In-silico formulation of a next-generation polyvalent vaccine against multiple strains of monkeypox virus and other related poxviruses

Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) virus and some related poxviruses including smallpox virus pose a significant threat to public health, and effective prevention and treatment strategies are needed. This study utilized a reverse vaccinology approach to retrieve conserved epitopes for monkeypox virus and construct a vaccine that could provide cross-protection against related viruses with similar antigenic properties. The selected virulent proteins of monkeypox virus, MPXVgp165, and Virion core protein P4a, were subjected to epitope mapping for vaccine construction. Two vaccines were constructed using selected T cell epitopes and B cell epitopes with PADRE and human beta-defensins adjuvants conjugated in the vaccine sequence. Both constructs were found to be highly antigenic, non-allergenic, nontoxic, and soluble, suggesting their potential to generate an adequate immune response and be safe for humans. Vaccine construct 1 was selected for molecular dynamic simulation studies. The simulation studies revealed that the TLR8-vaccine complex was more stable than the TLR3-vaccine complex. The lower RMSD and RMSF values of the TLR8 bound vaccine compared to the TLR3 bound vaccine suggested better stability and consistency of hydrogen bonds. The Rg values of the vaccine chain bound to TLR8 indicated overall stability, whereas the vaccine chain bound to TLR3 showed deviations throughout the simulation. These results suggest that the constructed vaccine could be a potential preventive measure against monkeypox and related viruses however, further experimental validation is required to confirm these findings.

Antifungal plant flavonoids identified in silico with potential to control rice blast disease caused by Magnaporthe oryzae

Rice blast disease, caused by the fungus Magnaporthe oryzae, poses a severe threat to rice production, particularly in Asia where rice is a staple food. Concerns over fungicide resistance and environmental impact have sparked interest in exploring natural fungicides as potential alternatives. This study aimed to identify highly potent natural fungicides against M. oryzae to combat rice blast disease, using advanced molecular dynamics techniques. Four key proteins (CATALASE PEROXIDASES 2, HYBRID PKS-NRPS SYNTHETASE TAS1, MANGANESE LIPOXYGENASE, and PRE-MRNA-SPLICING FACTOR CEF1) involved in M. oryzae's infection process were identified. A list of 30 plant metabolites with documented antifungal properties was compiled for evaluation as potential fungicides. Molecular docking studies revealed that 2-Coumaroylquinic acid, Myricetin, Rosmarinic Acid, and Quercetin exhibited superior binding affinities compared to reference fungicides (Azoxystrobin and Tricyclazole). High throughput molecular dynamics simulations were performed, analyzing parameters like RMSD, RMSF, Rg, SASA, hydrogen bonds, contact analysis, Gibbs free energy, and cluster analysis. The results revealed stable interactions between the selected metabolites and the target proteins, involving important hydrogen bonds and contacts. The SwissADME server analysis indicated that the metabolites possess fungicide properties, making them effective and safe fungicides with low toxicity to the environment and living beings. Additionally, bioactivity assays confirmed their biological activity as nuclear receptor ligands and enzyme inhibitors. Overall, this study offers valuable insights into potential natural fungicides for combating rice blast disease, with 2-Coumaroylquinic acid, Myricetin, Rosmarinic Acid, and Quercetin standing out as promising and environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional fungicides. These findings have significant implications for developing crop protection strategies and enhancing global food security, particularly in rice-dependent regions.

Evaluation of Antimicrobial Efficacy and Clinical Outcomes of Triphala and 2.5% Sodium Hypochlorite as Intraradicular Irrigants in Pulpectomy of Primary Teeth

A natural irrigation solution with a broad spectrum of antimicrobial coverage, triphala was selected for the pulpectomy procedure. Because of its natural ingredients, it is well-known for promoting tissue healing. It also supposedly has certain additional qualities as compared to usual irrigation solutions that are made chemically. Although 2.5% NaOCl is thought to be perfect since it meets most of the requirements for an irrigation solution but it cannot be optimized for pulpectomy procedure. Primary teeth that were recommended for pulpectomy underwent this randomized controlled experiment. Two groups of eighty-four primary teeth were randomly assigned to receive irrigations: triphala in Group A; 2.5% Sodium hypochlorite in Group B. Sample were taken from infected primary root canals. A sterile test tube with bhi broth as the transport media was used to collect pre- and post-irrigation samples using sterile absorbent paper tips. On agar media, microorganisms were cultivated and their mean colony count was assessed. Following the procedure, the patient's follow-up visits at one, two and three months were used to evaluate the clinical result. The post-microbial colony count was dramatically reduced (p<0.001) by both irrigation treatments. Triphala in Group A is demonstrating desirable efficacy. Clinical success was found satisfactory in both the groups studied (p<0.001). But statistically significant difference was not found (p=0.175). Considering undesirable properties of sodium hypochlorite triphala can be a better alternative as a root canal irrigants in pulpectomy of primary teeth.

The Fatal Clinical Outcome of Severe COVID-19 in Hospitalized Patients: Findings from a Prospective Cohort Study in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Background and Objectives: The morbidity and mortality associated with COVID-19 have burdened worldwide healthcare systems beyond their capacities, forcing them to promptly investigate the virus characteristics and its associated outcomes. This clinical analysis aimed to explore the key factors related to the fatal outcome of severe COVID-19 cases. Materials and Methods: Thirty-five adult severe COVID-19 patients were enrolled from two COVID-19 hospitals in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Clinical manifestation, comorbid conditions, medications, SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR related cycle threshold (CT) value, hematology, biochemical parameters with SARS-CoV-2 specific IgG and IgM responses at enrollment were compared between the survivors and deceased participants. Results: Total 27 patients survived and 8 patients died within 3 months of disease onset. Deceased patients suffered longer from shortness of breath than the survived (p = 0.049). Among the severe cases, 62% of the deceased patients had multiple comorbid condition compared to 48% of those who survived. Interestingly, the anti-viral was initiated earlier among the deceased patients [median day of 1 (IQR: 0, 1.5) versus 6.5 (IQR: 6.25, 6.75)]. Most of the survivors (55%) received a combination of anticoagulant (p = 0.034). Liver enzymes, creatinine kinase, and procalcitonin were higher among the deceased patients during enrollment. The median CT value among the deceased was significantly lower than the survivors (p = 0.025). A significant difference for initial IgG (p = 0.013) and IgM (p = 0.030) responses was found between the survivor and the deceased groups. Conclusions: The factors including older age, male gender, early onset of respiratory distress, multiple comorbidities, low CT value, and poor antibody response may contribute to the fatal outcome in severe COVID-19 patients. Early initiation of anti-viral and a combination of anticoagulant treatment may prevent or lower the fatality among severe COVID-19 cases.

