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.

Prediction of in-hospital mortality by using get with the guideline-heart failure (GWTG-HF) risk scores in patients hospitalized with heart failure

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): University Grants Commission Bangladesh

Background

Prognostic stratification using readily available clinical data can assist clinical decision making in heart failure. Get with the Guideline- Heart Failure (GWTG-HF) score approved by American Heart Association (AHA) can be used to inform hospitals about the expected in-hospital mortality of their patients.

Purpose

This study aims to predict in-hospital mortality of patients with heart failure using GWTG-HF score in order to give evidence based therapy to high risk patients.

Methods

We have included patients who were hospitalized with a diagnosis of heart failure from February 2020 to 15 January 2021. A total of 2038 patients were admitted during this period of which 144 patients were diagnosed with heart failure (7%). The GWTG-HF risk score uses 7 clinical factors collected at admission. These are older age, low systolic blood pressure, elevated heart rate, low serum sodium, elevated BUN, presence of COPD, and ethnicity. The probability of in-hospital mortality is estimated for an individual patient by summing points assigned to the value of each predictor for a total point score within a range of 0-100. These scores were calculated for 144 heart failure patients involved in this study.

Results

Death occurred in 29 heart failure patients (20.13%). Mean age was 59 ±13 years. Male/female ratio was 3.65. All patients were ethnically Bangladeshi Asian. 60% of patients had left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <40%. Overall LVEF was median (IQR) 36% (30-45). Those who died were more likely to have a prior heart failure diagnosis and an LVEF <40%. The observed mortality was 0% for the GWTG-HF score 0-33, 14.14% for 34-50, 42% for 51-57, 40% for 58-61 and 50% with a score of 62-65. The observed mortality of our patients were much higher than expected GWTG-HF score (20% vs 2.8%). The probable reasons for increased mortality in our study could be 1) The number of patients having LVEF <40% is much higher (60%), 2) surgically uncorrected/absence of intervention for underlying valvular disease/advance heart failure/ischaemic cardiomyopathy, 3) different treatment regimens and non-compliance of patients regarding long-term medication. Additionally, those who died had higher serum creatinine and BUN and lower serum sodium and haemoglobin levels at admission. Further multi-centre study involving large population is needed to clarify higher death rate in heart failure patients in our population.

Conclusion

The GWTG-HF risk score can identify patients at high risk of in-hospital death to aid clinical decision making. The risk score could be used to inform hospitals about the expected mortality rates of patients with heart failure admitted to their hospital. Although GWTG-HF risk score is validated in different populations, the mortality rate in this study is greater than expected mortality due to aforementioned reasons. Abstract Figure. GWTG-HF Risk Score (Reference 1)  Abstract Figure. Predicted and Observed Mortality Rates

Evaluation of subclinical LV systolic dysfunction by global longitudinal strain using 2D-speckle tracking echocardiography in patients having angina with normal epicardial coronary arteries

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Other. Main funding source(s): Self

Background

Global longitudinal strain (GLS), assessed by 2D speckle tracking echocardiography would be a trustworthy noninvasive tool to detect subclinical LV systolic dysfunction in patients having angina with normal epicardial coronary arteries.

Objective

The primary objective of the study to detect subclinical LV systolic dysfunction by GLS using 2D-STE in patient having angina with normal coronary arteries and also by conventional echocardiogram at baseline.

Materials and Methods

This was a comparative case control study that was conducted during the period of  March 2018 to August 2018. The study included 60  patients who have been suffering from angina like syndrome despite normal coronary arteries along with 60 normal healthy individuals . All subjects were assessed by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE ) and GLS using 2D speckle-tracking analysis to assess resting LV systolic function . The results of all three planes in GLS (the apical four-chamber , two-chamber , and three-chamber  views) were combined in a single bull’s eye summary (agreeing with the standard 17-segment model), which presented the analysis of each segment along with a global peak systolic strain value for the LV.

Results

This study identified normal reference value of the mean GLS in healthy control group was  −19.7 ± 1.84%.  GLS assessed by 2D STE was significantly impaired in patients having angina like syndrome with normal epicardial coronary arteries (-18.78 ± 1.87 vs -19.7 ± 1.84%;  p < 0.007) than healthy control group despite preserved  LVEF. In case group, 8 out of 60 patients (13.3 %) had more negative global longitudinal strain than control  subject.

Conclusions

Patients having angina with normal epicardial coronary arteries are likely to have microvascular disease. GLS assessed by 2D STE has the potential to improve the value of conventional echocardiography in the detection of the coronary microvascular disease. Despite normal LVEF, significant impairment of LV global longitudinal systolic function  can differentiate microvascular  group of  patients from others who have angina with  normal coronaries.

Echocardiographic Assessment of Valvular Involvement in Chronic Rheumatic Heart Disease in BSMMU, Bangladesh

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is a disease of poverty, is almost entirely preventable, and is the most common cardiovascular disease worldwide in those under 25 years especially in the developing county like Bangladesh. RHD is caused by acute rheumatic fever (ARF) which typically results in cumulative valvular lesions that may present clinically after a number of years of sub-clinical disease. It has a progressive course and patients usually may require valve repair/replacement in future. Echocardiography is an easily available, non-invasive, widely used, standard tool for diagnosis and evaluation of RHD. But there is scarcity of echocardiographic study of Valvular Involvement in Chronic Rheumatic Heart Disease (CHRD) in Bangladesh. This study was aimed to utilize echocardiography as a tool to evaluate patients of CRHD in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh. This observational study was conducted in the Department of Cardiology, BSMMU from September 2018 to August 2019. Echocardiography was done in each patient only once with VividE9®machine. Among 1350 echocardiography, 101 patients (7.5%) were diagnosed as RHD including post valve replacement patients. The mean age of the patients was 40±14 years and 64.34% were female. Mitral stenosis (MS) was the commonest lesion in 84.15% followed by mitral regurgitation (MR) in 66.33%, tricuspid regurgitation (TR) in 57.43%, aortic regurgitation (AR) in 49.51%, aortic stenosis (AS) in 26.74% and pulmonary regurgitation in 10.89%. The frequency of complications like pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, atrial fibrillation (AF), LA thrombus, stroke and infective endocarditis was 67.33%, 61.05%, 18.81%, 6.93%, 3.96% and 0.99% respectively. History of Rheumatic fever was present only in 10.89% patient. Mitral stenosis was the commonest lesion seen mostly in female and most common complication was pulmonary hypertension. Mean age of patients in this study was higher than other contemporary studies and frequency as well as severity of complications was also more in female.

