed to have cervical cancer by histology were enrolled. Stages IIB and above was considered as advanced disease. The patients were interviewed face to face by the researcher for the purpose of collection of data. Then the patients were examined by the researcher for certain sings and those would be recorded in the check-list. Histopathological report was noted in data collection sheet. In this study data analysis was done by SPSS version 22.0. Total 66 clinically and histologically confirmed advanced ca-cervixes were taken up during this study. Most common stage was stage III, 49(74.2%) out of 66 population. Majority of female were found 34(51.5%) in age group 51-60. More than half of population 54(81.8%) were living with their husband and 12(18.1%) were widow at the time of study. High level of illiteracy among women and their problematic health seeking behavior for gynecological symptoms are responsible for advanced diagnosis of cervical cancer.

Physicochemical, microbiological and sensory properties of carrot juice fortified set-style yoghurt

An attempt has been made to develop carrot juice-based set-style yoghurt for enriched nutritional and therapeutic properties. Yoghurts were fortified with carrot juice at a ratio of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% and 50% and were analyzed for physicochemical properties, bioactive compound (total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, vitamin C, antioxidants and β-carotene content) and organoleptic properties. Fortification of carrot juice significantly (p<0.01) increased the percentage of carbohydrates (35.47 to 42.92%), ash (0.57 to 0.87%), total solid (50.5 to 52.61%), solids non-fat (45.77 to 49.37%) and fibre (0.36 to 0.46%), and significantly (p<0.01) decreased the percentage of fat (4.73 to 3.24%). Similar increase in bioactive compounds also found with the fortification of carrot juice e.g., β-carotene (0.00 to 4.43 mg/100 g), antioxidant activity (18.29 to 48.42 %), TPC (0.00 to 15.44 mg/100 g), TFC (0.00 to 5.18 mg/100 g) and vitamin C (0.76 to 1.28 mg/100 g). No yeast, mould and coliform were observed in any yoghurt samples. The sensory analysis suggested that yoghurt fortified with 30% carrot juice was the best with the highest overall acceptability (8.4) along with the lowest syneresis (10.81%). The addition of carrot juice above this concentration started decreasing the scores of good qualities of the fortified yoghurts. Taking into account all findings, we concluded that carrot juice could be added up to 30% for large-scale production of fortified yoghurt.

Identification and quantification of sodium benzoate in soft drinks available in Tangail region by high-performance liquid chromatography

Sodium benzoate is a permitted food additive by international laws in processing restrictive amounts, but its content must be declared and must not exceed the established limits by legislation. An experimental study was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for determining the level of sodium benzoate in different brands of soft drinks available in the markets, stores, and shops in the Tangail region of Bangladesh. A Luna 5 µ C18 (2) 100A column (250×4.6 mm) was used for the chromatographic analysis. Chromatographic separation was achieved with an isocratic solvent system comprising sodium acetate and acetic acid buffer (pH = 4.0)/acetonitrile in the ratio of 80:20 (1 mL/min) at 37oC and the chromatograms were recorded at 254 nm. The limit of detection and quantification for sodium benzoate was 0.0000493 mg/100 mL and 0.000149 mg/100 mL, respectively. Quantification of the selected brand soft drinks revealed that the level of the used sodium benzoate was within the FDA standard range. However, by comparing with the Bangladesh Standard and Testing Institute (BSTI), brand -2 and brand-3 soft drink samples were found to exceed the current legal limits.

Malignant Infantile Osteopetrosis with Bone Marrow Involvement

Osteopetrosis (Marble bone disease) is a very rare congenital genetic disease of skeleton, resulting from defective bone resorption, due to functionally defective osteoclast, leading to accumulation of excessive bone mass. Malignant infantile osteopetrosis (MIO) is one of the varieties of osteopetrosis, which is fatal and is diagnosed in early infancy. Malignant infantile osteopetrosis is present with abnormal bone remodeling, hematological abnormities, features of extramedullary hematopoiesis. Radiology is the key of diagnosis. In this case, we present a 5-monthold male infant diagnosed as malignant infantile osteopetrosis, who presented with bronchopneumonia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, hepatosplenomegaly, failure to thrive (FTT).

Three-Jaw Chuck Pinch Strength and its Correlation with Hand Depth in Electronics Technicians

The three jaw chuck pinch is a variety of pinch technique where thumb opposes both middle and index fingers. Pinch strength is generally influenced by the health status and level of physical activity of a person. The present study was conducted to measure the correlation of three-jaw chuck pinch strength with hand depth in electronics technicians working in Dhaka Metropolitan City. The data obtained from the study may be used as a base line for other professions as well as for research in our country. This cross sectional, analytical study was carried out in the department of Anatomy, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2015 to June 2016 on 100 adults male electronics technicians and 100 adult sedentary workers. Electronics technicians were considered as case group and sedentary workers were considered as control group. Case group was further subdivided according to their working experiences. Study subjects were selected by convenient purposive sampling technique. Hand depth was measured by digital slide calipers and pinch gauge was used to measure the three-jaw chuck pinch strength. The mean three-jaw chuck pinch strength was significantly higher (p<0.05) in case group than in the control group. Significant difference were also observed between case group and control group in the mean hand depth (p<0.05). Mean hand depth was greater in case group than that of control group. Three-jaw chuck pinch strength showed significant positive correlation with hand depth in case group. Case group was further subdivided according to their working experiences, the mean three-jaw chuck pinch strength and hand depth was significantly higher (p<0.05) in more working experience group than in less working experience group. Three-jaw chuck pinch strength showed significant positive correlation with hand depth.

