Characterization of Sf9 cell clones with differential susceptibilities to Sf-rhabdovirus X+3.7 and Sf-rhabdovirus X- replication

Our laboratory previously discovered a novel rhabdovirus in the Spodoptera frugiperda Sf9 insect cell line that was designated as Sf-rhabdovirus. Using limiting dilution, this cell line was found to be a mixed population of cells infected by Sf-rhabdovirus variants containing either the full length X accessory gene with a 3.7 kb internal duplication (designated as Sf-rhabdovirus X+3.7) or lacking the duplication and part of the X gene (designated as Sf-rhabdovirus X-), and cells that were negative for Sf-rhabdovirus. In this paper, we found that the Sf-rhabdovirus negative cell clones had sub-populations with different susceptibilities to the replication of Sf-rhabdovirus X+3.7 and X- variants: cell clone Sf9-13F12 was more sensitive to replication by both virus variants compared to Sf9-3003; moreover, Sf9-3003 showed more resistance to X+3.7 replication than to X- replication. RNA-Seq analysis indicated significant differentially expressed genes in the Sf9-13F12 and Sf9-3003 cell clones further supporting that distinct sub-populations of virus-negative cells co-exist in the parent Sf9 cell line.

Long-Read High-Throughput Sequencing (HTS) Revealed That the Sf-Rhabdovirus X+ Genome Contains a 3.7 kb Internal Duplication

We previously reported a novel rhabdovirus produced from the Spodoptera frugiperda Sf9 cell line, designated as Sf-rhabdovirus X+ since it contained a unique accessory gene X. The Sf-rhabdovirus X+ genome sequence was generated using Sanger sequencing and short-read high-throughput sequencing (HTS). In this study, we have used long-read HTS technologies, PacBio's single-molecule real-time sequencing and Oxford's Nanopore RNA direct sequencing, to analyze the parent Sf9 cell line transcriptome and the virus RNA produced from an X+ cell clone, respectively. A unique 3.7 kb duplication was identified in the L gene between nucleotide position 8523 and 8524, preceded by a GA dinucleotide insertion. This duplication contained a partial G gene, the complete X gene, and a partial L gene, which extended from nucleotide positions 4767-8523 in the X+ virus. Thus, the X+ genome length is 17,361 nucleotides, and we have re-designated the virus as Sf-rhabdovirus X+3.7. The 3.7 kb duplication was found in all Sf9 cell clones producing the X+ variant virus. Furthermore, the Sf-rhabdovirus X+3.7 genome was stable at passage 30, which was the highest passage tested. These results highlight the importance of combining short-read and long-read technologies for accurately sequencing virus genomes using HTS.

Report of the third conference on next-generation sequencing for adventitious virus detection in biologics for humans and animals

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has been proven to address some of the limitations of the current testing methods for adventitious virus detection in biologics. The International Alliance for Biological Standardization (IABS), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines and Healthcare (EDQM) co-organized the "3rd Conference on Next-generation Sequencing for Adventitious Virus Detection in Biologics for Humans and Animals", which was held on September 27-28, 2022, in Rockville, Maryland, U.S.A. The meeting gathered international representatives from regulatory and public health authorities and other government agencies, industry, contract research organizations, and academia to present the current status of NGS applications and the progress on NGS standardization and validation for detection of viral adventitious agents in biologics, including human and animal vaccines, gene therapies, and biotherapeutics. Current regulatory expectations were discussed for developing a scientific consensus regarding using NGS for detection of adventitious viruses. Although there are ongoing improvements in the NGS workflow, the development of reference materials for facilitating method qualification and validation support the current use of NGS for adventitious virus detection.

Demographic Characteristics of Patients with Breast Cancer in Bangladesh: A Single-Centre Study

We performed this study to investigate the socio-demographic factors of breast cancer patients of Bangladesh. This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of General Surgery at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2018 to September 2019 for a period of one (1) year. All consecutive cases of breast carcinoma admitted in hospital and attended at outpatient department during the study period were selected as study population. Total 50 patients were selected. The mean age of the study patients was 51.1. Maximum number (70.0% cases) of breast cancer was belonged in 4th to 5th decade aged group. 70.0% breast cancer patients were housewives. The most of the breast carcinoma was reported in the urban people which were 78.0% cases. The percentage of educated study population was 80.0%. On religious background, 86.0% cases of breast cancer patients were Muslim. Most of breast cancer patients were sporadic in origin 94.0% cases, had no family history of breast cancer. Breast cancer was mostly distributed in pre-menopausal aged group with 82.0% cases. Ninety percent (90.0%) of the study population was come from middle class socio-economic group. In western countries, incidence of breast cancer is more in elderly aged menopause women with high socio-economic class. In this study the breast carcinoma was most prevalent among educated urban Muslim pre-menopausal housewives of age group 4th to 5th decade and most of them belonged to middle socio-economic class. The socio-demographic factors of breast cancer patients in Bangladesh are disparate from western countries in age standard, social class group and menstrual status.

Comparison of Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Injury during Thyroidectomy with and Without Routine Identification of the Nerve Peroperatively

Thyroidectomy is one of the commonest operative procedures performed in the neck and injury to recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) is not uncommon. It results in hoarseness to serious respiratory distress depending on the extent of the injury. The incidence of RLN injury varies widely and is multifactorial depending on the extent of surgical procedures, experience and expertise of the surgeons, nature of the thyroid diseases and a wide range of anatomical variations. Peroperative routine identification of the nerve during thyroidectomy can be a way to prevent injury. Despite recommendation for identification of the RLN peroperatively in thyroid surgery, a debate still exists whether the nerve to be identified peroperatively or not, to avoid its inadvertent injury. The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of RLN injury between two groups where RLN was identified peroperatively in one group and the nerve was not attempted for identification in the other group in thyroid surgery. A comparative cross-sectional study was carried out in the department of surgery and otolaryngology at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh from June 2018 to November 2019, on patients who underwent elective thyroid surgery. Patients were included in RLN identified group and in RLN not identified group, by individual surgeons' preference to identify or not to identify the RLN peroperatively. Peroperative identification of the nerve was done by direct visualization. All cases were evaluated for vocal cord palsy preoperatively, during extubation and postoperatively. Patient's particulars, other parameters and perioperative data were recorded. A total of 80 cases were included in this study, 40 cases (50.0%) in the peroperative RLN identified group and 40 cases (50.0%) in the RLN not identified group. Unilateral RLN palsy was encountered in 2.5% (2 cases) in the RLN identified group and 6.3% (5 cases) in the nerve not identified group (p value 0.192). Transient unilateral RLN palsy was seen in 7.5% (6 cases) of patients; 2.5% (2 cases) in the RLN identified group and 5.0% (4 cases) in the RLN not identified group. And 1.3% (1 case) of permanent unilateral RLN palsy was encountered in this study, which was in the RLN not identified group; there was no permanent palsy in the RLN identified group. We did not encounter any bilateral RLN palsy. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of RLN injury between the peroperatively RLN identified group and no attempt to identify the nerve group despite recommendation for peroperative RLN identification in thyroid surgery to avoid its inadvertent injury. However, from this study, we recommend peroperative RLN identification in thyroid surgery to enhance surgical skill.