Detection of Vascular Changes in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus by Carotid Duplex Study in A Tertiary Cardiac Hospital

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a common autoimmune connective tissue disorder and mainly affected female patients. This cross sectional study was performed in the department of Cardiology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2008 to June 2012. A total fifty (50) SLE patients were diagnosed on the basis of ACR criteria, having no cardiovascular symptoms. Another 50 age-matched normal individuals were included to compare with SLE group. Congenital vascular disease, ischaemic heart disease, congenital heart disease, rheumatic heart disease, hypothyroidism and any other inflammatory disease along with SLE were excluded from study. All patients were evaluated by Carotid duplex study. Mean age of SLE was 26.70±7.3 and mean age of normal subject was 25.64±8.01. Most of the SLE patients were female (about 92%) and male (about 8%). And about 94% was female in normal group and 6% was male. In Right common carotid arteries (RCCA), mean Intema medial thickness (IMT) was 0.86±0.10 IN SLE group and 0.73±0.06 in normal group. In LCCA, mean IMT was 0.89±0.14 in SLE group and 0.76±0.10 in normal group. IMT in SLE group was increased than control group. There was a significant difference (p=0.001) in both right and left side. The percentage rate of change in PSV and EDV of Carotid arteries of the SLE group was significantly higher than the control group (Both left and right side p=0.001). In RCCA, the PSV was 91.72±19.46 in SLE group and 62.60±6.66 in normal group (p=0.001). And EDV was 27.02±8.23 in SLE group and 16.48±2.32 in normal group (p=0.001). In LCCA, the PSV was 82.06±22.28 in SLE group and 60.36±7.54 in normal group (p=0.001). And EDV was 27.82±6.61 in SLE group and 18.08±2.69 in normal group (p=0.001). In LICA, mean PSV was 83.46±23.54 in SLE group and 60.36±7.54 in normal group (p=0.001). And EDV was 29.36±8.56 in SLE group and 18.08±2.69 in normal group (p=0.001). In RICA, mean PSV was 61.56±7.66 in SLE group and 62.16±5.35 in normal group (p=0.651) which was not significant. And EDV was 26.36±2.26 in SLE group and 19.00±2.17 in normal group (p=0.001). But majority of the vessels showed significant P value which signifies that vascular changes were more evident in SLE group than normal control group. SLE patients with carotid artery blood flow velocity and structural changes in endothelial function changes more evident than control group. Compared with the normal control group, IMT, PSV and EDV were significantly higher in SLE group, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). Vascular changes are common in SLE when clinically asymptomatic. Carotid duplex study is a non invasive tool for early detection of vascular changes to prevent stroke in SLE patients.

National Clinical Guidance for the Management of Cardiovascular Intervention in the COVID-19 Pandemic: From Bangladesh Society of Cardiovascular Interventions (BSCI)

Since the first recorded case of SARS-CoV-2 in Bangladesh on 8th March 2020, COVID-19 has spread widely through different regions of the country, resulting in a necessity to re-evaluate the delivery of cardiovascular services, particularly procedures pertaining to interventional cardiology in resource-limited settings. Given its robust capacity for human-to-human transmission and potential of being a nosocomial source of infection, the disease has specific implications on healthcare systems and health care professionals faced with performing essential cardiac procedures in patients with a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19. The limited resources in terms of cardiac catheterization laboratories that can be designated to treat only COVID positive patients are further compounded by the additional challenges of unavailability of widespread rapid testing on-site at tertiary cardiac hospitals in Bangladesh. This document prepared for our nation by the Bangladesh Society of Cardiovascular Interventions (BSCI) is intended to serve as a clinical practice guideline for cardiovascular health care professionals, with a focus on modifying standard practice of care during the COVID-19 pandemic, in order to ensure continuation of adequate and timely treatment of cardiovascular emergencies avoiding hospital-based transmission of SARS-COV-2 among healthcare professionals and the patients. This is an evolving document based on currently available global data and is tailored to healthcare systems in Bangladesh with particular focus on, but not limited to, invasive cardiology facilities (cardiac catheterization, electrophysiology & pacing labs). This guideline is limited to the provision of cardiovascular care, and it is expected that specific targeted pharmaco-therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2 be prescribed as stipulated by the National Guidelines on Clinical Management of Corona virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) published by the Director General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of Bangladesh.

Feasibility and Safety of Distal Transradial Access in the Anatomical Snuffbox for Coronary Angiography and Intervention

Distal transradial access in the anatomical snuffbox has advantages over standard proximal access in terms of patient and operator comfort levels and risk of ischemia. Radial artery preservation could be a relevant issue in patients requiring multiple radial artery procedures and coronary bypass with the use of a radial graft or construction of Arterio-Venous fistula in patient of chronic kidney disease. One relevant drawback is the challenging puncture of a small and weak artery, with a steeper learning curve. The study was aimed at proving feasibility and safety of distal transradial access in the anatomical snuffbox. A total of 100 patients were assigned to perform coronary angiogram or intervention through distal transradial access in the anatomical snuffbox from January 2018 to June 2018 in this unit of the University Cardiac Center (UCC), Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh. All of them had normal pulse in their distal radial artery. Both right and left distal radial artery were used and demographic features & complications were recorded during hospital stay. Statistical analysis was done through SPSS version 19. The overall feasibility was 98%, greater than expected in this early clinical experience, with 98 successful accesses out of 100 patients. There was failure to access of distal radial artery in two cases which may be due to hypoplastic/vasospastic distal radial artery. Despite all it can be said that it was very much safe as there was no hand ischemia, hematoma, numbness or proximal radial arterial occlusion. Distal transradial access in the anatomical snuffbox for coronary angiography and intervention is a safe and feasible option for both patients and operators.

Clinical Profile and Outcome of Peripartum Cardiomyopathy - A Study in a Tertiary Cardiac Hospital of Bangladesh

This study was done to evaluate the clinical profile, management and to analysis of pregnancy outcomes of peripartum cardiomyopathy pregnant women. Follow up was done after treatment and to see the prognosis. All patients admitted with peripartum cardiomyopathy from July 2009 to June 2014 in the department of Cardiology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh were considered for this observational study. Seventy two (72) women were evaluated. Primi-paras are 28 (39%) of the total study population. Fifty two patients (72%) were clinically improved and in 35 (48% ) the left ventricular functional status returned to normal with the treatment of Diuretics, selective Beta-blocker, Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor(ACEI) or Angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) and vitamin B complex. Eleven cases (15%) developed persistent cardiomyopathy that is persistent left ventricular dysfunction beyond six months of presentation. Ten women (14%) presented with thromboembolic events and anti coagulant were prescribed for life long for secondary prevention. Maternal mortality was 8 (13%). Among all live births four had intra uterine growth retardation and another three had died during the neonatal period. The patients of peripartum cardiomyopathy were improved symptomatically and prognosis was good with the treatment of diuretic, selective beta-blocker, ACEI or ARB and vitamin B complex. Regular clinical follow up with echocardiography and monitoring of INR if the patients are in Anticoagulant are advised to reduce the morbidity and mortality.

