A Self-Attention-Based Neural Network for Predicting Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors Response

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Cancer cells evade immune system by negatively regulating T cells via immune checkpoints (e.g., PD-1). By blocking these checkpoints, the ability of immune system to recognize and kill cancer cells restores. Individual response rate of checkpoint blockade varies among patients, with 50%-80% in specific types of cancer such as melanoma, while only 15%-30% in most other tumors. Yet it is still an open question what is the set of biomarkers that are crucial to the response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). The overall goal of this study is to develop and validate a biologically-aware interpretable deep learning model to identify the biomarkers that can predict the survival outcome to ICI treatment.

MATERIALS/METHODS

The self-attention mechanism could yield interpretable results where important biomarkers may have more "attention". However, in classical self-attention mechanism, the prior biological knowledge of protein interactions (PPI) and gene pathways are not incorporated. In this study, we propose a weighted biologically-aware attention score, where it is weighted against the gene centrality and pathway length. The genes that are closely connected to mutated genes receive 'high attention', while the genes that are far away from mutated genes along the pathway receive "lower attention". We then train, validate and test our model using 1,660 patients of nine types of cancer. To validate the prediction, 1. We evaluate the accuracy via concordance index. 2. We identified the genes that receive high attention and verify their functions in existed literature. 3. We perform sanity check by removing these genes from the data, re-training and predicting again, and comparing the prediction accuracy.

RESULTS

Our framework has achieved an average accuracy (measured via c-index) of 0.60 ± 0.06 for NSCLC and 0.58 ± 0.07 for melanoma, which is superior to both the gold standard COX-PH model (0.57 ± 0.06 for NSCLC and 0.53 ± 0.03 for melanoma) and DeepSurv (0.54 ± 0.05 for NSCLC and 0.51 ± 0.10 for melanoma). Genes that receive high attention have been validated by supporting literature, which provides an additional means of verifying the prediction in comparison to "black box" deep learning models, where there is no way to comprehend the reason behind predictions. Removing the top 8% high-attention genes (∼25 genes) from the data while using the remaining 92% for making predictions resulted in a drop in accuracy to 0.55 ± 0.073 for NSCLC and 0.56 ± 0.03 for melanoma, underscoring the significance of these genes. Patient stratification is also performed by dividing patients into responders and non-responders based on prediction score.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we propose and validate a biologically-aware self-attention based deep learning model which outperforms commonly-used survival models. Additionally, this tool has the potential to identify key biomarkers while assist in clinical decision-making, which demonstrates a promising step for immunotherapy response prediction.

Accelerating Volumetric CT and MRI Imaging by Reference-Free Deep Learning Transformation from Low-Resolution to High-Resolution

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

High-resolution (HR) images are important in precision radiation oncology. However, acquiring HR volumetric CT and MRI images is often time consuming; also, the resolution in some direction(s) (e.g., z-direction in the case of CT) is often limited by imaging hardware or fundamental imaging principle. Super-resolution (SR) imaging, i.e., the low-resolution (LR) to HR image transformation, is widely used to improve image resolution. Data-driven deep learning (DL) methods have achieved great success in SR imaging, yet they can hardly be applied to medical imaging as they require large amount of LR-HR image pairs to train the model. We therefore propose a reference-free DL method to increase resolutions of volumetric medical images in an efficient way.

MATERIALS/METHODS

We propose a maximum likelihood estimation (MLE)-based implicit neural representation (INR) network for SR imaging. The INR network aims to represent an image as a continuous function parameterized by a coordinate-based multi-layer perceptron. The INR network takes image coordinates as input and outputs corresponding pixel intensities. To train the network without using any HR images, we use a MLE framework to model LR observations' statistics and their relation to the latent HR image. The predicted HR image from the INR's output is transformed to LR images based on the MLE, and the network parameters are then optimized by minimizing the distance between the transformed LR images and actual LR observations. We demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed method on CT and MRI images for 2x, 4x, and 8x SR using only one or two LR image(s). The performance is compared with a conventional SR method named plain MLE, in terms of visual quality and numerical qualities of PSNR and SSIM.

RESULTS

Our method outperformed the plain MLE method in the experiment. Table 1 reports the numerical improvements of our method over the compared plain MLE method. For 2x SR with a single LR image, our method achieved significant improvements in both PSNR and SSIM. When using two LR images, the better structural restoration capability of our method became more obvious with higher SR magnifications, as indicated by the increased SSIM differences. Better noise suppression capability of our method is observed in all our studies, as indicated by the PSNR values. In visual quality evaluation, we observed sharper image details with less noise in SR images generated by the proposed method, compared with the plain MLE method.

CONCLUSION

The proposed novel reference-free DL method can efficiently provide high-quality HR images with only one or two LR images for CT and MRI imaging. This method can be easily generalized to many other radiation therapy related applications without the requirement for HR reference images.

Rootstock effects on bitter pit incidence in 'Honeycrisp' apples are associated with changes in fruit's cell wall chemical properties

Bitter pit (BP) is a physiological disorder of apples that often appears during or after cold storage. Despite being defined as a calcium deficiency disorder, BP is a complex process that is not only affected by the total Ca²⁺ content in the fruit but also by the proper cellular Ca²⁺ homeostasis and partitioning. Early investigations have also suggested that rootstocks could affect BP development and severity. In the present study, rootstock effects on BP development were assessed on 'Honeycrisp' trees that were grafted on 14 different rootstocks (B.10, G.11, G.202, G.214, G.30, G.41, G.935, G.969, M.26 EMLA, M.9, V.1, V.5, V.6, and V.7). We evaluated BP incidence at harvest, and three months after cold storage for four, and three growing seasons, respectively. BP incidence was significantly reduced in 'Honeycrisp' trees on B.10 compared to other rootstocks, whereas trees on V.6 showed the highest percentage of BP at harvest and after cold storage. 'Honeycrisp' apples were collected from three different rootstocks (B.10, G.41, and V.6) two months after cold storage and evaluated for mineral nutrient composition, Ca²⁺ homeostasis, and cell wall properties, e.g., pectin content, pectin de-esterification rate and pectin methylesterase (PME) activity. Water-soluble and insoluble pectin content was markedly higher in fruits from B.10 than in G.41 and V.6. We also observed increased PME enzyme activity and a greater degree of water-insoluble pectin de-esterification in 'Honeycrisp' apples from V.6 compared to those from B.10. A significantly higher Ca²⁺ was found in the fruits from B.10 than G.41 and V.6. Higher Ca²⁺ and lower Mg²⁺ levels were also observed in the cell wall and water-insoluble pectin fractions of the fruits from B.10 compared to G.41 and V.6. However, the ratio of cell wall-bound Ca²⁺ to total Ca²⁺ was lower in B.10 compared to G.41 and V.6. Together, our results indicate that the tolerance of B.10 to BP could be attributed to a reduced PME activity and lower pectin de-esterification level, which in turn reduced the amount of Ca²⁺ cross-linked with pectin, and probably increased the apoplastic free calcium concentrations that is essential for maintaining cell membrane integrity and reducing BP development.

Evaluation of Short Term Outcome of Stapled Transanal Rectal Resection (STARR) for ODS (Obstructed Defecation Syndrome) by Comparing Pre and Post-operative ODS Score

Obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) is a common anorectal problem and it can be corrected by various surgical approaches but most of these have high recurrence and complication rates. Antonio Longo introduced Stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) in 2003 as a minimally invasive transanal operation for correction ODS associated with rectocele and or rectal intussusception. This study was designed to assess the short term outcome of Stapled Transanal Rectal Resection (STARR) as a surgical treatment of Obstructed Defecation Syndrome (ODS). This is a quasi experimental study which was carried out in the department of Colorectal Surgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh from May 2016 to June 2017. Seventeen (17) patients were included in the study. Patients with obstructed defecation syndrome and rectocele and or rectal intussusception admitted in the department of Colorectal Surgery were enrolled in the study as per inclusion and exclusion criteria. History, clinical examination, Proctoscopy, Colonoscopy and MR Defecography was done for evaluation of the patients. During evaluation preoperative Longo's ODS score of every patient also determined and compared with postoperative ODS score. The patient was followed up regularly at one, three and six months after each operation. The ODS score in 82.35% patients improved significantly. The postoperative score was high (13-15) only in 02(11.8%) patients probably due to presence of physiological factors. Post-operative defecatory urgency was developed in only 02(11.76%) patients. Major postoperative complication like hemorrhage or rectovaginal fistula did not develop in any patient. STARR is an effective, less invasive and simple procedure for the treatment of ODS with rectocele and/or rectal intussusception without major morbidity but other physiological causes of ODS should exclude preoperatively because its presence makes the surgical intervention fruitless.