Body Mass Index versus Waist Circumference in Predicting Insulin Resistance in Infertile Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Weight management is central to the treatment of infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Both body mass index and waist circumference are measures of obesity. The objective of the study was to examine the clinical importance of waist circumference and body mass index in predicting insulin resistance. The cross-sectional study involved a total of 126 consecutive infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome attending the Infertility unit of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh from January 2017 to December 2017. The anthropometric measurements like weight, height and waist circumference were made and body mass index and waist hip ratio were calculated. Fasting insulin and fasting plasma glucose were estimated in early follicular phase of menstrual cycle. Insulin resistance was calculated with HOMA-IR. Body mass index and waist circumference were examined for clinical prediction of insulin resistance by ROC curve analysis. The mean age was 25.56±3.90 years. Mean body mass index was 26.79±3.25, mean waist circumference was 90.9±9.4cm. By body mass index thresholds, 47.9% of the women were overweight, 39.7% of the women were obese. By waist circumference threshold, 80.2% of the women were centrally obese. Body mass index and waist circumference, both had significant correlation with hyperinsuliaemia. When body mass index and waist circumference were examined for predicting insulin resistance by sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio and negative likelihood ratio, waist circumference appeared to have moderate clinical importance compared to the negligible role of body mass index. Waist circumference may be a better predictor of insulin resistance than body mass index in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

Identification of Variants and Mutational Analyses of Cardiac Myosin-binding Protein C (MYBPC3) Gene of Adult Bangladeshi Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most prevalent genetic hereditary cardiomyopathy characterized by sudden cardiac death. Mutations in the MYBPC3 gene are often the most prevalent genetic abnormality in HCM with a prevalence ranging from 20.0 to 42.0%. The mutation spectrum is available for different countries, but such studies are lacking in the Asian population including Bangladeshi patients. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted for mutation analysis of the whole MYBPC3 gene on a cohort of 75 HCM Bengali Bangladeshi probands through Next Generation Sequencing at the Genetic Research Lab of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University from 2016 to 2019. The structural and functional impact of the mutations was further analyzed by in silico process. We analyzed the data and found 103 variants in 102 locations in the MYBPC3 gene. Variants were identified in both the coding region and the non-coding region. We found one possibly novel variant in the MYBPC3 gene. The findings of this research will help to develop a genetic database of HCM which will help in the early diagnosis and proper management of HCM patients in Bangladesh. One pathogenic splice donor variant (47356592 C >T) was found in the intronic region. Among the variants in the coding region, one missense mutation was pathogenic (NP₋000247.2: p.Asp770Asn) which was found in seven patients and another one is of conflicting interpretations of pathogenicity (NP₋000247.2: p.Ser217Gly) which was found in two patients. We have identified one in-frame deletion (NP₋000247.2: p.Ala433del) that is possible a novel variant responsible for the development of HCM.

Genome Sequences of 23 SARS-CoV-2 Omicron-Lineage Strains from Bangladesh

We announce the coding-complete genome sequences of 23 severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron strains obtained from Bangladeshi individuals. The Oxford Nanopore Technologies sequencing platform was utilized to generate the genomic data, deploying ARTIC Network-based amplicon sequencing.

Short Term Visual and Refractive Outcome following Surgical Intervention for Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO) in Children in a Tertiary Eye Hospital

BACKGROUND

PCO occurs commonly postoperatively following cataract extraction in children, obscuring vision as did the initial cataract. It may require a second surgical procedure when it is dense. It is expected that this results in restoration of vision and it is important to ascertain that this is the case as well as to examine any significant changes in refraction thereafter.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study extracting demographic and clinical information from case notes of patients who had membranectomy and/or capsule polishing between October 2017 and September 2018.

RESULTS

57 eyes of 51 patients were enrolled. There was a 2:1 male: female ratio. Mean age at cataract surgery was 6.33± 3.59years whilst that for PCO surgery was 9.68±3.89years. Postoperative visual acuity (by WHO definition) was good (between 6/6 and 6/18) in 33.3%, compared to 8.8% preoperatively. Whereas presenting visual acuity was poor (<6/60) in 61.4% preoperatively, this reduced to 30% postoperatively. Visual outcome was influenced by age at cataract surgery, age at PCO surgery, interval between cataract and PCO surgery and type of cataract. Children >8 years of age at time of PCO surgery had a greater proportion of good post-operative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (52.6%), whilst 75% of children younger than 8years at time of surgery turned out with poor BCVA after surgery. Developmental cataracts proportionately had the best outcome of visual acuity. There was a range of refractive shift of +0.25D to - 5.25D with a mean myopic shift of -1.51D following membranectomy. CONCLUSION: There was a good proportion of children with significant improvement in visual acuity on the short term, and a mild myopic shift following membranectomy.

