Lung type 3 innate lymphoid cells respond early following Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection

Tuberculosis is the leading cause of death due to an infectious disease worldwide. Innate lymphoid type 3 cells (ILC3s) mediate early protection during Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection. However, the early signaling mechanisms that govern ILC3 activation or recruitment within the lung during Mtb infection are unclear. scRNA-seq analysis of Mtb-infected mouse lung innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) has revealed the presence of different clusters of ILC populations, suggesting heterogeneity. Using mouse models, we show that during Mtb infection, interleukin-1 receptor (IL-1R) signaling on epithelial cells drives ILC3 expansion and regulates ILC3 accumulation in the lung. Furthermore, our data revealed that C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 5 (CXCR5) signaling plays a crucial role in ILC3 recruitment from periphery during Mtb infection. Our study thus establishes the early responses that drive ILC3 accumulation during Mtb infection and points to ILC3s as a potential vaccine target.

IMPORTANCE

Tuberculosis is a leading cause of death due to a single infectious agent accounting for 1.6 million deaths each year. In our study, we determined the role of type 3 innate lymphoid cells in early immune events necessary for achieving protection during Mtb infection. Our study reveals distinct clusters of ILC2, ILC3, and ILC3/ILC1-like cells in Mtb infection. Moreover, our study reveal that IL-1R signaling on lung type 2 epithelial cells plays a key role in lung ILC3 accumulation during Mtb infection. CXCR5 on ILC3s is involved in ILC3 homing from periphery during Mtb infection. Thus, our study provides novel insights into the early immune mechanisms governed by innate lymphoid cells that can be targeted for potential vaccine-induced protection.

A protective role for type I interferon signaling following infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis carrying the rifampicin drug resistance-conferring RpoB mutation H445Y

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) signaling is essential for controlling virulent Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection since antagonism of this pathway leads to exacerbated pathology and increased susceptibility. In contrast, the triggering of type I interferon (IFN) signaling is associated with the progression of tuberculosis (TB) disease and linked with negative regulation of IL-1 signaling. However, mice lacking IL-1 signaling can control Mtb infection if infected with an Mtb strain carrying the rifampin-resistance conferring mutation H445Y in its RNA polymerase β subunit (rpoB-H445Y Mtb). The mechanisms that govern protection in the absence of IL-1 signaling during rpoB-H445Y Mtb infection are unknown. In this study, we show that in the absence of IL-1 signaling, type I IFN signaling controls rpoB-H445Y Mtb replication, lung pathology, and excessive myeloid cell infiltration. Additionally, type I IFN is produced predominantly by monocytes and recruited macrophages and acts on LysM-expressing cells to drive protection through nitric oxide (NO) production to restrict intracellular rpoB-H445Y Mtb. These findings reveal an unexpected protective role for type I IFN signaling in compensating for deficiencies in IL-1 pathways during rpoB-H445Y Mtb infection.

NF-κB signaling deficiency in CD11c-expressing phagocytes mediates early inflammatory responses and enhances Mycobacterium tuberculosis control

Early innate immune responses play an important role in determining the protective outcome of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection. Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling in immune cells regulates the expression of key downstream effector molecules that mount early anti-mycobacterial responses. Using conditional knockout mice, we studied the effect of abrogation of NF-κB signaling in different myeloid cell types and its impact on Mtb infection. Our results show that absence of IKK2-mediated signaling in all myeloid cells resulted in increased susceptibility to Mtb infection. In contrast, absence of IKK2-mediated signaling specifically in CD11c+ myeloid cells induced early pro-inflammatory cytokine responses, enhanced the recruitment of myeloid cells and mediated early resistance to Mtb. Abrogation of IKK2 in MRP8-expressing neutrophils did not impact either disease pathology or Mtb control. Thus, we describe an early immunoregulatory role for NF-κB signaling in CD11c-expressing phagocytes, and a later protective role for NF-κB in LysM-expressing cells during Mtb infection.