Interactive Regulation of Hormone and Resistance Gene in Proline Metabolism Is Involved in Effector-Triggered Immunity or Disease Susceptibility in the Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris-Brassica napus Pathosystem

To characterize cultivar variations in hormonal regulation of the transition between pattern-triggered immunity (PTI) and effector-triggered immunity or susceptibility (ETI or ETS), the responses of resistance (R-) genes, hydrogen peroxide, and proline metabolism in two Brassica napus cultivars to contrasting disease susceptibility (resistant cv. Capitol vs. susceptible cv. Mosa) were interpreted as being linked to those of endogenous hormonal levels and signaling genes based on a time course of disease symptom development. Disease symptoms caused by the Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc) infections were much more developed in cv. Mosa than in cv. Capitol, as shown by an earlier appearance (at 3 days postinoculation [3 DPI]) and larger V-shaped necrosis lesions (at 9-15 DPI) in cv. Mosa. The cultivar variations in the R-genes, hormone status, and proline metabolism were found in two different phases (early [0-3 DPI] and later [9-15 DPI]). In the early phase, Xcc significantly upregulated PTI-related cytoplasmic kinase (Botrytis-induced kinase-1 [BIK1]) expression (+6.3-fold) with salicylic acid (SA) accumulation in cv. Capitol, while relatively less (+2.6-fold) with highly increased jasmonic acid (JA) level in cv. Mosa. The Xcc-responsive proline accumulation in both cultivars was similar to upregulated expression of proline synthesis-related genes (P5CS2 and P5CR). During the later phase in cv. Capitol, Xcc-responsive upregulation of ZAR1 (a coiled-coil-nucleotide binding site-leucine-rich repeat [CC-NB-LRR-type R-gene]) was concomitant with a gradual increase in JA levels without additional proline accumulation. However, in cv. Mosa, upregulation of TAO1 (a toll/interleukin-1 receptor-nucleotide binding site-leucine-rich repeat [TIR-NB-LRR-type R-gene]) was consistent with an increase in SA and abscisic acid (ABA) levels and resulted in an antagonistic depression of JA, which led to a proline accumulation. These results indicate that Xcc-induced BIK1- and ZAR1-mediated JA signaling interactions provide resistance and confirm ETI, whereas BIK1- and TAO1-enhanced SA- and/or ABA-mediated proline accumulation is associated with disease susceptibility (ETS).

Antimicrobial Resistance of E Coli Causing Urinary Tract Infection in Bangladesh

Rapid spread of multidrug resistant microorganisms is a matter of great concern throughout the glove including Bangladesh. The objective was to identify the causative organisms for urinary tract infection (UTI) and their sensitivity patterns to antibiotics. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on patients admitted with UTI (n=60) at a tertiary level hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh from March 2019 to September 2019. Data were collected through clinical record reviews. Data of all these 60 cases were analyzed for socio-demographic characteristics. Of the 60 patients, culture and sensitivity report was available for 42 patients. Therefore, data were further analyzed for these 42 cases. Median age of patients was 35 years and 80% were female. The main organisms isolated from urine culture of UTI patients were E. coli (64%), Klebsiella (12%) and Enterococci species (10%). Susceptibility to antibiotics was analyzed only for E. coli (n=27) since the number of isolates of other organisms were small. E. coli was found to be resistant to most of the first- and second-line antibiotics, such as Amoxicillin (100%), Amoxyclav (72%), Co-trimoxazole (89%), Nalidixic acid (78%), Ceftazidim (94%), Ceftriaxone (73%), Cefuroxime (100%), Ciprofloxacin (59%), Cephotaxime (80%), Cefixime (100%) and Moxifloxacin (100%). E. coli was the predominant organism responsible for UTI and was resistant to most of the first- and second-line antibiotics. Immediate action is needed to develop empirical guideline for empirical management of UTI and establish surveillance system for monitoring.

Ethephon-Mediated Bloom Delay in Peach Is Associated With Alterations in Reactive Oxygen Species, Antioxidants, and Carbohydrate Metabolism During Dormancy

Ethephon (ET) is an ethylene-based plant growth regulator (PGR) that has demonstrated greater efficacy in delaying bloom in deciduous fruit species. However, the underlying mechanisms by which ET modulates dormancy and flowering time remain obscure. This study aimed to delineate the ET-mediated modulations of reactive oxygen species (ROS), antioxidants, and carbohydrate metabolism in relation to chilling and heat requirements of "Redhaven" peach trees during dormancy. Peach trees were treated with ethephon (500ppm) in the fall (at 50% leaf fall), and floral buds were collected at regular intervals of chilling hours (CH) and growing degree hours (GDH). In the control trees, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) levels peaked at the endodormancy release and declined thereafter; a pattern that has been ascertained in other deciduous fruit trees. However, H₂O₂ levels were higher and sustained for a more extended period than control in the ET-treated trees. ET also increased the activity of ROS generating (e.g., NADPH-oxidase; superoxide dismutase) and scavenging (e.g., catalase, CAT; glutathione peroxidase) enzymes during endodormancy. However, CAT activity dropped significantly just before the bud burst in the ET-treated trees. In addition, ET affected the accumulation profiles of starch and soluble sugars (hexose and sucrose); significantly reducing the sucrose and glucose levels and increasing starch levels during endodormancy. However, our study concluded that variations in ROS levels and antioxidation pathways, rather than carbohydrate metabolism, could explain the differences in bloom time between ET-treated and -untreated trees. The present study also revealed several important bud dormancy controlling factors that are subject to modulation by ethephon. These factors can serve as potential targets for developing PGRs to manipulate bloom dates in stone fruits to avoid the ever-increasing threat of spring frosts.

Milestones of Development in Infancy: A Prospective Study in a Tertiary Level Hospital of Bangladesh

The timing of milestone is influenced by many factors. Sex and socioeconomic status has significant effect to some psycomotor milestones. The study was conducted to determine the pattern of milestones of development of infants in our country and to compare it in different sex and socioeconomic condition. It was a hospital based prospective study done in Sir Sallimullah Medical College and Mitford Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh from October 2014 to November 2015. Healthy term newborn infants with average birth weight were included in this study and milestones of this birth cohort were assessed monthly from birth to 12 months of age by using a set of 60 milestones. Total number of 217 babies was enrolled but during follow up 0.9% developed meningitis, 43.7% was lost to follow up and 55.2% of the cohort was followed up to 12 months of age. Among 120 babies 51.7% were male, 48.3% were female babies and 51.7% belong to lower, 32.5% middle and 15.8% upper socioeconomic group. There was no significant difference between male and female infants achieving most of the milestones of development except in language development in which female infants were little bit higher than male infants.

Diagnostic Value of Clinical Profile and Proposed a Clinical Diagnostic Criterion of Enteric Fever

Enteric fever is a common bacterial infection in the tropics and endemic to Bangladesh. The volatile manifestations of enteric fever construct this disease a true diagnostic confrontation. There are limited current objective data on the value of individual clinical features of enteric fever in the diagnosis of enteric fever. The aim of the study was analysis of clinical features and also proposed a clinical diagnostic criterion of enteric fever among adult in Bangladesh. This cross-sectional comparative study was performed among which of fifty confirmed enteric fever and hundred non enteric febrile adult patients in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh from January 2015 to December 2015. Purposive sampling technique was implied for convenience of the study. In this study, history of step ladder fever, diarrhoea and relative bradycardia, ceacal gurgle, abdominal distension were proved to be powerful markers of enteric fever with high specificity (100.0%, 90.0%, 95.0%, 92.0% and 95.0% respectively). Tender right iliac fossa (RIF) and coated tongue, hepatomegaly were moderately powerful with 86.0%, 88.0%, 89.0% specificity respectively. Positive predictive value (PPV) was highest for step ladder fever (100%) and negative predictive value (NPV) was highest for headache (92.5%). Highest sensitivity, PPV and NPV were found for relative bradycardia and tender RIF but most of the signs had good specificity. Regarding accuracy it was highest for step ladder fever (91.3%), relative bradycardia (94%), tender RIF (87%), coated tongue (82%) and splenomegaly (84%). Therefore, a clinical diagnostic criterion was submitted with diagnostic accuracy more than 70% were taken into deliberation. The Major criteria were considered step ladder fever, relative bradycardia, tender RIF with diagnostic accuracy 91.0%, 94.0% and 87.0% respectively. Minor criteria included splenomegaly, diarrhoea, coated tongue, ceacal gurgle, chills with diagnostic accuracy 85.0%, 85.0%, 82.0%, 76.0%, 72.0% respectively and after amalgamation of various major and minor criteria a final diagnostic criterion was submitted having accuracy more than 60.0%. In conclusion the clinical profile of enteric fever in culture proven patients with a view to highlight the predictive value of those features which would help general practitioners in the diagnosis and empiric treatment.