Real-Time fast PCR amplification using designated and conventional real time thermal cycler systems: COVID-19 perspective

The study aimed to shorten multiplex RT-PCR run time for detection of SARS CoV-2 N1 and N2 sequences and human RNase P (RP) sequence as internal mRNA control using conventional and designated real time thermal cycler systems. Optimization of Fast PCR protocol using plasmid-based N1 and N2 positive control and synthetic version of human RP was done on Applied Biosystems (ABI) QuantStudioTM5 (conventional), ABI 7500 Fast Dx (designated), and CFX96 Touch Real Time Detection System, Bio-Rad (conventional). Finally, a performance evaluation of Fast PCR was performed in terms of sensitivity, specificity, and precision. For a 40-cycle PCR with optimized Fast PCR protocols on QuantStudioTM5, ABI 7500 Fast Dx, and CFX96 Touch (conventional), standard/regular versus Fast PCR run times (min) were 84 vs. 49, 96 vs. 48, and 103 vs. 61, thereby saving 35, 48, and 43 min, respectively. For each thermal cycler, Standard and Fast PCR generated identical shapes of fluorescence curves, Ct values, and (3) R2 (0.95 to 0.99) for 5 10-log dilution panels of each positive control. The fast PCR approach generated results with 100% sensitivity and specificity. Median test comparisons between standard PCR and Fast PCR Cts of COVID-19 samples did not produce significance (p>0.5), suggesting that Fast PCR and Standard PCR were comparable. Also, the median and mean of each target had closely-related values, further suggesting that the two approaches were comparable. That is, there is an equivalency between Conventional and Fast PCR instruments for detection of COVID-19.

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.

An Assessment of a Rapid SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Test in Bangladesh

Early detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection is crucial to prevent its spread. This study aimed to document test sensitivity/specificity, correlation with cycle threshold value from polymerase chain reaction (PCR), fitness-for-use in different populations and settings, and user perspectives that could inform large-scale implementation. In this study, we evaluated the performance of a rapid antigen detection test, BD Veritor, and compared this (and another rapid test, Standard Q) against reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) in terms of sensitivity and specificity in 130 symptomatic and 130 asymptomatic adults. In addition, we evaluated the suitability and ease of use of the BD Veritor test in a subsample of study participants (n = 42) and implementers (n = 5). At 95% confidence interval, the sensitivity of the BD Veritor and Standard Q test were 70% and 63% in symptomatic and 87% and 73% in asymptomatic individuals, respectively, regarding positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR results. Overall, the BD Veritor test was 78% sensitive and 99.5% specific compared with RT-PCR irrespective of the cycle threshold. This warrants large field evaluation as well as use of the rapid antigen test for quick assessment of SARS-CoV-2 for containment of epidemics in the country.

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.

Genome Sequences of 25 SARS-CoV-2 Sublineage B.1.1.529 Omicron Strains in Bangladesh

We report the coding-complete genome sequences of 25 severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) sublineage B.1.1.529 Omicron strains obtained from Bangladeshi individuals in samples collected between December 2021 and January 2022. Genomic data were generated by Nanopore sequencing using the amplicon sequencing approach developed by the ARTIC Network.

Cytotoxic benzylidene hydrazides of terephthalic acid and related compounds

The present investigation involved the synthesis of a number of novel benzylidene hydrazides as candidate cytotoxic agents. The preparation of these compounds from terephthalic acid and isophthalic acid proceeded satisfactorily. However, the reaction of phthalic acid hydrazide with various aryl aldehydes was unsuccessful in general. Some of the unexpected products were identified. The shapes and also the distances between the centers of the aryl rings designated B and C of three representative compounds 1b, 2b and 3b were determined. The compounds designated 1a-e, 2a-e and 3b were screened against human HCT116 and HT29 colon cancer cells as well as human CRL1790 non-malignant colon cells which revealed the tumor-selective toxicity displayed by these compounds.

Disease characteristics and serological responses in patients with differing severity of COVID-19 infection: A longitudinal cohort study in Dhaka, Bangladesh

BACKGROUND

COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 ranges from asymptomatic to severe disease and can cause fatal and devastating outcome in many cases. In this study, we have compared the clinical, biochemical and immunological parameters across the different disease spectrum of COVID-19 in Bangladeshi patients.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

This longitudinal study was conducted in two COVID-19 hospitals and also around the community in Dhaka city in Bangladesh between November 2020 to March 2021. A total of 100 patients with COVID-19 infection were enrolled and classified into asymptomatic, mild, moderate and severe cases (n = 25/group). In addition, thirty age and sex matched healthy participants were enrolled and 21 were analyzed as controls based on exclusion criteria. After enrollment (study day1), follow-up visits were conducted on day 7, 14 and 28 for the cases. Older age, male gender and co-morbid conditions were the risk factors for severe COVID-19 disease. Those with moderate and severe cases of infection had low lymphocyte counts, high neutrophil counts along with a higher neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) at enrollment; this decreased to normal range within 42 days after the onset of symptom. At enrollment, D-dimer, CRP and ferritin levels were elevated among moderate and severe cases. The mild, moderate, and severe cases were seropositive for IgG antibody by day 14 after enrollment. Moderate and severe cases showed significantly higher IgM and IgG levels of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 compared to mild and asymptomatic cases.

CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE

We report on the clinical, biochemical, and hematological parameters associated with the different severity of COVID-19 infection. We also show different profile of antibody response against SARS-CoV-2 in relation to disease severity, especially in those with moderate and severe disease manifestations compared to the mild and asymptomatic infection.

Numerical investigation on effect of particle aspect ratio on the dynamical behaviour of ellipsoidal particle flow

Flow of ellipsoidal particles in a modal shear cell was investigated at the microdynamic level based on discrete element method simulations. In a stress-controlled double-shear condition, the flow was studied by varying the aspect ratio of ellipsoidal particles and comparing with the flow of spherical particle assembly in terms of some key properties, including particle alignment, linear velocity, angular velocity, porosity, contact force and contact energy. It was found that particle elongation impacts the rotational displacement around the axis perpendicular to the shear direction, which causes that the ellipsoidal particles with higher elongation are more aligned with the direction of the shear velocity, with more uniform force network. This then affects other particle properties. The fluctuation of linear velocity and the angular velocity decreases with an increase in particle aspect ratio, although the particle elongation does not significantly affect the flow velocity gradient. There is a reduction in both normal and tangential forces per contact with an increase of particle elongation. Due to the variation of the particle alignment with elongation, the standard deviation of the contact energies increases and then reduces when an increase in particle aspect ratio occurs, and on contrary, the porosity has an opposite variation trend.

Correlates of Children's Nutritional Status in Bangladesh: Does Mothers' Education Matter?

