Optimization of green silver nanoparticles as nanofungicides for management of rice bakanae disease

Rice bakanae, a devastating seed-borne disease caused by Fusarium species requires a more attractive and eco-friendly management strategy. The optimization of plant-mediated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as nanofungicides by targeting Fusarium species may be a rational approach. In this study, Azadirachta indica leaf aqueous extract-based AgNPs (AiLAE-AgNPs) were synthesized through the optimization of three reaction parameters: A. indica leaf amount, plant extract-to-AgNO3 ratio (reactant ratio), and incubation time. The optimized green AgNPs were characterized using ultraviolet-visible light (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The optimal conditions for producing spherical, unique, and diminutive-sized AgNPs ranging from 4 to 27 nm, with an average size of 15 nm, were 2 g AiLAE at a 1:19 ratio (extract-to-AgNO3) and incubated for 4 h. Fusarium isolates collected from infected soils and identified as F. fujikuroi (40) and F. proliferatum (58 and 65) by PCR were used for seed infestation. The AgNPs exhibited concentration-dependent mycelial growth inhibition with EC50 values ranging from 2.95 to 5.50 μg/mL. The AgNPs displayed exposure time-dependent seed disinfectant potential (complete CFU reduction in F. fujikuroi (40) and F. proliferatum (58) was observed at a concentration of 17.24 μg/mL). The optimized green AgNPs were non-toxic to germinating seeds, and completely cured bakanae under net-house conditions, suggesting their great nano-fungicidal potency for food security and sustainable agriculture.

Pollution status and ecological risks of metals in surface water of a coastal estuary and health risk assessment for recreational users

Since the areas close to the Sundarbans mangrove estuary, which is one of the most dynamic and productive ecosystems in the world, are very suitable for urban and industrial activities, the coastal areas of this ecosystem are constantly exposed to metal contamination. In this study, we analyzed the levels, spatial distributions, sources, pollution status, ecological risks, and health risks for recreational users of 16 metals in surface water collected from 18 sampling sites in the Sundarbans estuary. Considering the mean values of metals, Sr (2523 μg/L), Al (1731 μg/L), B (1692 μg/L) and Fe (1321 μg/L) were the most abundant metals in the coastal waters of the estuary, while Cd (0.977 μg/L), Ni (3.11 μg/L), Cu (5.98 μg/L) and Cr (9.77 μg/L) were the less abundant metals. All metals except Zr had the coefficient of variation (CV) values of over 35%, suggesting that other metals showed strong variation between sampling sites due to anthropogenic activities. Al, Fe and Pb levels of all sampling sites were above the limit values set for coastal and marine waters. Similarly, Pb levels of all sites exceeded the USEPA chronic criterion set for saltwater aquatic life. The results of pollution indices indicated that there was a serious metal pollution in almost all sampling sites. Low ecological risk (ER) at four sites, moderate ER at five sites and considerable ER at nine sites were recorded. Dual hierarchical clustering analysis grouped 16 metals into four clusters based on their potential sources and 18 sampling sites into three clusters based on their similar pollution characteristics. Health risk assessment results indicated that total hazard index (THI) values of all sites for recreational children were above the acceptable level of 1, indicating that water of all sites is not safe for health of children. However, THI values of all sites except ST8 (1.1) and ST11 (1.19) for recreational adults were below 1. Among the metals studied, Zr was found to be metal that contributes the most (75.89%) to total health risk in this coastal estuary. This finding reveals the necessity of monitoring of such less-studied metals such as Zr in the surface water of coastal estuaries. Carcinogenic risk values of As were within or below the acceptable range at all sites, indicating that carcinogenic risks would not be expected for recreational users.

"Microplastic seasoning": A study on microplastic contamination of sea salts in Bangladesh

This study investigated microplastics (MPs) in commercial sea salts from Bangladesh. The presence of MPs in the 18 sea salt bands was 100 %, where the mean MPs abundance was 471.67 MPs/kg, ranging between 300 and 670 MPs/kg. The maximum number of MPs in the 300-1500 μm size class was significantly higher than the 1500-3000 μm and 3000-5000 μm size class. The most dominant color was black. Fibers and foams were the dominant shapes. The highest number of MPs was 41 %, obtained from coarse salt grains. Four types of polymers were mainly identified from the analyzed samples: PP, PE, PET, and PA. The mean polymer risk index value among these sea salts was 539 to 1257. The findings of this study can be helpful for consumers, salt industries, and policymakers to be aware of or reduce MP contamination levels in sea salts during production and consumption.

Toxicity of carbon nanofibers in earthworms (Lumbricus terrestris) naturally infected with Monocystis sp

Although the ecotoxicity of carbon-based nanomaterials (CBNs) is known, the potential effect of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) on edaphic organisms has been insufficiently explored. Thus, we aimed at the ecotoxicity of CNFs (at 10 and 100 mg/kg) in Lumbricus terrestris earthworms naturally infected with Monocystis sp. After 28 days of exposure, treatments did not affect the survival rate. However, we observed a significant loss of body biomass, and Monocystis sp. infection in seminal vesicles was potentiated by exposure to CNFs. Earthworms exposed to CNFs showed a redox imbalance in the seminal vesicle, muscle, and intestine and an alteration in nitric oxide production in these organs. In muscles, we also noticed a significant reduction in AChE activity in earthworms exposed to CNFs. The histopathological analyses revealed the treatments' significant effect on the structures of the different evaluated tissues. Although we did not notice a concentration-response for several of the biomarkers, when taken together and after the application of Integrated Biomarker Response (IBR) and principal component analysis (PCA), we noticed that the response of earthworms to CNFs at 100 mg/kg showed a more significant deviation from the unexposed group. This was mainly determined by inhibiting antioxidant activity in the seminal vesicle, biochemical biomarkers assessed in muscle and intestine, and histomorphometric muscle biomarkers from earthworms exposed to CNFs at 100 mg/kg. Thus, we demonstrate that CNFs increase the parasite load of Monocystis sp. of adult L. terrestris earthworms and induce biochemical and histopathological changes, especially at 100 mg/kg. Our results point to the additional impact these nanomaterials can have on the health of earthworms, signaling the need for greater attention to their disposal and ecotoxicological effects on soil organisms.

Cellulose microcrystalline: A promising ecofriendly approach to control Culex quinquefasciatus larvae

The growing use of synthetic chemical compounds/substances in vector control of mosquitoes, associated with their adverse effects on the environment and non-target organisms, has demanded the development of eco-friendly alternatives. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the larvicidal action of different cellulose microcrystalline (CMs) concentrations and investigate their toxicity mechanisms in Culex quinquefasciatus fourth instar larvae as a model species. Probit analysis revealed that the median lethal concentrations (LC50) for 24 h and 36 h exposure were 100 and 58.29 mg/L, respectively. We also showed that such concentrations induced a redox imbalance in the larvae, marked by an increase in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), as well as a reduction in the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). Furthermore, different alterations in the external morphology of the larvae were associated with the ingestion of CMs. On the other hand, exposure of adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) to LC5024h and LC5036h for seven days did not induce any behavioral changes or alterations mutagenic, genotoxic, biochemical, or in the production of cytokines IFN-γ and IL-10. Thus, taken together, our study demonstrates for the first time that the use of CMs can constitute a promising strategy in the control of C. quinquefasciatus larvae, combining insecticidal efficiency with an "eco-friendly" approach in the fight against an important mosquito vector of several human diseases.

Species identification, reproductive biology, and nutritional value of marine shellfish (Meretrix lyrata) in the Bay of Bengal

Meretrix lyrata which is under the family of Veneridae and under the order of Venerida, is a nutritionally and economically important edible mussel in Bangladesh. However, studies on species identification and nutritional value in M. lyrata are scarce. Therefore, a detailed investigation was conducted on (i) species identification of the common edible mussel through DNA-barcoding and morphometrics, (ii) reproductive features, such as size at sexual maturity, spawning, and peak-spawning seasons under different environmental factors, and (iii) nutritional status through proximate analysis of M. lyrata mussel collected from the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh. The results indicated that the size at sexual maturity for M. lyrata was 4.2 cm and the spawning seasons were significantly affected by the dissolve oxygen and salinity. The study also demonstrated that the spawning of M. lyrata occurred from January to June and December while peak spawning season was May in the Bay of Bengal. The higher protein and moisture contents with lower fat in M. lyrata indicated that are value-added seafood with higher nutritional values for consumers.

Occurrences, sources, fate and impacts of plastic on aquatic organisms and human health in global perspectives: What Bangladesh can do in future?

Bangladesh is not an exception to the growing global environmental problem of plastic pollution. Plastics have been deemed a blessing for today's world thanks to their inexpensive production costs, low weight, toughness, and flexibility, but poor biodegradability and massive misuse of plastics are to blame for widespread contamination of the environmental components. Plastic as well as microplastic pollution and its adverse consequences have attracted significant investigative attention all over the world. Plastic pollution is a rising concern in Bangladesh, but scientific studies, data, and related information are very scarce in numerous areas of the plastic pollution problem. The current study examined the effects of plastic and microplastic pollution on the environment and human health, and it examined Bangladesh's existing knowledge of plastic pollution in aquatic ecosystems in light of the rapidly expanding international research in this field. We also made an effort to investigate the current shortcomings in Bangladesh's assessment of plastic pollution. This study proposed several management approaches to the persistent plastic pollution problem by analyzing studies from industrialized and emerging countries. Finally, this work pushed investigators to investigate Bangladesh's plastic contamination thoroughly and develop guidelines and policies to address the issue.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in Bicuspid Aortic Valve: A Case Report

Among other valvular heart disease Aortic stenosis (AS) is the most common in the developed world. Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) is most acceptable treatment option for patient with severely calcified aortic stenosis with high and intermediate risk group. Among several challenges, one of the main challenges is to deal with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV). Non-circular annulus, bulky leaflets leading to perivalvular leaks and risk for rupture and often very severe calcification may contribute to periprocedural strokes leading to poor clinical outcome. This case, a 68-year-old woman with a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), hypothyroidism, bicuspid aortic valve and severe aortic stenosis, bronchial asthma, who had repeatedly refused any suggestion for open heart surgery, was our volunteer candidate for TAVR. After successful TAVR the peak pressure gradient decreased from 100mmHg to 17mmHg. So, TAVR could be a viable option for highly selected patients with severe aortic stenosis and bicuspid aortic valve who have favourable anatomy.

