Fabrication of nano filler doped PVA/starch biodegradable composites with enhanced thermal conduction, water barrier and antimicrobial performance for food industry

In this work there was investigated the synergistic effect of the nanomaterials-the Montmorillonite (MMT) and the vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) on the polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/starch composite. The composite films were prepared by the solvent casting method. The characterization of the composites showed that the addition of the MMT and the V2O5 to PVA/starch composite decreased the water solubility and water absorption capacity of the film. Both of the reinforcement materials enriched values of thermal conductivity and thermal stability of the composite. The TG/DTA and universal testing machine (UTM) analysis exhibited that MMT and V2O5 augmented the thermal robustness and tensile strength of composites and decreased the strain to break. It was also observed that greater MMT concentration accelerates mechanical strength deterioration of the film owing to agglomeration. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis reflected great change in the surface morphology of the films in the presence and absence of MMT and V2O5. This was due to the interaction amid constituents of the composite. The chemical interaction between the PVA, Starch, MMT and the V2O5 was also established via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis, which revealed fluctuations in the absorbance position and intensity of the PVA/Starch. Antimicrobial activities against seven different cultures of bacteria (both-gram positive and -negative) and one fungus (Candida albicans), exposed that antimicrobial performance of the PVA amplified upon addition of the starch, MMT and V2O5, making these composites prospective candidates for the biodegradable packaging materials.

Pattern of Prescribing Analgesics and Their Response in Cancer Patients Attending Outpatient Department of Palliative Care Service in Two Teaching Hospitals of Bangladesh

Palliative care is a valued aspect of clinical care which is an urgent humanitarian need for people worldwide with cancer and other chronic fatal diseases. Patients experience many different symptoms including severe pain in advanced cancer. Palliative care focuses on relief from symptoms, pain and stress by using different analgesics and adjuvant. The goal of palliative care is to improve the quality of life. So, this prospective observational study was carried out to assess pattern of drugs used and their response to pain in cancer patients attending out-patient department of palliative care service in two teaching hospitals of Bangladesh. One hundred forty (140) cancer patients were purposively selected who attended in out-patient department of palliative care unit in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) and Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) from July 2018 to June 2019. Outcome variables were commonly presenting complaints, pain intensity, commonly prescribed drugs and analgesic prescription according to WHO three-step analgesic ladder, etc. The mean age ±SD of the respondents was 51.30±15.38 years, male-female ratio 1:1. Common sites of cancer were alimentary origin (20.0%), genitourinary system (17.86%), hepatobiliary system (11.43%), respiratory system (10.71%). The prescribed drugs were analgesics (96.4%), PPIs (74.3%), laxatives (62.1%), anti-emetics (38.6%), multivitamins (32.9%), H2 antagonists (17.1%), sedatives (17.1%), and corticosteroids (8.6%). Level 1 analgesics (Paracetamol or other NSAIDs) were prescribed to 42.65%, level 2 analgesics (Tramadol) were prescribed to 50.00% patients and level 3 analgesics (Morphine) were prescribed to 51.42% patients. The relation between and receiving three levels of analgesic prescriptions was statistically significant. The association between level of analgesic prescription was significant with site of cancer (p<0.001) and intensity of pain (p<0.001). This study showed that morphine was prescribed to more than half of the patients. Other level of analgesics were also used either single or in combination. Younger and male patients were treated more with level III analgesics. Prescribing analgesics were dependent on sites of cancer and intensity of pain.

Antibacterial Activities of Methanolic Seeds Extract of Black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) against Gram Positive Staphylococcus aureus & Gram-Negative Escherichia coli

Evaluation of the in vitro antibacterial activity of Methanolic extracts isolated from Black pepper seeds (Piper nigrum L.) against two infection causing pathogens, Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Escherichia coli. Between July 2022 and June 2023, this experimental study was conducted at the Mymensingh Medical College's Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics in conjunction with the Department of Microbiology. Using the disc diffusion and broth dilution methods, the antibacterial activity of methanolic extract of black pepper seeds (MBPE) was evaluated at various doses. The solvents Methanol and 10.0% Di Methyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) were used to make the extract. Using the broth dilution procedure, the conventional antibiotic Ciprofloxacin was utilized and the outcome was contrasted with that of Methanol extracts. Methanolic extract of black pepper seeds (MBPE) at seven distinct concentrations (100, 80, 60, 40, 20, 10 and 5 mg/ml) were utilized, then later in chosen concentrations as needed to confirm the extracts' more precise margin of antimicrobial sensitivity. At 80 mg/ml and above doses of the MBPE, it had an inhibitory impact against the aforementioned microorganisms. For Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli the MIC were 60 and 75 mg/ml in MBPE respectively. As of the MIC of Ciprofloxacin was 1μg/ml against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. In comparison to MICs of MBPE for the test organisms, the MIC of Ciprofloxacin was the lowest. This study clearly shows that Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli are sensitive to the methanolic extract of black pepper seeds' antibacterial properties.

First-Principles Investigations of Novel Guanidine-Based Dyes

In the pursuit of finding efficient D-π-A organic dyes as photosensitizers for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), first-principles calculations of guanidine-based dyes [A1-A18] were executed using density functional theory (DFT). The various electronic and optical properties of guanidine-based organic dyes with different D-π-A structural modifications were investigated. The structural modification of guanidine-based dyes largely affects the properties of molecules, such as excitation energies, the oscillator strength dipole moment, the transition dipole moment, and light-harvesting efficiencies. The energy gap between the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) is responsible for the reduction and injection of electrons. Modification of the guanidine subunit by different structural modifications gave a range of HOMO-LUMO energy gaps. Chemical and optical characteristics of the dyes indicated prominent charge transfer and light-harvesting efficiencies. The wide electronic absorption spectra of these guanidine-based dyes computed by TD-DFT-B3LYP with 6-31G, 6-311G, and cc-PVDZ basis sets have been observed in the visible region of spectra due to the presence of chromophore groups of dye molecules. Better anchorage of dyes to the surface of TiO2 semiconductors helps in charge-transfer phenomena, and the results suggested that -COOH, -CN, and -NO2 proved to be proficient anchoring groups, making dyes very encouraging candidates for DSSCs. Molecular electrostatic potential explained the electrostatic potential of organic dyes, and IR spectrum and conformational analyses ensured the suitability of organic dyes for the fabrication of DSSCs.

Bark extract of Chaetocarpus castanocarpus (Roxb.) exhibits potent sedative, anxiolytic, and antidepressant effects through an in vivo approach in Swiss albino mice

OBJECTIVE

Standard phytochemical investigations were performed to identify the secondary metabolites in the methanol extract of Chaetocarpus castanocarpus bark (MECC) and investigate the neuropharmacological potential of MECC in Swiss albino mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Swiss albino mice were used in the forced swimming test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST) to evaluate the antidepressant effect of MECC. Also, the hole board test (HBT) and elevated plus maze (EPM) were conducted to examine anxiolytic activities. In contrast, the open field test (OFT) and hole cross test (HCT) were employed to evaluate sleeping disorders.

RESULTS

Alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, coumarins, and tannins are only a few secondary metabolites identified in MECC by qualitative and quantitative phytochemical investigations. The oral administration of MECC considerably shortened the immobility duration during FST and TST. Encouraging dose-dependent anxiolytic effects were also observed in all relevant experiments compared to the control. Additionally, during the OFT and HCT assessment, a noteworthy decline in the locomotor activities of the experimental animals was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this investigation suggest that the Chaetocarpus castanocarpus bark is a possible source of therapeutic candidates for treating neurological disorders.