Minicell-based fungal RNAi delivery for sustainable crop protection

Spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS) using topical dsRNA applications has risen as a promising, target-specific, and environmentally friendly disease management strategy against phytopathogenic fungi. However, dsRNA stability, efficacy, and scalability are still the main constraints facing SIGS broader application. Here we show that Escherichia coli-derived anucleated minicells can be utilized as a cost-effective, scalable platform for dsRNA production and encapsulation. We demonstrated that minicell-encapsulated dsRNA (ME-dsRNA) was shielded from RNase degradation and stabilized on strawberry surfaces, allowing dsRNA persistence in field-like conditions. ME-dsRNAs targeting chitin synthase class III (Chs3a, Chs3b) and DICER-like proteins (DCL1 and DCL2) genes of Botryotinia fuckeliana selectively knocked-down the target genes and led to significant fungal growth inhibition in vitro. We also observed a compensatory relationship between DCL1 and DCL2 gene transcripts, where the silencing of one gene upregulated the expression of the other. Contrary to naked-dsRNAs, ME-dsRNAs halted disease progression in strawberries for 12 days under greenhouse conditions. These results elucidate the potential of ME-dsRNAs to enable the commercial application of RNAi-based, species-specific biocontrols comparable in efficacy to conventional synthetics. ME-dsRNAs offer a platform that can readily be translated to large-scale production and deployed in open-field applications to control grey mould in strawberries.

Ethylene-Mediated Modulation of Bud Phenology, Cold Hardiness, and Hormone Biosynthesis in Peach (Prunus persica)

Spring frosts exacerbated by global climate change have become a constant threat to temperate fruit production. Delaying the bloom date by plant growth regulators (PGRs) has been proposed as a practical frost avoidance strategy. Ethephon is an ethylene-releasing PGR found to delay bloom in several fruit species, yet its use is often coupled with harmful effects, limiting its applicability in commercial tree fruit production. Little information is available regarding the mechanisms by which ethephon influences blooming and bud dormancy. This study investigated the effects of fall-applied ethephon on bud phenology, cold hardiness, and hormonal balance throughout the bud dormancy cycle in peach. Our findings concluded that ethephon could alter several significant aspects of peach bud physiology, including accelerated leaf fall, extended chilling accumulation period, increased heat requirements, improved cold hardiness, and delayed bloom date. Ethephon effects on these traits were primarily dependent on its concentration and application timing, with a high concentration (500 ppm) and an early application timing (10% leaf fall) being the most effective. Endogenous ethylene levels were induced significantly in the buds when ethephon was applied at 10% versus 90% leaf fall, indicating that leaves are essential for ethephon uptake. The hormonal analysis of buds at regular intervals of chilling hours (CH) and growing degree hours (GDH) also indicated that ethephon might exert its effects through an abscisic acid (ABA)-independent way in dormant buds. Instead, our data signifies the role of jasmonic acid (JA) in mediating budburst and bloom in peach, which also appears to be influenced by ethephon treatment. Overall, this research presents a new perspective in interpreting horticultural traits in the light of biochemical and molecular data and sheds light on the potential role of JA in bud dormancy, which deserves further attention in future studies that aim at mitigating spring frosts.

COVID-19 Rehabilitation Response in Bangladesh: Ongoing Efforts and Future Directives

COVID-19 pandemic brings significant number of post-acute and chronic disabilities requiring attention to Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) services. Total Health and Rehabilitation sector in Bangladesh is overwhelmed; patient care and academic activities are seriously impacted by this pandemic. Rehabilitation team works and academic calendar is disrupted. Bangladesh PMR working to manage COVID-19 imposed rehabilitation challenges with adjustment and adaptations of the existing facilities. There is an urgent need to undertake additional measures promptly, including rehabilitation capacity building anticipating the potential challenge that would be faced by the hospitals in the estimated upsurge of COVID-19 cases and its complications thereafter. This topic highlights the activity log for COVID-19 preparedness and mitigation for rehabilitation services in Bangladesh with a message for other rehabilitation settings in the world.

RNAi-Based Biofungicides as a Promising Next-Generation Strategy for Controlling Devastating Gray Mold Diseases

Botrytis cinerea is one of the most critical agro-economic phytopathogens and has been reported to cause gray mold disease in more than 1000 plant species. Meanwhile, small interfering RNA (siRNA), which induce RNA interference (RNAi), are involved in both host immunity and pathogen virulence. B. cinerea has been reported to use both siRNA effectors and host RNAi machinery to facilitate the progression of gray mold in host species. Accordingly, RNAi-based biofungicides that use double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) to target essential fungal genes are considered an emerging approach for controlling devastating gray mold diseases. Furthermore, spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS), in which the foliar application of dsRNA is used to silence the pathogen virulence genes, holds great potential as an alternative to host-induced gene silencing (HIGS). Recently, SIGS approaches have attracted research interest, owing to their ability to mitigate both pre- and post-harvest B. cinerea infections. The RNAi-mediated regulation of host immunity and susceptibility in B. cinerea–host interactions are summarized in this review, along with the limitations of the current knowledge of RNAi-based biofungicides, especially regarding SIGS approaches for controlling gray mold diseases under field conditions.

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease: Correlation between Computed Radiography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging

The purpose of this study is to diagnose Legg-Calve-Perthes disease by computed radiography and Magnetic resonance imaging and accurate staging and correlating the findings of these two modalities. Thirty five (35) patients complaining pain in groins and painful walking, after thorough physical examinations were sent to Department of Radiology & Imaging, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh for computed radiography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging examination. This cross sectional study was conducted in the Department of Radiology, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from July 2016 to June 2018. Legg-Calve-Perthes disease among the selected 35 cases were started at the age of 5(2.9%) and age range of the patients were 5-13 years; mean age was (9.63±1.82) years and most of them belonged to 8-10 years of age (51.4%). Patients with Legg-Calve-Perthes disease had been suffering from pain in right and left groins forvarious durations. Maximum duration was 1-2 years (~88.57%). Maximum proportion of diagnosed patients was delivered by normal delivery (60%) and maximum proportion of patients was premature (65.7%). Most of the patients were low birth weight baby (65.7%). Here chi-square test was done and found no significant relationship between delivery mode and birth weight in case of Legg-Calve-Perthesdisease (x²=1.712) (P=0.191). The result of the X-ray and MRI findings by cross table of chi square test found fair inter relationship between two diagnostic instruments. Result found fine difference in staging of the disease between X-ray and MRI findings. It can be said that MRI definitely a better tool for early diagnosis of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease and its staging but X-ray modality can be used. A primary tool for diagnosis and staging of the disease can be done where the MRI facility is not available or cost expensive for patient.

Thermal gradient driven domain wall dynamics

The issue of whether a thermal gradient acts like a magnetic field or an electric current in the domain wall (DW) dynamics is investigated. Broadly speaking, magnetization control knobs can be classified as energy-driving or angular-momentum driving forces. DW propagation driven by a static magnetic field is the best known example of the former in which the DW speed is proportional to the energy dissipation rate, and the current-driven DW motion is an example of the latter. Here we show that DW propagation speed driven by a thermal gradient can be fully explained as the angular momentum transfer between thermally generated spin current and DW. We found DW-plane rotation speed increases as DW width decreases. Both DW propagation speed along the wire and DW-plane rotation speed around the wire decrease with the Gilbert damping. These facts are consistent with the angular momentum transfer mechanism, but are distinct from the energy dissipation mechanism. We further show that magnonic spin-transfer torque (STT) generated by a thermal gradient has both damping-like and field-like components. By analyzing DW propagation speed and DW-plane rotational speed, the coefficient ([Formula: see text]) of the field-like STT arising from the non-adiabatic process, is obtained. It is found that [Formula: see text] does not depend on the thermal gradient; increases with uniaxial anisotropy [Formula: see text] (thinner DW); and decreases with the damping, in agreement with the physical picture that a larger damping or a thicker DW leads to a better alignment between the spin-current polarization and the local magnetization, or a better adiabaticity.