Non-invasively Measured Carotid Artery Intima-Medial Thickness May Be a More Useful Marker of Coronary Artery Disease in Diabetic than Non-Diabetic Patients

Carotid intima-medial thickness has long been proposed as a surrogate marker of atherosclerotic vascular disease in other vascular beds, most notably the coronary arteries with its practical implications. This observational study aimed at exploring the relationship of a hypothetical stronger relationship of carotid intima-medial thickness with coronary artery disease in diabetic patients than non-diabetic counterparts. Thirty diabetic patients and 74 non-diabetic patients who were referred for coronary angiogram in the Departments of Cardiology Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University and Combined Military Hospital, Dhaka Cantonment, Bangladesh from January, 2002 and December, 2003 were studied. Carotid ultrasound was done to determine intima-medial thickness and coronary angiogram to detect coronary artery lesions. Background demographic data and cardiovascular risk factors were determined. Of the 30 diabetic patients 24 subjects had CAD. Twenty two of these 24 patients showed increased carotid IMT. None of the patients without CAD had shown carotid artery intima-medial thickening (sensitivity 91% specificity 100%). In contrast, in the non-diabetic group 44 patients out of 63 with CAD showed increased carotid artery IMT. Four of the 11 non-diabetic patients without CAD showed positive carotid ultrasound study results (sensitivity 70%, specificity 63%). This study showed a strong association of coronary artery disease with carotid intima-medial thickness in diabetic patients compared to non-diabetic subjects. This finding may be applicable for Bangladeshi diabetic population. This surrogate marker of coronary artery disease can be useful in the management of diabetes as regards their prevention of coronary artery disease. The practical and clinical implications of these findings might be the pioneer study in diabetic subjects and need to be further determined in a larger community level study.

CCN5/WISP-2 restores ER-∝ in normal and neoplastic breast cells and sensitizes triple negative breast cancer cells to tamoxifen

CCN5/WISP-2 is an anti-invasive molecule and prevents breast cancer (BC) progression. However, it is not well understood how CCN5 prevents invasive phenotypes of BC cells. CCN5 protein expression is detected in estrogen receptor-α (ER-α) -positive normal breast epithelial cells as well as BC cells, which are weakly invasive and rarely metastasize depending on the functional status of ER-α. A unique molecular relation between CCN5 and ER-α has been established as the components of the same signaling pathway that coordinate some essential signals associated with the proliferation as well as delaying the disease progression from a non-invasive to invasive phenotypes. Given the importance of this connection, we determined the role of CCN5 in regulation of ER-α in different cellular settings and their functional relationship. In a genetically engineered mouse model, induced expression of CCN5 in the mammary ductal epithelial cells by doxycycline promotes ER-α expression. Similarly, CCN5 regulates ER-α expression and activity in normal and neoplastic breast cells, as documented in various in vitro settings such as mouse mammary gland culture, human mammary epithelial cell and different BC cell cultures in the presence or absence of human recombinant CCN5 (hrCCN5) protein. Mechanistically, at least in the BC cells, CCN5 is sufficient to induce ER-α expression at the transcription level via interacting with integrins-α6β1 and suppressing Akt followed by activation of FOXO3a. Moreover, in vitro and in vivo functional assays indicate that CCN5 treatment promotes response to tamoxifen in triple-negative BC (TNBC) cells possibly via restoring ER-α. Collectively, these studies implicates that the combination treatments of CCN5 (via activation of CCN5 or hrCCN5 treatment) and tamoxifen as potential therapies for TNBC.

Use of Anticoagulant Warfarin in Patients Presenting With Atrial Fibrillation in a Tertiary Level Hospital

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia in the World, occurring in approximately 0.4% of the general population. The purpose of the present study was to see the trend of use of warfarin in hospital admitted patients with atrial fibrillation. It was conducted in the department of cardiology, University Cardiac Centre, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh from January 2008 to January 2009. A total of 150 patients with atrial fibrillation were enrolled in this study. Out of them, male were 60(40%) and female 90(60%); age range 22-79 years. Most common presenting symptoms were palpitation (80%) & dyspnoea (70%). Chronic rheumatic heart disease (Mitral stenosis) (33%) was found in most cases followed by IHD (22%), hypertension (21%). According to CHADS₂ score, most of the patients belonged to moderate risk group (47%) and 32% in low risk group. Anticoagulation with warfarin was used in 40% cases of valvular AF & 25% patients with non valvular AF. Among non valvular AF, it was prescribed for 38% in high risk group, 34% in moderate risk & 3% in low risk group. The study states that warfarin is underused in both valvular & non valvular AF.

Application of resveratrol in diabetes: rationale, strategies and challenges

The increasing prevalence, involvement of several signaling pathways, variable pathogenesis, progressive natural history and complications of type 2 diabetes emphasize an urgent need for a molecule with multiple actions. Resveratrol (3,5,4'-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene) is a polyphenolic antioxidant present in red wine gaining a worldwide interest because of its multi-target effect against diabetes and other life-threatening diseases. Improving insulin sensitivity, enhancing GLUT4 translocation, reducing oxidative stress, regulating carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes, activating SIRT1 and AMPK, and decreasing adipogenic genes are some promising mechanisms established until now for resveratrol. Apart from these, resveratrol attenuates the end organ damage and reduced diabetic complications. Resveratrol exerts its beneficial antidiabetic action as evidenced from the in vitro, preclinical and clinical studies. Considering all the benefits of resveratrol in diabetes, resveratrol based different nutraceutical products have been developed commercially to use in humans. However, this compound is still under investigation because of some limitations. Resveratrol can be taken in to account in the treatment of diabetes after overcoming all hurdles and difficulties. This article examines the basic scientific evidences, animal experiments, and human/clinical data supporting the antidiabetic action of resveratrol and describes the strategies and challenges to recommend resveratrol from preclinical to clinical use.

Association of heart rate response with scan and left ventricular function on adenosine stress myocardial perfusion imaging

To evaluate the association of heart rate (HR) response with abnormal scan and/or left ventricular (LV) function in patients undergoing adenosine myocardial perfusion imaging, we prospectively studied 164 consecutive patients who underwent a standard adenosine stress test (without exercise) and myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) using technetium-99m sestamibi radioisotope. Change in HR was calculated by subtracting HR at rest from peak HR. The percentage change in HR was calculated. All patients underwent stress and resting single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging. Left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) was calculated using gated SPECT. Mean age was 54 ± 11.7 years and 126 of the patients (72%) were men. We divided the patients into 2 groups: group 1(42 patients, 25%) had normal scans and group 2(122 patients, 74.3%) had abnormal scans; abnormal scans were defined as presence of either fixed defects, reversible defects, or both. Average HR increased by 35 beats/min in the normal scan group compared with 23 beats/min in the abnormal scan group (p=0.002). Sixty four (64) patients (39%) had reduced EF (<45%). This group had an average HR and percentage HR increase of 23 beats/min (27%) compared with an increase of 35 beats/min (38%) in patients with normal EF (p=0.002 and p=0.02, respectively). Thus, a diminished HR response had a significant association with both an abnormal scan and reduced EF on adenosine MPI.