Effects of healthcare spending on public health status: An empirical investigation from Bangladesh

The escalation of healthcare spending in many nations, particularly in emerging countries such as Bangladesh, may be largely attributed to the growing demand for healthcare services. Evidently, there has been a significant expansion in the public funding allocated to the health sector in Bangladesh, intending to enhance health outcomes. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the impact of healthcare expenditure on health outcomes, specifically focusing on the reduction in different mortality rates and the transmission of various infectious diseases. A total of 30 years of data (1990-2019) on the health sector of Bangladesh were collected from different national and international sources. The Vector Autoregression with Exogenous Variables (VARX) model was employed to determine the effects of healthcare expenditure on health outcomes. Results revealed that the per capita health expenditure and the number of doctors showed a significant positive impact on life expectancy and maternal and child health. Also, the government's annual budget on the health sector and number of doctors had a significant positive impact on lowering deaths by Diphtheria, Cholera, Tuberculosis, and Malaria diseases. In order to develop a sustainable healthcare system within the nation, it is imperative for the government to prioritize the allocation of sufficient and effective healthcare funding to cater to the needs of the populace.

Impact of market-based home fortification with micronutrient powder on childhood anemia in Bangladesh: a modified stepped wedge design

Background

Anemia poses a significant public health problem, affecting 1.6 billion people and contributing to the loss of 68.4 million disability-adjusted life years. We assessed the impact of a market-based home fortification program with micronutrient powder (MNP) called Pushtikona-5 implemented by Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee (BRAC) on the prevalence of anemia among children aged 6-59 months in Bangladesh.

Methods

We used a modified stepped wedged design and conducted three baseline, two midline, and three endline surveys to evaluate the Pushtikona-5 program implemented through three BRAC program platforms. We interviewed children's caregivers, and collected finger-prick blood samples from children to measure hemoglobin concentration. We also collected data on coverage of Pushtikona-5 and infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices. We performed bivariate and multivariable analysis and calculated adjusted risk ratios (ARRs) to assess the effect of program outcomes.

Results

A total of 16,936 households were surveyed. The prevalence of anemia was 46.6% at baseline, dropping to 32.1% at midline and 31.2% at endline. These represented adjusted relative reductions of 34% at midline (RR 0.66, 95%CI 0.62 to 0.71, value of p <0.001) and 32% at endline (RR 0.68, 95%CI 0.64 to 0.71, value of p <0.001) relative to baseline. Regarding MNP coverage, at baseline, 43.5% of caregivers surveyed had heard about MNP; 24.3% of children had ever consumed food with MNP, and only 1.8% had consumed three or more sachets in the 7 days preceding the survey. These increased to 63.0, 36.9, and 4.6%, respectively, at midline and 90.6, 68.9, and 11.5%, respectively, at endline.

Conclusion

These results show evidence of a reduction in the prevalence of anemia and an improvement in coverage. This study provides important evidence of the feasibility and potential for impact of linking market-based MNP distribution with IYCF promotion through community level health workers.

Cardiovascular Risk Scoring of Hospitalized Chronic Kidney Disease Patients by Framingham Risk Score

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are more likely to have complications due to cardiovascular diseases (CVD). This cross sectional descriptive study was conducted in the Department of Medicine and Nephrology, Chittagong Medical College (CMC), Chittagong, Bangladesh from June to December, 2014 and was performed to estimate the risk of cardiovascular events according to Framingham's Risk Score of CKD patients. In this research, 100 patients who was diagnosed as CKD and admitted in the Chittagong Medical College Hospital were enrolled. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated with the MDRD formula. Cardiovascular risk factors were analyzed by Framinghams criteria and after compilation data were analyzed by SPSS-18.0. Among 100 patients, most of patients were under 60 years of age where males (56.0%) were more than females (44.0%). Framingham Cardiovascular Risk Score revealed that most of the male were at high risk group compared to female. Regarding different components of lipid profile with Framingham risk score, higher risk group had high mean total cholesterol (212.17mg/dl) and also low mean HDL level (38.58mg/dl). Patient with different stages of CKD with cardiovascular risk showed stage 5 CKD was 80%, stage 4 was 15.0% and rest 5 was at stage 3 and most were in low risk group (56.0%). There were significant positive correlations found in between age and serum total cholesterol level with the cardiovascular risk scoring but not with HDL and eGFR. The predominant cardiovascular risk factors were age, male gender, smoking and high serum total cholesterol.

Spectrochemical Analysis of Nutritional and Toxic Metals in Different Brands of Candies Using Advanced Diagnostic Approaches

Candies are frequently consumed sweetened food products among children, and their consumption can expose them to potential toxins and contamination. The present study employed calibration-free-laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (CF-LIBS) as a steadfast diagnostic technique to analyze the presence of nutritional and heavy metals in candies from various brands available in local markets in Haripur, Pakistan. A pulsed Nd-YAG laser was used to create a microplasma on the target surface. The emitted light was collected using a dedicated spectrometer to analyze and quantify the species present in the candies. The analysis revealed the presence of micronutrients, macronutrients, and trace toxic metals such as Ca, K, Mg, Fe, Na, Al, Pb, Cr, Mn, Zn, Cu, and Ni. The optimization of our LIBS system was achieved through a parametric dependence study. The confirmation of the assumption of local thermodynamic equilibrium was achieved by assessing McWhirter's criterion and considering the relaxation time and the diffusion length of atoms in plasma. The highest concentrations (measured in mg/kg) of Pb, Cr, and Mn were determined to be 15 mg/kg, 340 mg/kg, and 880 mg/kg, respectively. The levels of Pb and Cr were found to be well above the maximum accepted limit set by the WHO. Similarly, the concentration of Mn in S-4 and S-5 exceeded the permissible limits set by the WHO. However, Zn, Cu, and Ni were found within safe limits in all the collected samples. In addition, the abundance obtained through CF-LIBS was compared to the concentration of similar (duplicate) candies samples analyzed using a standard analytical technique like inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy. Excellent harmony could be seen in both outcomes. Moreover, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) was also utilized to confirm the presence of detected toxins. The significance of our findings lies in creating awareness among the public about the health risks associated with consuming toxins through candies, thereby protecting numerous human lives.

Hanging: Commonly Encountered by Forensic Experts at Autopsy

Though human lives have become easier and faster due to rapid twist in urbanization, industrialization and digitalization suicidal tendency among common people are often seen. Hanging is the commonly chosen method to do so. The study was designed to find out the pattern of hanging cases and to discover the immensity of hanging as a method of committing suicide. This retrospective study was done for three years by retrospectively collected data at the department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology of Chattogram Medical College. A total of 193 cases (6.73%) of hanging were observed among 2850 autopsies done from January 2015 to December 2017. The age group of 31-40 years was mostly affected i.e. in 54(27.97%) followed by 21-30 years 48(24.87%). Males 112(58.03%) out numbered the females 81(41.96%). Clothes 88(45.59%) were mostly used as ligature material followed by jute rope (33.67%) and nylon rope (20.72%). Maximum cases were atypical hanging 160(82.90%), while we observed 33 typical (17.09%) hangings. In 166 cases (86.01%) we observed no injuries to the neck while contusion of the neck in 27 cases (13.99%). This study revealed fracture of the thyroid cartilage in 5 cases (2.59%) and hyoid in 2 cases (1.03%). One hundred & eighty five (185) cases (95.85%) were of suicidal and only 8 cases (4.14%) were of accidental. As per observation of this study, hanging has been found to be a common means of committing suicide in Bangladesh.

Pattern of Prescribing Drugs in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Bangladesh

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic obstructive disease of the airways. It is one of the most common and important chronic respiratory conditions in terms of years lived with disability. Incidence is increasing in Bangladesh like other developing countries. To evaluate drug prescription pattern for COPD, this cross-sectional, observational study was conducted from January to December in 2020 at the Department of Pharmacology in collaboration with the Department of Medicine in Mymensingh Medical College, Bangladesh. A total of 168 patients were selected for the study by non-random purposive sampling technique. Age distribution indicates that 31.5% of patients were in the 50-59 years age group and males were 93.5%. The majority (82.1%) of the participants were smokers. In this study, majority (34.12%) of the drugs were used as oral form and second most common dosage form was nebulization (26.75%). Bronchodilators were mostly prescribed 652(57.19%), followed by corticosteroids 222(19.47%) and antibiotics 165(14.47%) among drugs used for COPD. Beta sympathomimetics 322(45.49%) were mostly prescribed, followed by anticholinergics 186(28.52%) and methylxanthines 144(22.08%) as bronchodilators. Out of 1140 drugs for COPD, 53.06% and 34.12% were delivered as inhalation and oral forms, respectively. Inhalation route was the most (60.37%) preferred one over oral route (37.63%) for steroid use. The most of the patients [152 (90.48%)] were treated with combination therapy. Mostly (39.6%) used Fixed Dose Combination (FDC) therapy was salbutamol and ipratropium bromide followed by salmeteroal and Fluticasone (30.83%). Both FDC were prescribed in 57.7% of study population. Considering nomenclature, trade name was used in 24.4% of prescription.