Development of an advanced DNA biosensor for pathogenic Vibrio cholerae detection in real sample

Due to the epidemics of emerging microbial diseases worldwide, the accurate and rapid quantification of pathogenic bacteria is extremely critical. In this work, a highly sensitive DNA-based electrochemical biosensor has been developed to detect Vibrio cholerae using gold nanocube and 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) with DNA carrier matrix. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM) experiments were performed to interrogate the proposed sensor at each stage of preparation. The biosensor has demonstrated high sensitivity with a wide linear response range to target DNA from 10^-8 to 10^-14 (R²= 0.992) and 10^-14 to 10^-27 molL^-1 (R²= 0.993) with a limit of detection (LOD) value of 7.41 × 10^-30 molL^-1 (S/N = 5). The biosensor also exhibits a selective detection behavior in bacterial cultures that belong to the same and distant genera. Moreover, the proposed sensor can be used for six consecutive DNA assays with a repeatability relative standard deviations (RSD) value of 5% (n = 5). Besides, the DNA biosensor shows excellent recovery for detecting V. cholerae in poultry feces, indicating that the designed biosensor could become a powerful tool for pathogenic microorganisms screening in clinical diagnostics, food safety, and environmental monitoring.

Hemoprotozoa and Anaplasma spp. in rodents and shrews of Bangladesh

Hemoprotozoans are important pathogens of animals and humans, among which some species have zoonotic significance. The prevalence of different hemoprotozoa and Anaplasma spp. in larger mammals have been reported from different regions of the world. But, very few studies have been conducted to estimate the prevalence of hemoprotozoa in rodents and shrews of South-East Asia. The study assessed the prevalence of hemoprotozoa and Anaplasma spp. in rodents and shrews of Bangladesh. Blood samples (n=451) were collected from rodents and shrews between June 2011 and June 2013 and July-December 2015 from 4 land gradients of Bangladesh. Giemsa-stained blood smears revealed that 13% of animals were harboring hemoprotozoa (4.7% Babesia spp., 0.67% Plasmodium spp.), and Anaplasma spp. (7.5%). The study may serve as a guide for future hemoparasitic research of rodents and shrews.

Panhypopituitarism in an Adult Male and Hypogonadism as a First Clue

Hypopituitarism is a rare entity with reported incidence, 4 per 100,000 and about 50% of such patients present with three to five pituitary hormone deficits. A slow onset of symptoms is typical. But, diversified presentations from absence of symptoms to vague clinical features to lethal effects leading to mortality are not uncommon in such disorder. In adults, in such cases symptoms of hypogonadism may be the first noticeable illness for reporting to physicians, but it is often under evaluated or even ignored. Here, we present a case of 40-year-old adult male with panhypopituitarism, who presented with loss of generalized body hair and loss of libido for about last five years but the problem was not evaluated adequately. Later, he developed lethargy, generalized weakness, weight loss and then the underneath cause detected was panhypopituitarism due to pituitary macro adenoma. So, suspicion and hormonal evaluation for hypogonadism would help in early detection and management of progressive hypopituitarism in symptomatic adult patients. Cases of panhypopituitarism need lifelong hormone replacement and follow-up and if pituitary adenoma is present, surgical removal by trans-sphenoidal approach is preferable.

A Study to find out the Correlation between Handgrip Strength and Hand Breadth of Bangladeshi Male Cricket Batsman

This cross sectional analytical type of study was conducted at department of Anatomy, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2015 to June 2016 on 50 adult Bangladeshi male sprinters (Group A) and 50 adult Bangladeshi male cricket batsman (Group B). Sample collection was done by convenient purposive sampling technique. History of any injury of hand during playing was excluded to construct standard measurement. Hand breadth was measured with the help of slide calipers. Hand grip strength Dynamometer was used to measure the hand grip strength. Paired Student's 't' test, unpaired student's 't' test and Pearson's correlation coefficient test were done for statistical analysis of the result. The aim of the present study was to determine hand breadth and average hand grip strength of Bangladeshi male cricket batsman to find out correlation between them that may be used as a baseline for other professions as well for future research in our country. The mean right and left hand grip strength was significantly higher in the cricket batsman than in the sprinters. The mean right and left hand breadth was found to be significantly higher in the cricket batsman than in the sprinters. Right and left hand grip strength showed significant positive correlation with hand breadth in both hand. The study findings suggest that regular physical exercise and training increase hand grip strength.