Noninvasive carotid duplex study may be used as predictor test for ischaemic heart disease

A prospective observational study was carried out to detect carotid atherosclerosis using high resolution B-Mode in 150 in-hospital patients with clinically diagnosed ischemic heart disease in various forms in the department of Cardiology, University Cardiac Center, BSMMU, Bangladesh. The duration of study was from April 2006 to December 2008. Carotid Ultrasound evaluation was performed in 150 patients diagnosed as Ischemic Heart Disease by single operator (NF). Mean age of the patients was 53.62±10.92 with, male to female ratio of 9.5:0.5. Mean IMT was 0.96±0.21mm in 85% of the patient of clinically diagnosed IHD, which was higher than the normal (normal IMT ≤0.8mm). Among them, about 77% had atherosclerotic plaque. A significant correlation between Carotid atherosclerosis determined by IMT and Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD) was found. Non invasive carotid duplex study might be useful for predicting ischaemic heart disease.

CCN5/WISP-2 promotes growth arrest of triple-negative breast cancer cells through accumulation and trafficking of p27(Kip1) via Skp2 and FOXO3a regulation

The matricellular protein CCN5/WISP-2 represents a promising target in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) because treatment or induced activation of CCN5 in TNBC cells promotes cell growth arrest at the G0/G1 phase, reduces cell proliferation and delays tumor growth in the xenograft model. Our studies found that the p27(Kip1) tumor suppressor protein is upregulated and relocalized to the nucleus from cytoplasm by CCN5 in these cells and that these two events (upregulation and relocalization of p27(Kip1)) are critical for CCN5-induced growth inhibition of TNBC cells. In the absence of CCN5, p27(Kip1) resides mostly in the cytoplasm, which is associated with the aggressive nature of cancer cells. Mechanistically, CCN5 inhibits Skp2 expression, which seems to stabilize the p27(Kip1) protein in these cells. On the other hand, CCN5 also recruits FOXO3a to mediate the transcriptional regulation of p27(Kip1). The recruitment of FOXO3a is achieved by the induction of its expression and activity through shifting from cytoplasm to the nucleus. Our data indicate that CCN5 blocks PI3K/AKT signaling to dephosphorylate at S318, S253 and Thr32 in FOXO3a for nuclear relocalization and activation of FOXO3a. Moreover, inhibition of α6β1 receptors diminishes CCN5 action on p27(Kip1) in TNBC cells. Collectively, these data suggest that CCN5 effectively inhibits TNBC growth through the accumulation and trafficking of p27(Kip1) via Skp2 and FOXO3a regulation, and thus, activation of CCN5 may have the therapeutic potential to kill TNBC.

Preparation and characterization of Simvastatin solid dispersion using skimmed milk

Simvastatin has low aqueous solubility resulting in low oral bioavailability (5%) and thus presents a challenge in formulating a suitable dosage form. To improve the aqueous solubility, a solid dispersion formulation of Simvastatin was prepared by lyophilization utilizing skimmed milk as a carrier. Six different formulations were prepared with varying ratios of drug and carrier and the corresponding physical mixtures were also prepared. The improvement of amorphous state through solid dispersion was confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction studies. The optimum drug-to-carrier ratio of 1:9 enhanced solubility nearly 30-fold as compared to pure drug. In-vitro drug release studies exhibited a cumulative release of 86.69% as compared to 25.19% for the pure drug. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy studies suggested the conversion of crystalline Simvastatin to an amorphous form. In a Triton-induced hyperlipidemia model, a 3-fold increase in the lipid lowering potential was obtained with the reformulated drug as compared to pure drug. These results suggest that solid dispersion of Simvastatin using skimmed milk as carrier is a promising approach for oral delivery of Simvastatin.

Aetiology and risk stratification of patients presenting with atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia in the World, occurring in approximately 0.4% of the general population. The purpose of the present study was to see the aetiology, presenting symptoms and risk stratification of hospital admitted patients with atrial fibrillation. It was conducted in the department of cardiology, University Cardiac Centre, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka from January 2008 to January 2009. A total of 100 patients with atrial fibrillation were enrolled in this study. Out of them, male were 40(40%) and female 60(60%); age range 22-79 years. Most common presenting symptoms were palpitation (80%) & dyspnoea (70%). Chronic rheumatic heart disease (CRHD) (63%) was found in most cases followed by IHD (13%), hypertension (11%). Among CRHD, mitral stenosis was 50%, and mixed mitral valve disease was 8%. Risk stratification of patients with AF for future thromboembolism revealed high risk factors were present in 60% cases, moderate in 25% cases, and weaker risk factors in 15% cases. According to CHADS2 score, most of the patients belonged to moderate risk group (47%) and 32% in low risk group. Chronic rheumatic heart disease is one of the major causes of atrial fibrillation in hospital admitted patients & risk stratification revealed that most of the patients were in risk for future stroke.

Pattern of congenital heart diseases

This prospective observational study was done to find out the frequency of various forms of congenital heart disease (CHD) diagnosed by echocardiography. During the study period (January 2002 to December 2005) 2050 patients were screened by echocardiography. All patients were evaluated by cardiologists and had chest radiograph, electrocardiogram and echocardiography. Total 2050 patients were studied and among them 1071 had congenital heart disease. Male was 561(52.38%) and female was 510(47.62%). Atrial septal defect (ASD) was 374(34.92%), ventricular septal defect (VSD) was 318(29.69%), patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) 83(7.75%), pulmonary stenosis (PS) 58(5.42%), tetralogy of Fallot 162(15.13%), transposition of great vessels (TGA) 16(1.49%), Ebstein anomaly 5(0.4%), coarctation of aorta 1(0.09%) and single ventricle 2(0.19%). This distribution is more or less similar to that reported in studies at home and abroad. In this study atrial septal defect (ASD) was the commonest in acyanotic CHD and tetralogy of Fallot was the commonest cyanotic CHD.

Aortic valve sclerosis is an indicator of coronary artery diseases

Aim of this study is to establish the relationship between echocardiographically detected Aortic Valve Sclerosis (AVS) and angiographically detected Coronary Artery Diseases (CAD). This observational and cross-sectional study was carried out in the department of cardiology BSMMU, Dhaka from January 2010 to November 2010. A total 140 patients of established or suspected coronary artery disease admitted for coronary angiogram was included in this study. Echocardiography and coronary angiography was done. AVS was found in 88(63%) patients. With AVS 81(92.05%) had significant coronary artery disease. Fifty two patients without AVS, 42(80%) had significant coronary artery disease. No significant difference of SVD in both groups but patients with AVS had a higher rate of DVD, TVD and LM disease. Patients without AVS had a higher rate of normal coronary angiogram. Multivariate analysis identified AVS (p=0.018) is an independent predictor of CAD.