Microplastics in aquatic environments: A comprehensive review of toxicity, removal, and remediation strategies

The occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in aquatic environments has been a global concern because they are toxic and persistent and may serve as a vector for many legacies and emerging pollutants. MPs are discharged to aquatic environments from different sources, especially from wastewater plants (WWPs), causing severe impacts on aquatic organisms. This study mainly aims to review the Toxicity of MPs along with plastic additives in aquatic organisms at various trophic compartments and available remediation methods/strategies for MPs in aquatic environments. Occurrences of oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, and alterations in enzyme activity, growth, and feeding performance were identical in fish due to MPs toxicity. On the other hand, growth inhibition and ROS formation were observed in most of the microalgae species. In zooplankton, potential impacts were acceleration of premature molting, growth retardation, mortality increase, feeding behaviour, lipid accumulation, and decreased reproduction activity. MPs togather with additive contaminants could also exert some toxicological impacts on polychaete, including neurotoxicity, destabilization of the cytoskeleton, reduced feeding rate, growth, survivability and burrowing ability, weight loss, and high rate of mRNA transcription. Among different chemical and biological treatments for MPs, high removal rates have been reported for coagulation and filtration (>86.5 %), electrocoagulation (>90 %), advanced oxidation process (AOPs) (30 % to 95 %), primary sedimentation/Grit chamber (16.5 % to 58.84 %), adsorption removal technique (>95 %), magnetic filtration (78 % to 93 %), oil film extraction (>95 %), and density separation (95 % to 100 %). However, desirable extraction methods are required for large-scale research in MPs removal from aquatic environments.

Managing the invisible threat of microplastics in marine ecosystems: Lessons from coast of the Bay of Bengal

Invisible microplastics (MP) have become a significant problem worldwide in recent years. Although many studies have highlighted the sources, effects, and fate of MPs pollution on various ecosystems in developed countries, there is limited information on MPs in the marine ecosystem along the northeastern coast of the Bay of Bengal (BoB). Coastal ecosystems along the BoB coasts are critical to a biodiverse ecology that supports human survival and resource extraction. However, the multi-environmental hotspots, ecotoxicity effects, transport mechanisms, fates, and intervention measures to control MP pollution initiatives along the BoB coasts have received little attention. Therefore, this review aims to highlight the multi-environmental hotspots, ecotoxicity effects, sources, fates, and intervention measures of MP in the northeastern BoB to understand how MP spreads in the nearshore marine ecosystem. This study critically evaluates the hotspots and ecotoxic effects of pollution from MP on the coastal multi-environment, e.g., soil, sediment, salt, water, and fish, as well as current intervention measures and additional mitigation recommendations. This study identified the northeastern part of the BoB as a hotspot for MP. In addition, the transport mechanisms and fate of MP in different environmental compartments are highlighted, as are research gaps and potential future research areas. Research on the ecotoxic effects of MP on BoB marine ecosystems must be a top priority, given the increasing use of plastics and the presence of significant marine products worldwide. The knowledge gained from this study would inform decision-makers and stakeholders in a way that could reduce the impact of the legacy of micro- and nanoplastics in the area. This study also proposes structural and non-structural measures to mitigate the effects of MPs and promote sustainable management.

Assessment of heavy metals and radionuclides in groundwater and associated human health risk appraisal in the vicinity of Rooppur nuclear power plant, Bangladesh

This study was carried out to assess the groundwater quality through estimating trace and heavy metal concentration and radionuclide levels in the vicinity of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) sites. Twenty-six (26) parameters, including major cations (K, Na, Mg, Ca) and anions (SO₄^-2, NO₃^-), trace and heavy metals (Mn, Fe, Zn, Ni, Co, Pb, Cd, As, Hg, Cu, Li, Be, B, V, Ga, Sr, Ag, Ba) and radionuclides (¹³⁷Cs, ²²⁶Ra, ²²⁸Ra, and ⁴⁰K) were estimated in water samples in the study area. This study revealed that the concentration values (μg/L) of Mn (667.091 ± 7.481), Fe (191.477 ± 3.756), Sr (105.218 ± 13.424), and Zn (23.493 ± 1.134) were the dominant metals in the study area. Different pollution evaluation indices (i.e., HPI, HEI, NI, C_d) data revealed that the study area was under a low to medium level of pollution due to the presence of metals in water. Subsequently, non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks assessments for both adults and children were conducted, which indicated that health risk for the carcinogenic metals were below the threshold level except As through oral exposure for both adult and children. The activity concentrations of ²²⁶Ra, ²²⁸Ra, and ⁴⁰K were measured to demonstrate probable radioactivity pollution using Gamma-ray spectrometry (High-resolution HPGe detector). The highest activity concentration of ²²⁶Ra, ²²⁸Ra, and ⁴⁰K in groundwater samples were 4.9 ± 1.24 Bq/L (RNPP-15), 1.71 ± 0.43 Bq/L (RNPP-15), and 15.43 ± 3.08 Bq/L (RNPP-15). Among the three studied radionuclides, ⁴⁰K has the highest average activity concentration. The radiological indicators referred to the annual effective dose (AED) is 0.4273 mSv yr-1, which implies no significant cause of radiological risks and hazards (UNSCEAR guideline value). This study provides a baseline of trace and toxic metal contamination, radioactivity, and radiation levels in the groundwater of the nuclear power plant (being built) area.

Relationship of Conduction Defects and In-Hospital Outcome after Acute ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

The presence of conduction defects complicating acute myocardial infarction (MI) is relatively frequent and is associated with increased short and long term mortality. Thrombolytic therapy has been established to reduce the mortality in acute MI, however its role in reducing the incidence of conduction defects is less clearly defined. Morbidity and mortality associated with conduction defects also remain unchanged. This study was aimed to assess the correlation between conduction defects and adverse in-hospital outcome of patients with acute ST segment elevation MI. This cross sectional descriptive type of observational study was conducted among 100 purposively selected patients with acute ST segment elevation MI in the coronary care unit (CCU) of Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh from June 2012 to March 2013. The patients were divided into two groups depending on the presence or absence of conduction defects namely Group A- 40 patients with conduction defects and Group B- 60 patients without conduction defects. Highest number of the patients (36.0%) was in the age group of 45-55 years. In case of inferior MI, age groups 45-55 years and 55-65 years had equal number of patients (30.4%). Only 2.0% patients were in age group of 75-85 years and this group had only inferior MI. Total number of female patients were 16(16.0%). Female patients had more inferior MI (17.4%) than anterior MI (15.9%). Number of MI patients was slightly more in inferior MI (46.0%) than anterior MI (44.0%). Group B had equal number of patients in both anterior and inferior MI. Conduction defects were more common in inferior MI (43.5%) than anterior MI (40.9%). Atrio-ventricular conduction defects were more common in inferior MI whereas intra-ventricular conduction defects were more common in anterior MI. Complete heart block (CHB) was more prevalent in inferior MI. Complications were more common in Group A (65.0%) than Group B (18.3%). In terms of complications the difference between two groups were significant (p<0.001). Group A showed higher rate of mortality (20.0%) than Group B (3.3%). In cases of anterior MI difference in mortality between Group A and Group B was highly significant (p<0.001). Conduction defects in the setting of acute MI are a common finding. Atrio-ventricular conduction defects occur more frequently in inferior MI whereas intra-ventricular conduction defects were more frequently encountered in anterior MI. Patients with conduction defects had more complications than those without conduction defects. Presence of conduction defects significantly increases the mortality of patients with anterior MI.

Comparison between Lichtenstein And Laparoscopic Totally Extraperitonial (TEP) Tension Free Mesh Repair of Inguinal Hernia

To compare the outcome of the laparoscopic totally extra peritoneal (Lap TEP) and open Lichtenstein tension free mesh repair (OLMR) of inguinal hernia. This study was conducted as a prospective comparative (Quasi experimental) study from January 2010 to December 2010 at Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Dhaka, Bangladesh. A total of 100 male patients aged 24 to 70 years who underwent laparoscopic totally extra-peritoneal (Lap TEP) and open Lichtenstein tension free mesh repair (OLMR) of inguinal hernia were included in this study. Data of operating time, intraoperative and short-term postoperative complications, postoperative pain, postoperative hospital stay and return to normal activity were recorded and analyzed with SPSS program. Mean age of the patients was 51.39±15.099 years in OLMR group (Group A) and 47.10±9.338 years in Lap TEP group (Group B). Mean operating time was longer in Laparoscopic TEP group (Group B, 57.67±6.915 minutes) then open Lichtenstein mesh repair group (Group A, 50.56±6.292 minutes). Patient in the Lap TEP group (Group B) experienced less post operative pain, less post operative complications, shorter hospital stay and early return to normal activity then OLMR group (Group A). One patient (3.33%) in group B needed conversion to open Lichtenstein method. Two (6.66%) patients developed pneumoperitoneum in Group B (Lap TEP repair). Superficial wound infection developed in five (7.14%) patients in OLMR group (Group A) and two (6.66%) patients in Lap TEP group (Group B). In Laparoscopic TEP group (Group B) and Lichtenstein group (Group A), patients return to normal activity within on an average 07 and 11 days respectively. Laparoscopic totally extra peritoneal (TEP) mesh repair technique was associated with less post operative pain, less post operative complications, shorter hospital stay, faster recovery with early return to normal activity compared with Lichtenstein tension free mesh repair of inguinal hernia.