Effect of Nystatin with and without DMAHDM on Antifungal and Mechanical Properties of Acrylic Resins

PURPOSE

To investigate antifungal and mechanical properties after the impregnation of Dimethyl Amino-ethyl Hexa-decyl Di-methacrylate (DMAHDM) alone or in combination with Nystatin in polymethylmethacrylate.

METHODOLOGY

The control group was fabricated by mixing powder and liquid of PMMA at the ratio of 2.5:1 g/mL. The DMAHDM was added to PMMA liquid and were mixed with PMMA powder. The Nystatin (500,000 International Units (IU)) was mixed with PMMA powder, whereby the composite powder was mixed with the DMAHDM-based liquid. The prepared specimens were tested for fungal adhesion testing (at days 1 and 30), impact strength and flexural strength. Oneway ANOVA post-hoc Tukey's test were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Statistical analysis for the adhesion assay revealed that the antifungal activities of unaged and aged specimens in experimental groups were statistically significant as compared to control group A. The groups containing DMAHDM with Nystatin have shown statistically reduced flexural strength. The impact strength test revealed that groups containing 20% DMAHDM alone and DMAHDM with Nystatin showed statistically reduced impact strength compared to the control group.

CONCLUSION

Antifungal activities of experimental PMMA resin was increased. The addition of DMAHDM alone in PMMA resin has no deleterious effects on impact and flexural strength, however, at higher concentration values were reduced.

Clinico-epidemiological Characteristics of Asymptomatic and Symptomatic COVID-19-Positive Patients in Bangladesh

As of August 15, 2020, Bangladesh lost 3591 lives since the first Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) case announced on March 8. The objective of the study was to report the clinical manifestation of both symptomatic and asymptomatic COVID-19-positive patients. An online-based cross-sectional survey was conducted for initial recruitment of participants with subsequent telephone interview by the three trained physicians in 237 adults with confirmed COVID-19 infection in Bangladesh. The study period was 27 April to 26th May 2020. Consent was ensured before commencing the interview. Collected data were entered in a pre-designed case record form and subsequently analyzed by SPSS 20.0. The mean±SD age at presentation was 41.59±13.73 years and most of the cases were male (73.0%). A total of 90.29% of patients reside in urban areas. Among the positive cases, 13.1% (n=31) were asymptomatic. Asymptomatic cases were significantly more common in households with 2 to 4 members (p=0.008). Both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients shared similar ages of presentation (p=0.23), gender differences (p=0.30) and co-morbidities (p=0.11). Only 5.3% of patients received ICU care during their treatment. The most frequent presentation was fever (88.3%), followed by cough (69.9%), chest pain (34.5%), body ache (31.1%), and sore throat (30.1%). Thirty-nine percent (n=92) of the patients had co-morbidities, with diabetes and hypertension being the most frequently observed. There has been an upsurge in COVID-19 cases in Bangladesh. Patients were mostly middle-aged and male. Typical presentations were fever and cough. Maintenance of social distancing and increased testing are required to meet the current public health challenge.

IABS/DCVMN webinar on next generation sequencing

Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) is a new technology that could overcome some of the limitations of the current viral testing methods for demonstrating the absence of adventitious agents in biologics. This report is for the webinar that was organized by the International Alliance for Biological Standardization (IABS) and the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturers Network (DCVMN), held on July 20, 2022, as an introduction to the technical and bioinformatics concepts of NGS and to some of the strengths and limitations of using the technology for those working in vaccine production or development. The current state of scientific knowledge and readiness of NGS to replace or supplement the current viral tests was further discussed in the 3rd Conference on NGS for Adventitious Virus Detection in Biologics for Humans and Animals that was held in Rockville, Maryland, USA, on September 27-28, 2022. The application of NGS to supplement or replace current in vivo and in vitro assays in adventitious virus testing during vaccine production is promising; however, assay performance (sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility) needs to be demonstrated, which may include laboratory and bioinformatics work. Efforts from regulatory authorities, industry, and researchers are ongoing to facilitate validation and establishment of NGS as a new method for virus detection.

National TB Control Program of Bangladesh: System Failure and Loss of Effectiveness

The National Tuberculosis Control Program (NTP) is one of the largest programs run by the state with many successes. However, underreporting is considered a real flaw of the current program. To report the characteristics and outcomes of TB patients registered in an upazila health complex in Kazipur, Sirajganj district, Bangladesh between September 2018 and February 2019 under the control of NTP was the objective of the study. This retrospective cohort study was conducted using routinely collected program data from the aforementioned site. Data retrieved from the hospital record form. Formal permission was obtained from the local authority. Consent statements and ethical aspects were waived due to the retrospective nature of the study. Analysis was performed using SPSS 20.0. A total of 207 tuberculosis cases were included with an average age of presentation of 43 years. Approximately 82.0% had pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and the rest had extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB). PTB was more common in males, whereas EPTB was common in females (p=0.01). Of all cases, 84.0% were diagnosed by a positive sputum smear and 16.0% were diagnosed clinically with a negative sputum smear. Attendance at follow-up was 82.12%, 70.04% and 68.59% at months 2, 5 and 6 following index admission respectively. Overall, the cure rate was higher in PTB than EPTB [146 (85.9%) vs. 5 (13.5%), p<0.001). The rate of treatment completion was 25.1% (n=52) and the death count was 1.4% (n=3) [PTB-1.2 (n=2) vs. EPTB-2.7% (n=1)]. A gradual decline in reporting or completion of treatment was observed in this setting. However, a nationwide study is warranted to explore this issue in detail.