Trimetazidine in the prevention of contrast induced nephropathy after coronary angiogram

This prospective randomized, controlled trial was done to evaluate the efficacy of trimetazidine in the prevention of contrast induced nephropathy in patients with raised serum creatinine levels undergoing coronary angiogram. This study was performed in the Department of Cardiology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh from April 2009 to March 2010. Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a serious complication of coronary angiography that is associated with considerably increased mortality and morbidity, including the need for short-term haemodialysis, extended hospitalisation and permanent impairment of renal function. Trimetazidine (TMZ) has been described as a cellular anti-ischaemic agent. This study was trial with 400 patients. Among them 200 patients treated with trimetazidine plus hydration with normal saline and 200 patients (control) given hydration by normal saline only. It was found that the incidence of CIN was significantly (p<0.05) reduced by trimetazidine administration with saline in comparison with saline alone in patients undergoing coronary angiogram (4% vs. 14%).

Direct measurement of the Fermi energy in graphene using a double-layer heterostructure

We describe a technique which allows a direct measurement of the relative Fermi energy in an electron system by employing a double-layer heterostructure. We illustrate this method by using a graphene double layer to probe the Fermi energy as a function of carrier density in monolayer graphene, at zero and in high magnetic fields. This technique allows us to determine the Fermi velocity, Landau level spacing, and Landau level broadening. We find that the N=0 Landau level broadening is larger by comparison to the broadening of upper and lower Landau levels.

Outcome of pregnancy in patients with congenital heart diseases

This prospective study was conducted to evaluate the outcome of pregnancies in women with congenital heart diseases. In this study 50 pregnant women age between 20-45 years with congenital heart diseases were included. Twenty two (44%) were presented with atrial septal defect, 12(24%) with ventricular septal defect, 5(10%) were with patent ductus arteriosus, 6(12%) with Fallot's tetralogy, 2(4%) with pulmonary stenosis, 2(4%) with Eisenmenger syndrome, 1(2%) with dextrocardia. Shortness of breath (60%) was the main presenting complaint. Normal vaginal delivery (52%) was done in majority of cases. Spontaneous abortion occurred in 16% of pregnancies. Major complications were heart failure 16%, arrhythmias 21%, cardiovascular mortality 4%, preeclampsia 4%, and eclampsia 2%. Premature birth 16%, fetal demise 4%, neonatal death 2% and cardiac anomaly at birth 2% were also observed. The outcome of pregnancy in women with congenital heart diseases is favourable with considerable maternal and neonatal complications.

Role of ETT to diagnose coronary artery disease

The purpose of the study to predict the coronary arterial disease by exercise treadmill scoring system and to see the correlation of angiographic extent of coronary artery disease by high treadmill score in our country. The present prospective study carried out in the department of cardiology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, University Cardiac Centre during the period of January 2006 to July 2006. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria a total of 80 patient of chronic stable angina or chest pain evaluation having positive ETT who were admitted in university cardiac centre in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University and underwent coronary angiogram within one month were the study population. Among 80 subjects 60(75%) were male and 20(25%) were female and male: female ratio 3:1 Mean age of male subject 51.37±9.08 years and mean age of female subjects were 43.75±7.67 years. Three quarter of the subject had the history of typical anginal pain followed by 21.3% atypical and 3.8% pain of non-anginal origin. All the risk factors like, dyslipidemia (90%), HTN (68.8%) past smoker (45%), current smoker (32.5%), diabetes (36.3%), family history of coronary artery disease (25%) and sudden death of first degree relatives (8.8%); dyslipidemia was the highest percentage. Among 80 subjects more than one third 35% (28) of the subjects were observed to be normal by angiogram, 28.8% (23) had SVD, 16.3% (13) DVD and 20% (16) TVD. Approximately 70% of the significant stenosis was predicted as having high probability of 30.8% as intermediate probability and none as low probability with exercise test scores. Multi-vessel coronary artery disease were predicted by high probability exercise test score 82.8%. Thus high probability score needs urgent coronary angiogram.

Anti-inflammatory activity of oleanolic acid in rats and mice

Oleanolic acid displayed anti-inflammatory activity in carrageenan and dextran-induced oedema in rats. It elicited marked anti-arthritic action in adjuvant-induced polyarthritis in rats and mice and in formaldehyde-induced arthritis in rats. Oleanolic acid checked the inflammation-induced increased serum transaminase levels. It reduced exudate volume and inhibited leucocyte infiltration in carrageenan-induced pleurisy in rats. It is devoid of any analgesic, antipyretic or ulcerogenic action. Oleanolic acid did not affect the parturition time in pregnant rats or castor oil-induced diarrhoea in rats. Oral LD50 was found to be greater than 2 g kg−1 in mice and rats.

Contrast induced nephropathy in diabetic and non-diabetic patients during coronary angiogram and angioplasty

This study was done to assess the incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) after coronary angiogram (CAG) and percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). Contrast induced nephropathy is the third leading cause of acute renal failure in hospitalized patients. Diabetes mellitus, volume depletion, baseline renal insufficiency, and high volume of contrast agent are a few risk factors. In 245 consecutive patients undergoing CAG or PTCA, we measured serum creatinine at baseline and after 24 and 48 hours of the procedure. CIN was defined as rise in serum creatinine >/=0.5mg/dL or 25% rise from baseline. Two hundred twenty three (91%) subjects were male and 22(9%) were female. Among the 245 subjects 155 (63.3%) were diabetic. Total 59(24.08%) patients developed contrast induced nephropathy. Among these patients, 57(36.8%) were diabetic whereas only 2(2.2%) were non-diabetic. In 59 CIN cases 57(96.6%) were diabetic (p</=0.0001). Among total 59 CIN cases, more than 100 ml of contrast agent used in 51(86.4%) patients (p</=0.0001). Diabetic patients are more prone to develop CIN than non-diabetic. Volume of contrast agent used during procedure is an important predictor for the development of CIN.