This paper intends to identify the correlates of Bangladeshi children's nutritional status. The primary focus of the paper rests on mothers' education, especially to understand whether different level of mothers' education has varying extent of effect on child nutrition. Data for the empirical analysis of this paper are obtained from a relatively recent national survey: Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) 2012-13. Based on a sample of 14,482 children of the age of below 5 years and by using the multiple linear regression analysis, this paper finds evidence to suggest that mothers' education matters for children's both long-term and overall nutritional status in Bangladesh. Nevertheless, education at the lower end has imperceptible effect; while the incremental benefit of below primary education on child nutrition is subtle. Importantly education at the higher end i.e., secondary or more has pronounced effect on children's nutritional status. This finding is worthy of policy attention because girls' dropout at the secondary education in Bangladesh is still very high, which may hinder realising the benefit of the costly public policy of educating girls for the sake of combating widespread child under-nutrition in the country.

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

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

Core Decompression with Non Vascularized Fibular Graft as Modern Surgical Treatment of Early Hip Avascular Necrosis

Cellular death of bone due to impairment of the blood supply leading to collapse resulting in pain, and loss of joint function is known as avascular necrosis (AVN). The head of femur is the most common bone affected by avascular necrosis followed by talus and scaphoid. We evaluate the results of core decompression with non-vascularized fibular graft in avascular necrosis of femoral head. This quasi experimental study was done at Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Dhaka Medical College Hospital and some other private hospitals of Bangladesh. The study includes patients who underwent core decompression and non-vascularized fibular grafting in avascular necrosis of femoral head from January 2017 to December 2018. In this study we evaluated total 20 patients and majority of the patients belongs to the group of 20-30 years. Out of 20 patients, 8 of them were unilaterally involved rest 12 had bilateral involvement. Out of 24 hips of bilateral involvement 4 were grade III and IV (Ficat and Arlet classification) therefore not included in the study. So, we study 28 hips only. The average success rate was 90% after core decompression and non-vascularized fibular bone grafting. Harris hip score of 60 on presentation had poorer outcome. Patients with less than 80 degrees of flexion had poorer outcome.

Diversity of Vibrio parahaemolyticus in marine fishes of Bangladesh

AIMS

To determine the occurrence, diversity, antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation of Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolated from marine fishes in Bangladesh.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 80 marine fishes were obtained from the local markets and examined for the presence of V. parahaemolyticus. All the isolated V. parahaemolyticus were characterized for the presence of virulence markers, thermostable direct hemolysin (TDH) or thermostable direct hemolysin related hemolysin (TRH). Isolates were serotyped and further characterized by enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus sequence PCR (ERIC-PCR) typing to analyse the genetic diversity. Moreover, biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance patterns were also determined. About 63·75% (51/80) of the tested marine fishes were contaminated with V. parahaemolyticus. From the contaminated fishes, 71 representatives V. parahaemolyticus were isolated and none of them harboured tdh and trh virulence genes. Nine different O-groups and seven different K-types were found by serological analysis and the dominant serotype was O5:KUT. In ERIC-PCR analysis, eight clusters (A-H) were found and the most common pattern was A (46·5%). All of the isolates were resistant to ampicillin and 78·9% of isolates were resistant to streptomycin. The highest biofilm formation was found at 37°C compared to 25°C and 4°C.

CONCLUSION

Diverse V. parahaemolyticus are present in marine fishes in the local market of Bangladesh with antibiotic-resistant properties and biofilm formation capacity.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The widespread prevalence of diverse V. parahaemolyticus in marine fishes is an issue of serious concern, and it entails careful monitoring to ascertain the safety of seafood consumers.

Primordial GATA6 macrophages function as extravascular platelets in sterile injury

Most multicellular organisms have a major body cavity that harbors immune cells. In primordial species such as purple sea urchins, these cells perform phagocytic functions but are also crucial in repairing injuries. In mammals, the peritoneal cavity contains large numbers of resident GATA6⁺ macrophages, which may function similarly. However, it is unclear how cavity macrophages suspended in the fluid phase (peritoneal fluid) identify and migrate toward injuries. In this study, we used intravital microscopy to show that cavity macrophages in fluid rapidly form thrombus-like structures in response to injury by means of primordial scavenger receptor cysteine-rich domains. Aggregates of cavity macrophages physically sealed injuries and promoted rapid repair of focal lesions. In iatrogenic surgical situations, these cavity macrophages formed extensive aggregates that promoted the growth of intra-abdominal scar tissue known as peritoneal adhesions.

IgG antibody response demonstrates inverse correlation with viral load in Bangladeshi women with acute hepatitis E virus genotype 1 infection

OBJECTIVES

To determine IgG immune responses and hepatitis E virus (HEV) viral load, and to explore the associations with pregnancy.

METHODS

A total of 121 HEV-infected women (57 pregnant, 64 non-pregnant) were analysed. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) was done for 78 HEV IgM-positive patients to determine viral load, and Sanger sequencing was performed for 62 HEV-RNA-positive patients to confirm genotyping. ELISA was conducted to determine HEV antibody and avidity indices.

RESULTS

The HEV genotype was identified as variant 1. Significant negative correlations were observed between log HEV copy number and log hepatitis E virus IgG antibody index in the late acute phase of jaundice for both pregnant women (r = -0.7971, p = 0.0002) and non-pregnant women (r = -0.9117, p = 0.0002). Pregnant women had significantly higher serum log viral copy numbers and lower IgG antibody indices than non-pregnant women in the late acute phase of HEV-induced jaundice (p = 0.0196 and p = 0.0303, respectively). Moreover, pregnant women with acute HEV hepatitis had higher cross-reactive IgG antibodies compared to the non-pregnant women (p = 0.0017). Five patients with HEV hepatitis died, of whom four were pregnant.

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnancy might be associated with higher viral loads and a lower IgG response in the HEV-induced late acute phase of jaundice.

Sarcopenia and Adverse Post-Surgical Outcomes in Geriatric Patients: A Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Sarcopenia is associated with adverse outcomes in cancer, chemotherapy, solid organ transplants, intensive care and medical patients. It has also been proven to increase perioperative mortality, hospital length of stay and complications in patients of various age groups. However, a limited number of studies have examined the association of post-surgical outcomes and sarcopenia inclusively in patients aged 65 years and older.