Knowledge of Stroke and its Risk Factors among Stroke Survivors: A Hospital Based Study

Significant variations observed in stroke incidence, risk factors and sufferings between high & resource poor countries. Considering lack of study in our country perspective, the study was designed to assess the knowledge of stroke and its risk factors among stroke survivors in Bangladeshi population. This hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Medicine and Department of Neurology in Uttara Adhunik Medical College & Hospital (UAMCH), Dhaka, Bangladesh. Patients aged >18 years who were admitted with stroke (Ischemic and hemorrhagic) were included in the study. Before enrollment informed consent was ensured. Total 50 patients were interviewed and assessed. Separate case record form was used during data collection. Final analysis was done by SPSS 22.00 version software. A 'good' knowledge of stroke was defined by correct answer to ≥4 out of 7 questions about location, cause, risk factor, warning sign, treatment, complication and prevention of stroke. Among 50 stroke survivors, mean age was 58.34±12.90 (SD) years. Male-female ratio was 1.08:1. Overall 78% patients had good knowledge of stroke. Brain was correctly identified as center of stroke by 52% stroke survivors and disturbance of blood supply to brain as a cause of stroke was recognized by 12%. Stress was the most common risk factor identified (50%). At least one warning sign was identified by 76% stroke survivors. Seventy-four percent stroke survivors knew that they have to be taken to nearest health facility and if possible, in hospital where neurological care is available. Only 4% knew about the golden hour of taking the stroke patient. On average knowledge about treatment, complication and prevention of stroke was good. Stroke knowledge was not significantly associated with demographic and socio-economic profile of stroke survivors. More than two thirds of the patients had knowledge regarding stroke and its risk factors but no uniform pattern of knowledge is noticed.

Effects of different combinations of N, P and K at different time interval on vegetative, reproductive, yield and quality traits of mango (Mangifera Indica. L) cv. Dusehri

The experiment was carried out on mango cv. Dusehri to investigate the effect of N, P and K fertilizers on vegetative, reproductive growth, yield and fruit quality. Eight different fertilizer combinations such as T1 (control), T2 (N), T3 (P), T4 (K), T5 (NP), T6 (NK), T7 (PK) and T8 (NPK) were used. Individual or combine fertilizer application of N (1000 g), P (750 g) and K (750 g) were applied during growing season in February and August. All the treatments significantly influenced on vegetative growth, flowering, fruiting, yield and other physiochemical attributes of mango as compared to control. Least effect was observed with individual fertilizer application while combine fertilizer treatments enhanced most of the investigated parameters. Especially, qualitative traits showed non-significant differences between treated and untreated mango trees. However, among the different treatments T8 (NPK) showed significance for fruiting aspects such as maximum size of growth flushes (177.51 mm), total number of panicles/tree (845), total number of flowers/panicle (974), sex ratio (69.18%), fruit retention (13.85%), total number of fruits/tree (379), yield (82 kg/tree), fruit weight (197.5 g), pulp weight (135.5 g) and physiochemical parameters namely TSS (24.53), Vit. C (57.63 mg/100 mL) and total sugar (20.84%). In general, combine application of NPK (T8) were the most effective in enhancing fruiting aspects, yield, physiochemical characteristics as well as improved fruit quality of mango trees.

Mental Health of the COVID-19 Patients in Bangladesh

The mental health aspect of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) patients in Bangladesh has remained less focused and has not been addressed properly. The objective of the study was to assess the levels of anxiety and depression in COVID-19 patients. We adopted a mixed online and telephone-based survey using Google Forms. Recruitment was performed through a snowball sampling approach. The Google Form was initially circulated in Facebook to identify interested participants. Then, three trained physicians interviewed the online responders over telephone for a period spanning from April 2020 to June 2020. Two well-known questionnaires, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) scale and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), were used for the assessment of anxiety and depression, respectively. Here, the severity of anxiety was classified with the standard thresholds: minimal or none (0-4), mild (5-9), moderate (10-14) and severe (>15) for the GAD-7. Depression severity score: 0-4 was considered as none or no depression, 5-9: mild, 10-14: moderate, 15-19: moderately severe, 20-27 was for severe depression. A total of 237 patients were finally analyzed. The mean age ±SD of the patients was 41.59±13.73 years. Most of them were male (73%) and lived in urban areas (90.29%). Half of the patients were unemployed, and 17.7% admitted loss of job due to lockdown. The overall prevalence of anxiety and depression was 55.7% and 87.3%, respectively. The mean GAD-7 score was 5.79±4.95, and the mean PHQ-9 score was 5.64±5.15. Among the depressive patients, 3% had minimal depression, 38.4% had mild depression, 32.1% had moderate depression, 11.8% had moderate depression, and 2.1% had a severe depression. Similarly, 37.1%, 10.5% and 8% had mild, moderate and severe levels of anxiety, respectively. Nearly half of the study population (47.7%) was suffering from both depression and anxiety. Living in urban area was an independent predictor for depression (OR 3.882; CI: 1.249-12.069). Considering the high comorbid burden, the mental health issues of these patients need to be addressed and reinforced to the existing health system on a priority basis.

Report of the second international conference on next generation sequencing for adventitious virus detection in biologics for humans and animals

The IABS-EU, in association with PROVAXS and Ghent University, hosted the "2nd Conference on Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) for Adventitious Virus Detection in Human and Veterinary Biologics" held on November 13th and 14th 2019, in Ghent, Belgium. The meeting brought together international experts from regulatory agencies, the biotherapeutics and biologics industries, contract research organizations, and academia, with the goal to develop a scientific consensus on the readiness of NGS for detecting adventitious viruses, and on the use of this technology to supplement or replace/substitute the currently used assays. Participants discussed the progress on the standardization and validation of the technical and bioinformatics steps in NGS for characterization and safety evaluation of biologics, including human and animal vaccines. It was concluded that NGS can be used for the detection of a broad range of viruses, including novel viruses, and therefore can complement, supplement or even replace some of the conventional adventitious virus detection assays. Furthermore, the development of reference viral standards, complete and correctly annotated viral databases, and protocols for the validation and follow-up investigations of NGS signals is necessary to enable broader use of NGS. An international collaborative effort, involving regulatory authorities, industry, academia, and other stakeholders is ongoing toward this goal.