A Low Cost and Portable Microwave Imaging System for Breast Tumor Detection Using UWB Directional Antenna array

Globally, breast cancer is a major reason for female mortality. Due to the limitations of current clinical imaging, the researchers are encouraged to explore alternative and complementary tools to available techniques to detect the breast tumor in an earlier stage. This article outlines a new, portable, and low-cost microwave imaging (MWI) system using an iterative enhancing technique for breast imaging. A compact side slotted tapered slot antenna is designed for microwave imaging. The radiating fins of tapered slot antenna are modified by etching nine rectangular side slots. The irregular slots on the radiating fins enhance the electrical length as well as produce strong directive radiation due to the suppression of induced surface currents that radiate vertically at the outer edges of the radiating arms with end-fire direction. It has remarkable effects on efficiency and gain. With the addition of slots, the side-lobe levels are reduced, the gain of the main-lobe is increased and corrects the squint effects simultaneously, thus improving the characteristics of the radiation. For experimental validation, a heterogeneous breast phantom was developed that contains dielectric properties identical to real breast tissues with the inclusion of tumors. An alternative PC controlled and microcontroller-based mechanical MWI system is designed and developed to collect the antenna scattering signal. The radiated backscattered signals from the targeted area of the human body are analyzed to reveal the changes in dielectric properties in tissues. The dielectric constants of tumorous cells are higher than that of normal tissues due to their higher water content. The remarkable deviation of the scattered field is processed by using newly proposed Iteratively Corrected Delay and Sum (IC-DAS) algorithm and the reconstruction of the image of the phantom interior is done. The developed UWB (Ultra-Wideband) antenna based MWI has been able to perform the detection of tumorous cells in breast phantom that can pave the way to saving lives.

Hormonal regulations in soluble and cell-wall bound phenolic accumulation in two cultivars of Brassica napus contrasting susceptibility to Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris

Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc)- responsive soluble and cell wall-bound hydroxycinnamic acids (HAs) and flavonoids accumulation in relation to hormonal changes in two Brassica napus cultivars contrasting disease susceptibility were interpreted with regard to the disease resistance. At 14-day post inoculation with Xcc, disease resistance in cv. Capitol was distinguished by an accumulation of specific (HAs) and flavonoids particularly in cell-wall bound form, and was characterized by higher endogenous jasmonic acid (JA) resulting in a decrease of JA-based balance with other hormones, as well as enhanced expression of JA signaling that was concurrently based on upregulation of PAP1 (production of anthocyanin pigment 1), MYB transcription factor, and phenylpropanoid biosynthetic genes. Fourier transform infrared spectra confirmed higher amounts of esterified phenolic acids in cv. Capitol. These results indicate that enhanced JA levels and signaling in resistant cultivar was associated with a higher accumulation of HAs and flavonoids, particularly in the cell wall-bound form, and vice versa in the susceptible cultivar (cv. Mosa) with enhanced SA-, ABA-, and CK- levels and signaling. Thus the JA-mediated phenolic metabolites accumulation is an important feature for the management and breeding program to develop disease-resistant B. napus cultivar.

Characterization of p-Coumaric acid-induced soluble and cell wall-bound phenolic metabolites in relation to disease resistance to Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris in Chinese cabbage

To characterize the p-coumaric acid (pCA)-induced phenolic metabolites in relation to the disease resistance against Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc.), the responses of soluble- and cell wall-bound flavonoid and hydroxycinnamic acids compounds to the pretreatment of pCA or the inhibitor of the 4-coumarate-CoA ligase, 3,4-(methylenedioxy) cinnamic acid (MDCA), following Xcc inoculation were assessed, and the resulting data were interpreted with regard to susceptibility to Xcc in Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa var. pekinensis). At 12 days post-inoculation (DPI) with Xcc, disease symptom development could be distinguished by necrotic lesions, and characterized by an enhanced lipid peroxidation. Overall, pCA acts as a positive stimulus for an accumulation of hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonoids, while MDCA acts as a negative regulator. Pretreatment with pCA resulted in an accumulation of specific hydroxycinnamic acids, pCA, ferulic acid (FA), and sinapic acid (SiA) in both soluble and cell wall-bound forms in Xcc-inoculated leaves, while MDCA pretreatment decreased accumulation in a dose-dependent manner. Two flavonoid compounds, epigallocatechin (EGC) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), showed a similar response to pCA and MDCA pretreatments. These results indicate that a lower disease symptom development in pCA-pretreated leaves was associated with a higher accumulation of hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonoids, and vice-versa in MDCA- and non-pretreated (control) leaves.

Transcriptome analysis, using RNA-Seq of Lomandra longifolia roots infected with Phytophthora cinnamomi reveals the complexity of the resistance response

The plant pathogen Phytophthora cinnamon the causal agent of disease in numerous species, is a major threat to natural vegetation and has economic impacts in agriculture. The pathogen principally invades the root system, which, in susceptible species, is rapidly colonised and functionally destroyed. Few species are resistant, however, where resistance is expressed the pathogen is restricted to small, localised lesions. The molecular mechanisms that underpin this response in resistant species are not well understood. Lomandra longifolia, an Australian native species, is highly resistant to P. cinnamomi. In an earlier study, we showed induction of resistance-related components such as callose, lignin and hydrogen peroxide (H₂ O₂ ) in L. longifolia roots that had been inoculated with P. cinnamomi. Here, in order to further identify, during the very early stages of infection, the molecular components and regulatory networks that may trigger resistance, a comprehensive root transcriptome analysis was performed using next generation sequencing. Overall, 18 cDNA libraries were produced generating 52.8 GB 126 base pair reads, which were de novo assembled into contigs. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified allowing the identification of infection-responsive candidate genes that were putatively related to resistance, and from this set ten were selected for qRT-PCR to validate the RNA-Seq expression value. Further analysis of individual candidates revealed that many were involved in PAMP-triggered immunity (PTI; pattern recognition receptors, glutathione S-transferase, callose synthases, pathogenesis-related protein-1, mitogen activated protein kinases) and effector-triggered immunity (ETI) (NBS-LRR, signalling genes, transcription factors and anti-pathogenic compound synthase genes). As these candidate genes or mediated components activate different defence signalling systems, they may have potential for investigation of novel approaches to disease control and in transgenic approaches for improvement, in susceptible species, of resistance to P. cinnamomi.

Clinical and Neuro-radiological Presentation of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex in Tertiary Care Centre

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a common neurocutaneous disorder characterized by hamartomatous changes in the lungs, brain, kidneys, skin, heart, and other organs. This retrospective study was done to see the clinical presentation and neuro imaging pattern of TSC in a tertiary care centre of Bangladesh and was conducted at Pediatric Neurology Unit of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh from January 2013 to December 2013. Among total 10 patients male-female ratio was 3:2. Commonest age group was 1-5 year in 50%. Common cutaneous abnormality was facial angiofibroma in 100%. Commonest neurological presentation was epilepsy in100%, ASD in 20% patient. Common renal manifestation was multicystic kidney disease (20%). CT/MRI findings were periventricular calcifications in 70% patients. In this study facial angiofibroma is the most common skin manifestation and epilepsy is the common neurological presentationandperiventricular calcification is the most common neuro-radiological findings in tuberous sclerosis complex.