Distribution and source apportionment of toxic and trace elements in some benthic and pelagic coastal fish species in Karnaphuli River Estuary, Bangladesh: Risk to human health

The Karnaphuli River is one of the prime and most important streams in the southeastern part of Bangladesh. The favorable water current and the geographic location have rendered the Karnaphuly River estuary a suitable habitat and a breeding ground for diverse fish species. Reversely, this estuary has been polluted by discharges from many point and non-point sources due to its location in the catchment area of a heavily industrialized area, Chattagram port city. However, published research concerning the status of toxic and trace elements in some commercially important benthic and pelagic coastal fish species in Karnaphuli River estuary was not found in the existing literature. Therefore, it's an important field of study on the assessment of toxic and trace elements concentration in the commercially important benthic and pelagic coastal fish species and their health taxation in the Karnaphuli River Estuary. Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF) was used to quantify trace metal concentration in edible parts of the fish species. This study revealed that the rank of the trace metals concentration was as follows (mg/kg): Zn (37.1) > Mn (16.12) > V (11.16) > Cu (9.49) > Rb (5.62) > Pb (2.98) > Cr (1.59) > Co (1.17). The F-test showed that a significant difference at 95 % confidence level in the distribution pattern of trace metals concentration among the examined fish species in the study area. The metal pollution index (MPI) in the muscle of fishes were found to be in the following order: L. bata > P. monodon > T. cirratus > M. bleekeri > O. pabda > H. nehereus > L. calcarifer > P. argenteus > P. paradiseus > T. toli, and the MPIs for most of the benthic fish species were higher compared to the pelagic fishes. On the other hand, the examined fish species were significantly bio-accumulative with the highest bio-accumulation factor value for benthic species. The multivariate analysis identified that the sources of the trace metals were associated with anthropogenic activities. For the human health risk assessment concern, estimated daily intake, target hazard quotient and cancer-causing risk were estimated. The results for non-cancer hazardous index values were found to be lower than unity. On the other hand, the total cancer risk data ranging from 1.24E-05 to 1.70E-05 were fallen within the range for the threshold values (1.0E-06 to 1.0E-04). However, considering the suggested values set by the environmental and regulatory agencies, it has been recommended that no significant non-carcinogenic and cancer-causing health risk for humans was seen due to the consumption of the studied fish species.

Human health implications of trace metal contamination in topsoils and brinjal fruits harvested from a famous brinjal-producing area in Bangladesh

A study was undertaken to determine the contents of trace metals in 60 topsoils and 80 brinjal fruits samples from a famous brinjal-producing area of Bangladesh using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The study also looked at soil pollution levels, dietary intake of nutritionally important trace elements, and human health risks from toxic metals induced by dermal soil exposure and consumption of brinjal. The content of Pb, Ni, Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn in brinjal fruits harvested from farmer′s fields ranged from 0.204–0.729, 0.031–0.212, < 0.010–0.061, 1.819–2.668, 3.267–5.910, < 0.010–0.866 and 2.160–3.846 µg g^-1, respectively, while the amount of Cr was negligible. The calculated enrichment factors showed that 70, 50, and 25% of soil sampling sites had values in the 2.00–5.00 range for Pb, Zn, and Cd, respectively, while 30% of sites had values > 5.00 for Cd, indicating moderate to significant enrichment of these metals in the soil. The study also revealed that brinjal consumption provides a tiny amount of nutritionally important trace elements required for an adult human. Regarding the computed incremental lifetime cancer risks (ILCR), the study revealed that the values for Pb and Ni in all samples and Cd in 40% of samples were several hundred times higher for males and females than the USEPA threshold level due to oral ingestion of brinjal fruits. In contrast, dermal exposures to soil trace elements were within an acceptable range. The PCA results revealed that the contents of Cd, Pb, Ni, and Cu in soils showed strong positive correlations with those elements present in brinjal. The current study suggests future traceability research, focusing on pinpointing potential entry routes for toxic elements into the vegetable food chain.

Chemometric appraisal of water quality for domestic and agricultural purposes: a case study from establishing Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) area, Pabna District, Bangladesh

Water is the main sources for domestic purposes and as well as for both farming and industrial activities. Therefore, this study investigated the quality of groundwater at Ishwardi, Pabna district of Bangladesh. This study showed that the heavy metals such as Pb, Cd, Cr, As, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Fe were remaining in trace amount. The groundwater quality index (GWQI), heavy metal evaluation index (HEI), heavy metal pollution index (HPI), and degree of contamination (C_d) revealed that all of the groundwater samples belonged to good quality condition for drinking purposes. Nevertheless, C_d provided better index than other indices. Subsequently, hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI) values for heavy metals indicated that there was no significant noncarcinogenic health risk due to oral ingestion of groundwater except three sites. However, the paired student t-test ([Formula: see text]) revealed that child was found to be more exposed compared to adult for noncarcinogenic health risk due to oral ingestion of the same groundwater samples. This study revealed that pH, EC, TDS, salinity, Na⁺, K⁺, Mg²⁺, Ca²⁺, Cl^-, SO₄^2-, PO₄^3-, and NO₃^- values in water samples are in tolerable limit according to Bangladesh (DoE) and international standards (WHO, IS, FAO, USEPA, UCCC). Subsequently, combined approaches of numerous irrigation water quality indices, sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), soluble sodium percentage (SSP), total hardness (TH), residual sodium carbonate (RSC), and Kelley's ratio (KR), were applied to appraise the appropriateness of water for farming purposes. The irrigation water quality index (IWQI) revealed that majority of the groundwater samples were suitable for agricultural purposes. Classification based on Wilcox and US salinity hazard diagram indicated a consistent conclusion, which indicated that the water quality was in good condition for farming in the study area.

Reuse of gamma-ray irradiated textile wastewater: implications on the growth of Capsicum frutescens plant

This investigation concentrates on the possibility of using gamma radiation for the decomposition of organic pollutants in textile wastewater and reuse as irrigation water. The wastewater sample was irradiated at four different absorbed doses of 3, 5, 8, and 10 kilo Gray (kGy). After irradiation at 8–10 kGy, physicochemical parameters, i.e., pH, turbidity, EC, total suspended solids (TSS) and total dissolved solids (TDS), have decreased sharply and approached to the expected value recommended by Department of Environment (DoE), Bangladesh. At 10 kGy absorbed dose, 59.0 % biological oxygen demand (BOD₅) and 71.6 % chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal has been achieved, accelerating the enhancement in biodegradability index (BOD₅/COD). Ammonium and total nitrogen have improved up to 87.0 % and 94.5 % after irradiation at 10 kGy doses. Subsequently, the treated textile wastewater samples were reused to grow Capsicum frutescens plants to inspect the fertility responses. When Capsicum plants were nourished by textile wastewater irradiated at 8–10 kGy, increased values were observed in the plant morphological parameters such as dry masses of the fruits (from 2.25 to 3.02 g), moisture content (from 91.35 to 92.62%), root length (from 13.21 to 16.56 cm), average plant height (from 2.42 to 4.07 cm/week), average number of leaves (from 14 to 16 nos./week), and total number of fruits (from 25 to 40 nos.) in comparison to those plants nourished by simply water and raw wastewater. The elemental analysis confirmed that negligible amounts of heavy metals were found in Capsicum fruits at higher absorbed doses. In contrast, helpful macro and micronutrients for plant production were raised to sufficient levels at 8–10 kGy, which can be the optimum doses for gamma irradiation to treat textile wastewater for maintaining sustainable water resources.

Heavy Metal Accumulation and Phytoremediation Potentiality of Some Selected Mangrove Species from the World's Largest Mangrove Forest

Toxic metal pollution is a global issue, and the use of metal-accumulating plants to clean contaminated ecosystems is one of the most rapidly growing ecologically beneficial and cost-effective technologies. In this study, samples of sediment and three mangrove species (Excoecaria agallocha, Avicennia officinalis, Sonneratia apetala) were collected from the world’s largest mangrove forest (along the Northern Bay of Bengal Coast) with the aim of evaluating metal concentrations, contamination degrees, and phytoremediation potentiality of those plants. Overall, the heavy metals concentration in sediment ranged from Cu: 72.41−95.89 mg/kg; Zn: 51.28−71.20 mg/kg; Fe: 22,760−27,470 mg/kg; Mn: 80.37−116.37 mg/kg; Sr: 167.92−221.44 mg/kg. In mangrove plants, the mean concentrations were in the order of E. agallocha > A. officinalis > S. apetala. The mean (± SD) concentration of each metal in the plant tissue (root) was found following the descending order of Fe (737.37 ± 153.06) > Mn (151.13 ± 34.26) > Sr (20.98 ± 6.97) > Cu (16.12 ± 4.34) > Zn (11.3 ± 2.39) mg/kg, whereas, in the leaf part, the mean concentration (mg/kg) of each metal found in the order of Fe (598.75 ± 410.65) > Mn (297.27 ± 148.11) > Sr (21.40 ± 8.71) > Cu (14.25 ± 2.51) > Zn (12.56 ± 2.13). The contamination factor (CF) values for the studied metals were in the descending order of Cu > Sr > Zn > Fe > Mn. The values of Igeo (Geo-accumulation index) and CF showed that the area was unpolluted to moderately polluted by Zn, Fe, Mn, Cu and Sr. Enrichment factor (EF) values in both sampling stations portrayed moderate to minimum enrichment. Phytoremediation potentiality of the species was assessed by bio-concentration factor (BCF) and translocation factor (TF). BCF values showed less accumulation for most of the heavy metals (<1) except Mn which was highly accumulated in all mangrove plants. The translocation factor (TF) values depicted that most of the heavy metals were strongly accumulated in plant tissues (>1). However, the BCF value depicts that Mn was highly bioconcentrated in E. agallocha, but the translocation on leaves tissue were minimum, which reveals that E. agallocha is phytoextractor for Mn, and accumulated in root tissues. All the examined plants can be used as phytoextractors as they have bioconcentration factors <1 and translocation factors >1. However, A. officinalis is clearly more suitable for metal extraction than S. apetala and E. agallocha in terms of hyper-metabolizing capabilities.