Distinct glycoconjugate cell surface structures make the pelagic diatom Thalassiosira rotula an attractive habitat for bacteria

Interactions between marine diatoms and bacteria have been studied for decades. However, the visualization of physical interactions between these diatoms and their colonizers is still limited. To enhance our understanding of these specific interactions, a new Thalassiosira rotula isolate from the North Sea (strain 8673) was characterized by scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) after staining with fluorescently labeled lectins targeting specific glycoconjugates. To investigate defined interactions of this strain with bacteria the new strain was made axenic and co-cultivated with a natural bacterial community and in two- or three-partner consortia with different bacteria of the Roseobacter group, Gammaproteobacteria and Bacteroidetes. The CLSM analysis of the consortia identified six out of 78 different lectins as very suitable to characterize glycoconjugates of T. rotula. The resulting images show that fucose-containing threads were the dominant glycoconjugates secreted by the T. rotula cells but chitin and to a lesser extent other glycoconjugates were also identified. Bacteria attached predominantly to the fucose glycoconjugates. The colonizing bacteria showed various attachment patterns such as adhering to the diatom threads in aggregates only or attaching to both the surfaces and the threads of the diatom. Interestingly the colonization patterns of single bacteria differed strikingly from those of bacterial co-cultures, indicating that interactions between two bacterial species impacted the colonization of the diatom. Our observations help to better understand physical interactions and specific colonization patterns of distinct bacterial mono- and co-cultures with an abundant diatom of costal seas.

Vitamin B12 is not shared by all marine prototrophic bacteria with their environment

Vitamin B₁₂ (cobalamin, herein B₁₂) is an essential cofactor involved in amino acid synthesis and carbon resupply to the TCA cycle for most prokaryotes, eukaryotic microorganisms, and animals. Despite being required by most, B₁₂ is produced by only a minor fraction of prokaryotes and therefore leads to complex interaction between prototrophs and auxotrophs. However, it is unknown how B₁₂ is provided by prototrophs to auxotrophs. In this study, 33 B₁₂ prototrophic alphaproteobacterial strains were grown in co-culture with Thalassiosira pseudonana, a B₁₂ auxotrophic diatom, to determine the bacterial ability to support the growth of the diatom by sharing B₁₂. Among these strains, 18 were identified to share B₁₂ with the diatom, while nine were identified to retain B₁₂ and not support growth of the diatom. The other bacteria either shared B₁₂ with the diatom only with the addition of substrate or inhibited the growth of the diatom. Extracellular B₁₂ measurements of B₁₂-provider and B₁₂-retainer strains confirmed that the cofactor could only be detected in the environment of the tested B₁₂-provider strains. Intracellular B₁₂ was measured by LC-MS and showed that the concentrations of the different B₁₂-provider as well as B₁₂-retainer strains differed substantially. Although B₁₂ is essential for the vast majority of microorganisms, mechanisms that export this essential cofactor are still unknown. Our results suggest that a large proportion of bacteria that can synthesise B₁₂ de novo cannot share the cofactor with their environment.

Occurrence of new Philometra sp. in mangrove red snapper Lutjanus argentimaculatus from the Karachi coast, Pakistan

A recent examination of Philometra nematodes from mangrove red snapper Lutjanus argentimaculatus (Forsskal, 1775) from the Karachi coast, Kemari was done in the years 2021-2022. The present study reported three new species of genus Philometra (Costa, 1845) (Nematoda: Philometridae) Philometra kolachii, Philometra lutjani and Philometra kemarii. A total of 140 fish samples were examined, and 76 were infected. The intensity of infected fish was 54.28%. In Pakistan, literature on Philometrid nematodes is limited, therefore, this research would be helpful for the documentation and enhancement of nematods in Pakistan.

Estimation and Quantification of Toxic Metals in Hugely Consumed Chicken Livers by Advanced Diagnostic Approaches

Contamination of toxins in chicken's liver is a serious concern for human health owing to related threats of cytotoxicity and general pathologies after their digestion. The quantitative investigations were accomplished by calibration curves plotted for all the detected toxins via typical samples arranged in the known concentrations in the chicken liver's matrix. The chicken liver samples were collected from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan and found to contain heavy metals like Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn. The analytical estimations were performed under the suppositions of local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) in terms of optical thin plasma. The maximum concentrations (parts per million) of Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn were as 2.87 ± 0.02 ppm, 7.80 ± 0.13 ppm, 2.84 ± 0.02 ppm, 4.00 ± 0.08, and 83.5 ± 2.10 ppm respectively. Abundance of Cu, and Pb was found considerably beyond the maximum accepted boundary of WHO. Likewise, the level of Ni exceeded the permitted bounds of WHO in samples 01 and 02. To validate our laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy investigation, we approximated the abundance of identical (duplicate) chicken livers through digesting the specimens in suitable solvents by a typical technique such as inductively coupled plasma/optical emission spectrometry (ICP/OES) and the results acquired were in outstanding harmony. Furthermore, the existence of detected toxins was also checked using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). It is worth stating that larger amounts of Cu, Ni, and Pb in poultry may cause a severe hazard to customers which required security actions and precautions. Our findings are extremely important to make an awareness among the people due to associated health hazards after the digestion of toxins through chicken liver and to protect numerous human lives.

Ultra-sculpturing of seed morphotypes in selected species of genus Salvia L. and their taxonomic significance

The taxonomic importance of macromorphological and micromorphological seed characteristics was investigated using SEM of ten species of the Salvia genus from Pakistan. The aim was to identify diagnostic seed ultrastructural features that could aid in species delimitation, correct identification and phylogenetic position. The ultrastructure of Salvia varies greatly, and a wide range of unique micromorphological features have been observed. Seed micromorphological features were explored by SEM, including seed shape, colour, texture, cell outline, surface sculpturing, epidermal cell arrangement, anticlinal, and periclinal wall pattern. Seed shapes were categorized as obovate, spherical, spheroid, broadly elliptic, elliptic and oblong, mostly with a terminal hilum. Seed colours were black, light brown, dark brown, brown and yellow. Exo-morphological characters, i.e. epidermal cell arrangements, included irregular, wavy pentagonal-hexagonal, regular pentagonal-hexagonal. Cluster analysis was used to assess similar and distinct species within Salvia with a feasible explanation. Taxonomic keys were made based on micromorphological qualitative features that help to delimit species and identify them quickly within the Salvia genus. Seed morphology of ten Salvia species was described and investigated, and the diagnostic significance of features evaluated using SEM. This study analysed seed features, especially at the species level, which might provide much new taxonomic information. The results revealed that, in seed morphology, using SEM can help with taxon identification, especially at the genus and species levels.

Combined impact of lemongrass and spearmint herbs on performance, serum metabolites, liver enzymes, and meat quality of broiler

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the influence of feeding fresh lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) or spearmint (Mentha spicata) and their combination on performance, serum metabolites, liver enzymes, and meat quality in broilers.

Materials and Methods

A total of 168 day-old Indian River chicks were arbitrarily offered four experimental rations: (i) control ration (CT-R): corn-soya-based ration, (ii) lemongrass ration (LG-R): CT-R + 1.0% DM of lemongrass; (iii) spearmint ration (SM-R): CT-R + 1.0% DM of spearmint; and (iv) lemongrass-spearmint ration (LS-R): CT-R + 0.5% DM from both lemongrass and spearmint. Each ration was given to 42 birds for a duration of 35 days, with 3 replications and 14 birds each.