Depression among Medical Students of Bangladesh

Now a days depression is one of the leading cause of disabilities all over the world. Depression leads to a wide range of disorders and affects people of all communities. Medical students pass through a relatively high level of stress. Several studies revealed that anxiety and depression is significantly prevalent among medical students and often it persists even when they become physicians. The study was designed with an aim to estimate the prevalence of depression among the medical students of Bangladesh. The cross sectional descriptive type of observational study was conducted among randomly selected 399 Bangladeshi students of third year MBBS from six (6) randomly selected public medical colleges of Bangladesh from February 2017 to July 2017. Data were collected by a semi-structured self-administered questionnaire containing Beck's Depression Inventory. Data were entered and analyzed by SPSS version 20.0. Among 399 medical students, 45.6% were male and 54.4% were female. Regarding presence of depression among the medical students, 35.8% students had normal score. More than one fourth of the students (25.1%) had mild mood disturbance. Borderline clinical depression was found in 15.5% and moderate depression was found in 18.0% of the students. Severe depression was found in 5.3% students and one (0.3%) student was suffering from extreme depression. Overall 39.1% students were suffering from different levels of depression. Depression was prevalent more in female students (45.6%) than male students (31.3%). Suicidal tendency was present in 18.8% students. Among them 14.3% had thoughts of killing themselves but they would not carry them out; 3% would like to kill themselves and 1.5% would kill themselves if they had the chance. Suicidal tendency was also a bit higher in female students (19.3%) than male students (18.1%). A significant number (39.1%) of medical students of Bangladesh are suffering from depression and many of them (18.8%) have suicidal tendency which demands immediate attention of the authority. The findings of the study warrant a need for psychiatric counseling and support services for vulnerable students.

Study of Diameter of Lymphoid Follicle of Vermiform Appendix in Bangladeshi People of Different Age and Sex

A cross sectional descriptive study was performed on 40 postmortem vermiform appendix (male 24 and female 16) to find out the diameter of lymphoid follicle of vermiform appendix of Bangladeshi people. The specimens were collected from autopsy laboratory of the Department of Forensic Medicine, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh by purposive sampling technique and were divided into four age groups. They were Group A (upto 20 years), Group B (21 to 40 years), Group C (41 to 60 years) and Group D (above 60 years). For this purpose, about 3mm long of whole thickness transverse section was taken from the middle of the vermiform appendix and thus the permanent slides were made for microscopic examination. To measure the diameter of the lymphoid follicle two measurements were taken. One was taken at the maximum diameter and another was perpendicular to it by ocular micrometer. Diameter of one largest and one smallest lymphoid follicles were measured and find out the mean diameter of lymphoid follicle between them. Diameter of lymphoid follicle = (Maximum transverse diameter + perpendicular diameter) /2. All data were recorded in the predesigned data sheet, analyzed by SPSS program (version 21, 2012) and compared with the findings of other national and international studies and standard text books. It was observed that diameter of lymphoid follicle of vermiform appendix gradually decreased as age advanced. The mean±SD diameter of lymphoid follicle was 580.31±37.07, 545.58±38.37, 485.68±40.20 and 428.12±68.41μm in Group A, B, C and D respectively. Statistical analysis shows that the mean differences of diameter of lymphoid follicle between A&B, C&D were statistically non significant at p= or >0.05 level, difference between Group B&C was statistically moderately significant at p<0.01 level and differences between Group A&C, B&D, A&D were statistically highly significant at p<0.001 level. Mean diameter of lymphoid follicle of vermiform appendix in male was higher (584.30±12.65μm in Group A, 549.42±38.36μm in Group B, 487.38±39.91μm in Group C, 430.68±70.30μm in Group D) than in female (576.31±53.77μm in Group A, 536.61±45.14μm in Group B, 483.14±46.68μm in Group C, 424.28±75.95μm in Group D) but mean difference between sexes in the different groups was statistically non significant at p=or >0.05 level. The present study will help to increase the information pool on the diameter of lymphoid follicle of vermiform appendix of Bangladeshi people.

Outcome of Bone Marrow Injection in Patient with Delayed Union and Non-Uninon of Long Bone Fracture

Bone marrow is a source of osteoprogenitor cells which are the most important factor of bone formation and healing of fracture. The aim of the study is to evaluate the outcome of bone marrow injection in the management of delayed union and non-union. This prospective study was performed in the department of Orthopaedics, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from January 2017 to June 2019. In this study 21 patients with delayed union and non-union were treated by bone marrow injection. Bone marrow were aspirated from the anterior or posterior iliac crests then injected percutaneously into the fracture site. Full union was achieved in 15 cases, while failed in the others. No major complications were seen during or after the procedure. It is a safe, easy and a minimally invasive procedure compared to usual open bone graft especially for cases with high risk of anesthesia or risk of infection.