Association of Low Vitamin D Level with Pelvic Organ Prolapse in Post Menopausal Women: A Case Control Study

Pelvic organ prolapse refers to protrusion of the pelvic organ into or out of the vaginal canal. One in four women in the USA suffer from some type of pelvic floor disorder including pelvic organ prolapse and frequency of pelvic organ prolapse is more with increasing age. In Bangladesh, 15.6% women suffered from pelvic organ prolapse and more than 11.0% of women require surgical correction of prolapse in their life times. According to few researches, there is an observed association between low vitamin D levels with pelvic organ prolapse but this finding is not unequivocal. This case control study has been conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Bangladesh from October 2018 to August 2020 to investigate the level of vitamin D in patients with and without pelvic organ prolapse to explore the association of low vitamin D with pelvic organ prolapse. A total 148 participants of 52 years or older attending the out or inpatient department were enrolled in the study. The study population was divided into two groups, a case group (n=74) consisting of patients with pelvic organ prolapse and a control group (n=74) comprising of women without pelvic organ prolapse. After taking informed written consent the serum vitamin D level of all participants was measured by CMIA technology with flexible assay protocols at Biochemistry and Molecular Biology department of the same institute. All necessary Data were collected on variables of interest by using the structured questionnaire pre-designed for interview, observation, clinical examination, and biochemical Data collection. Distributions were expressed by mean and standard deviation for continuous variables and by frequency and percentage for qualitative variables. Student's t-test and Chi square test were done to see the significance of differences between Group I and Group II. Odds ratio, correlation coefficient, and multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to assess the association of low vitamin D level with pelvic organ prolapse. Mean±SD level of Vitamin D in the case group was 13.96±5.18ng/ml and in the control group was 21.08±5.77ng/ml respectively. The difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). Moreover, the vitamin D levels were inversely proportionate with the severity of pelvic organ prolapse. OR (95% CI), of two groups showed risk of developing pelvic organ prolapse 5.63 times higher in women with decreased vitamin D level. Thus it can be concluded that women having low level of vitamin D have more chance of developing pelvic organ prolapse.

Role of Mifepristone in Trial of Labour after Previous Caesarean Delivery in Intrauterine Fetal Death

When a baby dies in utero, the options are either to wait for spontaneous labour or to induce it. An obstetrician, encounters with a perplexity of choosing a management plan when this worst situation of IUFD coalesced by history of previous caesarean delivery. The ideal drug for the termination should not only be efficacious and cost-effective, but also be convenient enough to avoid operative interference arising from a wasted pregnancy. The study was aimed to evaluate efficacy, safety and compliance of oral mifepristone in trial of labour in case of IUFD after previous caesarean section. This was a cross sectional descriptive type of observational study conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh from February 2018 to August 2018. Total 50 patients were selected purposively based on inclusion criteria and diagnosed as IUFD with previous caesarean delivery. The patients were received mifepristone once and reviewed after 48 hours and those who were not attained favourable Bishop's score were counseled for mechanical induction. Antibiotics and analgesia were administered according to requirement. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 22.0. All the 50 women received 200 mg oral mifepristone. Forty-four 44(88.0%) women was delivered vaginally among them 18(36.0%) were delivered following mifepristone induction only and 26(52.0%) required additional induction method. The earliest induction to delivery interval following mifepristone was 13 hours. Twenty eight (63.6%) cases were discharged within 72-120 hours. After 48 hours following induction there was significant improvement of Bishop's score. In this study 6(12.0%) out of 50 cases were reasoned for laparotomy and blood transfusion was required for them. There was no statistically significant difference according to gestational age in mode of delivery (p>0.05). There was no difference observed in mean induction to delivery interval between second and third trimester at 5% level of significance (p>0.05). In this study, the women showed drastic improvement in cervical score following induction with mifepristone and decreased repeat caesarean rate. Eventually, the length of agony of receiving dead baby was cut short without much more ailments. Hence, mifepristone may be considered as a safe, efficacious, convenient and cost-effective induction agent for labour induction in women with dead fetus in utero in previously scarred uterus.

Positive impacts of COVID-19 Lock down in Bangladesh: An online investigation

Background

This research focuses on the positive impacts of the COVID-19 lockdown on society and the environment, despite acknowledging the widespread negative effects of the pandemic and lockdown measures. The research was aimed at pinpointing and evaluating the beneficial results stemming from these measures.

Method

Data for the study was collected through an online survey distributed via Google forms to adults over the age of 18 across the country. A total of 1230 participants completed the survey, mostly from rural areas (61.7%), providing valuable insights for analysis. The questionnaire encompassed personal, family, and cohesive social data, along with information on the environment and biodiversity. The study utilized structural equation modeling (SEM) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to analyze the data and examine correlations between variables.