Report of the 2019 NIST-FDA workshop on standards for next generation sequencing detection of viral adventitious agents in biologics and biomanufacturing

Adventitious virus testing assures product safety by demonstrating the absence of viruses that could be unintentionally introduced during the manufacturing process. The capabilities of next-generation sequencing (NGS) for broad virus detection in biologics have been demonstrated by the detection of known and novel viruses that were previously missed using the recommended routine assays for adventitious agent testing. A meeting was co-organized by the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on September 18-19, 2019 in Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA, to facilitate standardization of NGS technologies for applications of adventitious virus testing in biologics. The goal was to assess the currently used standards for virus detection by NGS and their public availability, and to identify additional needs for different types of reference materials and standards (natural and synthetic). The meeting focused on the NGS processes from sample preparation through sequencing but did not thoroughly cover bioinformatics, since this was considered to be the topic of a separate meeting.

P272 The need for vasodilators use prior to transradial cardiac catheterization in high volume cardiac center

Funding Acknowledgements

This study received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors

Background

Radial artery spasm (RAS) is one of the most common complication encountered by operators while performing trans-radial artery cardiac catheterization. Due to the technological advances in recent years and the increase number of experts in high volume centers, the prophylactic use of vasodilators may be unnecessary. To date, there are no clear recommendations for using these vasodilators and when to be used in day to day practice. Basically, It depends on operators discretion and hospital protocol. Therefore, further research in this area is warranted due to the conflicting findings of the prior studies.

purpose

To evaluate the need of using prophylactic vasodilators prior to trans-radial approach in high volume cardiac center and to identify factors associated with the development of RAS.

Methods

It is a prospective, randomized, double blind and placebo-controlled trial conducted in a single high volume cardiac center in Saudi Arabia from July to November 2017. Patients who met the inclusion criteria were randomized to either a cocktail vasodilators (nitroglycerin and verapamil) or matching placebo (normal saline) in 1:1 ratio. Subjective definition of RAS was utilized, consistent with previous studies. The primary outcome is the development of RAS in both groups. The secondary outcome is identifying the factors associated with the development of RAS. The calculated sample size is 315 patients. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 20 and STATA 15 softwares. Multiple stepwise logistic regression was used to examine the association between the study variables and incidence of RAS.

Results

A total of 490 patients were randomized (244 in placebo and 246 in treatment groups). There were no differences in the baseline demographic and clinical characteristics between both groups. Significantly, higher proportion of patients on the placebo group had RAS compared to those on the treatment group (23% vs 11%; p = 0.001). After controlling for the other factors, patients on the treatment were less likely to develop RAS than those on the placebo (OR= 0.32; p &lt;0.001). The independent risk factors associated with the occurrence of RAS are: female gender (OR= 6.18; p &lt;0.001), multiple puncture attempts (OR= 2.83; p = 0.003), current smoking (OR= 3.02; p =0.03) and using dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (OR= 4.60; p &lt;0.001). We did not find a significant relationship between operators’ level of experience and the occurrence of RAS.

Conclusion

The use of cocktail vasodilators reduces the incidence of RAS regardless to the hospital volume and operators experience. Further studies on factors associated with RAS is warranted.

The Spodoptera frugiperda Sf9 cell line is a heterogeneous population of rhabdovirus-infected and virus-negative cells: Isolation and characterization of cell clones containing rhabdovirus X-gene variants and virus-negative cell clones

The Sf9 cell line is broadly used for manufacturing baculovirus-expressed viral vaccines. We previously reported the presence of a novel, rhabdovirus in the Sf9 cell line, which contained a unique X gene (Sf-rhabdovirus; designated as X⁺ in this paper). These results were extended by other reports describing an Sf-rhabdovirus variant in Sf9 cells, which lacked 320 nucleotides encompassing the X-gene and adjacent intergenic region (designated as X^- in this paper), and the development of an Sf-rhabdovirus negative cell line. Here, we report that the Sf9 cell line is a mixed-cell population, based upon isolation of cell clones with distinct phenotypes: Sf-rhabdovirus-negative, X⁺, and X^-. We also show that Sf-rhabdovirus X⁺ and X^- variants replicate independently in Sf-rhabdovirus-negative cells. These results shed light on the detection of different rhabdovirus variants by different laboratories using Sf9-derived cell clones and confirm that both X⁺ and X^- viruses are infectious in rhabdovirus-negative Sf9 cells.

Nodular Mucinosis of Male Breast: A Rare Case Report

Multinodular accumulation of stromal mucin in breast known as nodular mucinosis is an extremely rare condition of breast. Alternatively it is known as myxoma or nerve sheath myxoma of breast. This benign lesion is confined to only nipple and areola region presenting as slow growing, soft and non tender lobulated mass. Histopathologically it reveals well circumscribed non-encapsulated myxoid/mucinous lesion with few infiltration of spindle cells within a collaginized stroma. The mucinous substance is stained positively with Alcian blue. Mucinous carcinoma or phylloids tumour are important differential diagnosis of nodular mucinosis of breast. Here we report a case of nodular mucinosis of male breast with clinical, radiological and pathological findings with differential diagnosis and treatment modalities.

Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy: Two Years Experience at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University

Laparoscopic surgery has become an efficient tool for many complex surgical procedures. In last decades, laparoscopic adrenalectomy has become a more viable option for removal of adrenal pathology, with many surgeons preferring it to the conventional open technique. This study was done to evaluate the outcomes of lateral transperitoneal adrenalectomy (LTA) in our department and evaluate the feasibility of lateral transperitoneal adrenalectomy (LTA) in our perspective. This study is case series observational study carried out at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh from March 2015 to May 2017. Suspected primary adrenal malignancies were excluded. Seventeen (17) patients (10 male and 7 females with mean age of 35.29 years) underwent 18 adrenalectomy (one bilateral). Seventeen (17) adrenal tumours were resected through laparoscopy and one adrenal tumour is resected through open approach due to conversion. All the patients underwent hormonal evaluation, ultrasonogram and computed tomography of whole abdomen. Ten (10) patients (58.82%) had hormonal active adrenal mass. Seven (7) patients (41.18%) were asymptomatic of which 2 had associated cholelithiasis, 7 patients had generalized weakness, 3 had weight gain with Cushing syndrome (one drug induced) and one had Hirsutism with musculanizing effect. Nine (9) patients had hypertension and 6 patients had diabetes mellitus. Eight (8) right, 8 left and 1 bilateral LTA were performed. The mean age of the patients were 35.29 years, adrenal tumour size ranges from 15-65mm and operation time ranges from 75-120 minutes for unilateral adrenalectomies and 220 minutes for bilateral adrenalectomy. Estimated blood loss ranges from 30 to 130 ml in 16 cases and in one case it was 220 ml in which conversion was done. Mean post operative stay in hospital was 3.94 days. In 16 cases no major or minor complications were observed but in one case due to haemorrhage and infiltration of the tumour to kidney conversion are done in the form of right adrenalectomy with upper partial nephrectomy (Histopathology revealed angiomyolipoma). In pathological examination 9 patients (52.94%) had adrenocortical adenoma, 2 patients (11.76%) had phaeochromocytoma including bilateral one, 2 patients (11.76%) had myolipoma of which one converted to open, 2 patients (11.76%) had adrenocortical hyperplasia, one patient (5.88%) had adrenal cyst and one patient (5.88%) had haemorrhagic cyst. LTA is a safe and efficient minimally invasive treatment options for both secreting and non secreting adrenal masses. The procedure has a learning curve and should be performed by a surgeon experienced in both open and laparoscopic adrenal surgery.

Porcelain Gallbladder: A Case Report

"Porcelain gallbladder" term has been used to highlight the blue staining and fragile consistency of the gallbladder wall at surgery. Some authorities avoid these terms and alternately call all calcified gallbladders "porcelain gallbladders". It is a morphological deviation of chronic cholecystitis. Inflammatory scarring of the wall combined with dystrophic calcification inside the wall transforms the gallbladder into a porcelain-like container. In porcelain gallbladder patients are usually asymptomatic and the condition is usually noted incidentally on plain abdominal radiographs, sonograms, or computed tomography (CT) images. Porcelain gallbladder is a rare condition; recognizing the clinical and imaging characteristics of the disease is important because of the high frequency (22%) of adenocarcinoma in porcelain gallbladder. Operation should not be delayed even if the patient is asymptomatic, because the incidence of carcinoma in porcelain gallbladder is extremely high. Here we present a case of 45 years old lady with porcelain gallbladder who was initially diagnosed as a case of carcinoma gallbladder at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh on 5th August 2017. But she was found to have a benign gallbladder after cholecystectomy.

Considerations for Optimization of High-Throughput Sequencing Bioinformatics Pipelines for Virus Detection

High-throughput sequencing (HTS) has demonstrated capabilities for broad virus detection based upon discovery of known and novel viruses in a variety of samples, including clinical, environmental, and biological. An important goal for HTS applications in biologics is to establish parameter settings that can afford adequate sensitivity at an acceptable computational cost (computation time, computer memory, storage, expense or/and efficiency), at critical steps in the bioinformatics pipeline, including initial data quality assessment, trimming/cleaning, and assembly (to reduce data volume and increase likelihood of appropriate sequence identification). Additionally, the quality and reliability of the results depend on the availability of a complete and curated viral database for obtaining accurate results; selection of sequence alignment programs and their configuration, that retains specificity for broad virus detection with reduced false-positive signals; removal of host sequences without loss of endogenous viral sequences of interest; and use of a meaningful reporting format, which can retain critical information of the analysis for presentation of readily interpretable data and actionable results. Furthermore, after alignment, both automated and manual evaluation may be needed to verify the results and help assign a potential risk level to residual, unmapped reads. We hope that the collective considerations discussed in this paper aid toward optimization of data analysis pipelines for virus detection by HTS.

Spumaretroviruses: Updated taxonomy and nomenclature

Spumaretroviruses, commonly referred to as foamy viruses, are complex retroviruses belonging to the subfamily Spumaretrovirinae, family Retroviridae, which naturally infect a variety of animals including nonhuman primates (NHPs). Additionally, cross-species transmissions of simian foamy viruses (SFVs) to humans have occurred following exposure to tissues of infected NHPs. Recent research has led to the identification of previously unknown exogenous foamy viruses, and to the discovery of endogenous spumaretrovirus sequences in a variety of host genomes. Here, we describe an updated spumaretrovirus taxonomy that has been recently accepted by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) Executive Committee, and describe a virus nomenclature that is generally consistent with that used for other retroviruses, such as lentiviruses and deltaretroviruses. This taxonomy can be applied to distinguish different, but closely related, primate (e.g., human, ape, simian) foamy viruses as well as those from other hosts. This proposal accounts for host-virus co-speciation and cross-species transmission.

Pyrazinamide-resistant mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and rpsA mutations

Pyrazinamide (PZA) is a key first-line antibiotic used for the short-course treatment of drug-sensitive and multidrug-resistant (MDR) isolates of tuberculosis. PZA exhibits potent action against semi-dormant bacilli in acidic environments. However, mutations that occur in target genes may cause technical difficulties in the diagnosis of PZA resistance during drug susceptibility testing. The objective of the current study is to identify mutations in pncAWT rpsA and rpsAWT panD genes among PZA-resistant isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) circulating in the Pashtun dominant region, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. We selected 18 PZA-resistant pncAWT strains from the Provincial Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory (PTRL) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to investigate mutations in the coding region of rpsA and panD genes. The experiments were repeated for drug susceptibility testing using MGIT 960 automated system. In addition, eighteen PZA-resistant rpsA genes along with 5 susceptible strains and one H37Rv strain were sequenced. All 18 isolates were PZA-resistant. The majority of these isolates exhibited multidrug resistance (MDR) (13/18). We identified 14 non-synonymous and one synonymous mutation in the coding region of rpsA in 11 strains. All mutations were scattered throughout the gene and not reported previously. Further, we did not identify any mutation in 7 rpsAWT panD genes. Mutations in rpsA but not in panD occur in PZA-resistant pncAWT MTB isolates circulating in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.