Results

Elevated body weight gain was observed in LG-R (1,502 gm), LS-R (1,492 gm), and SM-R (1,474 gm) compared to CT-R (1,451 gm) (p = 0.078). Herbal rations successfully reduced almost 3%-5% of serum and meat total cholesterol concentrations compared to CT-R. Compared to CT-R, the highest zinc and iron concentrations of serum and meat were measured in LG-R and SM-R, respectively, while both minerals of serum and meat were observed to be better in LS-R (p < 0.05). Herbal rations significantly improved serum liver enzyme activity and ameliorated the red color of breast and thigh meat but failed to improve the lightness and yellowness of both types of meat compared to CT-R.

Conclusions

LG-R, SM-R, and LS-R improved bird performance, liver health, and meat color, and lowered serum and meat cholesterol levels. But among them, LS-R efficaciously increased the serum and meat zinc and iron concentrations.

Safety of maintaining elective and emergency surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic with the introduction of a Protected Elective Surgical Unit (PESU): A cross-specialty evaluation of 30-day outcomes in 9,925 patients undergoing surgery in a University Health Board

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented health care challenges mandating surgical service reconfiguration. Within our hospital, emergency and elective streams were separated and self-contained Protected Elective Surgical Units were developed to mitigate against infection-related morbidity. Aims of this study were to determine the risk of COVID-19 transmission and mortality and whether the development of Protected Elective Surgical Units can result in significant reduction in risk.

Methods

A retrospective observational study of consecutive patients from 18 specialties undergoing elective or emergency surgery under general, spinal, or epidural anaesthetic over a 12-month study period was undertaken. Primary outcome measures were 30-day postoperative COVID-19 transmission rate and mortality. Secondary adjusted analyses were performed to ascertain hospital and Protected Elective Surgical Unit transmission rates.

Results

Between 15 March 2020 and 14 March 2021, 9,925 patients underwent surgery: 6,464 (65.1%) elective, 5,116 (51.5%) female, and median age 57 (39–70). A total of 69.5% of all procedures were performed in Protected Elective Surgical Units. Overall, 30-day postoperative COVID-19 transmission was 2.8% (3.4% emergency vs 1.2% elective P < .001). Protected Elective Surgical Unit postoperative transmission was significantly lower than non–Protected Elective Surgical Unit (0.42% vs 3.2% P < .001), with an adjusted likely in-hospital Protected Elective Surgical Unit transmission of 0.04%. The 30-day all-cause mortality was 1.7% and was 14.6% in COVID-19–positive patients. COVID-19 infection, age > 70, male sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists grade > 2, and emergency surgery were all independently associated with mortality.

Conclusion

This study has demonstrated that Protected Elective Surgical Units can facilitate high-volume elective surgical services throughout peaks of the COVID-19 pandemic while minimising viral transmission and mortality. However, mortality risk associated with perioperative COVID-19 infection remains high.

Antibacterial Effect of Moringa (Moringa oleifera) Leaf Ethanolic Extract Against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli

Increasing resistance of pathogenic microorganisms to synthetic antibiotics has lead to the search for alternative drug sources. In this regard, one of the reputed Medicinal plant, Moringa (Moringa oleifera) was investigated for potential antimicrobial effect against some commonly encountered bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli. This experimental study was conducted from July 2019 to June 2020 in the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics in collaboration with the Department of Microbiology, Mymensingh Medical College, Bangladesh to determine the antibacterial effect of Ethanolic extract of Moringa oleifera leaf (EMLE) against aforementioned bacteria. The antibacterial activity was tested at different concentrations (100, 200, 400, 600, 800 and 1000μg/ml) of Ethanolic extract by using disc diffusion and broth dilution method. Dose dependent inhibitory effect was seen against the test organisms using disc diffusion method. The maximum zone of inhibition was 19 mm against S. aureus and 20mm against E. coli at 100.0% (1000μg/ml) concentration. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of EMLE were 400μg/ml and 500μg/ml against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli respectively. The present study showed that Ethanolic extract of Moringa leaf demonstrated antibacterial effects against food borne pathogens. Further studies are required to detect and isolate the active ingredients present in the Moringa leaves extract responsible for its antibacterial effect.

The overlooked role of a biotin precursor for marine bacteria - desthiobiotin as an escape route for biotin auxotrophy

Biotin (vitamin B₇) is involved in a wide range of essential biochemical reactions and a crucial micronutrient that is vital for many pro- and eukaryotic organisms. The few biotin measurements in the world’s oceans show that availability is subject to strong fluctuations. Numerous marine microorganisms exhibit biotin auxotrophy and therefore rely on supply by other organisms. Desthiobiotin is the primary precursor of biotin and has recently been detected at concentrations similar to biotin in seawater. The last enzymatic reaction in the biotin biosynthetic pathway converts desthiobiotin to biotin via the biotin synthase (BioB). The role of desthiobiotin as a precursor of biotin synthesis in microbial systems, however, is largely unknown. Here we demonstrate experimentally that bacteria can overcome biotin auxotrophy if they retain the bioB gene and desthiobiotin is available. A genomic search of 1068 bacteria predicts that the biotin biosynthetic potential varies greatly among different phylogenetic groups and that 20% encode solely bioB and thus can potentially overcome biotin auxotrophy. Many Actino- and Alphaproteobacteria cannot synthesize biotin de novo, but some possess solely bioB, whereas the vast majority of Gammaproteobacteria and Flavobacteriia exhibit the last four crucial biotin synthesis genes. We detected high intra- and extracellular concentrations of the precursor relative to biotin in the prototrophic bacterium, Vibrio campbellii, with extracellular desthiobiotin reaching up to 1.09 ± 0.15*10⁶ molecules per cell during exponential growth. Our results provide evidence for the ecological role of desthiobiotin as an escape route to overcome biotin auxotrophy for bacteria in the ocean and presumably in other ecosystems.

Photocatalytic and photo-electrochemical ammonia synthesis over dimensional oriented cobalt titanate/nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide junction interface catalyst

Nitrogen reduction to ammonia is vital for chemical industries and renewable clean energy. Denying the harsh reaction conditions adopted in the Haber-Bosch process and stimulation research for ammonia production through sustainable technologies is a smart approach. Hitherto, photocatalyst acquiring the potential to attain high nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) efficiency is a challenging task. Here, this study demonstrated cobalt titanate (CoTiO₃) rods (p-type) straddled with two-dimensional (2D) sheets of nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide (N-rGO, n-type) via, reflux method; realizing the advantages of dissimilar dimensionalities and strong interfacial junction coupling for efficient NRR under visible light irradiation. The successful interface junction establishment between CoTiO₃ and N-rGO has been witnessed from Raman, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Mott-Schottky analysis. Moreover, a well-defined type-II band structure is capable to curl the charge anti-recombination process; reflected in upgraded photo-catalytic/electrocatalytic upshots. The CoTiO₃ modified with an optimized concentration of N-rGO exhibits high stability with an improved photocatalytic (1722.22 μmolL^-1h^-1) and photo-electrocatalytic (16.8 µg cm^-1h^-1) nitrogen reduction to ammonia production; multiple times higher than counterparts. This improved photo-activity of CoTiO₃/N-rGO junction hybrid stems from the built-in electric field existing across the dissimilar junction interface, triggering charge transfer channels for reduction reaction in mild reaction conditions. The result of these materials might strategies the way for future development of new functionalities bearing highly active catalyst materials for sustainable energy-related conversion.

Clinical and Haematological Findings in Dengue Fever

From 2000 onwards dengue fever has been occurring at regular intervals in Bangladesh. Ultrasonography is a useful diagnostic procedure. This study was done, keeping this background in mind. Objective of this study was to identify the role of ultrasonography as a useful tool in early diagnosis of dengue haemorrhagic fever. This was a cross-sectional descriptive type of observational study. Results of ultrasonography, haematogy an immunology were observed in 2004 and 2019 in 32 patients on each occasion. In 2004 out of 32 patients 29 had positive ultrsonographic findings supported by corresponding haematological and immunological findings. In 2019 ultrsonography was done in three out of thirty two patients, all three had had positive ultra sonographic findings which were supported by haematological and immunological findings. Dengue fever has serious complications like plasma leakage which manifest in the form of ascites, pleural effusion, thick gallbladder wall etc. If such complications can be detected at an early stage many lives can be saved.