Estimation of Serum Lipid Profile among Patients Admitted with Myocardial Infarction in a Tertiary Level Hospital of Bangladesh

Different studies worldwide showed that dyslipidaemia is involved in the pathogenesis of ischemic heart diseases (IHD). This cross sectional descriptive type of observational study was carried out at Mymensingh Medical College Hospital during the period of six months from January 2021 to September 2021 to estimate the lipid profile among patients admitted in the coronary care unit (CCU) with myocardial infarction (MI). Data were collected from purposively selected 343 patients with MI by face to face interview and laboratory investigations using a case record form. Informed written consent of participants was taken prior to interview. Data were analyzed by using SPSS version 21.0. The study results revealed that mean age of the patients with myocardial infarction was 53.16 years with a standard deviation of 11.68 years. Majority of them (284, 82.8%) were male and the remaining (59, 17.2%) were female. Proportion of risk factors for ischaemic heart disease (IHD) were estimated and found that 244(71.1%) patients were smoker; 150(43.7%) had hypertension and 110(32.2%) had family history of IHD. Ninety nine (28.9%) patents were obese with BMI ≥25kg/m². Eighty three (24.2%) patients had diabetes mellitus; 66(19.2%) lead sedentary life and 61(17.8%) patients with myocardial infarction had dyslipidaemia. Mean LDL of patients with myocardial infarction was 103.65±39.73mg/dl; mean total cholesterol (TC) was 189.44±45.41mg/dl; mean TG was 243.11±205.19mg/dl and mean HDL was 39.29±8.98mg/dl. LDL was increased in 10(2.9%) patients; total cholesterol was raised in 121 (35.3%) patients and TG was raised in 195(56.9%) patients. HDL was raised in 26(7.6%) patients and it was lowered in 57(16.6%) patients. Mean LDL, TC, TG and HDL of younger (≤45 years) and older (>45 years) patients were compared and t-test showed no significant difference (p>0.05). Similarly mean LDL, TC, TG and HDL of male and female were compared and again t-test showed no significant difference (p>0.05). Though the pattern of lipid profile was found similar in younger and older patients and in males and females, a significant number of patients (61, 17.8%) with MI had dyslipidaemia which should be address by dietary and lifestyle modification.

Impact of Industrially Affected Soil on Humans: A Soil-Human and Soil-Plant-Human Exposure Assessment

Heavy metal (HM) contaminated soil can affect human health via ingestion of foodstuffs, inhalation of soil dust, and skin contact of soil. This study estimates the level of some heavy metals in soils of industrial areas, and their exposures to human body via dietary intake of vegetables and other pathways. Mean concentrations of Cr, Fe, Cu, Zn, As and Pb in the studied soil were found to be 61.27, 27,274, 42.36, 9.77, 28.08 and 13.69 mg/kg, respectively, while in vegetables the respective values were 0.53, 119.59, 9.76, 7.14, 1.34 and 2.69 mg/kg. Multivariate statistical analysis revealed that Fe, Cu, Zn, and Pb originated from lithogenic sources, while Cr and As are derived from anthropogenic sources. A moderate enrichment was noted by Cr, As, and Pb in the entire sampling site, indicating a progressive depletion of soil quality. The bioaccumulation factor (BCF) value for all the vegetables was recorded as BCF < 1; however, the metal pollution index (MPI) stipulates moderately high value of heavy metal accumulation in the vegetable samples. Hazard Index (HI) of >0.1 was estimated for adults but >1 for children by direct soil exposure, whereas HI < 1 for both children and adults via dietary intake of vegetables. Estimated Total carcinogenic risk (TCR) value due to soil exposure showed safe for adults but unsafe for children, while both the population groups were found to be safe via food consumption. Children are found more vulnerable receptors than adults, and health risks (carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic) via direct soil exposure proved unsafe. Overall, this study can be used as a reference for similar types of studies to evaluate heavy metal contaminated soil impact on the population of Bangladesh and other countries as well.

Potentially toxic elemental contamination in Wainivesi River, Fiji impacted by gold-mining activities using chemometric tools and SOM analysis

Potentially toxic element (PTE) contamination in Wainivesi River, Fiji triggered by gold-mining activities is a major public health concern deserving attention. However, chemometric approaches and pattern recognition of PTEs in surface water and sediment are yet hardly studied in Pacific Island countries like Fijian urban River. In this study, twenty-four sediment and eight water sampling sites from the Wainivesi River, Fiji were explored to evaluate the spatial pattern, eco-environmental pollution, and source apportionment of PTEs. This analysis was done using an integrated approach of self-organizing map (SOM), principle component analysis (PCA), hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), and indexical approaches. The PTE average concentration is decreasing in the order of Fe > Pb > Zn > Ni > Cr > Cu > Mn > Co > Cd for water and Fe > Zn > Pb > Mn > Cr > Ni > Cu > Co > Cd for sediment, respectively. Outcomes of eco-environmental indices including contamination and enrichment factors, and geo-accumulation index differed spatially indicated that majority of the sediment sites were highly polluted by Zn, Cd, and Ni. Cd and Ni contents can cause both ecological and human health risks. According to PCA, both mixed sources (geogenic and anthropogenic such as mine wastes discharge and farming activities) of PTEs for water and sediment were identified in the study area. The SOM analysis identified three spatial patterns, e.g., Cr-Co-Zn-Mn, Fe-Cd, and Ni-Pb-Cu in water and Zn-Cd-Cu-Mn, Cr-Ni and Fe, Co-Pb in sediment. Spatial distribution of entropy water quality index (EWQI) values depicted that northern and northwestern areas possess "poor" to "extremely poor" quality water. The entropy weights indicated Zn, Cd, and Cu as the major pollutants in deteriorating the water quality. This finding provides a baseline database with eco-environmental and health risk measures for the Wainivesi river contamination.

Elemental Analysis of Basella alba, Spinacia oleracea, Abelmoschus esculentus (L.), Ipomoea aquatica, Colocasia esculenta, Amaranthus dubius, and Raphanus sativus Vegetables Using the PIXE Technique in a Saline Region of Bangladesh, Rampal Area

Particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) method was used in this present research to identify the elements present in selected vegetable samples to show the possible influence in the metal absorption by the vegetables grown in a saline region of Rampal area of Munshiganj District, Bangladesh. The data acquisition setup is calibrated using a 2.5-MeV proton beam in the current ranges of 5nA to 15nA. The detector was used to measure the X-rays emitted during the irradiation. Data acquisition system MAESTRO-32 was used to measure the spectrum picks, and concentration calculation has been done by GUPIX/DAN-32 software. The purpose of this study is to determine the concentration of heavy and trace elements in these samples and to give current information on their safety for consumption. The result shows that K, Ca, and Fe have the highest concentrations, while lead exhibits the lowest but alarming rates compared to reference materials. The findings were likened to IAEA-V-10, IAEA-359, SRM 1515 (apple leaf), and SRM 1573a (tomato leaf). The outcomes of the present investigation demonstrate that these samples are not devoid of health risks in intake.

Potentially toxic elemental contamination in Wainivesi River, Fiji impacted by gold-mining activities using chemometric tools and SOM analysis

Potentially toxic element (PTE) contamination in Wainivesi River, Fiji triggered by gold-mining activities is a major public health concern deserving attention. However, chemometric approaches and pattern recognition of PTEs in surface water and sediment are yet hardly studied in Pacific Island countries like Fijian urban River. In this study, twenty-four sediment and eight water sampling sites from the Wainivesi River, Fiji were explored to evaluate the spatial pattern, eco-environmental pollution, and source apportionment of PTEs. This analysis was done using an integrated approach of self-organizing map (SOM), principle component analysis (PCA), hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), and indexical approaches. The PTE average concentration is decreasing in the order of Fe > Pb > Zn > Ni > Cr > Cu > Mn > Co > Cd for water and Fe > Zn > Pb > Mn > Cr > Ni > Cu > Co > Cd for sediment, respectively. Outcomes of eco-environmental indices including contamination and enrichment factors, and geo-accumulation index differed spatially indicated that majority of the sediment sites were highly polluted by Zn, Cd, and Ni. Cd and Ni contents can cause both ecological and human health risks. According to PCA, both mixed sources (geogenic and anthropogenic such as mine wastes discharge and farming activities) of PTEs for water and sediment were identified in the study area. The SOM analysis identified three spatial patterns, e.g., Cr-Co-Zn-Mn, Fe-Cd, and Ni-Pb-Cu in water and Zn-Cd-Cu-Mn, Cr-Ni and Fe, Co-Pb in sediment. Spatial distribution of entropy water quality index (EWQI) values depicted that northern and northwestern areas possess "poor" to "extremely poor" quality water. The entropy weights indicated Zn, Cd, and Cu as the major pollutants in deteriorating the water quality. This finding provides a baseline database with eco-environmental and health risk measures for the Wainivesi river contamination.