OBJECTIVE

This scoping review aimed to examine the relationship between adverse post-surgical outcomes and sarcopenia in patients aged 65 years and older.

METHODOLOGY

EMBASE and Medline databases were searched for sarcopenia, perioperative period and post-surgical outcomes. The articles were screened based on exclusion and inclusion criteria and were reviewed systematically as per the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Methodology for Scoping Reviews.

RESULTS

After duplicates removal and application of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, eight articles were included for this study from a total of nine hundred initially identified articles. All studies defined sarcopenia as low muscle mass but did not include physical function or muscle strength as the parameter of sarcopenia. Low muscle mass was associated with higher mortality in emergency surgeries, reduced long term survival in open elective surgeries, and increased length of hospital stay in endoscopic surgeries.

CONCLUSION

The current review suggests that low muscle mass is associated with higher mortality and various adverse post-surgical outcomes in the elderly. It remains to be determined if applying the definition of sarcopenia as per the international consensus/guidelines will affect the association of adverse post-surgical outcomes and sarcopenia.

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.

Status of Plasma Vitamin-D Level in Predicting Adverse In-Hospital Outcome in Patients with First Attack of Acute Myocardial Infarction

Acute myocardial infarction has many risk factors and etiologies. Different factors are responsible for adverse in-hospital outcome after acute MI. Status of plasma vitamin D level has been found to be a good predictor of future adverse cardiovascular outcomes in patients with acute MI. Plasma vitamin D level has been considered as a potential marker for identifying individuals under risk of CAD and associated events. This study was done to investigate the role of plasma vitamin D level in predicting in-hospital adverse cardiac events in patients with acute MI. This cross sectional descriptive type of study was conducted in the cardiology department of Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from October 2017 to March 2019. Total 257 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). Adverse in-hospital cardiac outcomes were observed. In-hospital adverse outcomes occurred in 42.9% patients having normal vitamin D level (>30ng/ml), 66.2% of patients having vitamin D insufficiency (21-29ng/ml), 78.2% of patients having vitamin D deficiency (10-20ng/ml) and 94.4% patients having severe vitamin D deficiency (<10ng/ml), which was statistically significant (p<0.05). Heart failure (30.3%, 47.7%, 63.6% and 77.8%, p<0.05), cardiogenic shock (12.6%, 27.7%, 34.5% and 33.3%, p<0.05), Arrhythmias (14.3%, 21.5%, 23.6% and 22.2%, p>0.05), death (2.5%, 0%, 3.6% and 11.1%, p>0.05) occurred more in low vitamin D groups. Mean vitamin D level was significantly different between Group I and Group II (42.59±10.08 vs. 18.64±6.54, p<0.0001). Multivariate regression analysis showed vitamin D is an independent predictor of in-hospital adverse cardiac events (p=0.001). Age (p=0.001) and obesity (p=0.048) were also other predictors of in-hospital adverse cardiac events. Low plasma vitamin D level is an important predictor for in-hospital adverse cardiac events 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.

Perioperative intravenous contrast administration and the incidence of acute kidney injury after major gastrointestinal surgery: prospective, multicentre cohort study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to determine the impact of preoperative exposure to intravenous contrast for CT and the risk of developing postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients undergoing major gastrointestinal surgery.

METHODS

This prospective, multicentre cohort study included adults undergoing gastrointestinal resection, stoma reversal or liver resection. Both elective and emergency procedures were included. Preoperative exposure to intravenous contrast was defined as exposure to contrast administered for the purposes of CT up to 7 days before surgery. The primary endpoint was the rate of AKI within 7 days. Propensity score-matched models were adjusted for patient, disease and operative variables. In a sensitivity analysis, a propensity score-matched model explored the association between preoperative exposure to contrast and AKI in the first 48 h after surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 5378 patients were included across 173 centres. Overall, 1249 patients (23·2 per cent) received intravenous contrast. The overall rate of AKI within 7 days of surgery was 13·4 per cent (718 of 5378). In the propensity score-matched model, preoperative exposure to contrast was not associated with AKI within 7 days (odds ratio (OR) 0·95, 95 per cent c.i. 0·73 to 1·21; P = 0·669). The sensitivity analysis showed no association between preoperative contrast administration and AKI within 48 h after operation (OR 1·09, 0·84 to 1·41; P = 0·498).

CONCLUSION

There was no association between preoperative intravenous contrast administered for CT up to 7 days before surgery and postoperative AKI. Risk of contrast-induced nephropathy should not be used as a reason to avoid contrast-enhanced CT.

Nationwide carrier detection and molecular characterization of β-thalassemia and hemoglobin E variants in Bangladeshi population

Background

ß-thalassemia is one of the most common inherited blood disorders in the world and a major deterrent to the public health of Bangladesh. The management of thalassemia patients requires lifelong frequent blood transfusion and the available treatment options are unsatisfactory. A national policy on thalassemia prevention is mandatory in Bangladesh. However, precise and up-to-date information on the frequency of ß-thalassemia carriers are missing due to lack of accurate diagnostic approaches, limited access to information and absence of national screening program. This study aims to determine the nationwide carrier frequency of hemoglobin E (HbE) and β- thalassemia and mutation spectrum among the carriers using molecular, hematological and biochemical methods.

Methods

The study enrolled a total of 1877 individuals (60.1% male and 39.9% female) aged between 18 and 35 years. Total sample size and its division-wise breakdown were calculated in proportion to national and division-wise population. Venous blood was collected and subjected to CBC analysis and Hb-electrophoresis for each participant. Serum ferritin was measured to detect coexistence of iron deficiency anemia with thalassemia carrier. DNA-based High Resolution Melting (HRM) curve analysis was performed for confirmation of carrier status by mutation detection.

Results

Of 11.89% (95% CI, 10.43–13.35) carriers of β-globin gene mutations, 8.68% (95% CI, 7.41–9.95) had HbE trait (ETT) and 2.24% (95% CI, 1.57–2.91) had beta-thalassemia trait (BTT). Among eight divisions, Rangpur had the highest carrier frequency of 27.1% (ETT-25%, BTT-2.1%), whereas Khulna had the lowest frequency of 4.2% (ETT-4.2% only). Moreover, α- thalassemia, HbD trait, HbE disease, hereditary persistence of HbF were detected in 0.11, 0.16, 0.43 and 0.16% participants, respectively. HRM could identify two individuals with reported pathogenic mutations in both alleles who were erroneously interpreted as carriers by hematological indices. Finally, a total of nine different mutations including a novel mutation (c.151A > G) were detected in the β-globin gene.