Comparative Effect of Losartan and Atenolol on Heart Rate Variability in Untreated Essential Hypertensive Patients by Power Spectral Analysis

Autonomic balance in untreated essential hypertension is altered and antihypertensive drugs may improve autonomic balance. Losartan and atenolol is drug of choice to treat essential hypertension. Power spectral analysis of Heart Rate Variability (HRV) is a tool for detecting autonomic balance. This study aimed to compare the effect of losartan and atenolol on autonomic balance in essential hypertensive patients. This longitudinal study was conducted in the Department of Physiology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2012 to June 2013. For this study, 120 diagnosed male hypertensive patients without any treatment (age 30-55 years) were selected from the Out Patients Department of Cardiology, BSMMU, Dhaka on their first day of visit. Sixty apparently healthy normotensive male subjects with similar age were also studied as control. Patients were divided into two equal groups. Sixty (60) patients received 50 mg losartan (oral) and 60 patients received 50 mg atenolol (oral) daily. Autonomic balance was assessed by power spectral analysis of HRV and HRV data were recorded by a polyrite D. HRV data of the patients were measured at baseline, after 3 months and 6 months of medication and data of control were recorded at baseline. For statistical analysis ANOVA, independent sample 't' test and paired sample 't' were performed. High frequency normalized units (HF n.u), total power (TP) were significantly lower (p<0.001) and low frequency normalized unit (LF n.u), LF/HF ratio were significantly higher (p<0.001) in all patients before treatment compared to control. In both drug groups HF n.u and total power were found significantly higher (p<0.001) whereas LF n.u and LF/HF ratio were found significantly lower (p<0.001) after 3 months of treatment compared to their baseline values. After 6 months of treatment, data demonstrated significant further increase (p<0.001) in HF n.u and total power compared to their values after 3 months of treatment. Again these values were found significantly higher in atenolol treated patients compared to losartan group at the end of 6 months of treatment. These result concluded that cardiac autonomic nerve functions may be impaired in essential hypertensive patients before treatment which may improve by treatment with both drugs but the effect is more pronounced in atenolol treatment after longer duration.

Silent Sinus Syndrome: A Case Report

To describe a case of silent sinus syndrome in the perspective of imaging studies, on 2 January 2020 we present this case of a 26-year-old Bangladeshi man with unilateral right facial asymmetry and no sino-nasal symptoms. He was referred to the Ophthalmology Department with complain of right palpebral ptosis and facial asymmetry for 7 months. On physical examination, painless enophthalmos and hypo globus of the right eye was seen. The computed tomography scan of the paranasal air sinuses showed opacification of the right maxillary sinus along with retraction of the walls of the sinus. Regardless of the clinical doubt, the conclusion can only be given by imaging studies, radiologist play a key role here.

Students’ perception, knowledge, attitude and behaviour towards halal food products in Malaysia

The perception, knowledge, attitude, and behaviour of Muslims are important in determining their purchasing behaviour of halal food products. This study exclusively focused on the purchasing behaviour of young Muslim university students who live independently and hold their purchasing power. The main objective of this study is to investigate the perception, knowledge, attitude, and behaviour of university students towards halal food products in Malaysia. This study has adopted the framework based on Ajzen’s Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) that hypothesized three determinants of behavioural intention; attitude, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control with the addition of two other variables; religiosity and ambience. This study has found that all the TPB determinants attitude (r = 0.187, p<0.05), subjective norms (r = 0.266, p<0.01), perceived behavioural control (r = 0.336, p<0.01) including the other two additional; religiosity (r = 0.245, p<0.245) and ambience (r = 0.254, p<0.01) were positively and significantly associated with purchasing intention of halal food products among the students. This study also revealed that families and media play an important role in introducing halal food products to these young consumers. Therefore, it was suggested that the authorities create a positive social norm on halal products among society

276 Safety of Maintaining Elective and Emergency Surgery During the COVID-19 Pandemic with the Introduction of an Innovative Protected Elective Surgical Unit (PESU): A Cross-Specialty Evaluation of 30-Day Outcomes in 9925 Patients Undergoing Surgery in a University Health Board

Aim

High quality mobile health applications (mhealth apps) have the potential to enhance the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of burns. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate whether the quality of mhealth apps for burns care is being adequately assessed. The secondary aim was to determine whether these apps meet UK regulatory standards.

Method

We searched AMED, BNI, CINAHL, Cochrane library, Embase, Emcare, Medline and PsychInfo to identify studies assessing mhealth app quality for burns. The PRISMA reporting guideline was adhered to. Two independent reviewers screened s to identify relevant studies. We analysed whether seven established domains of mhealth app quality were assessed: design, information/content, usability, functionality, ethical issues, security/privacy, and user-perceived value.

Results

Of the 28 included studies, none assessed all seven domains of quality. Design was assessed in 4/28 studies; information/content in 26/28 studies; usability in 12/28 studies; functionality in 10/28 studies; ethical issues were never assessed in any studies; security/privacy was not assessed; subjective assessment was made in 9/28 studies. 17/28 studies included apps that met the definition of ‘medical device’ according to MHRA guidance, yet only one app was appropriately certified with the UK Conformity Assessed (UKCA) mark.

Conclusions

The quality of mHealth apps for burns are not being adequately assessed. The majority of apps should be considered medical devices according to UK standards, but only one was appropriately certified. Regulatory bodies should support mhealth app developers, so as to improve quality control whilst simultaneously fostering innovation.

Fatty acid profile variations after exposure to textile industry effluents in Indian Major Carps

Indian major carps are the widely consumed fish species of Pakistan, being a cheap source of proteins and unsaturated fatty acids, they are good for cardiovascular health. Water pollution due to discharge of untreated industrial waste water into water bodies contaminates this precious source of nutrients. The present study therefore, was aimed to assess deterioration of fatty acid profile of three Indian major carp species due to different concentrations of industrial wastes. The water samples were collected from the river Chenab at the site where it receives industrial wastewater via Chakbandi drain. After exposure to 1.5%, 3.0%, and 4.5% dilutions of collected water in different aquaria it was observed that proportion of unsaturated fatty acids in selected fish species were decreased significantly as the intensity of the dose increased (P < 0.05). Conversely the level of saturated fatty acids increased with the increasing dose of treatment (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that untreated wastewater not only deteriorate the fatty acid profile of aquatic animals but also these toxic substances can reach human body through fish meat and pose further health hazards. Therefore, it is highly recommended that industrial effluents should be treated before they are dumped into water bodies.

Robust Photoelectrochemical Route for the Ambient Fixation of Dinitrogen into Ammonia over a Nanojunction Assembled from Ceria and an Iron Boride/Phosphide Cocatalyst

The nitrogen reduction reaction is of great scientific significance as a hydrogen fuel carrier as well as a source of value-added products; in context to this, photoelectrochemical (PEC) nitrogen fixation emerges as an effective and environmentally benign strategy to meet the need. Hence, the current work reports an effective catalytic system containing a low-cost iron boride-based cocatalyst onto the CeO₂ nanosheet matrix for photoelectrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction. The harmonized electronic property and the ensemble effect of phosphorus and boron in FeB/P with unsaturated metal sites make it a site-selective cocatalyst for nitrogen adsorption and its polarization. Furthermore, the low Fermi level of iron borophosphide enhances the trapping of photogenerated electrons from CeO₂ and productively provides it to the adsorbed nitrogen species. The observed peculiar photocurrent behavior confirms the interaction of photogenerated electrons with adsorbed nitrogen species and its subsequent reduction by the surrounding protonic environment. The optimized CeO₂-FeB/P photoelectrocatalyst exhibited an excellent NH₃ yield velocity, i.e., 9.54 μg/h/cm² at -0.12 V vs RHE with a solar-to-chemical conversion efficiency of 0.046% under ambient conditions. The same catalyst is also very active under near-zero biasing conditions and possesses impressive durability even after multiple uses. This work might strategically direct a promising way for the exploration of new photoelectrocatalytic systems for effective PEC-nitrogen reduction reaction.