Frequencies of Different Types of Cleft Lip, Cleft Lip with Palate and Cleft Palate in Bangladeshi Children

Cleft lip and cleft palate, also known as orofacial cleft, is a group of conditions that includes Cleft lip (CL), Cleft palate (CP) and both together (CLP). Cleft lip with/or palate are the major human orofacial congenital malformations seen in live birth as well as in still birth. This descriptive cross sectional study was done to determine how the different types of Cleft lip (CL), Cleft lip with palate (CLP) and Cleft palate (CP) are distributed among Bangladeshi Children. This study was performed at a health screening camp for patients with cleft lip with/or palate at Dhaka Shishu Hospital, Dhaka. A total 30 patients irrespective of their age and gender, presenting with cleft lip with/or palate deformities were included in the study. A questionnaire was constructed to be filled out by the present researcher through a face-to-face interview with the respondent preferably the mother. The data were organized and analyzed through Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS, Version 20). Looking frequencies of different types of cleft lip with/or palate some trends can be noted regarding the laterality, completeness, extent, side involved and involvement of the alveolus. Out of the 14 CL cases, only 1 (7.14%) showed bilateral cleft. This cleft was complete but simple. All the others were unilateral cleft. A vast majority 9(about 65%) of the cleft lips belonged to the unilateral incomplete left sided simple type. One (7.14%) showed unilateral incomplete right sided simple type of CL. Only 2(14.28%) cases involved the alveolus. Out of the 11 CLP cases, unilateral cleft lip was present in 8 (more than 70% cases). Among them 6 cases showed complete cleft lip and 2 cases showed incomplete cleft lip. Out of all CLP cases 1 but all showed complete cleft palate. The most common type of CLP was "unilateral complete left sided compound cleft lip with unilateral complete left sided cleft palate" present in 5 of the children (i.e. more than 45% of the CLP cases and more than 16% of all cleft cases). Out of the 5 CP cases, only 1(20%) had involvement of the uvula plus posterior part of the soft palate. The rest 4(80%) had involvement of soft palate. Cleft lip with/or palate commonly occurred in Bangladeshi children. Genetic and environmental factors cause this birth defect. Therefore, integrated research among those factors is essential to prevent this birth defect.

Assessing risk to human health for heavy metal contamination through street dust in the Southeast Asian Megacity: Dhaka, Bangladesh

Contaminants in road dusts can directly pose significant human health risks through oral ingestion, particle inhalation, and dermal contact. Therefore, this study has been designed to analyze heavy metal contaminations in 88 street dusts collected from the 22 high traffic sites and industrial areas of the Southeast Asian Megacity: Dhaka (capital of Bangladesh) using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectroscopy. This study revealed that the maximum Pb, Cd, Zn, Cr, Ni, As, Mn and Cu contents in the street dust samples were 18.9, 11.6, 239.2, 144.3, 37.1, 8.1, 261.5 and 49.6 mg/ kg respectively in which Ni and Pb concentration were 2 times, and Cd concentration was 200 times higher than the background level in soil; and As concentration was slightly higher than soil background level. The spatial distribution of heavy metal concentrations in street dust samples in Dhaka City was revealed that the hot spot areas of Pb, Ni, Cd and As were mainly associated with heavy traffic and industrial activities. The risk assessment strategies were used for this study for identifying the routes of exposure through oral ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact by the fine particles (~75 μm) of street dust, especially for children based on the US EPA health risk models. Both non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks of heavy metals were characterized in street dust samples. Results based on the hazard index (HI), in the case of non-cancer effect, the ingestion of dust particles of children and adults in Dhaka City appeared to be the route of exposure to street dust that results in a higher risk for heavy metals, followed by dermal contact. This study revealed that the inhalation of re-suspended particles through mouth and nose were almost negligible. It was also noticed that children were experiencing the potential health risk due to HI for Cr (1.04), which was slightly higher than the safe level 1, and Cd (0.69) was close to the safe level 1. Reversely, cancer risk for Cr (i.e. 4.27 × 10^-6) was fallen within the range of threshold values (10^-4 to 10^-6) and As (i.e. 9.59 × 10^-7) was close to the upper limit of threshold values (10^-4 to 10^-6).

Source of metal contamination in sediment, their ecological risk, and phytoremediation ability of the studied mangrove plants in ship breaking area, Bangladesh

Samples for sediment and two species of native mangrove plants were collected from seven sampling sites for assessing the level of metal contamination. Results of the studied metals displayed the order of pollution as Fe > Ti > Zr > Rb > Zn > Sr > Pb > Y > Cu > Cr > As accordingly. Geoaccumulation index and contamination factor revealed that the sediment samples were unpolluted to moderately polluted by Zn, Fe, Ti, Rb, Y, and Zr. Ecological risk factor depicted a pollution-free condition in the study areas. PCA, CA, and correlation coefficient indicated that the source of the metals in the environment was anthropogenic. Bioconcentration factor values were found to be below 1 in both plant species. Conversely, transfer factor values for most heavy metals were found to be >1 in both plant species, which reflects the phytoremediation ability of plants.