Balloon mitral valvuloplasty: immediate and short term haemodynamic and clinical outcome

This prospective study was carried out in the Department of Cardiology, University Cardiac Center, Banghabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, to evaluate the short term clinical and haemodynamic outcome of Balloon mitral valvuloplasty in mitral stenosis. Total 100 patients underwent percutaneous mitral commissurotomy out of which 60 cases had pure mitral stenosis and 40 patients had concomitant other nonsignificant valvular disease. Mitral valve dilatation increases in mitral valve area from 0.5+/-0.22 to 1.80+/-0.41 cm2. Mitral valve mean pressure gradient decline from 24.0+/-6.48 mm of Hg to 6.1+/-3.0 mm of Hg: mean left arterial pressure decline from 21.40+/-4.80 mm of Hg to 6.50+/-2.82 mm of Hg (p<0.001). The pulmonary artery systolic pressure decreased from 78.7+/-20.34 mm of Hg to 30.18+/-10.8 mm of Hg (p<0.001). Procedural success, as defined final mitral valve area>1.5 cm2 or>50% increase in area, was achieved in 95% patients. Serious complications occurred in 2(2%) patients and no death occurred in the study. Minor complications such as vasovagal reaction (03%), balloon rupture without sequelae (1%), hypotension, Seizure etc. during the procedure were also noted. Although percutaneous transvenous mistral commissurotomy appears to be effective at relieving the hemodynamic effects of rheumatic mitral stenosis, it is not without risk. In properly selected patients, however, it appears to have low morbidity and mortality. The overall results of this study demonstrate that the short term clinical and haemodynamic outcome of the procedure were excellent and the incidence of related complications were reasonable.

In-vitro and in-vivo antioxidant activity of different extracts of the leaves of Clerodendron colebrookianum Walp in the rat

The in-vitro antioxidant activities of different concentrations of the water, alcoholic, petroleum ether and ethyl acetate extracts of the dried leaves of Clerodendron colebrookianum Walp, and in-vivo antioxidant activity of the water extract was studied in experimental rat models. The results obtained from in-vitro lipid peroxidation induced by FeSO4-ascorbate in rat liver homogenate showed a significant inhibition of lipid peroxidation by different extracts of C. colebrookianum leaf. Water extracts at concentrations (w/v) of 1:30, 1:50, 1:200 and 1:1000 showed the strongest inhibitory activity over the other organic extracts, suggesting maximum antioxidant effect. Chronic feeding of the water extract to Wistar albino rats (both sexes, 150–200g) in 1 or 2g kg−1/day doses for 14 days significantly increased the ferric reducing ability of plasma by 19% and 40% on the seventh day, and by 45% and 57% on the fourteenth day of treatment, respectively. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), as a marker of lipid peroxidation, and some cellular antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, catalase and reduced glutathione) were estimated in heart, liver and kidney. There was a significant reduction in hepatic and renal TBARS with both the doses, without any change in myocardial TBARS. There was no change in the level of antioxidants in heart, liver and kidney, except for the hepatic superoxide dismutase. The findings of this study showed that the leaf extract of C. colebrookianum increased the antioxidant capacity of blood and had an inhibitory effect on the basal level of lipid peroxidation of liver and kidney. This lends scientific support to the therapeutic use of the plant leaves, as claimed by the tribal medicine of North-East India.

Changes in cardiac parameters of renal allograft recipients: a compilation of clinical, laboratory, and echocardiographic observations

INTRODUCTION

This study was undertaken to observe changes in cardiac parameters along with clinical and laboratory changes after renal transplantation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Cardiac parameters were evaluated by M-mode 2-dimensional echocardiography before transplantation and at monthly intervals. All subjects had functioning grafts at the time of the evaluations.

RESULTS

Fifty-two allograft recipients underwent pretransplant parameters for comparison to those at posttransplant months 1, 3, 6, and 12. When changes at month 1 and 3 were observed among 22 patients, improvements were evident at month 3. Comparisons of pretransplant versus month 3 showed systolic blood pressure (SBP), 161 +/- 16 to 133 +/- 26 mmHg (P < .002); diastolic BP (DBP), 101 +/- 9 to 86 +/- 11 mmHg, (P < .006); hemoglobin (Hgb), 7.3 +/- 1.6 to 11.2 +/- 3.9 g/dL (P < .006); left atrial diameter (LAD), 41 +/- 5 to 35 +/- 3 mm (P < .001); left ventricular muscle mass index (LVMI), 379 +/- 114 to 248 +/- 58 g/m2 (P < .001); and left ventricular end diastolic volume index (LVEDVI), 96 +/- 28 to 64 +/- 17 mL/m2 (P < .002). When changes at months 3, 6, and 12 were observed among 30 patients, improvements evident at month 3 were maintained. Comparisons of pretransplant and 3 and 12 months observations showed SBP, 157 +/- 17, 131 +/- 14, to 126 +/- 10 mm Hg (P < .001); DBP, 97 +/- 10, 83 +/- 16, to 85 +/- 6 mmHg (P < .001); Hgb, 7 +/- 1, 13 +/- 2, to 13 +/- 2 g/dL (P < .001); LAD, 39 +/- 7, 35 +/- 3, to 34 +/- 4 mm (P < .05); LVMI, 275 +/- 91, 191 +/- 38, to 159 +/- 26 g/m2 (P < .001); and LVEDVI, 87 +/- 29, 56 +/- 34, to 49 +/- 24 mL/m2 (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Significant improvements in cardiac parameters were evident by the third month post-renal transplantation; the changes were maintained over a longer period among patients with functional grafts.

Cardiac functional and morphologic changes of renal allograft recipients in the early posttransplant period

After renal transplantation there is a substantial alteration in cardiac morphology and functions. This prospective study was undertaken to observe changes in different cardiac parameters in early months after transplantation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-two allograft recipients (primary disease glomerulonephritis) were evaluated in the immediate pretransplant period (0 month) and 1 and 3 months after transplantation by clinical and echocardiographic (M mode, 2D) evaluations.

RESULTS

Pretransplant echocardiogram showed left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in 100% subjects, LV dilation in 52%, and systolic dysfunction in 18%. By the third month, significant differences in systolic blood pressure (SBP-161 +/- 16 to 133 +/- 26 mm Hg, P < .002); diastolic BP (DBP-101 +/- 9 to 86 +/- 11 mm Hg, P < .006), and hemoglobin level (Hgb-7.3 +/- 1.6 to 11.2 +/- 3.9 g/dL, P < .006) were evident. Echocardiography showed decreased left atrial diameter (LADd-41 +/- 5 to 35 +/- 3 mm, P < .001); left ventricular internal diameter (LVIDd-54 +/- 6 to 47 +/- 6 mm, P < .02); left ventricular muscle mass index (LVMI-379 +/- 114 to 248 +/- 58 g/m(2), P < .001); and left ventricular end diastolic volume index (LVEDVI-96 +/- 28 to 64 +/- 17 ml/m2, P < .002). Bivariate correlations showed positive associations of mean blood pressure (MBP) and serum creatinine with LVMI, LVEDVI, and negative association of hemoglobin with MBP, serum creatinine, LVMI, and LVEDVI.

CONCLUSION

From these observations, we concluded that cardiac morphological parameters start improving in the early posttransplant period. Improvements in renal function, anemia status, and lower blood pressure showed strong associations with these changes.