Development of laser induced breakdown spectroscopy technique to study irrigation water quality impact on nutrients and toxic elements distribution in cultivated soil

This study is focused mainly on impact of irrigation water quality in cultivated soil on distribution of essentials nutrients (Al, Mg, Ca, Fe, S, Si, Na, P, and K) and relatively toxic metals (As, Ba, Cr, Cu, Ti, Sn, Mn, Ni, and Zn) using an elegant Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) technique. A pulsed Nd:YAG laser operating at 1064 nm in conjunction with suitable detector was applied to record soil emission spectra. The abundance of these elements were evaluated via standard calibration curve Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (CC-LIBS) and calibration free Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (CF-LIBS) approaches. Quantitative analyses were accomplished under conjecture of local thermodynamic equilibrium (L.T.E) and optically thin plasma. The average electron temperatures were estimated by Boltzmann plot method for cultivated soil samples in 7800 to 9300 K range. The electron number density was ~ 1.11 × 1017 cm − 3 to 1.60 × 1017 cm − 3. Prior to application on soil samples, the experimental setup was optimized at the following parameters: pulsed energy = 60 mJpulse-1, sample to lens distance of 9.0 cm, and the gate delay of 3.5 μs. It is noteworthy that nutritional elements content of cultivated soils were found strongly dependent upon the irrigation water quality. The cultivated soil from industrial area was found rich of toxins while the cultivated land using tube well water contains toxins in least amount. Our LIBS findings were also validated by comparing its results with contents measured using a standard inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) method and both were found in excellent agreement. The present study could be highly beneficial for agricultural applications and for farmers to produce safe food products and higher crops yield.

The physicochemical and DNA binding studies of some medicinal compounds in solutions

To understand the expected mode of action, the physicochemical study on the solution properties of medicinal compounds and their interaction with deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), under varying experimental conditions, is of prime importance. The present research work illustrates the physicochemical study and interaction of certain medicinal compounds such as; Levofloxacin, Ciprofloxacin, and Ibuprofen with DNA. Density, viscosity and surface tension measurements have been performed in order to determine, in a systematic manner, the physicochemical, volumetric and thermodynamic properties of these compounds; and most of these parameters have shown different behavior with varying concentration of solution, temperature of the medium and chemical nature/structure of the compound. In addition, these drugs showed a spontaneous surface-active and association behavior in aqueous solutions. The flow behavior, surface properties, volumetric behavior and solute–solvent interaction of these drugs were prominently influenced by experimental variables and addition of DNA to their solutions. UV–Visible spectroscopy was also used to examine the interaction of these drugs with DNA in aqueous media in detail. Calculated values of binding constants (Kb) for all complexes of drug-DNA are positive, indicating a fruitful binding process. It is seen that a smaller Kb value reflects weaker binding of the drug with DNA and vise versa. Due to the difference in the chemical structure of drugs the values of binding constant are different for various drug-DNA complexes and follow the order Kb(Levofloxacin-DNA) > Kb(Ciprofloxacin-DNA) > Kb(Ibuprofen-DNA). On the basis of spectral changes and Kb it can be said that the binding of all these drugs with DNA may be of physicochemical nature and the dominating binding force be of hydrogen bonding between oxygen of drugs and hydrogen of DNA units and the drug having more oxygen atoms showed stronger binding ability. The data further suggest a limited possibility of chemical type attachment of these drugs with DNA.

Comparison of Polybrene DAT and Conventional DAT in Cases of Suspected DAT Negative Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA)

Introduction/Objective

A negative Direct Antiglobulin Test (DAT) is seen in approximately 1-5% of patients presenting with signs and symptoms of immune hemolysis. A well-performed ‘standard’ DAT detects ~100-500 molecules of bound IgG per red cell. A more sensitive polybrene DAT may be helpful in order to confirm a diagnosis of AIHA in patients whose samples have tested negative via standard DAT. However, there has been little reported on utility of the polybrene DAT in evaluating such cases with modern DAT reagents. We hypothesized that the polybrene DAT would not contribute substantially to the analysis of Coombs-negative hemolytic anemia (C-NHA), based primarily on our anecdotal observation. As such, we undertook a study to assess results of polybrene DAT in cases evaluated for possible (C-NHA).

Methods/Case Report

Two study sites were used for data analysis (Yale-New Haven Hospital, Site A, and VA Connecticut, Site B) over a five year period (2016-2021). During this time, standard DATs were performed at both study sites by the tube method using polyspecific antiglobulin and, if positive, reflex to anti-IgG and -C3. For cases of suspected C-NHA (which are reported to Blood Bank via a consult mechanism), conventioned DAT- samples are referred to our regional immunohematology laboratory (American Red Cross, Farmington, CT) for manual hexadimethrine bromide (Polybrene) DAT. Polybrene DAT is reported as negative with two sources of polyspecific AHG. Subsets of patients also underwent acid elution studies (Gamma ELU-KITII) as part of a C-NHA algorithm developed during the study period. Results of standard DAT, acId elution, and polybrene DAT were extracted from Blood Bank electronic records at both study sites.

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

Evaluation for C-NHA was performed in 32 patients/cases over the study period. Amongst these individuals, 96.8% (31/32) underwent polybrene DAT assessment and none (0%; 0/31) demonstrated a positive polybrene DAT result. Notably, acid elution studies were performed in 90.6% (29/32) of traditional DAT negative cases. Of these, 10.3% (3/29) had reactive eluates.

Conclusion

Performance of the polybrene DAT appeared to be of no value in the assessment of suspected C-NHA. Given that nearly 10% of individuals with a negative conventional DAT had a positive acid elution, this testing step appears to be of greater value in potentially identifying an autoantibody in suspected cases of C-NHA.

Understanding drivers of private-sector compliance to large-scale food fortification: A case study on edible oil value chains in Bangladesh

Micronutrient deficiency is a pertinent global challenge that affects billions of people and has deleterious health effects. Large-scale food fortification (LSFF) is a cost- effective way to tackle micronutrient deficiency and improve health outcomes, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, the success of LSFF in LMICs is often hampered by limited compliance with fortification mandates by the private sector, who supply fortified foods. In this paper, we use a case study of the edible oil produced in Bangladesh to analyze the factors facilitating and impeding this compliance by for-profit actors. We identified four bottlenecks that disincentivize private sector actors' decision to comply. First, fortified and non-fortified products co-exist in the market, disincentivizing producers to invest in fortification. Second, the lack of traceability reduces the risk for large-scale producers' non-compliance with the regulation. Third, small-scale producers face economic pressures that prevent them from adequately fortifying oil products. Lastly, law enforcement is currently inconsistent, allowing the supply of under-fortified oil in the market. Given the evidence, we recommend to strengthen the control of bulk item fortification through more frequent and rigorous surveillance at the production level. This will ensure that resource constrained consumers who also have the greatest potential to benefit from added nutrients, remain able to access affordable and nutrient-enriched food.

The Etiology of Childhood Pneumonia in Bangladesh: Findings From the Pneumonia Etiology Research for Child Health (PERCH) Study

BACKGROUND

Pneumonia remains the leading infectious cause of death among children <5 years, but its cause in most children is unknown. We estimated etiology for each child in 2 Bangladesh sites that represent rural and urban South Asian settings with moderate child mortality.

METHODS

As part of the Pneumonia Etiology Research for Child Health study, we enrolled children 1-59 months of age with World Health Organization-defined severe and very severe pneumonia, plus age-frequency-matched controls, in Matlab and Dhaka, Bangladesh. We applied microbiologic methods to nasopharyngeal/oropharyngeal swabs, blood, induced sputum, gastric and lung aspirates. Etiology was estimated using Bayesian methods that integrated case and control data and accounted for imperfect sensitivity and specificity of the measurements.