Conclusions

Since carrier frequency for both HbE and β-thalassemia is alarmingly high in Bangladesh, a nationwide awareness and prevention program should be made mandatory to halt the current deteriorating situations. Mutation-based confirmation is highly recommended for the inconclusive cases with conventional carrier screening methods to avoid any faulty detection of thalassemia carriers.

Incidence of central diabetes insipid us among the patients undergoing pituitary tumor surgery 06 through trans-sphenoidal approach

Background: Diabetes insipidus (DI) is a common complication following pituitary surgery. Thiscondition can be transient or permanent and the signs and symptoms of this disorder can bemimicked by the normal postoperative course. Objective: This study was carried out to find out the incidence of central diabetes insipidus (DI)among the patients undergoing pituitary tumor surgery through trans-sphenoidal approach eitherendoscopic or microsurgical for the first time.Study Design: Cross sectional observational study Methods: Patients with central (Neurogenic) diabetes insipidus prior to surgery, co-morbiditieslike diabetes mellitus, kidney diseases, electrolyte imbalance, recurrent cases were excludedfrom this study. Patients were followed up to 7th postoperative day by recording and analyzingfindings of postoperative serum electrolytes, urinary specific gravity, hourly urinary volume forestablishing diabetes insipid us. Results: 76.9% of patients developed diabetes insipidus and 70.0% of patients did not developdiabetes insipid us those who underwent pituitary tumour surgery by trans-sphenoidal endoscopicapproach; 23.1% of patients developed diabetes insipid us and 30.0% of patients did not developdiabetes insipid us those who underwent pituitary tumour surgery by trans-sphenoidal mlcrosurgicalapproach. Conclusion: Prediction of DI help us in pre-operative counseling and post-operative managementof the patients as well as to reduce complications related morbidity after pituitary tumor surgery. Journal of Surgical Sciences (2017) Vol. 21 (1) :6-10

Mucinous Carcinoma of The Breast: Report of Two Cases

Mucinous carcinoma of the breast is one of 16 rare varieties of malignant lesions of epithelial origin Inbreast. They account for 1-6% of all breast cancer. Variations Inpresentation, cllnlcal course and prognosis has been observed in these patients. In this communication we report two cases of pure mucinous carcinoma of the breast .Both the cases were unusual, first one of them having early presentation with pulmonary and bone metastasis less commonly seen In this type of breast carcinoma and the second case had lymph node involvement that is seen in less than one fifth of the cases of mucinous carcinoma of breast. A brief review about mucinous carcinoma is supplemented with the report. Journal of Surgical Sciences (2013) Vol. 17 (1) : 45-49

P5435Epigenetic modifications and gene expressions in Mybpc3 knockout mice

Background

DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation plays critical role in important biological processes, including differentiation of tissues in the embryo and cellular response to different diseases and diverse environmental factors. The epigenetic landscape in heart failure might be altered.

Purpose

Our objective was to determine how Mybpc3 deficiency, which produces hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, affects epigenetic landscape, gene expression, and regulation.

Methods

We generated and analysed genome-wide DNA methylomes and hydroxymethylomes from cardiac tissues of 12-week old Mybpc3−/− mice and littermate controls, and performed whole genome RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) for gene expression and validated the findings using qPCR.

Results

Single base resolution revealed overall lower 5-mC level in Mybpc3 deficient mice. In deficient mice, different genic regions including transcription start site, exons, and introns, had low levels of 5-mC. Although there was no overall difference in 5-hmC content, knockout mice had lower levels of 5-hmC in the distal part of the genes (last exon, transcription termination site, and 3'-flanking regions). The 5-hmC enrichment in the intronic regions was associated with higher gene expression, whereas, the presence of 5-mC in the 5'-flanking regions was associated with lower gene expression in both knockout and wildtype mice. Ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) of differentially expressed genes revealed overrepresentation of genes involved in axonal-guidance pathway. Tet activity was downregulated in Mybpc3−/− mice, and it may explain the overall difference of 5-mC in deficient mice. We also observed that Mybpc3 ablation affected alternative splicing of Myh6 and Myh7.

Conclusion

This study establishes that knocking out of Mybpc3 changes epigenetic landscape in cardiac tissue, which is tightly linked to gene expression and regulation.

Acknowledgement/Funding

LeDucq 13CVD04, Hjärt och Lungfonden (Sweden)

3D-printed Franz type diffusion cells

OBJECTIVE

Franz cells are routinely used to measure in vitro skin permeation of actives and must be inert to the permeant under study. The aim of the present work was to develop and manufacture transparent Franz-type diffusion cells using 3D printing. Printouts were then tested using a range of model active compounds. The study also aims to identify the critical 3D-printing parameters necessary for the process, including object design, choice of printing resin, printout curing and post-curing settings and introduction of model coatings.

METHODS

Transparent Franz cells were constructed using an online computer aided design program and reproduced with different stereolithography 3D printers. The two acrylate-based resins used for the fabrication process were a commercially available product and a polymer synthesised in-house. Comparative studies between glass and 3D-printed Franz cells were conducted with selected model actives: terbinafine hydrochloride (TBF), niacinamide (NIA), diclofenac free acid (DFA) and n-methyl paraben (MPB). In preliminary studies, MPB showed the lowest recovery when exposed to the receptor compartment of 3D printed cells. Consequently, in vitro permeation studies were carried out using only MPB with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane.

RESULTS

A decrease in the amounts of selected compounds was observed for transparent 3D-printed Franz cells compared to glass cells. MPB showed the lowest recovery (53.8 ± 13.1%) when compared with NIA (74.9 ± 4.0%), TBF (81.5 ± 12.0%) and DFA (90.2 ± 12.9%) after 72 h. Permeation studies conducted using 3D-printed transparent cells with PDMS membrane also showed a decrease in MPB recovery of 51.4 ± 3.7% for the commercial resin and 94.4 ± 3.5% for the polymer synthesised in-house, when compared to glass cells. Although hydrophobic coatings were subsequently applied to the 3D-printed cells, the same reduction in MPB concentration was observed in the receptor solution.