Results

The findings indicated that the COVID-19 lockdown had positive implications for individuals and society, leading to increased health consciousness, improved family relationships, and constructive social attitudes. Moreover, restrictions on access to natural tourist destinations and parks during the lockdown contributed to positive changes in biodiversity. These results highlight the importance of adopting appropriate measures during pandemics to foster personal and social well-being, as well as the preservation of natural environments and biodiversity.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the need for further research to promote sustainable living in similar situations. By understanding the data appropriately, individuals can play a constructive role in future pandemics, leading to positive outcomes for both society and the environment.

A protocol to analyze single-cell RNA-seq data from Mycobacterium tuberculosis-infected mice lung

Processing and analyzing single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) from lung cells are challenging due to the complexity of cell subtypes and biological variations within sample groups. Here, we present a protocol for performing an in-depth assessment on lung lymphocyte populations derived from healthy and Mycobacterium tuberculosis-infected mice. We describe steps for downloading processed scRNA-seq data, integrating samples across different conditions, and performing cluster analysis. We then detail procedures for identifying lymphoid cell subtypes, differential analysis, and pathway enrichment analysis. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Akter et al. (2022).1.

Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Undergraduate Medical Students of Bangladesh Regarding COVID-19 and its Vaccination

Medical students are one of the socially active, reliable, and persuading population of information, prevention and control, and incentive of vaccination to stop the current pandemic situation. Consequently, knowing the status of medical students' knowledge, about symptoms, and transmission of disease, prevention of COVID-19 and their attitudes towards a vaccine is important. This multi-center cross-sectional descriptive study was one of the first ones in Bangladesh among the undergraduate medical students who completed pathology, microbiology, and pharmacology. The study was conducted from March to April 2021, using a convenience sampling method in twelve government and non-government medical colleges. Among 1132 who completed the questionnaire, and 15 students from different centers were excluded from the pre-testing and face validation. The age of the 1117 respondents were 22 to 23 years, of which the majority of the respondents were female 749 (67.0%), and 368 (33.0%) were male. Almost all participants had correct knowledge (84.1%) about the symptoms of COVID-19. But 59.2% had wrong knowledge about transmission of disease by an afebrile person. Above 60.0 % of the participants have worn a facial mask when contacting people, refrained from shaking hands, washed hands, avoided people with signs and symptoms suggestive of COVID-19, and avoided crowded places as a practice of prevention. 37.6% of medical students showed positive attitudes about the participation of management of a COVID-19 patient. Most of the participants' decided to have a vaccine depending on its availability. But 31.5% had trust in natural immunity rather than vaccination. Most undergraduate Medical college students understood the basic information, possessed a positive attitude, and presented good practice towards the COVID-19 and vaccination. They play a crucial role in motivation and acceptance of vaccines among the general citizen to fight back against the pandemic in the country with limited resources.

Antigen-specific B cells direct T follicular-like helper cells into lymphoid follicles to mediate Mycobacterium tuberculosis control

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), is a global cause of death. Granuloma-associated lymphoid tissue (GrALT) correlates with protection during TB, but the mechanisms of protection are not understood. During TB, the transcription factor IRF4 in T cells but not B cells is required for the generation of the TH1 and TH17 subsets of helper T cells and follicular helper T (TFH)-like cellular responses. A population of IRF4+ T cells coexpress the transcription factor BCL6 during Mtb infection, and deletion of Bcl6 (Bcl6fl/fl) in CD4+ T cells (CD4cre) resulted in reduction of TFH-like cells, impaired localization within GrALT and increased Mtb burden. In contrast, the absence of germinal center B cells, MHC class II expression on B cells, antibody-producing plasma cells or interleukin-10-expressing B cells, did not increase Mtb susceptibility. Indeed, antigen-specific B cells enhance cytokine production and strategically localize TFH-like cells within GrALT via interactions between programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) and its ligand PD-L1 and mediate Mtb control in both mice and macaques.