Incidence of Diabetes Insipidus in Postoperative Period among the Patients Undergoing Pituitary Tumour Surgery

Post operative complications after pituitary tumour surgery vary according to procedure. There are several surgical procedures being done such as transcranial, transsphenoidal microsurgical and transsphenoidal endoscopic approaches. One of the commonest complications is diabetes insipidus (DI). Our main objective was to find out the incidence of diabetes insipidus in post operative period among patients undergoing surgical intervention for pituitary tumour in our institute. The presence of diabetes insipidus in the postoperative period was established by measuring serum Na+ concentration, hourly urine output and urinary specific gravity to find out the incidence of diabetes insipidus in postoperative period in relation to age, gender, tumour diameter, function of tumour (i.e., either hormone secreting or not) and operative procedure used for surgical resection of pituitary tumor. As it is the most common postoperative complication so, in this study we tried to find out how many of the patients develop diabetes insipidus in postoperative period following surgical resection of pituitary tumour. This cross sectional type of observational study was carried out in the department of Neurosurgery, BSMMU from May 2014 to October 2015 on 33 consecutive patients who underwent surgical intervention for pituitary tumour for the first time. Data was collected by using a data collection sheet. The incidence of diabetes insipidus was found 23.1% of patients in <30 year age group, 38.5% of patients in 31-40 year age group and 38.5% of patients in ≥40 year age group (p=0.764). In case of distribution of patients according to gender 38.5% of male and 61.5% of female developed diabetes insipidus (p=0.073). Regarding tumour size 30.8% and 69.2% of patients developed diabetes insipidus having tumour diameter <30mm and ≥30mm respectively (p=0.590). In case of operative procedure 69.2% of patients developed diabetes insipidus who was operated by transsphenoidal endoscopic approach, 23.1% and 7.7% of patients developed diabetes insipidus who underwent pituitary tumour resection through transsphenoidal microscopic approach and transcranial microscopic approach respectively (p=0.432). 17.6% of patients develop DI having functioning pituitary macroadenoma and 62.5% of patients develop DI having nonfunctioning pituitary macroadenoma. This observational study has been performed to find out the incidence of diabetes insipidus. Incidence of postoperative DI is more at or around the age of 40 years. It is slightly predominant in female. Most of the patients manifest DI in the first 24 hours of surgical intervention. Incidence of DI is low among patients having functioning pituitary macroadenoma.

Acinar Cell Carcinoma of the Pancreas: A Case Report

Acinar cell carcinoma (ACC) of the pancreas is a very rare neoplasm. We report a case of pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma involving the uncinate process of the pancreas. A 45 year old man presented with a painful upper abdominal mass without any jaundice or weight loss. Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Cholangio-Pancreatography (MRCP) indicated a mass lesion in the uncinate process of the pancreas. He underwent Whipple's procedure (Pancreaticoduodenectomy). Histological slides revealed features of Acinar cell carcinoma (ACC) in the uncinate process of the pancreas and a lymph node.

Methods and methodology for FTIR spectral correction of channel spectra and uncertainty, applied to ferrocene

We present methodology for the first FTIR measurements of ferrocene using dilute wax solutions for dispersion and to preserve non-crystallinity; a new method for removal of channel spectra interference for high quality data; and a consistent approach for the robust estimation of a defined uncertainty for advanced structural χ_r² analysis and mathematical hypothesis testing. While some of these issues have been investigated previously, the combination of novel approaches gives markedly improved results. Methods for addressing these in the presence of a modest signal and how to quantify the quality of the data irrespective of preprocessing for subsequent hypothesis testing are applied to the FTIR spectra of Ferrocene (Fc) and deuterated ferrocene (dFc, Fc-d₁₀) collected at the THz/Far-IR beam-line of the Australian Synchrotron at operating temperatures of 7K through 353K.

Conformation Analysis of Ferrocene and Decamethylferrocene via Full-Potential Modeling of XANES and XAFS Spectra

Recent high-accuracy X-ray absorption measurements of the sandwich organometallics ferrocene (Fc) and decamethylferrocene (DmFc) at temperatures close to liquid helium are compared with new full-potential modeling of X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) covering the near-edge region (XANES) and above up to k = 7 Å(-1). The implementation of optimized calculations of the oscillatory part of the spectrum from the package FDMX allows detailed study of the spectra in regions of the photoelectron momentum most sensitive to differences in the molecular stereochemistry. For Fc and DmFc, this corresponds to the relative rotation of the cyclopentadienyl rings. When applied to high-accuracy XAFS of Fc and DmFc, the FDMX theory gives clear evidence for the eclipsed conformation for Fc and the staggered conformation for DmFc for frozen solutions at ca. 15 K. This represents the first clear experimental assignment of the solution structures of Fc and DmFc and reveals the potential of high-accuracy XAFS for structural analysis.

Field Performance Evaluation of Push Type Prilled Urea Applicator in Rice Cultivation

CORRECTION: Due to a number of formatting and layout issues, the PDF of this paper was replaced on 10th October 2016. The page numbers of this article have changed from 68-78 to 71-81.BRRI prilled urea applicator was designed and developed to facilitate deep placement of regular urea. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the performance of BRRI prilled urea applicator in the farmers’ fields at Gosaidanga in Shailkupaupazila under Jhenaidah district and at Rashidpur in Mithapukurupazila under Rangpur district during Boro 2015 season. Three treatments: hand broadcasting of urea (recommended dose) (HB), BRRI prilled urea applicator (70% of the recommended dose) (PUA) and BRRI USG applicator (70% of the recommended dose) (USGA) were compared in the experiments. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) and replicated in four farmers’ plots in each location using BRRI dhan28 as test crop both the locations. Prior to field experiment, prilled urea applicator was calibrated and urea dispensed was set to 14 gm in one revolution of drive wheel for Boro season. The field capacity of the PUA and USGA was almost similar (0.09-0.10 ha hr-1) in both the locations. Field efficiency of PUA and USGA had 64-65 and 68-69 percent, respectively. PUA and USGA saved 29-32 percent urea fertilizer compared to HB whereas labour requirement of HB (3.74-4.04 man-hr ha-1) in three splits showed similar to single application of urea by PUA (3.68-4.00 man-hr ha-1) and USGA (3.78-3.97 man-hr ha-1). Urea application cost in HB, PUA and USGA was Tk 4,624, 3,216-3,424 and 3,305-3,483 per hectare in both the locations. Prilled urea application method reduced the production cost. Urea application methods showed insignificant effect on grain yield. BRRI prilled urea safely dispensed urea fertilizer in subsurface, increased the efficacy of urea fertilizer and saved urea fertilizer without sacrificing grain yield. BRRI prilled urea applicator could be a viable technology in rice cultivation. Extensive dissemination works should be undertaken in different agro-ecological zones for wide spread adoption of the applicator.Bangladesh Rice j. 2015, 19(2): 71-81

A Community study of obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) in middle-aged Bangladeshi population

Obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is the occurrence of repetitive episodes of complete or partial upper airway obstruction during sleep in association with loud snoring and daytime sleepiness and is a risk factor for hypertension, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases and more. The present study was performed to assess the prevalence as well as the clinical and anthropometric predictors of OSAHS in an urban community of middle aged Bangladeshi population. The study was a cross-sectional, community-based prevalence study which was performed in an urban community in Dhanmondi Thana Pourashava of Dhaka city from July 2007 to June 2008. About 2500 citizens, aged 30-60 years were included in the study. In stage one of the study, they were informed about the polysomnography (PSG) study (stage two of the study) and 2250 of them gave consent. Subjects were then divided into habitual (495) and non-habitual snorers (1755). Among 2250 subjects, the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea (OSAH) in habitual snorers was 48.33% (239/495), and that in non-habitual snorers was 1.66% (29/1755). So, the overall prevalence of OSAH in the screened population was 11.91%, and that of OSAHS was 3.29%. Likewise, the prevalence of OSAH and OSAHS in men were 17.37% and 4.49%, respectively and 6.25% and 2.14% in women. Multivariate analysis revealed that male gender, age, obesity (defined by a high body mass index), waist/hip ratio were significant risk factors for OSAHS. These findings can help us in identifying the prevalence of OSAHS in the community and further planning in the management of obesity and cardiovascular diseases.

Serum Glucose Level in First and Third Trimester of Pregnancy

In the present study serum glucose were estimated in pregnant women during the first trimester of pregnancy and third trimester of pregnancy to observe the frequency of hyperglycemia during pregnancy and to assess the incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus. This study was a cross sectional study, carried out in the Department of Physiology of Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh from July 2014 to June 2015. For this purpose, total 300 women with age ranged from 18 to 35 years were selected and divided into 100 healthy non pregnant women as control group and 200 normal pregnant women as study group. Study group was further divided into 100 pregnant women in first trimester of pregnancy and 100 pregnant women in third trimester of pregnancy. Diagnosed case of type I and type II diabetes, hypothyroidism, cushing's syndrome, polycystic ovary, antipsychotic drug users, regular steroid users were excluded from this study. Serum glucose was evaluated by the glucose-oxidase principle by GOD-PAP method in women with 1st trimester of pregnancy, 3rd trimester of pregnancy and in non pregnant women. Statistical analysis of data was done by unpaired student's t test. The results showed that the serum glucose levels increased significantly in third trimester and the value is not significant in first trimester. The increasing frequency of serum glucose level in third trimester may predispose the women to hyperglycemia of pregnancy or gestational diabetes mellitus.