Tetralogy of fallot and cor-triatriatum a rare association: a case report

A 24 yrs young housewife with Tetralogy of fallot (TOF) associated with cor-triatriatum was referred to our institution for investigation of cardiac murmur. The laboratory examination confirmed the diagnosis TOF and cor-triatritum. The patient was advised for total corrective surgery and referred to cardiac-surgical department. Here we report the case.

Detection of micronucleus and abnormal nucleus in erythrocytes from the gill and kidney of Labeo bata cultivated in sewage-fed fish farms

Determination of genotoxic effect in fish, micronucleus test as well as the study of the abnormal shape of nuclei is a suitable measure, in which the presence or absence of genotoxins can be detected in water. In the present study, micronuclei and abnormal nuclei frequencies were scored in the gill and kidney erythrocytes of the fish Labeo bata grown in the sewage-fed fish farms of East Calcutta wetlands. Three experimental sites were chosen, namely, Bantala, Chowbaga and Chingrihata (basically these sites have sewage-fed fishponds), which were compared with fishponds of no sewage influence as the control area. Highly significant differences (P<0.001) were noticed for micronucleus frequencies in the gill and kidney erythrocytes of experimental fishes, where kidney erythrocytes showed an increased value than gill erythrocytes without any statistical differences. The frequencies of nuclear abnormalities such as necrotic cells, apoptotic cells, notch nucleated cells and binucleated cells were also counted separately for gill and kidney erythrocytes, in which significantly (P<0.001, P<0.01, P<0.05) increased values were obtained in comparison to control populations. These genotoxicity results confirmed that the sewage-fed ponds contain genotoxic metals such as Cr, Zn, Cu, Pb, Mn, Fe through wastewater and sludge because of the direct use of sewage water without pretreatment which may lead to health risks among humans through chronic consumption of fish from these experimental fish ponds. Other vertebrates grown in sewage-fed ponds may also suffer a certain amount of genotoxic substances.

Extract from Clerodendron colebrookianum Walp protects rat heart against oxidative stress induced by ischemic–reperfusion injury (IRI)

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have pathogenic effects on ischemic-reperfusion injury of heart. Hence, it is important to identify natural antioxidative agents to mitigate such effects. Recently, it has been reported that Clerodendron colebrookianum (CC) leaf extract has antioxidant and hypolipidemic effects in experimental animals. The aim of this study was to examine whether acute treatment with CC extract offers protection against ischemic-reperfusion injury (IRI) and IRI-induced changes in endogenous antioxidant enzyme activities of rat heart. Isolated rat hearts were perfused using the Langendorff's technique, and 20 min of global ischemia was followed by 40 min of reperfusion. Lipid peroxidation after the ischemic-reperfusion episode was significantly reduced in the CC extract-treated heart compared to the control group and suppressed the leakage of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) during reperfusion. Moreover, CC extract diminished the depletion of myocardial antioxidant enzymes (SOD, Catalase, GSH and GPx) after ischemia-reperfusion. Furthermore, IRI-induced cellular damage was significantly less in CC extract treated myocytes. These results indicate that CC leaf extract protects against oxidative stress and cellular injury associated with ischemic-reperfusion injury of rat heart and suggests that the protective effects of CC extract depend on its antioxidant properties.

Role of exercise tolerance test (ETT) and gated single photon emission computed tomography-myocardial perfusion imaging (SPECT-MPI) in predicting severity of ischemia in patients with chest pain

This was an observational study carried out in the department of cardiology. Bangabandhu Shikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka in collaboration with Institute of Nuclear Medicine (INM), Shabag, Dhaka during the period October 2002-March 2003. A total of 54 patients presenting with Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) class I-II severity of chest pain with mean +/-SD age 49.88 +/- 8.44 yrs and having male to female ratio 5.75:1 were included in the study. The main objective of the study was to predict severity of myocardial ischemia by Exercise Tolerance Test (ETT) determined by Duke Treadmill Score (DTS) and by perfusion pattern observed following Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography myocardial perfusion imaging (SPECT-MPI). All patients underwent ETT and then SPECT-MPI scan using Tc-99m-tetrofosmin in one-day stress and rest protocol. Coronary angiogram (CAG) was done with in six months of the perfusion study. After performing ETT, patients were categorized by DTS and myocardial perfusion studies were also stratified according to severity of perfusion defect. The formula used to calculate the score was: Exercise time- (5 x ST segment deviation)-(4 X Treadmill angina index). The angiographic findings (significant >50% stenosis) and perfusion defects in MPI were compared with the severity of DTS. There were 31 patients who had CAG proven (>50% luminal diameter narrowing) CAD and 23 patients free of CAD. After ETT patients were categorized by Duke Treadmill Score into high DTS 12 (22.22%) patients, intermediate DTS 20 (37.03%) patients low DTS 22 (40.74%) patients. In high DTS group 91.66% patients had perfusion defect, whereas in intermediate and low risk group it was 60% and 40.9% respectively. In high DTS group 91.66% of patients had angiographicaly proven CAD, 58.33% of them had triple vessel disease (TVD) while in intermediate and low risk groups angiographically proven CAD were 65% and 22.72% of whom TVD only in 15% & 0% respectively. The results of ETT using DTS score were satisfactorily correlated with SPECT-MPI scanning in high DTS subsets of patients only. It is therefore, suggested that patient of high risk DTS do not need for myocardial perfusion imaging study and should undergo CAG for further evaluation. But the intermediate and low risk groups were needed myocardial perfusion imaging study to guide for further evaluation.

Terminalia arjuna (Roxb.) protects rabbit heart against ischemic-reperfusion injury: role of antioxidant enzymes and heat shock protein

The bark of Terminalia arjuna Roxb. (TA) is widely recommended for the treatment of ischemic heart disease (IHD) in Indian system of medicine. Oral administration of TA for 12 weeks in rabbits caused augmentation of myocardial antioxidants; superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) along with induction of heat shock protein72 (HSP72). In vivo ischemic-reperfusion injury induced oxidative stress, tissue injury of heart and haemodynamic effects were prevented in the TA treated rabbit hearts. The study provides scientific basis for the putative therapeutic effect of TA in ischemic heart disease.