Detection and Primary Analysis of Antibacterial Activity in the Ethyl Acetate Extract of Lantana camara L. Leaves

Lantana camara L. is generally considered an invasive plant species throughout the world. Research works carried out in recent years have proved its significance as a source of antimicrobial lead molecules. The aim of this research was to identify the antibacterial substance(s) in this plant species found locally and to test its antibacterial effect against selected bacterial strains. Plant samples were collected from the University of Dhaka campus. Ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts of the plant leaves were tested against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Pneumococcus and Klebsiella. Both the ethanol and the ethyl acetate extracts showed significant activity against Bacillus subtilis. In disk diffusion antibacterial assay, ethanol extract showed greater activity than ethyl acetate extract against Bacillus subtilis and the zones of inhibition were 14 mm and 12 mm respectively. However, ethyl acetate extract showed greater activity than ethanol extract in TLC bioautography assay. Ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts showed very little activity against Pneumococcus and Klebsiella, but no antibacterial potential against Escherichia coli. Fractionation of the ethyl acetate extract by TLC and bioautography detection of antibacterial activity in TLC encouraged further purification of the lead active compound(s). Phytochemical composition analysis of the ethyl acetate extract showed the presence of alkaloids, steroids, phenolic compounds and glycosides.

Label free flexible electrochemical DNA biosensor for selective detection of Shigella flexneri in real food samples

An effective tool for early-stage selective detection of the foodborne bacterial pathogen Shigella flexneri (S. flexneri) is essential for diagnosing infectious diseases and controlling outbreaks. Here, a label-free electrochemical DNA biosensor for monitoring S. flexneri is developed. To fabricate the biosensor, detection probe (capture probe) is immobilized on the surface of poly melamine (P-Mel) and poly glutamic acid (PGA), and disuccinimidyl suberate (DSS) functionalized flexible indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode. Anthraquinone-2-sulfonic acid monohydrate sodium salt (AQMS) is used as a signal indicator for the detection of S. flexneri. The proposed DNA biosensor exhibits a wide dynamic range with concentration of the targets ranging from 1 × 10^-6 to 1 × 10^-21 molL^-1 with a limit of detection (LOD) of 7.4 × 10^-22 molL^-1 in the complementary linear target of S. flexneri, and a detection range of 8 × 10¹⁰-80 cells/ml with a LOD of 10 cells/ml in real S. flexneri sample. The proposed flexible biosensor provides high specificity for the detection of S. flexneri compared to other target signals such as discrete base mismatches and different bacterial species. The developed biosensor displayed excellent recoveries in detecting S. flexneri in spiked food samples. Therefore, the proposed biosensor can serve as a model methodology for the detection of other pathogens in a broad span of industries.

Genomic diversity, pathogenicity and antimicrobial resistance of Escherichia coli isolated from poultry in the southern United States

Escherichia coli (E. coli) are typically present as commensal bacteria in the gastro-intestinal tract of most animals including poultry species, but some avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC) strains can cause localized and even systematic infections in domestic poultry. Emergence and re-emergence of antimicrobial resistant isolates (AMR) constrain antibiotics usage in poultry production, and development of an effective vaccination program remains one of the primary options in E. coli disease prevention and control for domestic poultry. Thus, understanding genetic and pathogenic diversity of the enzootic E. coli isolates, particularly APEC, in poultry farms is the key to designing an optimal vaccine candidate and to developing an effective vaccination program. This study explored the genomic and pathogenic diversity among E. coli isolates in southern United States poultry. A total of nine isolates were recovered from sick broilers from Mississippi, and one from Georgia, with epidemiological variations among clinical signs, type of housing, and bird age. The genomes of these isolates were sequenced by using both Illumina short-reads and Oxford Nanopore long-reads, and our comparative analyses suggested data from both platforms were highly consistent. The 16 s rRNA based phylogenetic analyses showed that the 10 bacteria strains are genetically closer to each other than those in the public database. However, whole genome analyses showed that these 10 isolates encoded a diverse set of reported virulence and AMR genes, belonging to at least nine O:H serotypes, and are genetically clustered with at least five different groups of E. coli isolates reported by other states in the United States. Despite the small sample size, this study suggested that there was a large extent of genomic and serological diversity among E. coli isolates in southern United States poultry. A large-scale comprehensive study is needed to understand the overall genomic diversity and the associated virulence, and such a study will be important to develop a broadly protective E. coli vaccine.