Psychological Assessment of Health-Care Workers Working during COVID-19 Pandemic Condition in Bangladesh

The study was aimed to assess the psychological aspects and relevant factors of the health-care workers (HCWs) working in COVID 19 pandemic condition in Bangladesh. This online cross-sectional survey was conducted from different tertiary, secondary and primary hospitals in Bangladesh. Eligible 638 HCWs who were directly involved in the caring of confirmed or suspected COVID-19 patients were recruited in this study. The mental health was assessed by the Patient Health Questionnare-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) and Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS). High frequency of depression 536(84.0%), anxiety 386(60.5%) and insomnia 302(47.3%) was found among the HCWs, which were significantly higher in physicians (p<0.001) than nurses. Moderate to severe depression was significantly higher in female, whereas minimal to mild depression was significant in male HCWs (p=0.014). Symptoms of depression (p<0.001), anxiety (p<0.001) and insomnia (p=0.004) were significantly higher among the HCWs of primary and secondary compared to the tertiary level. The HCWs developed psychological trauma due to family health (45.3%) and contagious disease property (66.6%). After adjusting confounders, multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that physicians and HCWs of secondary hospital had significant symptoms of severe depression (OR=2.95, 95% CI=0.50-17.24; p<0.001), anxiety (OR=2.64, 95% CI=0.80-8.72; p<0.001) and insomnia (OR=2.67, 95% CI=1.23-5.84; p=0.018); whereas female HCWs had more risk of developing symptoms of severe insomnia (OR= 1.84; 95% CI=1.23-2.75; p=0.003). High rate of depression, anxiety and insomnia was found among HCWs working in the COVID-19 pandemic condition in this survey.

Finding gaps in routine TB surveillance activities in Bangladesh

BACKGROUND :

TB was the leading cause of death from a single infectious pathogen globally between 2014 and 2019. Fine-scale estimates of TB prevalence and case notifications can be combined to guide priority-setting for strengthening routine surveillance activities in high-burden countries. We produce policy-relevant estimates of the TB epidemic at the second administrative unit in Bangladesh.

METHODS :

We used a Bayesian spatial framework and the cross-sectional National TB Prevalence Survey from 2015–2016 in Bangladesh to estimate prevalence by district. We used case notifications to calculate prevalence-to-notification ratio, a key metric of under-diagnosis and under-reporting.

RESULTS :

TB prevalence rates were highest in the north-eastern districts and ranged from 160 cases per 100,000 (95% uncertainty interval [UI] 80–310) in Jashore to 840 (UI 690–1020) in Sunamganj. Despite moderate prevalence rates, the Rajshahi and Dhaka Divisions presented the highest prevalence-to-notification ratios due to low case notifications. Resolving subnational disparities in case detection could lead to 26,500 additional TB cases (UI 8,500–79,400) notified every year.

CONCLUSION :

This study is the first to produce and map subnational estimates of TB prevalence and prevalence-to-notification ratios, which are essential to target prevention and treatment efforts in high-burden settings. Reaching TB cases currently missing from care will be key to ending the TB epidemic.

Association of Body Mass Index with Angiographic Severity of Coronary Artery disease in patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death in developed and developing countries. Associated co-morbidities like diabetes, hypertension and obesity are making the situation worse. WHO enlisted obesity as an epidemic which also affects a great number of young population. Some recent studies showed the presence of an apparent paradoxical relationship between obesity and cardiovascular prognosis in certain subsets of patents. As BMI is an established marker of obesity; an attempt has been made to assess relationship between BMI and angiographic severity of coronary artery disease in Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) patients of Bangladeshi origin. To assess the association between body mass index and angiographic severity of coronary artery disease in patients with acute coronary syndrome; this cross sectional analytical study was conducted in the Department of Cardiology, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital (MMCH) and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) from December 2016 to February 2018 among purposively selected 65 patients. Relevant ethical issues were taken into consideration. Coronary angiogram was done in the same index hospitalization period. After coronary angiogram performed patients were grouped into two groups according to their BMI. Patients with BMI <25kg/m² as Group I and those ≥25kg/m² as Group II. Angiographic severity of coronary artery disease was assessed by vessel score and Syntax score. Mean age of Group I was 54.45±10.42 years, while in Group II it was 50.76±8.89 years reflecting the early presentation of higher BMI patients. Male to female ratio was 12:1. Mean BMI of Group I and Group II was 22.56±1.59 and 28.67±2.64 respectively. In Group I, 10(25.0%) had single vessel lesion, 15(37.5%) had double vessel lesion and 14(35.0%) had triple vessel lesion, while in Group II, 6(24.0%) had single vessel lesion, 12(48.0%) had double vessel lesion and 5(20.0%) had triple vessel lesion. Mean Syntax score of Group I and Group II was 13.18±8.45 and 10.42±7.14 respectively. Patients in the increasing BMI class had a higher prevalence of diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidaemia. A negative correlation was observed between BMI and angiographic severity (Vessel score, Syntax score and HRCA e.g. LM disease) of CAD indicating that patients with higher BMI had a lower coronary artery disease (CAD) severity than their normal BMI counterparts. Patients with high BMI have a lower CAD severity than usually expected. After adjustment for co-morbidities, BMI was not found as an independent predictor of severity of coronary artery disease.

Multivariate statistics and entropy theory for irrigation water quality and entropy-weighted index development in a subtropical urban river, Bangladesh

Currently, a well-developed combination of irrigation water quality index (IWQIs) and entropy water quality index (EWQIs) for surface water appraisal in a polluted subtropical urban river is very scarce in the literature. To close this gap, we developed IWQIs by establishing statistics-based weights of variables recommended by FAO 29 standard value using the National Sanitation Foundation Water Quality Index (NSFWQI) compared with the proposed EWQIs based on information entropy in the Dhaleshwari River, Bangladesh. Fifty surface water samples were collected from five sampling locations during the dry and wet seasons and analyzed for sixteen variables. Principal component analysis (PCA), factor analysis (FA), Moran's spatial autocorrelation, and random forest (RF) model were employed in the datasets. Weights were allocated for primary variables to compute IWQI-1, 2 and EWQI-1, 2, respectively. The resultant IWQIs showed a similar trend with EWQIs and revealed poor to good quality water, with IWQI-1 for the dry season and IWQI-2 for the wet season is further suggested. The entropy theory recognized that Mg²⁺, Cr, TDS, and Cl^- for the dry season and Cd, Cr, Cl-, and SO₄^2- for the wet season are the major contaminants that affect irrigation water quality. The primary input variables were lessened to ultimately shortlisted ten variables, which revealed good performance in demonstrating water quality status since weights have come effectively from PCA than FA. The results of the RF model depict NO₃^-, Mg²⁺, and Cr as the most predominant variables influencing surface water quality. A significant dispersed pattern was detected for IWQImin-3 in the wet season (Moran's I>0). Overall, both IWQIs and EWQIs will generate water quality control cost-effective, completely objective to establish a scientific basis of sustainable water management in the study basin.

Combining ability analysis in bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) for potential quality improvement

Combining ability analysis provides useful information for the selection of parents, also information regarding the nature and magnitude of involved gene actions. Crops improvement involves strategies for enhancing yield potentiality and quality components. Targeting the improvement of respective characters in bitter gourd, combining ability and genetic parameters for 19 characters were estimated from a 6×6 full diallel analysis technique. The results revealed that the variances due to general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) were highly significant for most of the important characters. It indicated the importance of both additive and non-additive gene actions. GCA variances were higher in magnitude than SCA variances for all the characters studied indicating the predominance of the additive gene effects in their inheritance. The parent P2 (BG 009) appeared as the best general combiner for earliness; P1 (BG 006) for number of fruits, average single fruit weight and fruit yield; P4 (BG 027) for node number of first female flower and days to seed fruit maturity; P3 (BG 011) for fruit length and thickness of the fruit flesh; P5 (BG 033) for 100-seed weight; and P6 for number of nodes per main vine. The SCA effect as well as reciprocal effect was also significant for most of the important characters in different crosses.

Coupling of redundancy analysis with geochemistry and mineralogy to assess the behavior of dust arsenic as a base of risk estimation in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Exposure to dust particles enriched with arsenic (As) is a significant health threat for populations living in Southeast Asian megacities. The mineralogical composition of dust particles is the key factor that controls the retention and release of As. This study investigated the degree of metal(oid)s pollution (As, Ca, Fe, K, Ga, Rb, Sr, Ti, V, Y, and Zr) in road dust of Dhaka city, Bangladesh. Enrichment factor and geoaccumulation index suggested that the road dust was heavily enriched with As, which triggers a comprehensive investigation of its controlling mechanisms and potential health risks by combining physicochemical and mineralogical information with multivariate analysis and a simulated probabilistic risk estimation model. Alkaline road dust (pH_1:5 ranges from 8.02 to 10.34) in Dhaka city was found to have significant enrichment of As. Dust alkalinity was possibly controlled by the presence of carbonate minerals, such as calcite. Quartz was identified as the dominant mineral phase followed by magnesium carbon arsenide (MgCAs₂). Carbonate mineral driven alkaline pH conditions in road dust would potentially trigger the release and mobilization of As to the environment. However, organic complexation can stabilize As on particle surfaces. Monte Carlo simulation-based health risk forecast suggested that the probability of As associated cancer risk has greatly exceeded the threshold value of 1E-4 for adults and children, and children are more vulnerable than adults. According to sensitivity analysis, the concentration of As and exposure duration (ED) posed the most significant impact (>58%) on risk estimation.