CONCLUSION

Transparent Franz cells were successfully prepared using 3D printing and were observed to be robust and leak-proof. There are few resins currently available for preparation of transparent materials and incompatibilities between the actives investigated and the 3D-printed cells were evident. Hydrophobic coatings applied as barriers to the printed materials did not prevent these interactions.

Microbial Contamination of Handmade Sauce Used by Street Food Vendors in Jashore, Bangladesh

Background: Contaminated handmade street foods are often claimed to occur food-borne diseases, especially in developing countries. Therefore, considering the public health issue, this study was conducted to assess the microbial contamination of handmade sauce used by street food vendors in Jashore, Bangladesh. Methods: A total of 30 samples of Plum Sauce (PS) and Tomato Sauce (TS) were collected from Jashore district, Bangladesh. The quantitative microbial tests were done by dilution plate technique. Identification of particular bacterial group or species was performed using selective media. All the data related to microbial count were subjected to ANOVA test using SPSS version 21.0. Results: All the sauce samples contained viable Enterobacteriaceae cells; whereas 80% and 83.33% of the total samples were found to be contaminated with Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli, respectively. Total viable bacterial cells found in the samples ranged from 1.2×103 to 4.2×109 Colony Forming Unit (CFU)/g. In addition, total Enterobacteriaceae and E. coli counts ranged from 30 to 2.0×107 and from 0 to 7.0×105 CFU/g, respectively. Although PS samples contained a higher amount of Enterobacteriaceae and E. coli compared to TS, no significant difference (p>0.05) was found. Conclusion: The consumption of street foods is of great concern in Bangladesh. Making the vendors aware of sanitary practices is too crucial that could be achieved through training of the vendors at the root level of the country. Furthermore, it is necessary to monitor the street foods frequently by the national authorities.

Efficacy of Palonosetron as Antiemetic Prophylaxis for Post Operative Patients

Palonosetron is a new, potent and long-acting 5HT3-receptorsantagonist that had been approved by the FDA for use in postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) prophylaxis. The objective of this study was to investigate and compare the prophylactic effects of intravenously administered palonosetron, ondansetron and granisetron on prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting after general anesthesia. This randomized double blind prospective clinical study was carried out in the Department of Anaesthesia, DMCH, Dhaka, Bangladesh from January 2014 to December 2015. A total of 102 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy under general anesthesia, out of which patients who received Palonosetron were in Group A (n=34), patients who received Ondansetron were in group B (n=34) and patients who received Granisetron were in group C (n=34) and also the patients were selected randomly by lottery method. Statistical analyses of the results were obtained by using window based computer software devised with Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS-22). Nausea was found 3(8.8%) in group A, 8(23.5%) in group B and 6(17.6%) in group C. Vomiting was found 3(8.8%) in group A, 10(29.4%) in group B and 7(20.6%) in group C. Vomiting was significantly higher in group B compare with group A. For group B rescue anti-emetic injection motilon (metoclopramide hydrochloride) 5mg IV slowly was given. Palonosetron is effective prophylaxis against post operative nausea and vomiting.

What have we learned from the time trend of mass shootings in the U.S.?

Little is known regarding the time trend of mass shootings and associated risk factors. In the current study, we intended to explore the time trend and relevant risk factors for mass shootings in the U.S. We attempted to identify factors associated with incidence rates of mass shootings at the population level. We evaluated if state-level gun ownership rate, serious mental illness rate, poverty percentage, and gun law permissiveness could predict the state-level mass shooting rate, using the Bayesian zero-inflated Poisson regression model. We also tested if the nationwide incidence rate of mass shootings increased over the past three decades using the non-homogenous Poisson regression model. We further examined if the frequency of online media coverage and online search interest levels correlated with the interval between two consecutive incidents. The results suggest an increasing trend of mass shooting incidences over time (p < 0.001). However, none of the state-level variables could predict the mass shooting rate. Interestingly, we have found inverse correlations between the interval between consecutive shootings and the frequency of on-line related reports as well as on-line search interests, respectively (p < 0.001). Therefore, our findings suggest that online media might correlate with the increasing incidence rate of mass shootings. Future research is warranted to continue monitoring if the incidence rates of mass shootings change with any population-level factors in order to inform us of possible prevention strategies.

Changes of Peak Expiratory Flow Rate in Adult Asthmatic Patient

Asthma is a common pulmonary disorder characterizerized by airway inflammation, airway- hyper reactivity, and reversible airflow obstruction. The classic triad of symptoms is wheezing, chronic episodic dyspnea and chronic cough. The prevalence of asthma increased steadily over the latter part of the last century, first in the developed and then in the developing world. The number of people with asthma in the world may be as high as 334 million. Asthma in Bangladesh appears to be a substantial public health problem: an estimated 11.6 million people including 4.1 million children suffer from asthma-related symptoms. A cross sectional study was conducted from January 1999 to August 1999 on 5642 Bangladeshi people and another same study carried out from November 2009 to April 2010 on 8088 subjects. In 1999 the prevalence of asthma was 6.9% whereas in 2010 it is 6.96%. Airway resistance is always increased during the asthmatic attack. Airways obstruction, such as that caused by asthma, results in a reduced and variable Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR). PEFR is classically reduced in asthma. Recent asthma guidelines recommended the assessment of severity levels based on the most severe symptoms and peak expiratory flow rate. This descriptive type of cross-sectional study was done to find the changes of Peak expiratory flow rate in adult asthmatic patients and carried out in the Department of Physiology, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from July 2014 to January 2016. Fifty (50) male and 50 (fifty) female adult asthmatic patients aged 18-60 years were included in the study group. They are enrolled from the Department of Medicine, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh and also from locality. For comparison age matched 50 male and 50 female apparently healthy persons were also studied as control. PEFR was estimated by Wright's Peak flow meter. For statistical analysis unpaired student's 't' test was used. Mean PEFR were significantly decreased in study group in comparison to control group and the result was statistically significant (p<0.001). From this study, it may be concluded that peak expiratory flow rate was decreased in asthmatic patient and there was a significant relation of decline lung function.