Use of Drugs Considering Route of Administration on Drug Prescription Pattern for Bronchial Asthma in a Tertiary Level Hospital

Bronchial asthma is one of the much known long-term respiratory conditions. Incidence is increasing, in developing countries like Bangladesh. Cross-sectional type of observational study was carried out over one year (July 2017 to June 2018) in the department of Pharmacology with collaboration of the department of Respiratory Medicine and Medicine, Mymensingh Medical College and Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. A total of 160 patients were selected non-randomly for the study. Inhalation route (52.35%) was the most preferred one over oral route (47.65%). In total 245 drugs, 131 FDC drugs (Salmeterol + Fluticasone) were prescribed with inhalation therapy which is 53.46%, another 9 FDC drugs that is (Ipratropium bromide + Salbutamol) were prescribed with inhalation therapy which is 3.67%, 101 drugs (Salbutamol) were prescribed with inhalation therapy that is 41.23%, 4 drugs (Beclomethasone) were prescribed with inhalation therapy that is 1.64%. Majority of patient were taking inhalation form of anti-asthmatic drugs.

Procalcitonin versus C-Reactive Protein as a Biomarker for Prediction of Bacterial Infection in Children with Febrile Neutropenia in Acute Leukemia

Febrile neutropenia (FN) is a frequently occurring treatment-related complication with significant morbidity and mortality for childhood acute leukemia. Early diagnosis and assessment of severity are essential steps for early comprehensive treatment to reduce FN-related morbidity and mortality. Biomarkers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) can be used to assess and predict the bacterial infection in children with febrile neutropenia. The objective of the study was to determine the role of procalcitonin and CRP as a biomarker for prediction of bacterial infection in children with FN in acute leukemia. This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Bangladesh from August 2020 to July 2021. Total 58 Children with acute leukemia aged 1 to <18 years with FN were analyzed in this study. A proper history and thorough physical examination were carried out. The blood sample was sent for biomarkers (Procalcitonin and CRP) within 24 hours of the onset of FN and other investigations, such as Complete blood count, Blood C/S, Urine R/E and C/S. Metabolic workup (SGPT, Serum Creatinine, Serum Electrolytes, Serum Ca+) was also done in every patient. Stool R/E & C/S, Chest X-ray, Wound swab for C/S were done when the patient presented with diarrhoea, cough, respiratory distress and focal sepsis respectively. In this study, the mean age of the patients was 6.62±4.07 years (1.10-16.0 years) and 34 patients (58.6%) were male. In 65.5% of patients, localizing signs of infection were not identified. Of the 58 patients, 12 patients (20.7%) showed positive blood culture and 2 patients (3.4%) showed positive urine culture. Klebsiella spp (41.0%) was the most frequent organism isolated followed by Acinetobacter (17.0%), Pseudomonas (17.0%) and E. coli (17.0%). The median PCT levels were significantly higher in patients with bacterial infection than patients without bacteremia (26.10μg/l versus 0.78μg/l, p=0.002) and PCT level >2μg/l was significantly associated with bacteremia. The median CRP levels in the bacteremia and without-bacteremia patients were 137.4mg/L and 54.17mg/L, respectively (p=0.036). In direct comparisons, PCT showed better overall performance than CRP with the AUC being 0.797 (95% CI 0.651-0.943) for PCT and 0.697 (95% CI 0.54-0.855) for CRP in predicting the bacterial infection. PCT and CRP both are useful biomarkers for the prediction of bacteremia, but PCT may be a superior early biomarker as compared to CRP to predict bacterial infection in children with febrile neutropenia in acute leukemia.

Global dissemination of influenza A virus is driven by wild bird migration through arctic and subarctic zones

Influenza A viruses (IAV) circulate endemically among many wild aquatic bird populations that seasonally migrate between wintering grounds in southern latitudes to breeding ranges along the perimeter of the circumpolar arctic. Arctic and subarctic zones are hypothesized to serve as ecologic drivers of the intercontinental movement and reassortment of IAVs due to high densities of disparate populations of long distance migratory and native bird species present during breeding seasons. Iceland is a staging ground that connects the East Atlantic and North Atlantic American flyways, providing a unique study system for characterizing viral flow between eastern and western hemispheres. Using Bayesian phylodynamic analyses, we sought to evaluate the viral connectivity of Iceland to proximal regions and how inter-species transmission and reassortment dynamics in this region influence the geographic spread of low and highly pathogenic IAVs. Findings demonstrate that IAV movement in the arctic and subarctic reflects wild bird migration around the perimeter of the circumpolar north, favouring short-distance flights between proximal regions rather than long distance flights over the polar interior. Iceland connects virus movement between mainland Europe and North America, consistent with the westward migration of wild birds from mainland Europe to Northeastern Canada and Greenland. Though virus diffusion rates were similar among avian taxonomic groups in Iceland, gulls play an outsized role as sinks of IAVs from other avian hosts prior to onward migration. These data identify patterns of virus movement in northern latitudes and inform future surveillance strategies related to seasonal and emergent IAVs with potential public health concern.