Depth-related dynamics of physicochemical characteristics and heavy metal accumulation in mangrove sediment and plant: Acanthus ilicifolius as a potential phytoextractor

The focus of this study was to determine the depth-wise variability of physicochemical properties (i.e., pH, TOC, TN, and EC), and heavy metals (i.e., Pb, Cu, Zn, As, and Cr) concentration, and the associated biological and ecological risks of the mangrove sediment. The accumulation of metal contents and the phytoremediation and phytoextraction were also investigated in a mangrove species, Acanthus ilicifolius. The mangrove sediment consists of a higher proportion of sand fraction (56.6-74.7%) followed by clay (10-28%) and silt (10.1-15. 7%) fractions. The concentrations (mg/kg) of Pb, Cu, Zn, As, and Cr were ranged from 22.05-34.3, 8.58-22.77, 85.07-114, 5.56-12.91, and 0.98-5.12 in all the sediment layers. The hierarchy of the mean metal concentration in sediment was Zn (102 mg/kg) > Pb (25.6 mg/kg) > Cu (14.8 mg/kg) > As (8.79 mg/kg) > Cr (2.74 mg/kg) respectively. The examined metal concentrations were below the respective average shale values (ASVs). The degree of environmental, ecological, and biological risks was minimal according to various pollution indices like geoaccumulation index (I_geo), contamination factor (CF), and pollution load index (PLI). According to sediment quality guidelines (SQGs), the adverse biological risk effect was not likely to occur. The result of the potential ecological risk index (PERI) demonstrated that the study area was in the low-risk condition as the corresponded RI value < 100. A combined influence of geogenic and anthropogenic factors was identified as the metal sources by multivariate analysis. The study found that the accumulation rate of the metal contents was higher in leaves than that of roots. The mean descending metal concentration values were Zn (107) > Pb (28. 7) > Cu (16.9) > As (11.2) > Cr (4.99) in leaves and Zn (104.32) > Pb (27.02) > Cu (15.29) > As (10.39) > Cr (3.80) in roots. The translocation and bioaccumulation factors of heavy metals suggested that the mangrove plant species, A. ilicifolius can be used for phytoremediation and phytoextraction since the bio-concentration factor and translocation factor > 1. The studied species exhibited the metal tolerance associated with two following strategies, metal exclusion, and metal accumulation. However, excess metal tolerance can impact the surrounding marine environment.

Role of High Neutrophil Lymphocyte Ratio as an Independent Predictor of Adverse In-Hospital Outcomes in Patients with First Attack of ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Thrombolysed with Streptokinase

Atherosclerosis is the pathognomic sign of ischaemic heart disease. Inflammation of the coronary artery contributes to the development of atherosclerosis. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been reported to predict the risk of CAD and associated events in patients with ST-Segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). This study was done to investigate the role of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in predicting in-hospital adverse cardiac events in patients with STEMI thrombolysed with streptokinase (STK). This cross sectional descriptive type of study was conducted in the Department of Cardiology, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from August, 2017 to October, 2018. The STEMI patients, thrombolysed with STK had blood samples at admission, analyzed for complete blood counts and NLR calculated. They were grouped into two, low and high NLR, taking 4.50 as cut-off value. Chi square test was used to compare rate of adverse events and death in hospital stay. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate predictive ability of NLR for in-hospital cardiac events. A total of 87 (39.90%) patients had complications. Patients in high NLR group had higher rate of complications (48.3% vs. 22.5%, p<0.001) in hospital than those in low NLR group. Arrhythmias (21.1% vs. 9.9%, p<0.041), heart failure (27.9% vs. 14.1%, p=0.024), cardiogenic shock (16.3% vs. 4.2%, p<0.011), death (6.8% vs. 2.8%, p=0.227), re-infarction /post MI angina (4.1% vs. 0.0% p=0.084) occurred more in high NLR group. Mean NLR was significantly different between Group I and Group II (3.11±0.84 vs. 10.20±6.08, p<0.0001). Multivariate regression analysis showed NLR an independent predictor of in-hospital adverse cardiac events (p<0.0001). High on admission NLR is an independent predictor for in-hospital adverse cardiac events in patients with STEMI thrombolysed with streptokinase.

Accuracy of Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography in Case of Biliary Obstruction Comparing Post-operative Findings: A Study of 50 Cases

Complete assessment of obstructive jaundice requires the use of various imaging modalities that are required to detect the cause and level of obstruction thus helping in treatment planning. Magnetic Resonance Cholangio Pancreatography (MRCP) is a current available technology which is a non-invasive technique that visualizes the gallbladder, biliary tree and pancreatic duct and also provides information about surrounding structures. This study was done to correlate the MRCP findings with post-operative result and thereby demonstrate the specificity, sensitivity and efficacy of MRCP as an accurate investigatory tool for biliary obstruction. Total of fifty (50) patients of clinically diagnosed obstructive jaundice were studied from March 2017 to August 2017 in the Department of Radiology and Imaging, Combined Military Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh. In all these cases, USG was the initial screening investigation followed by MRCP. Cause and level of obstruction were evaluated using MRCP findings. MRCP results were correlated with surgical findings and few cases also with direct ERCP findings. Statistical analysis was done to see the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive and negative predictive values of MRCP in diagnosis of biliary obstruction. In this study, USG detected level of obstruction in 56% (28 out of 50) cases. USG could detect causes of obstruction in 100% (02 out of 02) cases of choledocal cyst and 66.67% (02 out of 03) benign stricture, 60% (03 out of 05) cases of periampullary carcinoma, 57.70% (06 out of 14) cases of choledocholithiasis, and 42.86% (15 out of 26) cases of cholangiocarcinoma. On the other hand, MRCP detected level of obstruction in 98% (49 out of 50) cases. MRCP could detect causes of obstruction in 100% cases of cholangiocarcinoma, choledocholithiasis, benign stricture and choledocal cyst and 80% (04 out of 05) cases of periampullary carcinoma. In this study, ERCP could detect causes of obstruction in 32 cases of choledocholithiasis and benign stricture, but in case of cholangiocarcinoma ERCP was failed in 3 cases. In this study, for detection of cause of obstruction, ERCP had the highest sensitivity (97.79%); followed by MRCP (96.65%) and USG (60.25%). The overall diagnostic accuracy for detection of cause of obstruction was the highest for ERCP (95.50%); followed by MRCP (94.50%) and USG (64.50%). MRCP can be done in a short duration and is a noninvasive diagnostic modality compared to ERCP. MRCP needs to be advocated as a viable and non-invasive alternative with compararable sensitivity and specificity to ERCP.

Salinity Influences Plant-Pest-Predator Tritrophic Interactions

Climate change-induced salinity intrusion into agricultural soils is known to negatively impact crop production and food security. However, the effects of salinity increase on plant-herbivore-natural enemy systems and repercussions for pest suppression services are largely unknown. Here, we examine the effects of increased salinity on communities of rice (Oryza sativa), brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens, and green mirid bug (GMB), Cyrtorhinus lividipennis, under greenhouse conditions. We found that elevated salinity significantly suppressed the growth of two rice cultivars. Meanwhile, BPH population size also generally decreased due to poor host plant quality induced by elevated salinity. The highest BPH density occurred at 2.0 dS/m salinity and declined thereafter with increasing salinity, irrespective of rice cultivar. The highest population density of GMB also occurred under control conditions and decreased significantly with increasing salinity. Higher salinity directly affected the rice crop by reducing plant quality measured with reference to biomass production and plant height, whereas inducing population developmental asynchrony between BPH and GMB observed at 2 dS/m salinity and potentially uncoupling prey-predator dynamics. Our results suggest that increased salinity has harmful effects on plants, herbivores, natural enemies, as well as plant-pest-predator interactions. The effects measured here suggest that the bottom-up effects of predatory insects on rice pests will likely decline in rice produced in coastal areas where salinity intrusion is common. Our findings indicate that elevated salinity influences tritrophic interactions in rice production landscapes, and further research should address resilient rice insect pest management combining multipests and predators in a changing environment.

Deciphering the origin of Cu, Pb and Zn contamination in school dust and soil of Dhaka, a megacity in Bangladesh

In recent decades, anthropogenic activities have resulted in road dust and roadside soil hosted metal(oid)s pollution in the urban environment. In the South-Asian megacity "Dhaka", schools are situated in the areas with high population density and high traffic emissions. As the school-going children are the most vulnerable receptor, school premises in Dhaka city represent an important yet overlooked exposure point to contaminated dust and soil. Therefore, the present study investigated the metal(oid)s (Cu, Pb, Zn and As) pollution in dust and soil at school compounds, explored their possible sources and estimated the associated human health risk. This study revealed that dust contained higher concentration of metal(oid)s than soil, and the Azimpur Govt. Girls School & College was identified as the most contaminated site. The enrichment of school dust with Cu, Zn and Pb were strictly related to the dense population and substantial traffic activity in the study areas. Arsenic content in school soil was several folds higher than its concentration in the upper crust. Natural and anthropogenic activities possibly posed a synergistic effect on such high soil As. The multivariate statistics suggested that Cu, Zn and Pb were likely to be originated from traffic-related activities, while Zr, Fe, Ti and Rb from natural sources, and K, Sr and Ca from industrial activities. The assessment of health risk suggested the children as a vulnerable receptor and ingestion was identified as the dominant pathway of dust and soil exposure. The hazard index (HI) values were lower than unity, suggesting no possible non-cancer health risk. Arsenic posed a lifetime carcinogenic risk to the population in the study area through soil ingestion and dermal adsorption.