Growth performance of local and genetically improved chicken of Bangladesh

The experiment was conducted to compare the growth performance among four genotypes of indigenous chicken namely Non-descriptive Native (ND), genetically Improved Native (IN), Hilly (HC) and Naked Neck (NN) of Bangladesh under free-range rearing system.  A total of 288 day old chicks (DOC) from four genotypes were divided into four treatments having eight replications of each for a period of 12 weeks under free-range system with supplementation of commercial broiler diet. During first 4 weeks, all chicks were kept together, whereas chicks of ND was brooded in the same room but separated by a partition. At 5 weeks of age chicks were randomly distributed to the selected farmers. Growth parameters were recorded to determine the comparative growth performance among four genotypes of chicken. The highest body weight (1110.76 g/bird) was achieved by HC, followed by IN (900.63 g/bird) and NN (831.13 g/bird) at 12 weeks of age. The lowest body weight (734.13 g/bird) however was found in ND chicken. During the growing period under free range rearing (5-12 weeks), HC group consumed the highest amount of feed (2697.02 g/bird) with an average FCR of 3.06 while the lowest feed consumption (2666.13 g/bird) with the highest FCR of 4.90 was observed in ND. IN consumed (2674.63 g/bird) feed with an average FCR of 3.92 and BLRI improved NN consumed (2668.13 g/bird) feed with an average FCR of 4.19. Live weight gains in all the four genotypes of indigenous chicken were changed almost in a similar pattern. Significant differences were observed in live weight, dressing percentage, breast meat, drumstick, thigh meat among the four genotypes of chicken. The HC was superior to other genotypes of indigenous chicken including ND in terms of growth performance, meat yield characteristics and net returns. Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2018. 47 (2):76-84

mHealth - an Ultimate Platform to Serve the Unserved

Objectives: To summarize major current developments and research in the field of mobile health (mHealth) services.

Methods: Reports on the unique characteristics of mHealth platform and its role in delivering health services to the resource poor settings. Also, it evaluates different mHealth applications and identifies key success factors and challenges.

Results and Conclusion: mHealth, based on the most ubiquitous and widely accepted technology, offers an unprecedented opportunity to serve the unserved by right time medical information services. There is growing evidence that it has already transformed healthcare delivery in many resource poor settings through its low cost, high reach and versatile applications. However, challenges still remain with regard to the development of consumer centric solutions, and services quality in terms of knowledge and competence of the provider, integration of the information systems and interoperability of the information services. Additional problems arise from the collaboration, partnership and regulation perspectives. There are noticeable trends towards solutions for these problems.

An Evaluation of the Result of Fenestration and Discectomy for the Treatment of Prolapsed Lumber Intervertrebal Disc (PLID)

The aim of this study is to asses the result of fenestration and discectomy for the treatment of PLID. This Prospective quasi experimental study was conducted on 29 Patient of PLID with different ages at Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2014 to June 2016. Post Operative outcome was assessed through Modified Macnab Criteria & Visual Analogue Score (VAS). The mean age of patient were 38.14±9.20 years and ranging from 24 to 55 years. The mean age of male was 37.21±9.72 years and female patient was 39.90±8.32 years. Overall subjective assessment of this study revealed that 79.2% patients had excellent functional outcome, 13.8% good and 6.9% fair and there was no poor functional outcome a according to modified Macnab criteria.

Molecular characterization of extended spectrum βlactamase producing bacteria isolated from urinary tract infected patients, Bangladesh

The aims of the study were to examine the presence of extended spectrum βlactamase (ESBL) producing pathogen in urinary tract infected (UTI) patients and their respected molecular characterization and classification. The isolates collected from UTI patients attending a private hospital during the period between January and June, 2012, were biochemically identified and subjected to double disc synergy method for the detection of ESBL. ESBL genes were detected by multiplex PCR and antibiotic sensitivity test was performed. Thirty two percent of all Gram negative isolates were found as ESBL producer. Among 65 ESBL positive isolates, 77% were Escherichia coli, 20% Klebsiella pneumoniae and 3% were Pseudomonas spp. Around 48% isolates were found carrying at least one of the four ESBL genes, bla_CTX-M, bla_TEM, bla_SHV and bla_OXA, and were found in 32%, 23%, 18.5% and 3% of the isolates respectively. In antibiotic sensitivity assay, higher resistance was found in E. coli than K. pneumonia against ciprofloxacin and nalidixic acid. Interestingly, two E. coli and three K. pneumonia strains were found resistant to only 3^rd generation cephalosporines, but susceptible to all other antibiotics assessed. One E. coli strain was found resistant to ciprofloxacin but sensitive to nalidixic acid. Pseudomonas spp. was found resistant to most of the antibiotics. The susceptible rate to nitrofurantoin, amikacin, and gentamicin was also not satisfactory. Susceptibility (100%) to meropenem and imipenem render these as good alternatives to treat UTI. The majority of the isolates were positive for bla_CTX-M and adverted to molecular class A. Two strains carrying blaOXA gene along with bla_SHV/bla_TEM/bla_CTX-M, could not be included in any of the established ESBL classification.