Development of a hematite nanotube and tyramine-based drug carrier against drug-resistant bacteria Klebsiella pneumoniae

In this study, hematite nanotube (HNT) and tyramine-based advanced nano-drug carriers were developed for inhibiting the growth of Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae). The HNT was synthesized by following the Teflon line autoclaved assisted hydrothermal process and tyramine was incorporated on the surface of the HNT to fabricate the formulated nano-drug. The nano-drug was prepared by conjugating meropenem (MP) on the surface of Tyramine-HNT and characterized using different techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR), etc. Furthermore, the drug-loading efficiency and loading capacity were measured using a UV-vis spectrometer. The pH, amount of Tyr, and HNT required for drug loading were optimized. A controlled and gradual manner of pH-sensitive release profiles was found after investigating the release profile of MP from the carrier drug. The antibacterial activity of MP@Tyramine-HNT and MP was compared through the agar disc diffusion method which indicates that antibacterial properties of antibiotics are enhanced after conjugating. Surprisingly, the MP@Tyramine-HNT exhibits a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of K. pneumoniae lower than MP itself. These results indicate the nanocarrier can reduce the amount of MP dosed to eradicate K. pneumoniae.

Evaluation of Liver Function Tests in β-Thalassemia Major Children

Thalassemia is the most prevalent single gene defect in human beings worldwide. Repeated blood transfusions along with chelation therapy are mainstay of treatment in thalassemia patients. However these recurrent blood transfusions result in iron overload which along with chelation therapy causes deterioration of liver function. Aim of the study was to evaluate the liver function tests in β-thalassemia major patients. This cross sectional study was conducted in the Department of Biochemistry, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, Bangladesh from January 2017 to December 2017. In this study, 50 diagnosed patients of β Thalassemia major (Group A) and 50 apparently healthy children (Group B) of both sexes were selected from the department of Paediatrics, Dhaka medical college. The study parameters were serum ferritin, bilirubin, AST, ALT, ALP. The results were compared statistically between groups. Serum ferritin level (mean±SD) in thalassemic major patients in Group A (890±446.38 microgram/L) which is significantly higher above normal level. Serum bilirubin in Group A (3.27±2.62 mg/dl) and in Group B (0.48±0.24 mg/dl), Serum ALT in Group A (53.06±34.0 U/L) and in Group B (16.70±4.81 U/L), AST in Group A (84.56±33.54 U/L) and in Group B (11.60±2.72 U/L) and ALP levels in Group A (422.42±226.99 IU/L) and in Group B (221.86±80.54 IU/L). All the values were significantly higher (p<0.001) in β-thalassemia patient than that of normal children. This study concludes that liver function parameters are significantly higher in β thalassemia major patients. So routine evaluation of liver function tests may be advocated for thalassemic patients to predict early onset of hepatic dysfunction.

Clinical and Demographic Predictor of the Advanced Stage of Carcinoma Cervix in a Tertiary Level Hospital of Bangladesh

Though cervical cancer is a preventable disease it is the most progressive and devastating diseases posing a threat of mortality for women of developing countries. Majority of the cases present to hospital at advanced stage when treatment is less feasible. Objective is to determine the factors associated with the advanced stage presentation to the hospital, socio-demographic factor, patterns of complications and histological types among patients with carcinoma cervix. This was an observational descriptive type of cross-sectional study carried out in the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from 15 January to 27 September 2017. Women who were newly confirmed to have cervical cancer by histology were enrolled. Stages IIB and above was considered as advanced disease. The patients were interviewed face to face by the researcher for the purpose of collection of data. Then the patients were examined by the researcher for certain sings and those would be recorded in the check-list. Histopathological report was noted in data collection sheet. In this study data analysis was done by SPSS version 22.0. Total 66 clinically and histologically confirmed advanced ca-cervixes were taken up during this study. Most common stage was stage III, 49(74.2%) out of 66 population. Majority of female were found 34(51.5%) in age group 51-60. More than half of population 54(81.8%) were living with their husband and 12(18.1%) were widow at the time of study. High level of illiteracy among women and their problematic health seeking behavior for gynecological symptoms are responsible for advanced diagnosis of cervical cancer.