Sources of toxic elements in indoor dust sample at export processing zone (EPZ) area: Dhaka, Bangladesh; and their impact on human health

In industrial areas, increased human activities generate high emissions of metals that contaminate the environment, and eventually affect human health. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the sources of toxic elements in indoor dust samples, and to evaluate possible health risks due to expose of human body through dermal contact, inhalation, and ingestion. A total 36 indoor dust samples were collected from the windows of twelve (12) industrial buildings, which are facing the main roads in the biggest export process zone (DEPZ) in Dhaka City, Bangladesh. The indoor dust samples were analyzed using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) technique for the determination of Cu, Zn, As, Pb, Fe, Cr, Co, Ni, K, Ca, Ti, Rb, and Sr. This investigation revealed that Cu, Zn, Pb, Fe, and Sr concentrations were slightly higher in various degree than that of the background value in soil recommended by the Chinese Environmental Protection Administration (CEPA). Subsequently, ANOVA (α = 0.05, p < 0.001) test and %RSD values (33% to 168%) showed that the concentrations of these metals were present non-homogeneously in different sampling points. However, statistical analysis and several geochemical indices have been proposed that these heavy metals might be come in indoor dust samples because of anthropogenic events. This investigation also showed that the most-extreme permissible hazard index (HIs) levels known as non-cancer risk for As, Mn, and Zn because of dust exposure in the study area were below than that of the safe limit (HI = 1) but with an exception of Pb (HI = 1.9E+00) for children. On the other hand, the degree of cancer-causing risk linked with exposure to arsenic in indoor dust (i.e., 0.502E-06 to 0.121E-05) falls within the range of threshold values (10^-6 to 10^-4). Therefore, following USEPA health risk models, it has been suggested that these metals present in indoor dust samples might not have significant impact on causing non-cancer and cancer risk to children and to adult at this moment in the DEPZ area, Bangladesh. However, a continuous monitoring should be needed to assess more accurately the non-cancer and cancer risk to children and adult.

Spatiotemporal nexus between vegetation change and extreme climatic indices and their possible causes of change

Climate extremes have a significant impact on vegetation. However, little is known about vegetation response to climatic extremes in Bangladesh. The association of Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) with nine extreme precipitation and temperature indices was evaluated to identify the nexus between vegetation and climatic extremes and their associations in Bangladesh for the period 1986-2017. Moreover, detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA) and Morlet wavelet analysis (MWA) were employed to evaluate the possible future trends and decipher the existing periodic cycles, respectively in the time series of NDVI and climate extremes. Besides, atmospheric variables of ECMWF ERA5 were used to examine the casual circulation mechanism responsible for climatic extremes of Bangladesh. The results revealed that the monthly NDVI is positively associated with extreme rainfall with spatiotemporal heterogeneity. Warm temperature indices showed a significant negative association with NDVI on the seasonal scale, while precipitation and cold temperature extremes showed a positive association with yearly NDVI. The DEA revealed a continuous increase in temperature extreme in the future, while no change in precipitation extremes. NDVI also revealed a significant association with extreme temperature indices with a time lag of one month and with precipitation extreme without time lag. Spatial analysis indicated insensitivity of marshy vegetation type to climate extremes in winter. The study revealed that elevated summer geopotential height, no visible anticyclonic center, reduced high cloud cover, and low solar radiation with higher humidity contributed to climatic extremes in Bangladesh. The nexus between NDVI and climatic extremes established in this study indicated that increasing warm temperature extremes due to global warming might have severe implications on Bangladesh's ecology and the environment in the future.

Rehabilitation Approach of a Patient with Myositis Ossificans: Non-surgical Management, Hazard of being Unguided Over Exercised

Myositis ossificans (MO) is a condition where calcification occurs in the soft tissue as well as around the bone following fracture, vigorous exercise or trauma. Although it is a radiological diagnosis, it often leads physician to an incorrect or missed diagnosis as recurrent fracture. Frequently, it follows haemorrhage into the muscle in the tissue space. We report a 45 years old house-wife presented with the complaints of weakness of right side of body and pain with restricted range of motion (ROM) in right lower limb. She was a diagnosed case of recurrent stroke with rheumatic valvular heart disease. After discharge, vigorous physical exercise was done at home by local physiotherapist without appropriate guidance from physiatrist. Gradually pain was so severe that she didn't allow moving her right lower limb. Over the course of time, she became incapacite and bed bound. She denied any positive family history. With the hip and lower limb problems she consulted with orthopedic surgeon and was referred to Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation department of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh for further management & rehabilitation. This case is presented to focus on hazard of being unguided, over-exercised and non-surgical management approach of this rare condition.

Prevalence and Pattern of Dyslipidemia in Diabetes Mellitus Patients Admitted in the Department of Cardiology, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh

Patients with Diabetes Mellitus are at high risk of cardiovascular events because of abnormal lipid metabolism. Dyslipidemia is common in patients with Diabetes Mellitus (DM). However; in Bangladesh this issue is not yet properly addressed. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence and patterns of dyslipidaemia in patients with DM in a divisional city Mymensingh. This cross-sectional study was conducted in randomly selected eligible patients from the indoor registry of the Department of Cardiology, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital (MMCH), Bangladesh from April 2012 to March 2013. A well structured questionnaire and blood investigation for lipid profile and blood sugar were the tools of data collection from 120 randomly selected DM patients registered in the department of cardiology, MMCH. Out of 120 enrolled participants the prevalence of dyslipidemia in DM patients was 86.0%, prevalence of dyslipidemia in males was 88.0% while in females was 85.0% but the difference was not significant (p=0.42). Regarding age group, BMI and duration of DM, there is no significant association exists with dyslipidemia. About half of the studied DM patients have high serum total cholesterol level (50.83%), while 22.5% had low serum HDL-C levels and 35.0% had high serum LDC-C level, most of patients had serum triglyceride levels above normal range (67.5%) and so the common patterns of dyslipidemia in this study were serum triglyceride level followed by total cholesterol. High prevalence of dyslipidemia among diabetes mellitus in Mymensingh city were observed and so the common patterns of dyslipidemia is triglyceride followed by total cholesterol. This study emphasizes the importance of screening of lipid profile as these abnormalities may lead to development of cardiovascular diseases.

Groundwater hydrogeochemistry and probabilistic health risk assessment through exposure to arsenic-contaminated groundwater of Meghna floodplain, central-east Bangladesh

A clear understanding of various hydrogeochemical processes is essential for the protection of groundwater quality, which is a prime concern in Bangladesh. The present study deals with the geochemistry of groundwater at various depths to investigate the hydrogeochemical processes controlling the water quality of Meghna floodplain, the sources and mechanisms of arsenic (As) liberation, and the estimation of carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks (using probabilistic and deterministic approaches) to the adults and children of the Comilla district, central-east Bangladesh. The groundwaters were generally of Ca-Mg-HCO₃ type, and water-sediment interaction was the dominant factor in evolving the chemical signatures. The dissolution of carbonates, weathering of silicates, and cation exchange processes governed the major ion chemistry. Dissolved As concentration ranged from 0.002 to 0.36 mg/L and Monte Carlo simulation-based probabilistic estimation of cancer risk suggested that; (1) ~ 83% of the waters exceeded the higher end of the acceptable limit of 1 × 10^-4; (2) the probability of additional cases of cancer in every 10,000 adults and children were on average ~9 and ~5, respectively; (3) adults were more susceptible than children; and (4) ingestion was the main pathway of As poisoning and the contribution of dermal contact was negligible (<1%). According to sensitivity analysis, the duration of exposure to As and its concentration in groundwater posed the greatest impact on cancer risk assessment. However, hydrogeochemical investigations on the sources and mobilization mechanisms of As suggested that the reductive dissolution of Fe and Mn oxyhydroxides was the principal process of As release in groundwater. The oxidation of pyrite and competitive exchange of fertilizer-derived phosphate for the sorbed As were not postulated as the plausible explanation for As liberation.

Molecular Detection of Human Brucellosis among Patients with Pyrexia of Unknown Origin

This study describes the molecular detection of human brucellosis among patients with pyrexia of unknown origin. It was a cross-sectional descriptive study and was carried out in the Department of Microbiology, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Non-probability purposive type of sampling technique was used. Blood samples were collected from 400 pyretic patients from September 2018 to August 2019. BCSP31 Brucella genus-specific TaqMan real-time PCR and SYBR Green real-time PCR were undertaken for molecular detection. Out of 400 samples, 22 (5.5%) samples found BCSP31 Brucella genus-specific real-time PCR positive. The study revealed that a considerable number of brucellosis is present in rural areas among risk as well as non-risk group study population having definite male predominancy, most prone to develop among >40-80 years age group. Brucella genus and species-specific real-time PCR might be performed for confirmation and also to avoid unjustified costs, drug toxicity, and un-masking of other potentially dangerous diseases.