SUBCLINICAL MASTITIS IN LACTATING COWS: COMPARISON OF FOUR SCREENING TESTS AND EFFECT OF ANIMAL FACTORS ON ITS OCCURRENCE

A total of 444 quarter milk samples from 111 crossbred dairy cows were subjected to California mastitis test (CMT), somatic cell count (SCC) test, white side test (WST) and surf field mastitis (SFMT) test to quantify their efficacy in detecting sub clinical mastitis in dairy cows of Bangladesh during the period from 2010 to 2011.Milk samples positive by CMT, SCC, WST and SFMT were 265,230, 225 and 222 respectively. All samples were subjected to cultural isolation (gold standard test for comparison of indirect mastitis tests). Of these, 261 samples were positive by cultural isolation. The sensitivity of the CMT, SCC, WST and SFMT were 80.08%, 86.60%, 60.54% and 57.47%; specificity 69.40%, 97.81%, 63.38% and 60.66%; percentage accuracy 75.68%,91.22%, 61.71%  and 58.78%; positive predictive value 78.87%, 98.26%, 70.22% and 67.57%; and negative predictive value 70.95%, 83.64%, 52.97% and 50%respectively. Quarter-wise sub clinical mastitis (SCM) was detected in 59.68%, 51.80%, 50.68% and 50% samples by CMT, SCC, WST and SFMT, respectively, while animal-wise SCM was recorded in 72.07%, 66.67%, 64.86% and 61.26% samples by CMT, SCC, WST and SFMT, respectively. The right hind quarters were most significantly (p<0.001) susceptible to SCM than other quarters. Cows with 3rd and 4th parity and at their early lactation stage had significantly higher (p<0.001) SCM than others. Kappa value of SCC was higher than that of CMT. CMT was concluded to be the most accurate test after cultural isolation and SCC. Unlike laboratory tests as cultural isolation and SCC that require adequate laboratory facilities and skilled personnel, CMT is a reliable diagnostic method in field conditions.

Total Serum IgE Level Estimation in Asthma Patient and Healthy Volunteers in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Bangladesh

A strong association between total serum Immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels, skin test reactivity to aeroallergens, and asthma phenotype was found in previous studies. The current study has been undertaken to observe the total serum IgE level in asthmatic patients compared with normal healthy volunteers (control) of Bangladeshi subjects and to see its prospect in diagnostic aid. This case-control study was carried out in the department of Respiratory Medicine of National Institute of Diseases of the Chest and Hospital (NIDCH), Dhaka during the period from July 2008 to June 2009. Four hundred & eight (408) cases (asthmatics matching age, sex and geographic location) and 478 controls (non-asthmatics matching age, sex and geographic location) were studied. The level of serum IgE was found more in asthma patients than control group which were 345.88 and 224.64 respectively (p<0.001). In both group, serum IgE level was more in male than female. There was wide variation in serum IgE level in both the asthma and control group (4.2 to 3471.0 iu/ml in asthma group and 1.2 to 1045.7 iu/ml in control). Considerable overlap has been observed between the IgE values of control and asthma group. Due to this overlap its diagnostic significance in allergic condition in Bangladeshi population seems to be limited.

Status of Serum Zinc in Multidrug Resistant Tuberculosis

Zinc plays a vital role in the immune status. Its deficiency affects host defense by reducing the number of circulating T cells and phagocytosis activity of other cells which ultimately impair cell mediated immunity. The cell-mediated immunity plays a major role in the causation of pulmonary tuberculosis. The present study was carried out to estimate serum zinc level in newly detected multidrug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in adult population. In this study total fifty (50) MDR-TB patients were enrolled conveniently from the in-patients departments of National Institute of Diseases of the Chest Hospital (NIDCH), Bangladesh. Serum zinc was estimated by atomic absorption spectrophotometry method from early morning fasting blood sample. Serum zinc level was assessed according to normal cut-off value 70-120 μgm/dl and 76% studied population were found lower than this value. The mean±SD serum zinc level was observed 60.40±8.91 μgm/dl. No associations were found between serum zinc level with age (p=0.11) and with sex (p=0.085) of the study population respectively. The low level of serum zinc in MDR-TB patients suggested impaired immune status of our study population.

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.

Blood Pressure in Third Trimester of Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a great stressful physiological condition in women during their reproductive period. During pregnancy several hemodynamic, biochemical and hematological modifications occur as a part of the physiological adaptation of the body. Changes in blood pressure occur in third trimester of pregnancy, which may be associated with increased maternal and infant mortality and morbidity. This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Physiology, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh, from July 2013 to June 2014. Study subjects were selected by following purposive sampling procedure and the protocol of this study was approved by Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC) of Mymensingh. This study enrolled 100 pregnant women of third trimester of pregnancy and 100 aged matched non-pregnant women from Mymensingh district. Mean systolic blood pressure in study group were 124.8±14.51 mm of Hg and in control group were 106.50±10.67 mm of Hg, which was statistically increased. Diastolic blood pressure in study group was 83.00±13.37 mm of Hg and in control group 71.05±7.12 mm of Hg, which was also statistically significant. The changes in blood pressure in third trimester of pregnancy is the major concern of developing the risk of pre-eclampsia & eclampsia, and increased prevalence of IUGR, pre-maturity and perinatal mortality. This study reveals significant changes of blood pressure during third trimester of pregnancy.

Biomass Fuel Smoke and Tuberculosis: A Case-Control Study

This case control study was done to ascertain the association between exposures to biomass cooking fuel smoke and pulmonary tuberculosis. Cases were all newly diagnosed pulmonary tuberculosis patients, randomly collected from the Hospital (DOTS centers) Registry from January 2012 to June 2012 from two Upazillas of Sirajganj district, Bangladesh. A home visitation program was done subsequently. Healthy controls were recruited from the neighbourhood of each case through a predefined procedure. Total 276 new pulmonary tuberculosis cases and 276 neighbourhood controls were enrolled. A semi-structured questionnaire containing demographic information, smoking habits, cooking place, kitchen condition, use of biomass fuel for cooking was used for interview. Crude (unadjusted) odd ratios and their corresponding 95% confidence limits for independent variables were determined by binary logistic regression. All significant variables were entered into a multivariate conditional logistic regression model and a final fitted model was determined by backward elimination methods. In univariate analysis, member of a nuclear family {Unadjusted odd ratio (Unadj. OR) 1.570, 95% CI 1.008-2.44)}, having non-formal education (Unadj. OR 2.739, 95% CI 1.219, 6.153) or primary (Unadj. OR 3.407, 95% CI 1.492, 7.782) to secondary level (Unadj. OR 2.392, 95% CI 1.032, 5.544) education, using cow dung (Unadj. OR 3.961, 95% CI 1.267, 12.376) and biomass fuel i.e. plant origin (Unadj. OR 3.382, 95% CI 1.087, 10.518) for cooking, past smoker (Unadj. OR 2.504, 95% CI 1.061, 5.910), using open oven (Unadj. OR 3.109, 95% CI 0.995, 9.716), having small kitchen area (Unadj. OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.989, 0.999) all were significantly associated with tuberculosis. When all significant variables were entered into a multivariate conditional logistic regression model nuclear family {Adjusted odd ratio (Adj OR) 1.808, 95% CI 1.127, 2.9)}, primary level education (Adj OR 2.86, 95% CI 1.23, 6.647) and non formal education (Adj OR 2.312, 95% CI 1.013, 5.276), biomass fuel (plant origin, Adj OR 3.497, 95% CI 1.059, 11.55), and cow dung (Adj OR 4.368, 95% CI 1.319, 14.464)) used in cooking and irregular smoker (who stop smoking at least 6 month back) (Adj OR 2.806, 95% CI 1.141, 6.901) were significantly associated with tuberculosis cases. From this study significant association have been found between exposure to combustion of biomass cooking fuel and tuberculosis.

Setting research priorities to improve global newborn health and prevent stillbirths by 2025

Background

In 2013, an estimated 2.8 million newborns died and 2.7 million were stillborn. A much greater number suffer from long term impairment associated with preterm birth, intrauterine growth restriction, congenital anomalies, and perinatal or infectious causes. With the approaching deadline for the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in 2015, there was a need to set the new research priorities on newborns and stillbirth with a focus not only on survival but also on health, growth and development. We therefore carried out a systematic exercise to set newborn health research priorities for 2013–2025.