Physicochemical, microbiological and sensory properties of carrot juice fortified set-style yoghurt

An attempt has been made to develop carrot juice-based set-style yoghurt for enriched nutritional and therapeutic properties. Yoghurts were fortified with carrot juice at a ratio of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% and 50% and were analyzed for physicochemical properties, bioactive compound (total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, vitamin C, antioxidants and β-carotene content) and organoleptic properties. Fortification of carrot juice significantly (p<0.01) increased the percentage of carbohydrates (35.47 to 42.92%), ash (0.57 to 0.87%), total solid (50.5 to 52.61%), solids non-fat (45.77 to 49.37%) and fibre (0.36 to 0.46%), and significantly (p<0.01) decreased the percentage of fat (4.73 to 3.24%). Similar increase in bioactive compounds also found with the fortification of carrot juice e.g., β-carotene (0.00 to 4.43 mg/100 g), antioxidant activity (18.29 to 48.42 %), TPC (0.00 to 15.44 mg/100 g), TFC (0.00 to 5.18 mg/100 g) and vitamin C (0.76 to 1.28 mg/100 g). No yeast, mould and coliform were observed in any yoghurt samples. The sensory analysis suggested that yoghurt fortified with 30% carrot juice was the best with the highest overall acceptability (8.4) along with the lowest syneresis (10.81%). The addition of carrot juice above this concentration started decreasing the scores of good qualities of the fortified yoghurts. Taking into account all findings, we concluded that carrot juice could be added up to 30% for large-scale production of fortified yoghurt.

Response to Hypoxia and the Ensuing Dysregulation of Inflammation Impacts Mycobacterium tuberculosis Pathogenicity

Rationale: Different Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) strains exhibit variable degrees of virulence in humans and animal models. Differing stress response strategies used by different strains of Mtb could influence virulence. Objectives: We compared the virulence of two strains of Mtb with use in animal model research: CDC1551 and Erdman. Methods: Rhesus macaques, which develop human-like tuberculosis attributes and pathology, were infected with a high dose of either strain via aerosol, and virulence was compared by bacterial burden and pathology. Measurements and Main Results: Infection with Erdman resulted in significantly shorter times to euthanasia and higher bacterial burdens and greater systemic inflammation and lung pathology relative to those infected with CDC1551. Macaques infected with Erdman also exhibited significantly higher early inflammatory myeloid cell influx to the lung, greater macrophage and T cell activity, and higher expression of lung remodeling (extracellular matrix) genes, consistent with greater pathology. Expression of NOTCH4 (neurogenic locus notch homolog 4) signaling, which is induced in response to hypoxia and promotes undifferentiated cellular state, was also higher in Erdman-infected lungs. The granulomas generated by Erdman, and not CDC1551, infection appeared to have larger regions of necrosis, which is strongly associated with hypoxia. To better understand the mechanisms of differential hypoxia induction by these strains, we subjected both to hypoxia in vitro. Erdman induced higher concentrations of DosR regulon relative to CDC1551. The DosR regulon is the global regulator of response to hypoxia in Mtb and critical for its persistence in granulomas. Conclusions: Our results show that the response to hypoxia is a critical mediator of virulence determination in Mtb, with potential impacts on bacillary persistence, reactivation, and efficiency of therapeutics.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection drives a type I IFN signature in lung lymphocytes

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infects 25% of the world's population and causes tuberculosis (TB), which is a leading cause of death globally. A clear understanding of the dynamics of immune response at the cellular level is crucial to design better strategies to control TB. We use the single-cell RNA sequencing approach on lung lymphocytes derived from healthy and Mtb-infected mice. Our results show the enrichment of the type I IFN signature among the lymphoid cell clusters, as well as heat shock responses in natural killer (NK) cells from Mtb-infected mice lungs. We identify Ly6A as a lymphoid cell activation marker and validate its upregulation in activated lymphoid cells following infection. The cross-analysis of the type I IFN signature in human TB-infected peripheral blood samples further validates our results. These findings contribute toward understanding and characterizing the transcriptional parameters at a single-cell depth in a highly relevant and reproducible mouse model of TB.