Emblica officinalis causes myocardial adaptation and protects against oxidative stress in ischemic-reperfusion injury in rats

The fruits of Emblica officinalis (Amla) are widely used in the Indian System of Medicine and are believed to increase defense against disease. In the present study, the effects of chronic oral administration of fresh fruit homogenate of Amla on: (i). myocardial antioxidant system and (ii). oxidative stress induced by ischemic-reperfusion injury (IRI) in rat heart were investigated. Fresh amla fruit homogenate, in three different doses (250, 500 and 750 mg/kg) and normal saline (C) were administered orally to Wistar albino rats (120-150 gms) of either sex daily for 30 days. There was reduction in basal myocardial lipid peroxidation, as evidenced by decreased thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) level, and augmentation of myocardial endogenous antioxidants, like superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in the treated rats. Hearts were also subjected to in vitro IRI (9 min of global ischemia, followed by 12 min of reperfusion, Langendorff's mode). Significant myocyte injury and rise in myocardial TBARS along with depletion of SOD, catalase, GSH (reduced glutathione) and GPx occurred in the control group. No significant increase in myocardial TBARS and depletion of antioxidant enzymes were observed in the treated groups. Myocyte injury was evident only in 250 mg/kg group. The results indicate that chronic Emblica officinalis administration causes myocardial adaptation by augmenting endogenous antioxidants and protects rat hearts from oxidative stress associated with ischemic-reperfusion injury.

Assessment of the impacts of vehicular pollution on urban air quality

Air quality crisis in cities is mainly due to vehicular emissions. Owing to the expanding economic base Indian cities are growing at a faster rate. Transportation systems are increasing everywhere and the improved technology is insufficient to counteract growth. The effect of vehicular emission on urban air quality and human health has been described. A survey has been conducted in an Indian mega city to evaluate the status of air pollution at traffic intersections and the unique problem arising out of vehicular emissions in the study area has been narrated. Approach for the selection of the air monitoring stations, methodology adopted for data collection and the results have been discussed. Vulnerability analysis (VA) has been carried out to identify the zones at what pollution stress. Options for reducing mobile source emission have been discussed and a strategic air quality management plan has been proposed to mitigate the air pollution in the city.

Chronic oral administration of raw garlic protects against isoproterenol-induced myocardial necrosis in rat

Wistar albino rats (150-200 g) were fed raw garlic homogenate orally in three different doses (125, 250, 500 mg/kg/day) for 30 days. Isoproterenol (85 mg/kg, s.c. 2 doses at 24-h interval, animals sacrificed after 24 h of last injection) induced myocardial necrosis in control rats and after 30 days of garlic feeding. Myocardial oxidative stress was evident following isoproterenol administration by reduction in myocardial superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities along with a rise in plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). Myocardial necrosis was evident from the light microscopic and ultrastructural changes, along with a rise in plasma lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Significant preservation of myocardial SOD activity was observed in all the garlic-fed rats. However, there was no significant change in myocardial reduced glutathione level and GPx activity in any of the treated groups. Significant reduction in plasma TBARS and LDH levels was observed in the 500 mg/kg garlic treated group. Isoproterenol-induced myocardial morphological changes were least in the 250 and 500 mg/kg garlic treated groups. The results suggest that chronic oral administration of raw garlic offered protection against isoproterenol-induced myocardial necrosis and associated oxidative stress.

Improvement in pulsed wave Doppler echocardiographic assessment of pulmonary artery pressure

Non invasive estimation of pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) is of paramount importance in various form of cardiac, respiratory and intensive care medicine practice. Using pressure gradient between different chambers enables a reliable estimation of PAP and are being largely practiced. In absence of these pressure gradient, various time interval or the ratios of pulmonary blood flow velocity curve (PBFVC) in pulsed wave doppler echocardiography (PWDE) can predict the PAP. But there is lack of general agreement as which parameter should be used. We hypothesized that using separate time interval or their ratios of PBFVC for different group of patient may improve the PWDE prediction of PAP. Forty-six consecutive patients with different cardiac diseases and 20 consecutive control persons underwent PWD echocardiographic examination. Pulmonary blood flow velocity curve derived time intervals--the time intervals--time to peak velocity (TPV), Pre-ejection period (PEP) and right ventricular ejection time (RVET) and their ratios were measured. The Doppler derived measurements were compared with cardiac catheterization (CC) measured PAP in 46 patients in whom CC were done. PBFVC derived time interval TPV and the ratio PEP/TPV correlated well with CC measured systolic PAP (r=-0.78 and r=0.77 respectively). For congenital left to right shunt disease the ratio PEP/TPV improved the prediction (r=-0.87) while the same measure showed weak correlation in patients with left sided heart disease. Only TPV could predict mean PAP in patients with left sided heart disease (r=-0.60). We concluded that the use of separate PBFVC derived time interval or their ratio from PWDE may improve the prediction of PAP with different pathological group of disease.

Garlic as an antioxidant: the good, the bad and the ugly

Garlic has played an important dietary and medicinal role throughout the history of mankind. In some Western countries, the sale of garlic preparations ranks with those of leading prescription drugs. The therapeutic efficacy of garlic encompasses a wide variety of ailments, including cardiovascular, cancer, hepatic and microbial infections to name but a few. However, the elucidation of its mechanism for therapeutic action has proved to be more elusive and a unifying theory, which could account for its reported multifarious activities, is yet to emerge. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) seem to be at the core of many disease processes and it is an attractive and convenient hypothesis that garlic might exert its activities through modulatory effects on ROS. A literature search on garlic and its antioxidant potential churned up a surprisingly large amount of data, some of it good, some bad and some of its definitely ugly. Various preparations of garlic, mainly aged garlic extract (AGE), have been shown to have promising antioxidant potential. However, the presence of more than one compounds in garlic, with apparently opposite biological effects, has added to the complexity of the subject. Raw garlic homogenate has been reported to exert antioxidant potential but higher doses have been shown to be toxic to the heart, liver and kidney. So where do we stand today on this issue of garlic? Is garlic always good for health? How safe is it? Is it necessary to isolate the antioxidant compounds for its medicinal use in a more effective way? These issues are addressed in this review.

A rapid and improved method for the detection of Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio vulnificus strains grown on hydrophobic grid membrane filters

DNA probe-based detection methods were developed and characterized as an alternative to time-consuming and less specific conventional protocols. Digoxigenin-labeled probes were prepared by polymerase chain reaction amplification of the targeted sequences in the specific amplicons generated from genomic DNA. Specific probes with high yields were generated for the detection of the tlh gene of Vibrio parahaemolyticus and the cth gene of V. vulnificus. Colony (Southern) hybridization analyses were carried out using hydrophobic grid membrane filters (HGMFs) to allow biotype-specific differentiation of the two species. Eight strains of V. vulnificus and five strains of V. parahaemolyticus, including one standard (ATCC) strain of each biotype, were examined. Colony lysis, hybridization, and nonradioactive detection parameters were optimized for identification of the target biotypes arranged on the same HGMF and also on a conventional nylon membrane, thereby confirming the specificity of the probes and the comparative usefulness of the HGMFs. The experimental procedure presented here can be completed in 1 day. The protocol was designed specifically to identify the target Vibrio spp. and could potentially be used for the enumeration and differentiation of V. parahaemolyticus and V. vulnificus in foods.