New technologies and challenges of novel virus detection

The use of new cell substrates for the development of biologicals, particularly tumorigenic and tumor-derived cell lines, can pose a major regulatory challenge due to safety concerns related to the presence of novel viruses, latent and occult viruses including oncogenic viruses, and endogenous retroviruses, since these may not be detected by the currently recommended conventional assays. This report is a summary of our laboratory's experiences using advanced nucleic acid-based technologies to evaluate a Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cell line and the insect Sf9 cell line derived from Spodoptera frugiperda, and presents some ongoing efforts to address the challenges of novel virus detection.

Morbidity and Mortality after Pancreatoduodenectomy: A Five Year Experience in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University

Mortality and morbidity was assessed after adoption of a systematic care for patient with pancreatoduodenectomy starting from patient selection and preparation, operative technique, and postoperative care. In this prospective study seventy patients who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy for periampullary carcinoma with curative intent between January 2010 and December 2014 were carefully analyzed prospectively. Patients were selected those who had ampullary carcinoma, lower bile duct carcinoma and small size carcinoma head of pancreas without local invasion and distant metastasis, and the patient who did not have any major disabling comorbid diseases. All patients were assessed uniformly before surgery and deficiency were corrected up to normal level before operation. Pancreatoduodenectomy and standard lymphadenectomy was performed meticulously with minimum blood loss. The pancreatojejunal reconstruction was performed using duct-to-mucosa method mostly. A nasojejunal feeding tube was placed in most patients for starting postoperative early oral feeding. Broad spectrum antibiotics and the epidural analgesia were mostly prescribed for good control infection and pain. Proper nutrition was maintained in calculative way through central venous line and nasojejunal feeding tube in the early postoperative period. General care, early mobilization and chest physiotherapy were given routinely in each patient. Seventy-seven percent (n=54) patients did not have any postoperative complications and they were discharged from hospital within 12-14 postoperative days. The morbidity occurred in 16 patients (23%) and most common complication was wound infection (18%, n=9). The rest complications were pancreatojejunal anastomotic leakage - 2, hepaticojejunal anastomosis leakage - 1, melaena - 1, intra-abdominal abscess - 1, intra-abdominal hemorrhage - 1, and renal dysfunction - 1. The mortality rate was 5.7% (n=4), causes of death were massive myocardial infarction; 1, failure of reversal from anesthesia; 1, massive intraabdominal bleeding; 1 and CV catheter related severe sepsis; 1. Review of recent published literature revealed that mortality and morbidity our series is better than low volume center and almost similar with high volume center of pancreatoduodenectomy surgery. Our systematic management policy of careful patient selection, planned approach in the form of proper work up, meticulous conduction of the procedure, appropriate postoperative care provides an acceptable morbidity and mortality after pancreatoduodenectomy.

Eleventh International Foamy Virus Conference-Meeting Report

The Eleventh International Foamy Virus Conference took place on 9–10 June 2016 at the Institut Pasteur, Paris, France. The meeting reviewed progress on foamy virus (FV) research, as well as related current topics in retrovirology. FVs are complex retroviruses that are widespread in several animal species. Several research topics on these viruses are relevant to human health: cross-species transmission and viral emergence, vectors for gene therapy, development of antiretroviral drugs, retroviral evolution and its influence on the human genome. In this article, we review the conference presentations on these viruses and highlight the major questions to be answered.

Advanced Virus Detection Technologies Interest Group (AVDTIG): Efforts on High Throughput Sequencing (HTS) for Virus Detection

Several nucleic-acid based technologies have recently emerged with capabilities for broad virus detection. One of these, high throughput sequencing, has the potential for novel virus detection because this method does not depend upon prior viral sequence knowledge. However, the use of high throughput sequencing for testing biologicals poses greater challenges as compared to other newly introduced tests due to its technical complexities and big data bioinformatics. Thus, the Advanced Virus Detection Technologies Users Group was formed as a joint effort by regulatory and industry scientists to facilitate discussions and provide a forum for sharing data and experiences using advanced new virus detection technologies, with a focus on high throughput sequencing technologies. The group was initiated as a task force that was coordinated by the Parenteral Drug Association and subsequently became the Advanced Virus Detection Technologies Interest Group to continue efforts for using new technologies for detection of adventitious viruses with broader participation, including international government agencies, academia, and technology service providers.

PDA/FDA Adventitious Agents and Novel Cell Substrates: Emerging Technologies and New Challenges, Nov. 3-4, 2011, Rockville, MD

In response to the challenges of addressing potential safety concerns related to the use of novel cell substrates, the Parenteral Drug Association (PDA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) co-sponsored a conference on November 3-4, 2011 in Rockville, Maryland, USA. The following were discussed: the current adventitious agent testing methods and the use of emerging nucleic acid-based technologies for broad detection of known and novel viruses; issues associated with manufacture of biologicals in novel cell substrates such as insect cell lines and plants, with specific focus on potential safety concerns related to endogenous retroviral elements; and raw material controls and strategies to mitigate risk of adventitious virus contamination during product manufacture.

IDENTIFICATION OF QTLs ON CHROMOSOME 1B FOR GRAIN QUALITY TRAITS IN BREAD WHEAT (TRITICUM AESTIVUM L.)

The present study was designed considering the importance of grain quality traits, genetic diversity and marker-trait association analysis in wheat. A significant amount of genetic diversity was found for various seed traits though the genotypes included in the study were found structured. The extent of polymorphism was high with a range of 2-13 alleles and average of 6.5 alleles per locus. Population structure was detected with 30 unlinked SSRs that divided the population of 92 genotypes in three sub-populations. Extensive LD extent was found on chromosome 1B with 42 SSRs specific for 1B chromosome. Marker-trait associations were determined using mixed linear model, where, population structure and kinship calculated on the basis of unlinked markers were covariated with 1B specific markers and traits data. Eight QTLs for five traits including protein, gluten contents, test weight bread and chapati making quality. Protein content, test weight, bread quality and Glu-B1 were found significantly associated with primers WMC419 (32 cM); WMC128 (30 cM), WMC419 (32 cM); WMC818 (17 cM) and WMC416 (44 cM), respectively.