Methods

We used adapted Child Health and Nutrition Research Initiative (CHNRI) methods for this prioritization exercise. We identified and approached the 200 most productive researchers and 400 program experts, and 132 of them submitted research questions online. These were collated into a set of 205 research questions, sent for scoring to the 600 identified experts, and were assessed and scored by 91 experts.

Results

Nine out of top ten identified priorities were in the domain of research on improving delivery of known interventions, with simplified neonatal resuscitation program and clinical algorithms and improved skills of community health workers leading the list. The top 10 priorities in the domain of development were led by ideas on improved Kangaroo Mother Care at community level, how to improve the accuracy of diagnosis by community health workers, and perinatal audits. The 10 leading priorities for discovery research focused on stable surfactant with novel modes of administration for preterm babies, ability to diagnose fetal distress and novel tocolytic agents to delay or stop preterm labour.

Conclusion

These findings will assist both donors and researchers in supporting and conducting research to close the knowledge gaps for reducing neonatal mortality, morbidity and long term impairment. WHO, SNL and other partners will work to generate interest among key national stakeholders, governments, NGOs, and research institutes in these priorities, while encouraging research funders to support them. We will track research funding, relevant requests for proposals and trial registers to monitor if the priorities identified by this exercise are being addressed.

Gender Variation in the Risk Factors with Ischemic Stroke: Bangladesh Perspective

It is suggested in different studies that gender has a great impact on the distribution of risk factors of stroke. This study aims at determining the gender differences in risk factors of acute ischemic stroke among male and female patients. Data extracted for this study were taken from a case control study which was carried out in the departments of Neurology and Medicine of Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) and Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital (ShSMCH) Dhaka from July 2009 to June 2011. We collected data of 125 patients with ischemic stroke and 129 healthy controls from the primary source. All secondary data were divided on the basis of gender. Among all male respondents 70 stroke patients were considered as case and 72 healthy respondents were considered as control and in female group 55 were stroke patients (case) and 57 were healthy control. Risk factors of stroke for male and female were evaluated separately. After multivariate analysis ever smoking (both present and ex smoker) (adj. OR 3.799, 95% CI 1.416, 10.19), diabetes mellitus (adj. OR 5.687, 95% CI 1.99, 16.26), hypertension (adj. OR 18.53, 95% CI 6.43, 53.4) and total cholesterol (adj. OR 1.017, 95% CI 1.01, 1.03) were found significant predictors for stroke in male whereas diabetes mellitus (adj. OR 6.989, 95% CI 1.54, 31.64), hypertension (adj. OR 17.85, 95% CI 5.1, 62.38), serum low density lipoprotein (LDL) (adj. OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.013, 1.07) and serum triglyceride (TG) (adj. OR 1.012, 95% CI 1.004, 1.02) were found significant in female. Besides taking the controlling measure for hypertension and diabetes mellitus, life style modification is an important factor to prevent stroke in both sexes.

Current status of subclinical form of babesiosis and anaplasmosis in cattle at Rangpur district in Bangladesh

Babesiosis and anaplasmosis are important tick borne diseases and they are responsible for significant economic losses for livestock industry worldwide. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in randomly selected 400 cattle at two upazilas of Rangpur district in Bangladesh, to estimate the prevalence and identify the risk factors of Babesia and Anaplasma infections. Microscopic examination of Giemsa’s stained blood films was carried out for the tentative diagnosis of infections. Multiplex PCR was also performed to confirm microscopically positive samples. To identify the risk factors, odds ratio and 95% confidence interval were calculated. The overall prevalence of Babesia and Anaplasma infections were 1.5% and 3.5%, respectively. The prevalence of Babesia infections recorded in Gangachara and Pirgachaupazilas were 1.3% and 1.7%, respectively while it was 3.8% and 3.3%, respectively for Anaplasma infection. Insignificantly higher prevalence of both infections was recorded in crossbred cattle than those of indigenous cattle. Female cattle had insignificantly higher infection (3.8%) with Anaplasma than the male cattle (2.3%) while no infection with Babesia was found in any male cattle. None of the calves (?1 yr) had infection with either organism. However, infection with both organisms was more prevalent in young cattle (>1-2.5 yr) than those of adult cattle (>2.5 yr). The availability of blood sucking ticks was one of the potential risk factors for both infections (OR = 6-7). Age (>1-2.5 yr) was identified as another important risk factor which had significant association with the occurrence of Anaplasma infection (OR = 4.36). The information generated from this study could be useful as basic information for further advanced epidemiological study and formulation of control measures of the tick borne diseases.Progressive Agriculture 26:51-59, 2015

Structure determination from XAFS using high-accuracy measurements of x-ray mass attenuation coefficients of silver, 11 keV-28 keV, and development of an all-energies approach to local dynamical analysis of bond length, revealing variation of effective thermal contributions across the XAFS spectrum

We use the x-ray extended range technique (XERT) to experimentally determine the mass attenuation coefficient of silver in the x-ray energy range 11 kev-28 kev including the silver K absorption edge. The results are accurate to better than 0.1%, permitting critical tests of atomic and solid state theory. This is one of the most accurate demonstrations of cross-platform accuracy in synchrotron studies thus far. We derive the mass absorption coefficients and the imaginary component of the form factor over this range. We apply conventional XAFS analytic techniques, extended to include error propagation and uncertainty, yielding bond lengths accurate to approximately 0.24% and thermal Debye-Waller parameters accurate to 30%. We then introduce the FDMX technique for accurate analysis of such data across the full XAFS spectrum, built on full-potential theory, yielding a bond length accuracy of order 0.1% and the demonstration that a single Debye parameter is inadequate and inconsistent across the XAFS range. Two effective Debye-Waller parameters are determined: a high-energy value based on the highly-correlated motion of bonded atoms (σ(DW) = 0.1413(21) Å), and an uncorrelated bulk value (σ(DW) = 0.1766(9) Å) in good agreement with that derived from (room-temperature) crystallography.

Study on Serum Albumin in Third Trimester of Pregnancy

Various hormones can cause marked changes in pregnant woman's appearance. Decreased level of serum albumin occurs in third trimester of pregnancy, which may be associated with increased maternal and infant mortality and morbidity. So, this study was carried out to evaluate and assess the level of serum albumin in third trimester of pregnancy. This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Physiology Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh. This study enrolled 100 pregnant women of third trimester of pregnancy and 100 aged matched non-pregnant women from Mymensingh district. In this study serum albumin level in study group were 33.41 ± 4.62gm/l and in control group were 37.09 ± 4.21 gm/l, which was statistically decreased. The lower level of serum albumin in third trimester of pregnancy is the major concern of development of physiological edema during pregnancy and may be associated with pre-eclampsia.

Pathogenic and Drug Resistant Bacteria in Raw Milk of Jessore City: A Potential Food Safety Threat

Milk is such a food which can meet almost all nutritional needs of human lives. Raw or unprocessed milk supports the growth of wide variety of microorganisms. The major interests of this study were examining the microbial quality of raw milk collected from different locations of Jessore city in Bangladesh and determining antibiotic susceptibility pattern of some isolated bacteria. To do so, 12 raw milk samples were collected from different areas of Jessore city. Microbial analysis comprised of enumeration of TVC (total viable count), TCC (total coliform count) and TSC (total staphylococcal count). The highest TVC, TCC and TSC were 1.95x109 CFU/ml, 2.5x107 CFU/ml and 1.02x107 CFU/ml respectively. Prevalent bacterial populations were Klebsiella spp., Enterobacter spp., Shigella spp. Staphylococcus spp., Escherichia coli and Citrobacter spp. In order to observe the antibiotic susceptibility pattern, the antibiotic sensitivity test was performed for some randomly selected isolates of E. coli and Klebsiella spp. More than 90% isolates of Klebsiella spp. were found to be resistant against Erythromycin whereas more than 90% isolates were sensitive against Imipenem. On the other hand, 100% E. coli isolates were observed as resistant against Erythromycin and in case of Trimethopreme 100% isolates were sensitive. Multidrug resistance pattern was also found. These results suggest the necessity of hygienic practices during handling, processing and post-processing of raw milk to improve the microbiological quality and safety of raw milk.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjvm.v13i1.23723Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2015). 13 (1): 71-78

Analysis on the effect of the distances and inclination angles between human head and mobile phone on SAR

The aim of this paper is to investigate the effects of the distances between the human head and internal cellular device antenna on the specific absorption rate (SAR). This paper also analyzes the effects of inclination angles between user head and mobile terminal antenna on SAR values. The effects of the metal-glass casing of mobile phone on the SAR values were observed in the vicinity of the human head model. Moreover, the return losses were investigated in all cases to mark antenna performance. This analysis was performed by adopting finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method on Computer Simulation Technology (CST) Microwave Studio. The results indicate that by increasing the distance between the user head and antenna, SAR values are decreased. But the increase in inclination angle does not reduce SAR values in all cases. Additionally, this investigation provides some useful indication for future design of low SAR mobile terminal antenna.