RESULTS

We enrolled 525 cases and 772 controls over 24 months. Of the cases, 9.1% had very severe pneumonia and 42.0% (N = 219) had infiltrates on chest radiograph. Three cases (1.5%) had positive blood cultures (2 Salmonella typhi, 1 Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae). All 4 lung aspirates were negative. The etiology among chest radiograph-positive cases was predominantly viral [77.7%, 95% credible interval (CrI): 65.3-88.6], primarily respiratory syncytial virus (31.2%, 95% CrI: 24.7-39.3). Influenza virus had very low estimated etiology (0.6%, 95% CrI: 0.0-2.3). Mycobacterium tuberculosis (3.6%, 95% CrI: 0.5-11.0), Enterobacteriaceae (3.0%, 95% CrI: 0.5-10.0) and Streptococcus pneumoniae (1.8%, 95% CrI: 0.0-5.9) were the only nonviral pathogens in the top 10 etiologies.

CONCLUSIONS

Childhood severe and very severe pneumonia in young children in Bangladesh is predominantly viral, notably respiratory syncytial virus.

Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) as a Predictor of Ovarian Response to Clomiphene Citrate in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Background: Serum Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are two- to threefold higher than in ovulatory women with normal ovaries, corresponding to the two- to threefold increase in the number of small follicles in PCOS. The increased AMH has been hypothesized to reduce follicle sensitivity to follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol production, thus preventing follicle selection, resulting in follicular arrest at the small antral phase with failure of dominance.

Objective: The study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that high AMH level is associated with poor response to ovulation induction in PCOS women.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional comparative study of 50 infertile women with PCOS, grouped into those with AMH level <8 ng/mL and those with AMH level [Formula: see text] 8 ng/mL. All participants received an initial dose of 100 mg/day of clomiphene citrate from 2nd to 6th day of menstrual cycle. Ovarian response (follicle size) was assessed by transvaginal monitoring on 12th day of cycle.

Results: A total of 50 women were recruited, of which 4 dropped out. Women with AMH [Formula: see text] 8 ng/mL comprised only 23.91% of the PCOS women. AMH and day 12 follicle size had a statistically significant association. Adjusting for other confounding variables in linear, logarithmic, and logistic analysis, serum AMH had significant negative relationship with follicle size (r = 0.511, p < 0.001). AMH was also positively correlated with serum LH, testosterone and negatively correlated with serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), serum TSH and BMI.

Conclusion: We observed that higher AMH level women had poor response to ovulation induction compared to women with low AMH level.

Histopathological alterations in gills, liver, kidney and muscles of Ictalurus punctatus collected from pollutes areas of River

Abstract Untreated sewage and industrial wastes from Faisalabad city are disposed to River Chenab through Chakbandi Main Drain (CMD). The present project is planned to investigate the effects of this freshwater pollution on the body of fish Ictalurus punctatus. The specimens of this fish species were collected upstream and downstream of the entrance of CMD into River Chenab. Fish gills, liver, kidney and muscles from dorsolateral regions of fish were subjected to histopathology. Farmed fish and fish from upstream areas were used as control. Fish collected from polluted experimental sites showed significant damage in selected organs. Gill tissues showed an abnormality in the form of an uplifting of the primary epithelium, fusion, vacuolation, hypertrophy, and necrosis. While liver tissues subjected to hepatocytes degeneration, necrosis, mitochondrial granular hepatocyte, and sinusoids dilation. Kidney tissues indicated increased bowmen space and constricted glomerulus and degenerated nephrons. Edema, necrosis, and atrophy were observed in muscle tissues of fish from polluted areas. Fish from the upstream area showed fused gill lamellae, inflammatory cell infiltration, hypertrophy and vacuolation in hepatocytes. Kidney tissues indicated the presence of nuclear tubular cells, destructive renal tubules, hemorrhage, and necrosis at tubular epithelium. Intra myofibril spaces were also observed in muscles. Specimens of control fish indicated no variation in gills, liver, kidney, and muscles. The present study revealed a strong correlation between the degree of tissue damage and environmental contamination. Present findings also compel global warnings to protect our water bodies and fish to rescue the human population.

Molecular Phylogenetics of Physa acuta (Pulmonata: Basommatophora): an Invasive species in Central Punjab Pakistan

Physids belong to Class Gastropoda; belong to Phylum Mollusca and being bioindicators, intermediate hosts of parasites and pests hold a key position in the ecosystem. There are three species of Genus Physa i.e. P. fontinalis, Physa acuta and P. gyrina water bodies of Central Punjab and were characterized on the basis of molecular markers High level of genetic diversity was revealed by polymorphic RAPD, however SSR markers were not amplified. The multivariate analysis revealed polymorphism ranging from 9.09 percent to 50 percent among the three Physid species. Total number of 79 loci were observed for the three species under study and 24 loci were observed to be polymorphic. These RAPD fragment(s) can be developed into co dominant markers (SCAR) by cloning and can be further sequenced for the development of the Physa species specific markers to identify the introduced and native species in Pakistan.

Characterization of the species of genus Physa on the basis of typological species concept from Central Punjab

Physids belong to Class Gastropoda; Phylum Mollusca have important position in food web and act as bio indicators, pests and intermediate host. Being resistant these are called cockroaches of malacology. Physid snails were collected from different water bodies of Faisalabad (Punjab) and were identified up to species using morphological markers. The morphometry of the specimens was carried out with the help of a digital Vernier caliper in millimeters (mm) using linear measurement of shell characters. Linear regression analysis of the AL/SW ratio vs AL and SL/SW ratio vs AL indicated that allometric growth exists only in Physa acuta when compared with P.gyrina and P. fontinalis. This study will lead to assess the status of the Physid species in Central Punjab. The Principal component analysis shows that the Component 1 (Shell Length) and component 2 (Shell Width) are the most prolific components and nearly 80 percent of the identification. The distance between P. acuta and P. fontinalis is 5.4699, P. acuta and P. gyrina is 7.6411, P. fontinalis and P. gyrina is 16.6080 showing that P. acuta resembles with P. fontinalis, and both these specimens donot resemble with P. gyrina. P.acuta is an invasive species and shows bioactivity making it a potent candidate for bioactive substances.

A review on vertical and lateral heterostructures of semiconducting 2D-MoS2 with other 2D materials: a feasible perspective for energy conversion

Fossil fuels as a double-edged sword are essential to daily life. However, the depletion of fossil fuel reservoirs has increased the search for alternative renewable energy sources to procure a more sustainable society. Accordingly, energy production through water splitting, CO₂ reduction and N₂ reduction via photocatalytic and electrocatalytic pathways is being contemplated as a greener methodology with zero environmental pollution. Owing to their atomic-level thickness, two-dimensional (2D) semiconductor catalysts have triggered the reawakening of interest in the field of energy and environmental applications. Among them, following the unconventional properties of graphene, 2D MoS₂ has been widely investigated due to its outstanding optical and electronic properties. However, the photo/electrocatalytic performance of 2D-MoS₂ is still unsatisfactory due to its low charge carrier density. Recently, the development of 2D/2D heterojunctions has evoked interdisciplinary research fascination in the scientific community, which can mitigate the shortcomings associated with 2D-MoS₂. Following the recent research trends, the present review covers the recent findings and key aspects on the synthetic methods, fundamental properties and practical applications of semiconducting 2D-MoS₂ and its heterostructures with other 2D materials such as g-C₃N₄, graphene, CdS, TiO₂, MXene, black phosphorous, and boron nitride. Besides, this review details the viable application of these materials in the area of hydrogen energy production via the H₂O splitting reaction, N₂ fixation to NH₃ formation and CO₂ reduction to different value-added hydrocarbons and alcohol products through both photocatalysis and electrocatalysis. The crucial role of the interface together with the charge separation principle between two individual 2D structures towards achieving satisfactory activity for various applications is presented. Overall, the current studies provide a snapshot of the recent breakthroughs in the development of various 2D/2D-based catalysts in the field of energy production, delivering opportunities for future research.

The Effects of Cabergoline Compared to Dienogest in Women with Symptomatic Endometrioma

Background: New vessel formation or neovascularization has been recognized as a feature of endometriosis. Treatment with cabergoline suppresses cell proliferation and vascular-endothelial-growth-factor-mediated angiogenesis, thereby promoting regression of endometriotic lesions. Dienogest, a fourth-generation progestin currently in use for the treatment of endometriosis significantly decreases the volume of endometrial implants.