Determination of Insulin Secretory Defect and Insulin Sensitivity in Type 2 Diabetic Subjects in Bangladesh

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is defined as a group of metabolic diseases characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. This study was undertaken to explore the basic defect in type 2 diabetes patients in Bangladesh. This was an observational study with case control design, was conducted in the Biomedical Research Group, Research Division, Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine Metabolic Disorders (BIRDEM), Dhaka, Bangladesh, during the period of July 2008 to June 2009. A total of 153 subjects were included in study of which 63 belonged to type 2 diabetes mellitus group and 90 were healthy controls. Fasting and 2 hours postprandial blood glucose, serum insulin, HOMA%B, HOMA%S, QuickI, Glucose /insulin ratio, TG were measured and age, BMI, WHR were recorded. Waist-hip ratio (WHR), was significantly higher in T2DM as compared to control subjects [WHR, mean±SD, 0.94±0.12 vs. 0.88±0.06, p<0.001]; Glucose and insulin ratio of T2DM was significantly higher as compared to control subject [Glu: Ins, Median (range) of 0.54 (0.17-2.33) vs. 0.37(0.06-1.52)]. Insulin secretion (HOMA%B) was significantly lower in diabetic as compared to control subjects [HOMA%B, median (range), 71(4.90-391) vs. 180(59-634) p<0.001]; The quantitative insulin sensitivity check Index (QUICKI) of diabetic subjects were significantly higher as compared to control [QUICKI median (range) 39.90(4.80-138.10) vs. 0.55(0.36-0.85), <0.001]. Triglyceride (TG) and cholesterol (Chol) were significantly higher [(mg/dl), (mean±SD), TG (142±80.14) vs. (142±80.14); Chol (189±50.76) vs. (172±45), p=0.029] in T2DM as compared to control subjects. Those with diabetes showed significant association with insulin secretory defect (HOMA%B, p=0.006) and insulin resistance as assessed by GINR (p<0.001) and QuickI (p<0.001) but not by HOMA%S (p=0.127). The present data suggest that both insulin secretory defect and insulin sensitivity are present in T2 diabetic subjects of Bangladesh.

Drug induced pseudoporphyria in CKD: A case report

Pseudoporphyria (PP) is used to describe a photodistributed bullous disorder with clinical and histologic features of porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) but without accompanying biochemical porphyrin abnormalities. Medications, excessive sun and ultraviolet radiation exposure, have all been reported to develop PP. We report a case of PP in a 49-year-old man with CKD stage 3a, caused due to torsemide intake. This is probably the first reported case of PP developing in a dialysis naive patient CKD due to torsemide intake from India.

Patient evaluation of outpatient venous thromboembolism prophylaxis service following lower limb injuries using a developed validated questionnaire

This paper explores patients' perceptions of a new service and protocol for managing outpatient venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis, using either subcutaneous Dalteparin or oral off-license Dabigatran in patients with lower limb injury requiring immobilisation. Establishing a patient's perspective is part of good practice as, when this is positive, it aids patient compliance and protocol dissemination. A questionnaire consisting of fifty questions was given at random to one hundred patients over a six month period when they attended the trauma clinic. Each question was scored on a five point Likert scale (1 = poor, 5 = excellent) by the patient. The internal consistency of the questionnaire (Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient) was more than 0.9 in all domains. Qualitative analysis was done for open-ended questions. One hundred respondents completed the questionnaire, two were void due to significant amounts of incomplete data. The gender split was 54 females, 43 males, and one did not answer the question. The average age was 43 (range 18-72). Sixty seven respondents were first-time attenders, 22 were follow-up patients and nine did not complete this section. The overall average score was 4.26 (range 1-5), with 90% of the patients recommending the service. The overall patient satisfaction for a VTE prophylaxis service is high although there is room for improvement as demonstrated by the range of the scores.

The Brighton Collaboration Viral Vector Vaccines Safety Working Group (V3SWG)

Recombinant viral vectors provide an effective means for heterologous antigen expression in vivo and thus represent promising platforms for developing novel vaccines against human pathogens from Ebola to tuberculosis. An increasing number of candidate viral vector vaccines are entering human clinical trials. The Brighton Collaboration Viral Vector Vaccines Safety Working Group (V3SWG) was formed to improve our ability to anticipate potential safety issues and meaningfully assess or interpret safety data, thereby facilitating greater public acceptance when licensed.

Regulation of the pentose phosphate pathway by an androgen receptor-mTOR-mediated mechanism and its role in prostate cancer cell growth

Cancer cells display an increased demand for glucose. Therefore, identifying the specific aspects of glucose metabolism that are involved in the pathogenesis of cancer may uncover novel therapeutic nodes. Recently, there has been a renewed interest in the role of the pentose phosphate pathway in cancer. This metabolic pathway is advantageous for rapidly growing cells because it provides nucleotide precursors and helps regenerate the reducing agent NADPH, which can contribute to reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging. Correspondingly, clinical data suggest glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), the rate-limiting enzyme of the pentose phosphate pathway, is upregulated in prostate cancer. We hypothesized that androgen receptor (AR) signaling, which plays an essential role in the disease, mediated prostate cancer cell growth in part by increasing flux through the pentose phosphate pathway. Here, we determined that G6PD, NADPH and ribose synthesis were all increased by AR signaling. Further, this process was necessary to modulate ROS levels. Pharmacological or molecular inhibition of G6PD abolished these effects and blocked androgen-mediated cell growth. Mechanistically, regulation of G6PD via AR in both hormone-sensitive and castration-resistant models of prostate cancer was abolished following rapamycin treatment, indicating that AR increased flux through the pentose phosphate pathway by the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)-mediated upregulation of G6PD. Accordingly, in two separate mouse models of Pten deletion/elevated mTOR signaling, Pb-Cre;Pten(f/f) and K8-CreER(T2);Pten(f/f), G6PD levels correlated with prostate cancer progression in vivo. Importantly, G6PD levels remained high during progression to castration-resistant prostate cancer. Taken together, our data suggest that AR signaling can promote prostate cancer through the upregulation of G6PD and therefore, the flux of sugars through the pentose phosphate pathway. Hence, these findings support a vital role for other metabolic pathways (that is, not glycolysis) in prostate cancer cell growth and maintenance.