Prevalence of Subclinical Mastitis in Lactating Cows and Efficacy of Intramammary Infusion Therapy

The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of subclinical mastitis (SCM) in lactating cows of Mymensingh and Lakshmipur sadar upazilas and to evaluate the efficacy of intramammary infusion in subclinical mastitis affected cows. A cross-sectional study was carried out on 78 smallholder dairy farms using a pretested questionnaire to collect data from June 2011 to May 2012. Milk samples from 139 lactating cows were screened for SCM by California Mastitis Test. A total of 72 cows was found positive for SCM and treated with the Neomastipra-JR5® intramammary infusion tube (Hipra, Spain). The overall prevalence of subclinical mastitis in lactating cows was 51.8%, of which 51.4% at Mymensingh sadar and 52.2% at Lakshmipur sadar upazilas. The prevalence of subclinical mastitis was significantly increased with age and parity of cows. In left hind quarter, the prevalence of subclinical mastitis was significantly higher (33.1%) than those of other quarters. The efficacy of intramammary infusion with Neomastipra-JR5® in lactating cows was 66.7%.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjvm.v12i1.20464 Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2014). 12 (1): 55-61 

Ethnomedicinal plants used by the Nag clan of the Rai Ghatual tribe of Moulvibazar district, Bangladesh

Context:

Medicinal practices of the tribes of Bangladesh remain largely un-documented.

Aims:

The aim of the present study was to conduct an ethnomedicinal survey and documentation among the Nag clan of the Rai Ghatual tribe of Bangladesh.

Settings and Design:

The survey was carried out among the Nag clan of the Rai Ghatual tribal community of Moulvibazar district. The clan, according to them, is the only Nag clan of the Rai Ghatual tribe in Bangladesh. The clan has three tribal healers, still continuing their traditional medicinal practices.

Materials and Methods:

Interviews of the healers were carried out with the help of a semi-structured questionnaire and the guided field-walk method.

Results:

The Nag clan healers were observed to use 28 different plant species distributed into 22 families for treatment of ailments such as fever, loss of appetite, male infertility, dysentery, lower abdominal pain during menstruation, jaundice, stomachache, burning sensations during urination, bodily pain and weak health.

Conclusions:

This is the first reported study of the traditional medicinal practices of Nag clan healers. Several of the plants can be validated in their uses on the basis of existing scientific literature. The medicinal plants used by the Nag healers warrant further scientific studies, for the plants are readily available and can form alternative medicinal sources instead of costlier biomedical drugs.

Neurological status of children with congenital heart defects

Congenital heart defect (CHD) is the most common birth defect & a significant cause of childhood morbidity & mortality. Structural brain abnormalities are more common in children with CHD than general population. This study details the cognitive, motor and behavioral development of a child with congenital heart disease who is on medical management. In this retrospective descriptive study, abnormalities in neurobehavioral status of infant & children (6-42 months of age) with CHD, who are on medical management were assessed by a standardized neurobehavioral assessment test, BSID-II. Fifty-eight children were included, who were diagnosed as a case of congenital heart disease & confirmed by Colour Doppler echocardiography in the Paediatric Cardiology Department of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Bangladesh. Mean age of the children was 23±13 months (range, 6 to 42 months); M:F = 1:1.9. Among them 22(37.9%) had cyanotic and 36(62.1%) had acyanotic congenital heart disease. Neurobehavioral and neurologic abnormalities were documented in a significant number of children. BSID-II showed 23(39.7%) had delayed metal development, 24(41.4%) had motor impairment and 16(27.6%) had non-optimal behavioral performance. Interestingly, infant and young children with acyanotic congenital heart defects were more likely to demonstrate severe neurologic compromise than were those with cyanotic defects. Findings of this study suggest that the prevalence of neurobehavioral abnormalities in infants and young children with congenital heart defects has been under predicted & indicates that delay in closure (surgery/device) puts the patient at an increased risk of neuro-developmental insult.

Protection Effect of Vaxxitek HVT + IBD Vaccine Against Infectious Bursal Disease in Broiler Chickens

The very virulent infectious bursal disease virus (vvIBDV) infection cause constant and frequent outbreaks of IBD. In order to prevent the disease caused by vvIBDV, moderate-virulent live vaccines are usually used in broilers, but these vaccine influence the immune system of chickens and cause the immunosuppression. VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD bivalent vaccine, a novel vaccine produced by Merial Company, is the recombinant vaccine generated by inserting IBDV VP2 gene into the HVT genome. The recombinant vaccine could prevent Marek’s disease and IBD of chickens at the same time after vaccinated by the subcutaneous route at 1-day-old. The objective of this study was to evaluate protection effect of this new vaccine against IBD in broilers. The results of the lab and field immunization trial showed that the vaccination of VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD vaccine did not damage the bursa of broilers; the level of IBD antibody of the VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD vaccination groups was higher than IBD-BLEN® vaccination groups at 21-day-old; the protection effect of the VAXXITEK® HVT + IBD vaccination groups was better than IBD-BLEN® vaccination groups, especially at 21-28 day. The results indicated that VAXXITEK® HVT + IBD vaccine could provide better protection to broiler chickens against IBD.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v24i1-2.19102 Progress. Agric. 24(1&2): 69 - 78, 2013

Effects of lumbar corset on the patients with lumbar spondylosis

This experimental study was done in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University to find out the effects of lumbar corset on the patients with lumbar spondylosis. Ninety seven patients were selected in the study. Out of them 40(41.24%) were male and 57(58.76%) were female. The male to female ratio was 1:1.42. The mean age was 41.22 ± 8.52 years. The patients were divided into two groups, 50 patients in group A ( Treated with NSAID, activities of daily living instructions and lumbar corset) and another 47 patients in group B (Treated with NSAID and activities of daily living instructions only ). In both the groups, patients were treated for six weeks and assessed at 7 days interval. Improvement was noticed in both the groups in every visit but there was no difference in improvement between the groups till 4th week of treatment. At the end of treatment group A showed statistically significant difference in overall improvement in comparison to group B. So, from the present study, it may be concluded that lumbar corset is beneficial to the patients with lumbar spondylosis. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmj.v42i2.18987 Bangladesh Med J. 2013 May; 42 (2): 55-59

Effect of Quadriceps Strengthening Exercise on Reduction of Pain in Knee Osteoarthritis

Osleoarthritis is the leading cause of musculoskeletal pain and disability. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and physical modalities like Quadriceps muscle strengthening exercise can be used to treat such cases. This Randomized clinical trial study was done in the department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Sylhet M.A.G Osmani Medical College Hospital Sylhet, lo evaluate the role of quadriceps strengthening exercise in knee osteoarthritis during 1st April 2009 to 3lst October 2009. Sixty patients with knee osteoarthritis were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. They were divided in, group A and group B randomly. Group- A was treated with NSAID (Aceclofenac 100 mg 12hrly) and group-B with NSAID and quadriceps strengthening exercise 10 repetition 3 times daily. Each patient was followed try every week for four weeks. The mean age was 61.067 ± 8.320 years and male female ratio was 1.4:1. Marked improvement was observed in both the groups assessed by pain score (p<0.001), physicians global assessment (p<0.001) and patients global assessment (p<0 001); and was continued throughout the treatment period of 4 weeks; with significantly marked in group A than group B beginning at 1st week of treatment [pain score (p<0.001), physicians global assessment (p<0.040) and patients global assessment (p<0.034)] and was continued at the 4th week of treatment [pain score (p<0.001), physicians global assessment (p<0.001) and patients global assessment (p<0.001)]. The overall difference between the groups from baseline to end point of treatment is significant with group A (exercise plus NSAIDs) experienced a faster pain relief than that of group B (Only NSAID) (p:<0.001). So from the present study, it may be concluded that quadriceps strengthening exercise is useful in reduction of pain in knee osteoarthritis and may be an adjuvant therapy in knee osteoarthritis. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmj.v41i3.18953 Bangladesh Medical Journal 2012 Vol.41(3): 19-22