Rescue of an Axillary-Axillary Arteriovenous Graft not Amenable to Endovascular Intervention by Formation of an Axillary Loop: A Case Report

Central venous obstruction associated with a distal arteriovenous fistula can result in massive swelling of the affected extremity and venous hypertension. We present the surgical rescue of an axillary-axillary arterio-venous access ((necklace graft) between the left axillary artery to the contralateral axillary vein), compromised by central venous stenosis, by conversion into an arteriovenous axillary loop graft (AVALG) as an additional “exotic” grafting procedure in the anterior chest. This procedure resulted in the salvage of the patient's access and rapid resolution of the associated upper extremity swelling.

Current Trends of Using Systemic Antifungal Drugs and their Comparative Efficacy in Tinea Corporis and Tinea Cruris in Outpatient Department of Dermatology in a Tertiary Level Hospital

Tinea corporis & cruris are one of the earliest known fungal infection and are very common throughout the world. Although tinea corporis and tinea cruris does not cause mortality but causes morbidity and poses a major health problem. This study was conducted to evaluate the Comparative Efficacy of Terbinafine and Fluconazole in the Treatment of Tinea corporis and Tinea cruris. This cross sectional comparative type of analytical study was carried out at the department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics with collaboration of Dermatology and Venereology in Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from January 2016 to December 2016. In this study 168 newly diagnosed Tinea corporis and Tinea cruris patient was purposively selected where pattern of comparative efficacy of terbinafine and fluconazole were analyzed. Among 168 patients most of the patients presented with tinea corporis (58.33%). Most patients belong to 21-30 years age group. Male female ratio in this study was 1.15:1. In this study 143 patients were treated by fluconazole 50mg once daily for 4 weeks and 25 patients were treated by terbinafine 250 mg once daily for 4 weeks. After 4 weeks, improvement rate by fluconazole was 86.02% and terbinafine 96.00%. The clinical score of both groups after 4th week of treatment, there was slight more reduction of clinical score in terbinafine using group than fluconazole using group. The difference between these two clinical score was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Although no significant difference was observed between these two groups of patient in clinical aspect, but due to its lower price and availability in the hospital, it is suggested that fluconazole is more suitable for the treatment of tinea corporis and tinea cruris.

Interaction between Hypertension and Asthma in Adult

Asthma has been defined as a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways that is associated with recruitment of inflammatory cells and the clinical development of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and cough. The prevalence of asthma increased steadily over the latter part of the last century, first in the developed and then in the developing world. Current estimates suggest that asthma affects 300 million people worldwide, with a predicted additional 100 million people affected by 2025. This cross sectional study was conducted from January 1999 to August 1999 on 5642 Bangladeshi people and another same study carried out from November 2009 to April 2010 on 8088 subjects. In 1999 the prevalence of asthma was 6.9% whereas in 2010 it is 6.96%. Both asthma and hypertension are spastic disorders of smooth muscle, there is the similarities between these two diseases may predispose the individuals with one disease to the other. This descriptive type of cross-sectional study was done to find the Interaction between hypertension and asthma in adult and carried out in the Department of Physiology, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from July 2014 to January 2016. Fifty (50) male and fifty (50) female adult asthmatic patients aged 18-60 years were included in the study group. They are enrolled from the Department of Medicine, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh and also from locality. For comparison age matched 50 male and 50 female apparently healthy persons were also studied as control. Blood pressure was estimated by auscultatory method by sphygmomanometer. For statistical analysis unpaired student's 't' test was used. Mean blood pressure were significantly increased in study group in comparison to control group and the result was statistically significant (p<0.001). The study findings showed a high prevalence of hypertension among asthmatic patients than non asthmatic healthy persons. From this study, it may be concluded that hypertension and asthma are closely connected.

Venous thromboembolism in adult elective spinal surgery

Aims

To evaluate the incidence of primary venous thromboembolism (VTE), epidural haematoma, surgical site infection (SSI), and 90-day mortality after elective spinal surgery, and the effect of two protocols for prophylaxis.

Patients and Methods

A total of 2181 adults underwent 2366 elective spinal procedures between January 2007 and January 2012. All patients wore anti-embolic stockings, mobilised early and were kept adequately hydrated. In addition, 29% (689) of these were given low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) while in hospital. SSI surveillance was undertaken using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria.

Results

In patients who only received mechanical prophylaxis, the incidence of VTE was 0.59% and that of SSI 2.1%. In patients who were additionally given LMWH, the incidence of VTE was 0% and that of SSI 0.7%. The unadjusted p-value was 0.04 for VTE and 0.01 for SSI. There were no cases of epidural haematoma or 90-day mortality in either group. When adjusted for case-mix, LMWH remained a significant factor (p = 0.006) for VTE, but not for SSI.

Conclusion

A peri-operative protocol involving mechanical anti-embolism stockings, adequate hydration, and early post-operative mobilisation is effective in significantly reducing the incidence of VTE. The addition of LMWH is safe in patients at higher risk of developing VTE. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:1204–9.

Induced membrane technique for treating tibial defects gives mixed results

Aims

This study describes the use of the Masquelet technique to treat segmental tibial bone loss in 12 patients.

Patients and Methods

This retrospective case series reviewed 12 patients treated between 2010 and 2015 to determine their clinical outcome. Patients were mostly male with a mean age of 36 years (16 to 62). The outcomes recorded included union, infection and amputation. The mean follow-up was 675 days (403 to 952).

Results

The mean tibial defect measured 5.8 cm (2 to 15) in length. Of the 12 patients, 11 had an open fracture. Eight underwent fixation with an intramedullary nail, three with plates and one with a Taylor Spatial Frame. The mean interval between stages was 57 days (35 to 89). Bony union was achieved in only five patients. Five patients experienced infective complications during treatment, with two requiring amputation because of severe infection.

Conclusion

The Masquelet technique was relatively ineffective in achieving union in this series, and was associated with a high rate of infection. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:680–5.