Delayed primary suture prevents wound infection in patients with obstructive jaundice and septic abdomen

This study was undertaken to assess the efficacy of delayed primary closure in prevention of postoperative wound infection in patients with obstructive jaundice and septic abdomen. Here analyzed 93 patients retrospectively who underwent surgery in hepato-biliary-pancreatic unit of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh from January 2011 to June 2011. Primary closure of the abdominal wound was applied in all patients. There was no mortality, but 21 patients had postoperative morbidity (wound infection in 17, intra-abdominal abscess in 1, melaena in 1, biliary leakage in 1, burst abdomen in 1). Seventy-two patients had uneventful postoperative recovery were included in Group 1. Patients who developed postoperative wound infection (n=17) were included in Group 2. Rest 4 patients who developed other complications were excluded from the study. Pre-, per and postoperative parameters were compared between two groups for identifying the risk factors for SSI. Delayed primary closure of the wound was applied prospectively in 21 patients (Group 3) on the basis of retrospective results and the outcome was assessed. Retrospective analysis revealed that the patient who developed wound infections (Group 2) after primary closure; significantly greater number of patients had obstructive jaundice or intra-abdominal septic condition preoperatively. Prospective results revealed that there was no wound infection in 21 patients with in obstructive jaundice or intra-abdominal sepsis in which delayed primary closure was applied. Hospital stay was significantly reduced in Group 3 in compare to Group 2. In subsequent follow up, it has been found that 2 patients developed incisional hernia in Group 2 patients but none in Group 3 patients. Delayed primary closure of the wound is a good option in patient with obstructive jaundice and intra-abdominal septic condition for preventing postoperative wound infection.

Influence of naturally occurring simian foamy viruses (SFVs) on SIV disease progression in the rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) model

We have investigated the influence of naturally occurring simian foamy viruses (SFVs) on simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection and disease in Indian rhesus macaques. Animals were divided into two groups based upon presence or absence of SFV; in each group, eight monkeys were injected with SIV(mac239) virus obtained from a molecular clone and four were injected with medium. Blood was collected every two weeks for evaluation of SIV infection based upon T cell-subsets, plasma viral load, development and persistence of virus-specific antibodies, and clinical changes by physical examination and hematology. Comparative analysis of SFV+/SIV+ and SFV-/SIV+ monkey groups indicated statistically significant differences in the plasma viral load between 6-28 weeks, particularly after reaching plateau at 20-28 weeks, in the CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell numbers over the entire study period (2-43 weeks), and in the survival rates evaluated at 49 weeks. There was an increase in the plasma viral load, a decreasing trend in the CD4+ T cells, and a greater number of animal deaths in the SFV+/SIV+ group. The results, although based upon a small number of animals, indicated that pre-existing SFV infection can influence SIV infection and disease outcome in the rhesus macaque model. The study highlights consideration of the SFV status in evaluating results from SIV pathogenesis and vaccine challenge studies in monkeys and indicates the potential use of the SFV/SIV monkey model to study the dynamics of SFV and HIV-1 dual infections, recently reported in humans.

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome induced by pazopanib for renal cell carcinoma

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) can be the result of acute hypertension, eclampsia, renal failure and the use of immunosuppressive or cytotoxic agents. We report a case of PRES as a result of the use of pazopanib, a vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor used for renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

CASE SUMMARY

A 76-year-old man treated with RCC develops PRES shortly after the initiation of pazopanib.

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION

There are no known reports of the association between PRES and pazopanib. We postulate that pazopanib can disrupt the normal endothelial function of the brain leading to the development of PRES.

Priorities in the prevention and control of multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae in hospitals

BACKGROUND

Multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (MDE) are a major public health threat due to international spread and few options for treatment. Furthermore, unlike meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), MDE encompass several genera and multiple resistance mechanisms, including extended-spectrum beta-lactamases and carbapenemases, which complicate detection in the routine diagnostic laboratory. Current measures to contain spread in many hospitals are somewhat ad hoc as there are no formal national or international guidelines.

AIM

We sought to establish what should be the priorities for the prevention and control of MDE and what is feasible for implementation. We also identify areas for further research.

METHODS

We reviewed the published literature and other sources e.g. national agencies, for measures and interventions used to control MDE.

FINDINGS

Certain categories of at risk patients should be screened, especially in critical care areas, using appropriate laboratory methods. Standard and contact precautions are essential and hand hygiene compliance requires continued emphasis and high compliance levels. As MDE may persist on environmental surfaces for weeks, environmental decontamination could also be an effective control intervention. There are limited options for decolonisation with inadequate studies to date and antibiotic stewardship within and outside the hospital remains important.

CONCLUSION

As there is a clear deficit in the evidence base to infor guidance on prevention and control, research in key areas, such as rapid detection, is urgently required.

Serum free Triiodothyronine and thyroid stimulating hormone level in severe protein energy malnourished children

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdmc.v20i2.10545 J. Dhaka Med. Coll. 2011; 20(2): 175-177

Genetic diversity in basmati rice (Oryza sativa L.) germplasm as revealed by microsatellite (SSR) markers

Genetic diversity among rice genotypes, including 15 indica basmati advance lines and 5 basmati improved varieties were investigated by 28 SSR markets including one indel marker. The SSRs covered all the 12 chromosomes that distributed across the rice genomes. The mean number of alleles per locus was 3.60, showing average number of polymorphism information content was 0.48. A total of 101 alleles were also identified from the microsatellite marker loci. A number of SSR markers were also identified that could be utilized to differentiate between rice genotypes. Pair wise Nei,s genetic distance between rice genotypes ranged from 0.07 to 0.95. The dendrogram based on cluster analysis by using SSR polymorphism that grouped the 20 genotypes of rice in to five clusters based on their genetic similarity. The result could be useful for the identification and selection of the diverse genotypes for the future cross breeding program and development of new rice varieties.

Introduction to workshop: adventitious viruses in biologics--detection and mitigation strategies

CONFERENCE PROCEEDING Proceedings of the PDA/FDA Adventitious Viruses in Biologics: Detection and Mitigation Strategies Workshop in Bethesda, MD, USA; December 1-3, 2010 Guest Editors: Arifa Khan (Bethesda, MD), Patricia Hughes (Bethesda, MD) and Michael Wiebe (San Francisco, CA).