Heavy metal contamination of freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) and prawn feed in Bangladesh: A market-based study to highlight probable health risks

An assessment of the dietary risk of heavy metal exposure to humans is important since it is the main source of exposure. This study aimed to estimate the degree of contamination and assess the probable health risk in the prawn food chain. In prawn feed, the concentrations of metals were detected in the following order: Hg > Co > Pb > Cd. The concentrations of heavy metals in prawn were the highest for Co and lowest for Cd. Trace amounts of As and Cr were detected in the analyzed sample. Target hazard quotients for heavy metals for adults were >1 for Pb, Cd, Hg, and Co, and for children, the same were high for Co and Hg, indicating significant health risks upon dietary exposure. All the prawn samples contained nine-fold and fourteen-fold higher concentrations than the maximum acceptable levels for Pb and Hg, respectively (0.5 mg kg^-1; WHO/FAO). Human health risk due to the Co exposure is quite alarming as the level of exposure was found to be very high. In the prawn samples intended for human consumption, the hazard index (HI) was highest in the samples obtained from Bagerhat (3.25 in flesh and 3.26 in skin), followed by the samples obtained from Satkhira (2.84 in flesh and 3.10 in skin) and Dhaka City Corporation (2.81 in flesh and 3.42 in Skin); this indicates a potential risk of prawn consumption obtained from Southeast Bangladesh. This is particularly problematic as this area accounts for the majority of prawn production and export of the country.

Elevated levels of serum uric acid and insulin resistance are associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease among prediabetic subjects

BACKGROUND

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a hepatic manifestation of insulin resistance and serum uric acid (SUA) levels seemed to be elevated during this disorder. There is a paucity of data regarding the association of SUA with NAFLD in prediabetes. In this context, the present study has been undertaken to investigate this association.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional analytical design, a total of 110 prediabetic subjects [M/F; 63/47, age in ranges, 45 (25-68)] were recruited in the study and divided into non NAFLD (n = 62) and NAFLD (n = 48) group after examined with ultrasonogram. Insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was calculated by homeostasis model assessment.

RESULTS

NAFLD subjects had significantly higher levels of SUA compared to non NAFLD subjects (6.10 ± 1.42 vs. 5.38 ± 1.14, p = 0.004). They also had significantly higher levels of HOMA-IR (2.4 ± 1.09 vs. 1.4 ± 0.45, p < 0.001). In binary logistic regression analysis, HbA1c (OR = 3.505, p = 0.002), SUA (OR = 1.514, p = 0.023) and HOMA-IR (OR = 1.478, p = 0.029) were found to be significant determinants of NAFLD after adjusting the effects of BMI and triglyceride (TG). In multiple linear regression analysis, SUA showed significant positive association with HOMA-IR (ß = 0.355, p = 0.027) and TG (ß = 0.325, p = 0.033) after adjusting the effects of BMI and HbA1c.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased levels of serum uric acid are significantly associated with NAFLD and this association seemed to be mediated by insulin resistance among prediabetic subjects.

CRP (C-reactive protein) in Early Pregnancy Predictor for Development of GDM

This case-control study was done to find out whether elevated serum CRP in early pregnancy is a predictor of GDM and conducted under joined supervision of Obstetrics & Gynecology Department, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) Hospital and Biomedical Research Group (BMRG), BIRDEM, from August 2005 to November 2007. Pregnant mothers at their first 16 weeks of gestation without any medical disorder of pregnancy were included in the study. For the purpose of this study blood samples were again collected for OGTT at their 16weeks, 24-28 weeks and 32 weeks of pregnancy to detect GDM. After confirmation of GDM, C-reactive protein and C-peptide were done from the preserved fasting serum sample at the end of this study to compare GDM with control group. A total of 297 patients were included in this study. Among them 145(48%) patients completed follow up, 59(20%) lost from follow-up and 11(4%) patients had abortion; 82(28%) are due for follow up 31(10%) pregnant patients developed GDM subsequently. Finally 28 GDM patients were taken as cases and 71 were control matched for their gestational age and parity. At earlier weeks of gestation, hsCRP could predict (PPV) development of GDM in 59% with NPV 84%, sensitivity 61% and specificity 83%. C-peptide in the 50th percentile could predict (PPV) development of GDM in 58% with NPV 96%, sensitivity 72% and specificity 93%. The present data indicates that hsCRP and C-peptide both is sensitive markers in predicting GDM.

The Role of Selective Nerve Root Block in the Treatment of Lumbar Radicular Leg Pain

The objective of this retrospective study was to investigate the clinical effectiveness of nerve root blocks (i.e., periradicular injection of Lidocaine and triamcinolone) for lumbar monoradiculopathy in patients with a mild neurological deficit in National Institute of Traumatology & Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR), Dhaka, Bangladesh from March 2014 to December 2014. We Included 24 patients (32-74 years) with a minor sensory/motor deficit and an unequivocal MRI finding (18 disc herniations, 6 foraminal stenosis) treated with a selective nerve root block. Based on the clinical and imaging findings, surgery (decompression of the nerve root) was justifiable in all cases. Seventeen patients (87%) had rapid (1-4 days) and substantial regression of pain, four required a repeat injection. Sixty percent (60%) of the patients with disc herniation or foraminal stenosis had permanent resolution of pain, so that an operation was avoided over an average of 6 months (2-9 months) follow-up. Nerve root blocks are very effective in the non-operative treatment of minor monoradiculopathy and should be recommended as the initial treatment of choice for this condition.