Relationship of Plasma Vitamin-D Level with Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction in Patients with First Attack of Acute Myocardial Infarction

It has been widely reported that vitamin D deficiency is associated with Coronary heart disease (CHD), especially acute Myocardial infarction (MI). Many factors are responsible for reduced Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and acute Left ventricular fraction (LVF) after acute MI. This cross sectional descriptive type of study was conducted in the Cardiology department of Mymensingh Medical College Hospital from October 2017 to March 2019 to investigate the relationship of plasma vitamin D with LVEF in patients with first attack of acute MI. Total 185 patients of first attack of acute MI were included considering inclusion and exclusion criteria. Fasting blood samples were analyzed for plasma vitamin D level. Sample population were grouped at first into two, normal and low vitamin D level, taking 30ng/ml as cut-off value, low vitamin D level is further subdivided into insufficiency (21-29ng/ml), deficiency (10-20ng/ml) and severe deficiency (<10ng/ml). LVEF among the patients was observed. LVEF was found 49.88±8.58% patients having normal vitamin D level (>30ng/ml), 47.60±8.24% of patients having vitamin D insufficiency (21-29ng/ml), 44.38±8.12% of patients having vitamin D deficiency (10-20ng/ml) and 40.61±8.64% patients having severe vitamin D deficiency (<10ng/ml), which was statistically significant (p<0.05). So, low plasma vitamin D level is associated with reduced LVEF in patients hospitalized with first attack of acute MI.

Bifidobacterium longum DS0956 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus DS0508 culture-supernatant ameliorate obesity by inducing thermogenesis in obese-mice

Excessive body fat and the related dysmetabolic diseases affect both developed and developing countries. The aim of this study was to investigate the beneficial role of a bacterial culture supernatant (hereafter: BS) of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium and their potential mechanisms of action on white-fat browning and lipolysis. For selection of four candidates among 55 Lactic acid producing bacteria (LAB) from human infant faeces, we evaluated by Oil Red O staining and Ucp1 mRNA quantitation in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. The expression of browning and lipolysis markers was examined along with in vitro assays. The possible mechanism was revealed by molecular and biological experiments including inhibitor and small interfering RNA (siRNA) assays. In a mouse model, physiological, histological, and biochemical parameters and expression of some thermogenesis-related genes were compared among six experimental groups fed a high-fat diet and one normal-diet control group. The results allow us to speculate that BS treatment promotes browning and lipolysis both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, the BS may activate thermogenic programs via a mechanism involving PKA-CREB signaling in 3T3-L1 cells. According to our data, we can propose that two LAB strains, Bifidobacterium longum DS0956 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus DS0508, may be good candidates for a dietary supplement against obesity and metabolic diseases; however, further research is required for the development as dietary supplements or drugs.

A Perspective on Emerging Therapeutic Interventions for COVID-19

Coronaviruses are enveloped positive-sense RNA viruses with an unusual large RNA genome and a unique replication mechanism, which are characterized by club-like spikes that protrude from their surface. An outbreak of a novel coronavirus 2019 infection has posed significant threat to the health and economies in the whole world. This article reviewed the viral replication, pathogenicity, prevention and treatment strategies. With a lack of approved treatment options for this virus, alternative approaches to control the spread of disease is in urgent need. This article also covers some management strategies which may be applied to this virus outbreak. Ongoing clinical studies related to possible treatments for COVID-19, potential vaccines, and alternative medication such as natural compounds are also discussed.

Correlation of Mean Platelet Volume with ST Segment Resolution after Thrombolytic Therapy in Patients with ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Acute occlusive thrombosis of the coronary artery is the principal cause of myocardial infarction where platelets play an important role. Large size platelets, easily measured by mean platelets volume (MPV) are thrombogenic and commonly seen after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). ST segment resolution has been shown as a simple non-invasive marker that reflects both epicardial and myocardial reperfusion following thrombolysis. The present study intended to investigate whether MPV on admission correlated with ST segment resolution following thrombolysis in STEMI patient. This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the department of cardiology, Mymensingh Medical College and Hospital (MMCH), Mymensingh, Bangladesh from December, 2016 to June, 2018. Total 284 patients with first attack of STEMI were included after considering inclusion and exclusion criteria. Sample population was divided into two groups, Group I - Patients with successful ST segment resolution (≥50%). Group II - Patients with impaired ST segment resolution (<50%). MPV on admission was estimated during estimation of Complete Blood Count (CBC) by Automated Haematology Analyzer & compared between two groups. Successful ST segment resolution (≥50%) was seen in 67% of patients after thrombolysis. Admission MPV was higher in patients with impaired ST segment resolution (<50%) group than patients with ≥50% ST-segment resolution group (12.42±0.89fl vs.10.35±0.77fl respectively, p=0.001). Statistically significant strong negative correlation between MPV and ST segment resolution percentage (r = -0.742, p=0.001) suggesting that the higher the level of MPV, the lower the ST segment resolution percentage in first attack of STEMI patients. Multivariate regression analysis found MPV level on admission as an independent predictor of ST segment resolution. The study concluded that high MPV on admission correlate with impaired ST segment resolution following thrombolysis in STEMI patients.

Seasonal variations of trace metals from water and sediment samples in the northern Bay of Bengal

We aimed to determine the temporal variation of trace metals concentrations in surface water and surface sediment samples at Kutubdia Channel, Bangladesh. Trace metals of samples were detected using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) method. The lowest concentration of metals was found in water samples during post-monsoon season and the highest during pre-monsoon season (Cu: 0.030 ± 0.001 μg/L in pre-monsoon and 0.026 ± 0.002 μg/L in post-monsoon, Zn: 0.087 ± 0.003 μg/L in pre-monsoon and 0.073 ± 0.002 μg/L in post-monsoon, Fe: 0.080 ± 0.001 μg/L in pre-monsoon and 0.055 ± 0.001 μg/L in post-monsoon). In contrast, metal concentration in surface sediment samples were higher in post-monsoon than in pre-monsoon season i.e. Cr 11 mg/kg in pre-monsoon and 12 mg/kg in post-monsoon, Mn 571 mg/kg in pre-monsoon and 606 mg/kg in post-monsoon, As (8 mg/kg in pre-monsoon and 10 mg/kg in post-monsoon, Pb (22 mg/kg in pre-monsoon and 24 mg/kg in post-monsoon, and Fe 2317 mg/kg in pre-monsoon and 2435 mg/kg in post-monsoon. We found a spatial gradient of high to medium to low in trace metal concentration from river to river mouth to offshore area. Considering the sources of metals, land erosion by waves and tidal action, an influx of water and sediment from the surrounding rivers, agricultural waste, industrial effluent and sewage are the most likely sources of metal pollution in the study area. We conclude that proper management strategies should be adopted to control the pollution and conserve the ecosystem health.

Association of Stress Hyper-Glycaemia on Outcomes of Hospitalized Non Diabetic Patients with First Attack of Acute ST Elevated Myocardial Infarction Underwent Thrombolysis

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the most common cause of heart disease and serious cause of early death in developed countries around the world. Stress hyper-glycaemia has a bad prognostic implication in hospital outcomes in acute ST elevated myocardial infarction patients. It serves as a marker of myocardial damage, provides information about complications of acute MI and bad prognosis. The aim of this cross-sectional descriptive study was to find out prognostic implications of Stress hyper-glycaemia in non diabetic patients with first attack of acute ST elevated myocardial infarction underwent thrombolysis and conducted in the department of Cardiology in Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from June 2017 to May 2018. Total 249 first attack of Acute STEMI patients were included considering inclusion and exclusion criteria. The sample population was divided into two groups: Group I: Patients with first attack of acute STEMI underwent thrombolysis with non diabetic stress hyper-glycaemia (Blood sugar >7.8mmol/L and HbA1c <6.5), Group II: Patients with first attack of acute STEMI underwent thrombolysis with non diabetic normo-glycaemia (Blood sugar <7.8mmol/L and HbA1c <6.5). In this study, in non diabetic Stress hyperglycemic patients' death was 5.7% and in non diabetic normo-glycemic patients death was 0.6%. It was statistically significant (p<0.05). In non diabetic stress hyperglycemic patients, heart failure was 78.31% patients and in non diabetic normo-glycemic patients, it was 21.6%. It was statistically significant (p<0.01). Echocardiography showed that patients with non diabetic Stress hyper-glycaemia had mean ejection fraction (LVEF) was 44.01±4.93 and patients with non diabetic normo-glycaemia had mean ejection fraction (LVEF) was 47.70±5.71. It was statistically significant (p<0.01). In this study, in non diabetic Stress hyperglycaemic patients, cardiogenic shock was 16.1% and in non diabetic normo-glycemic patients, it was 3.7%. It was statistically significant (p<0.05). Mean duration of hospital stay, in non diabetic Stress hyperglycaemic patients was 5.07±0.566 and in non diabetic normo-glycemic patients, it was 3.52±0.850. It was statistically significant (p<0.001). In conclusion, the incidence of death, heart failure, cardiogenic shock and hospital stay were higher in non diabetic Stress hyperglycaemic patients than non diabetic normo-glycemic patients who admitted with first attack of acute ST elevated myocardial infarction.

Redefinition of site percolation in light of entropy and the second law of thermodynamics

In this article, we revisit random site and bond percolation in a square lattice, focusing primarily on the behavior of entropy and the order parameter. In the case of traditional site percolation, we find that both the quantities are zero at p=0, revealing that the system is in the perfectly ordered and in the disordered state at the same time. Moreover, we find that entropy with 1-p, which is the equivalent counterpart of temperature, first increases and then decreases again, but we know that entropy with temperature cannot decrease. However, bond percolation does not suffer from either of these two problems. To overcome this, we propose an alternative definition for site percolation where we occupy sites to connect bonds and we measure cluster size by the number of bonds connected by occupied sites. This resolves all the problems without affecting any of the existing known results.