Objective: The objective of the study was to see if cabergoline is as effective as dienogest in reducing the size of endometriomas and pelvic pain in women with endometriosis.

Methods: The prospective comparative study was carried out on 56 women with endometrioma (diagnosed by ultrasound), divided by odd and even numbers into two groups. Cabergoline, 0.5 mg tablet twice weekly, was given to 28 women for 3 months. Dienogest, 2 mg tablet daily, was given to 28 women for the same duration. Pre- and post-treatment assessment of endometrioma size by transvaginal sonography and pelvic pain using the 10-cm visual analog scale (VAS) were recorded.

Results: The percentage reduction in endometrioma size in women given dienogest was twice that compared to the women given cabergoline. Mean VAS score after 3 months was significantly lower in the cabergoline group compared to dienogest ([Formula: see text] ¡ 0.05). The incidence of nausea, vomiting, and headache were similar in cabergoline and dienogest group. There was polymenorrhea in the cabergoline group and irregular spotting in the dienogest group.

Conclusions: Reduction of the size of endometrioma is less apparent with cabergoline than dienogest after 3 months of treatment. Cabergoline yields better results in decreasing pelvic pain compared to dienogest.

Amelioration of N,N'-dimethylhydrazine induced colon toxicity by epigallocatechin gallate in Wistar rats

Colon cancer is a life-threatening disease all over the world and is linked to constant oxidative stress and inflammation. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), is a naturally occurring flavone possessing health benefiting pharmacological properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and free radical scavenging properties. Our study investigates the role of EGCG on N,N'-dimethylhydrazine (DMH), a toxic environmental pollutant, induced colon toxicity. To investigate the effect of EGCG, Wistar rats were given EGCG for 7 days at the two doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg body weight and DMH was injected on the seventh day in all the group rats except the control. Our results indicate that DMH administration increased the oxidative stress (MDA) and depleted the glutathione and antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, GR, GST and GPx) which was significantly ameliorated by EGCG treatment. Additionally DMH treatment upregulated inflammatory markers expression (NF-κB, COX-2 and IL-6) and enhanced mucosal damage in the colon. EGCG treatment significantly reduced inflammation and restored the normal histoarchitecture of the colon. We can conclude from the present study findings that EGCG protects the colon from DMH toxicity through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential.

Proximate composition analysis of chicken burgers from night market stalls and selected fast-food restaurants

This study was aimed to determine and compare the proximate composition of chicken burgers from night market stalls and selected fast-food restaurants. The methods used for determination of proximate composition were AOAC Official Methods 973.48, 960.39, 991.43, 990.19 and 999.11 for protein, fat, fibre, moisture and ash, respectively except total available carbohydrate. The energy content of all samples was calculated based on 4, 4 and 9 kcal/100 g for carbohydrate, protein and fat, respectively. The protein content of burger samples from fast-food restaurant ranged 14.48-18.6%, whereas the samples from night market stalls had protein content ranged 13.26%-19%. Fat contents of burger samples from fast-food restaurant and night market stalls were 18.57-19.11% and 26.33- 28.0%, respectively. There were statistically significant differences (p<0.05) in the percentage of insoluble dietary fibre, but no significant differences were found for soluble and total dietary fibres in the burger samples between night market stalls and the restaurants. Night-stall burger samples had higher fibre content (0.14-0.20%) than the fastfood restaurant samples which ranged 0.11-0.16%. Burger samples from the fast-food restaurant had higher carbohydrate content ranged between 17.77% and 18.55% compared to night stall samples (7.70-8.94%). Also, the energy content of all burger samples ranged 296–360 kcal. There were significant differences for the protein, fat, carbohydrate, energy and ash content of the burger samples between night market stalls and fast-food restaurants but not for moisture and fibre content. The findings indicated that the nutritional composition of burger samples varied among different locations where a variation in preparation method was observed

Frequency of three mutations in the fumonisin biosynthetic gene cluster of Fusarium fujikuroi that are predicted to block fumonisin production

Fusarium fujikuroi is the most prominent pathogen found in rice. In addition to gibberellin, F. fujikuroi produces various secondary metabolites, including the polyketide mycotoxins, fumonisins. Fumonisin production is conferred by the fumonisin biosynthetic gene (FUM) cluster consisting of 15-17 genes. F. fujikuroi is phylogenetically subclassified into one group with fumonisin production (F-group) and another group in which fumonisin production is undetectable (G-group). In a previous study, a G-to-T substitution (FUM21_G2551T) in the FUM cluster transcription factor gene, FUM21, was identified as a cause of fumonisin-non-production in a G-group strain. In the current study, further analysis of G-group strains identified two additional mutations that involved FUM-cluster genes essential for fumonisin production: (1) a 22.4-kbp deletion in the FUM10-FUM19 region; and (2) a 1.4-kbp insertion in FUM6. PCR analysis of 44 G-group strains, indicated that 84% had the FUM21_G2551T mutation, 50% had the 22.4-kbp FUM10-FUM19 deletion, and 32% had the 1.4-kbp insertion in FUM6, and some strains had two or all the mutations. None of the mutations were detected in the 51 F-group strains examined. Each of the three mutations alone could account for the lack of fumonisin production in G-group strains. However, one G-group strain did not have any of the mutations. Therefore, another mutation(s) is likely responsible for the lack of fumonisin production in some G-group strains of F. fujikuroi.

Towards the development of stable and efficient novel waste ceramics composites

Natural resources are non-renewable and facing a regular depletion due to their immense use which demands new and additional material's reserves, recycling technologies and materials with no or less bad environmental effects. Reuse of waste materials will be rewarding technically, economically and environmentally. Here, we report the incorporation of industrial ceramic wastes in polymer matrix as composite materials to investigate their potentials for various applications. Ceramic wastes were collected from the premises of ceramic producing industries located at Peshawar (Pakistan). The composites of ceramic particles and polyaniline (PANI) were produced via in-situ free polymerization technique. SEM and FT-IR analysis confirmed composite formation. Thermal, dielectric and mechanical properties of the prepared materials were studied. It was found that both the constituent materials (ceramic and polymer) have a synergistic effect on each other. At one hand, ceramic wastes support and enhance the thermal and mechanical properties of the polymer in composites and the polymer in turn beautify the wastes with good dielectric and electrical properties. Based on their properties, the low cost and environmentally friendly novel composites could be used for various applications such as semi-conductors, capacitors and microwave devices.

Production of high quality biodiesel from novel non-edible Raphnus raphanistrum L. seed oil using copper modified montmorillonite clay catalyst

This study focused on producing high quality and yield of biodiesel from novel non-edible seed oil of abundantly available wild Raphnus raphanistrum L. using an efficient, recyclable and eco-friendly copper modified montmorillonite (MMT) clay catalyst. The maximum biodiesel yield of 83% was obtained by base catalyzed transesterification process under optimum operating conditions of methanol to oil ratio of 15:1, reaction temperature of 150 °C, reaction time of 5 h and catalyst loading of 3.5%. The synthesized catalyst and biodiesel were characterized for their structural features and chemical compositions using various state-of-the-art techniques, including x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H, ¹³C) and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy. The fuel properties of the biodiesel were estimated including kinematic viscosity (4.36 cSt), density (0.8312 kg/L), flash point (72 °C), acid value (0.172 mgKOH/g) and sulphur content (0.0002 wt.%). These properties were compared and found in good agreement with the International Biodiesel Standards of American (ASTM-951, 6751), European Committee (EN-14214) and China GB/T 20828 (2007). The catalyst was re-used in five consecutive transesterification reactions without losing much catalytic efficiency. Overall, non-edible Raphnus raphanistrum L.. seed oil and Cu doped MMT clay catalyst appeared to be highly active, stable, and cheap contenders for future biofuel industry. However, detailed life cycle assessment (LCA) studies of Raphnus raphanistrum L. seed oil biodiesel are highly recommended to assess the technical, ecological, social and economic challenges.