Diagnosis of common bacterial causes of urethritis in men by Gram stain, culture and multiplex PCR

Urethritis is one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality in developing countries. The aim of this study was to detect common bacterial causes of urethritis in men by Gram stain, culture and multiplex PCR.185 male patients who presented at the Skin and venereal clinic of the Dhaka Medical College, Bangladesh with clinical symptoms suggestive of urethritis were enrolled in this study. Urethral discharges were tested for detection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae by Gram stain, culture and PCR. Multiplex PCR assay was done to detect DNA of Chlamydia trachomatis, Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma genitalium. Out of 185 participants, 30.27% and 14.6% were infected by Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis respectively. None of the individuals was found positive for either Ureaplasma urealyticum or Mycoplasma genitalium. Among the Neisseria gonorrhoeae positive patients 27.57% were positive from Gram stain, 26.49% were culture positive, 30.27% were positive by PCR (p<0.001). 32.65% of the Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates were penicillinase producers and 83.67% were susceptible to ceftriaxone. Considering culture as the gold standard, the sensitivity and specificity of PCR for the detection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae was 100%, and 94.85% respectively with an accuracy of 96.22%. 3.73% of the 134 smear negative and 5.15% of the 136 culture negative samples were positive by PCR. PCR was the most sensitive and rapid method for the diagnosis of urethritis. Multiplex PCR may be a useful approach to laboratory diagnosis of urethritis in men for its high sensitivity and specificity.

Temperature and saline stress on seedlings of Swietenia macrophylla: a comparative study

Physical responses of plants to change in climatic factors like temperature, precipitation and abiotic factors like salinity intrusion may lead positive or negative effects. Some factor may promulgate growth while other may stunts their vigour. Present study seeks growth of a plantation species at its early stage of life towards elevated temperature and saline water stresses. Growth records of Swietenia macrophylla seedlings were enumerated by measuring height, collar diameter and leaf number development of the replicates growing at an environment-controlled plant growth chamber. One experimented with merely elevated temperature while other tries to find results of combined effect of elevated temperature (30, 32 and 34 degrees C) and saline (0.5, 1.5 and 2.5 g L(-1) NaCl) to said species seedlings. Seedling replicates showed diverse response to elevated temperature and saline irrigation at height, collar diameter and leaf number development. Results depict that elevated temperature alone might be positive for S. macrophylla seedlings, rather most favourable for its growth in height, however, collar diameter and leaf number may remain unaffected. Saline treatment along with higher temperature stresses may lead seedlings toward stunted or very low growth. As saline intensity increases, species growth tends to decrease proportionally. Elevated temperature aided with higher salinity may direct further under development of S. macrophylla seedlings which is distressing to plantation establishment of this species in sites which are vulnerable to salinity intrusion due to climate change. However, S. macrophylla may be a promising plantation species in drier part of the globe in near future.

Effects of probiotics on haematology and biochemical parameters in mice

Probiotic organisms are live microorganisms thought to be beneficial to the host. To know the effect of probiotic supplemented food on haemato-biochemical parameters in mice, a total of 20 two-month-old Swiss Albino mice were randomly divided into four equal groups. Group A was control, fed commercial mouse pellets, and others were treated with 5 g (group B), 10 g (group C) and 20 g (group D) probiotics (curd), respectively, in mouse pellets for 45 days. Total erythrocyte count and haemoglobin concentration were significantly (P<0.01) higher in treated group than in controls. Total serum cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein and low density lipoprotein values decreased significantly (P<0.01) in treated groups. Serum uric acid value was significantly higher (P<0.01) in treated groups. It is suggested that probiotics help improve haematology and lipid profile but not kidney function. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bvet.v30i1.16281 Bangl. vet. 2013. Vol. 30, No. 1, 20-24

The Metabolic Syndrome: Comparison of Newly Proposed IDF, Modified ATP III and WHO Criteria and their Agreements

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MS) results from clustering of cardiovascular risk factors occurring in association with insulin resistance and obesity. With the increasing prevalence of obesity worldwide, MS is of keen interest in research. The disorder is defined in various ways, but one consolidated definition is needed to make studies comparable worldwide. The study was to determine the risk factors of metabolic syndrome in Bangladesh and comparison of newly proposed definition of International Diabetes Federation (IDF), modified National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III) and the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria and their agreements. Materials and Methods: This was a cross sectional hospital based study. We randomly selected 229 participants. After obtaining informed written consent data collectors collected data by interview, clinical examination, anthropometric measurement and investigations. We calculated independent sample t-test means between to distinguish which risk factors were present in participants with and without MS, using SPSS v17. Results: The percentage of risk factors of MS among subjects according to different criteria was 72% of Modified ATP-III, 69% of IDF and 39% of WHO definition .In Modified NCEP ATP III when did independent sample t-test mean of BMI, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, high density lipoprotein and triglyceride were present statistically significant difference between without MS and with MS (p<0.05). According to WHO criteria BMI, waist circumference, fasting blood glucose were statistically significant (p<0.05) and similarly fasting blood glucose & triglyceride were statistically significant difference between without MS and with MS (p<0.05) according to IDF criteria.ATP III and WHO criteria showed good agreement (k 0.56) compared to ATP III with IDF (k 0.31) and WHO with IDF (k 0.11) criteria. Conclusion: Metabolic syndrome is highly prevalent in Bangladesh. We detected the highest proportion of participants with MS using the ATP III definition, which emphasizes the predominant focus on the modified waist circumference for Asian participants. However, MS prevalence following WHO criteria in those with impaired glucose regulation is comparable with ATP III definition. Follow up study needed to examine the significance of MS following all definitions for the assessment of risk for diabetes and or cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular Journal Volume 6, No. 1, 2013, Page 17-22 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v6i1.16110

Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and markers of insulin resistance in a Japanese working population

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

The association between vitamin D status and insulin resistance (IR) has been less studied among Asians, and it remains elusive whether calcium could modify such an association. We examined the association of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations with IR markers and the potential effect modification by calcium intake among a Japanese population.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

The authors analyzed data (n=494) from a cross-sectional survey conducted in 2009 among a Japanese working population aged 20-68 years. Fasting serum 25(OH)D and insulin, as well as fasting plasma glucose were determined, and homeostatic model assessment of IR (HOMA-IR) was calculated. Calcium intake was assessed using a validated diet history questionnaire. Multiple linear regression was done with adjustment of potential confounding variables.

RESULTS

Fasting insulin and HOMA-IR were significantly inversely associated with 25(OH)D concentration across quartiles of 25(OH)D after fully adjusting for covariates (P(trend)=0.04 and 0.02, respectively). Across clinically relevant categories of 25(OH)D, compared with participants in the vitamin D sufficiency group, those in the vitamin D insufficiency group had a 5% higher HOMA-IR score, and those in the hypovitaminosis D group had an 18% higher HOMA-IR score (P(trend)=0.01). In an analysis by calcium intake, the HOMA-IR score was highest among participants with both a low calcium intake and lowest 25(OH)D concentrations, with significant inverse trend being observed in the group with lower calcium intake (P(trend)=0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that low vitamin D status is associated with IR among Japanese adults.

Medicinal plants used by the Mandais--a little known tribe of Bangladesh

The Mandais are a little known tribe of Bangladesh inhabiting the north central regions, particularly Tangail district of Bangladesh. Their population has been estimated to be less than 10,000 people. Although the tribe has for the most part assimilated with the mainstream Bengali-speaking population, they to some extent still retain their original tribal customs, including their traditional medicinal practices. Since this practice is also on the verge of disappearance, the objective of the present study was to conduct an ethnomedicinal survey among Mandai tribal practitioners to document their use of medicinal plants for treatment of various ailments. Four traditional practitioners were found in the exclusive Mandai-inhabited village of Chokchokia in Tangail district. Information was collected from the practitioners with the help of a semi-structured questionnaire and guided field-walk method. It was observed that the four traditional practitioners used a total of 31 plants distributed into 23 families for treatment. The various ailments treated included diabetes, low semen density, jaundice, gastrointestinal tract disorders (stomach ache, indigestion, dysentery, and diarrhea), leucorrhea, pain (rheumatic pain, joint pain), skin disorders, respiratory tract disorders (coughs, mucus, and allergy), debility, fever, and helminthiasis. From the number of plants used (seven), it appeared that gastrointestinal tract disorders formed the most common ailment among the Mandai community, possibly brought about by the low income status of the people coupled with unhygienic conditions of living.

Isolation of Quercetin-3-O-beta-d-glucopyranoside from the Leaves of Azadirachta Indica and Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic screening of the Crude Extracts

Quercetin-3-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside was isolated from the ethylacetate soluble fraction of the ethanol extract of the fresh leaves of Azadirachta indica (Family: Meliaceae). The crude extract of hexane, ethylacetate and butanol soluble fractions of this ethanol extract were subjected to antimicrobial screening and brine shrimp lethality bioassay. The ethylacetate crude extract exhibited moderate antimicrobial activity against most of the test organisms and also showed significant cytotoxicity having LC50 0.61 µg/ml.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujs.v60i1.10328Dhaka Univ. J. Sci. 60(1): 11-14, 2012 (January)

Synthetic single-framework antibody library integrated with rapid affinity maturation by VL shuffling

Affinity maturation is often applied to improve the properties of antibodies isolated from universal antibody libraries in vitro. A synthetic human scFv antibody library was constructed in single immunoglobulin framework to enable rapid affinity maturation by updated Kunkel's mutagenesis. The initial diversity was generated predominantly in the V(H) domain combined with only 36 V(L) domain variants yielding 3 × 10(10) unique members in the phage-displayed library. After three rounds of panning the enriched V(H) genes from the primary library selections against lysozyme were incorporated into a ready-made circular single-stranded affinity maturation library containing 7 × 10(8) V(L) gene variants. Several unique antibodies with 0.8-10 nM (K(d), dissociation constant) affinities against lysozyme were found after panning from the affinity maturation library, contrasted by only one anti-lysozyme scFv clone with K(d) <20 nM among the clones panned from the primary universal library. The presented single-framework strategy provides a way to convey significant amount of functional V(H) domain diversity to affinity maturation without bimolecular ligation leading to a diverse set of antibodies with binding affinities in the low nanomolar range.