Identification and quantification of sodium benzoate in soft drinks available in Tangail region by high-performance liquid chromatography

Sodium benzoate is a permitted food additive by international laws in processing restrictive amounts, but its content must be declared and must not exceed the established limits by legislation. An experimental study was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for determining the level of sodium benzoate in different brands of soft drinks available in the markets, stores, and shops in the Tangail region of Bangladesh. A Luna 5 µ C18 (2) 100A column (250×4.6 mm) was used for the chromatographic analysis. Chromatographic separation was achieved with an isocratic solvent system comprising sodium acetate and acetic acid buffer (pH = 4.0)/acetonitrile in the ratio of 80:20 (1 mL/min) at 37oC and the chromatograms were recorded at 254 nm. The limit of detection and quantification for sodium benzoate was 0.0000493 mg/100 mL and 0.000149 mg/100 mL, respectively. Quantification of the selected brand soft drinks revealed that the level of the used sodium benzoate was within the FDA standard range. However, by comparing with the Bangladesh Standard and Testing Institute (BSTI), brand -2 and brand-3 soft drink samples were found to exceed the current legal limits.

Malignant Infantile Osteopetrosis with Bone Marrow Involvement

Osteopetrosis (Marble bone disease) is a very rare congenital genetic disease of skeleton, resulting from defective bone resorption, due to functionally defective osteoclast, leading to accumulation of excessive bone mass. Malignant infantile osteopetrosis (MIO) is one of the varieties of osteopetrosis, which is fatal and is diagnosed in early infancy. Malignant infantile osteopetrosis is present with abnormal bone remodeling, hematological abnormities, features of extramedullary hematopoiesis. Radiology is the key of diagnosis. In this case, we present a 5-monthold male infant diagnosed as malignant infantile osteopetrosis, who presented with bronchopneumonia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, hepatosplenomegaly, failure to thrive (FTT).

Three-Jaw Chuck Pinch Strength and its Correlation with Hand Depth in Electronics Technicians

The three jaw chuck pinch is a variety of pinch technique where thumb opposes both middle and index fingers. Pinch strength is generally influenced by the health status and level of physical activity of a person. The present study was conducted to measure the correlation of three-jaw chuck pinch strength with hand depth in electronics technicians working in Dhaka Metropolitan City. The data obtained from the study may be used as a base line for other professions as well as for research in our country. This cross sectional, analytical study was carried out in the department of Anatomy, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2015 to June 2016 on 100 adults male electronics technicians and 100 adult sedentary workers. Electronics technicians were considered as case group and sedentary workers were considered as control group. Case group was further subdivided according to their working experiences. Study subjects were selected by convenient purposive sampling technique. Hand depth was measured by digital slide calipers and pinch gauge was used to measure the three-jaw chuck pinch strength. The mean three-jaw chuck pinch strength was significantly higher (p<0.05) in case group than in the control group. Significant difference were also observed between case group and control group in the mean hand depth (p<0.05). Mean hand depth was greater in case group than that of control group. Three-jaw chuck pinch strength showed significant positive correlation with hand depth in case group. Case group was further subdivided according to their working experiences, the mean three-jaw chuck pinch strength and hand depth was significantly higher (p<0.05) in more working experience group than in less working experience group. Three-jaw chuck pinch strength showed significant positive correlation with hand depth.

Development of an advanced DNA biosensor for pathogenic Vibrio cholerae detection in real sample

Due to the epidemics of emerging microbial diseases worldwide, the accurate and rapid quantification of pathogenic bacteria is extremely critical. In this work, a highly sensitive DNA-based electrochemical biosensor has been developed to detect Vibrio cholerae using gold nanocube and 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) with DNA carrier matrix. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM) experiments were performed to interrogate the proposed sensor at each stage of preparation. The biosensor has demonstrated high sensitivity with a wide linear response range to target DNA from 10^-8 to 10^-14 (R²= 0.992) and 10^-14 to 10^-27 molL^-1 (R²= 0.993) with a limit of detection (LOD) value of 7.41 × 10^-30 molL^-1 (S/N = 5). The biosensor also exhibits a selective detection behavior in bacterial cultures that belong to the same and distant genera. Moreover, the proposed sensor can be used for six consecutive DNA assays with a repeatability relative standard deviations (RSD) value of 5% (n = 5). Besides, the DNA biosensor shows excellent recovery for detecting V. cholerae in poultry feces, indicating that the designed biosensor could become a powerful tool for pathogenic microorganisms screening in clinical diagnostics, food safety, and environmental monitoring.

Hemoprotozoa and Anaplasma spp. in rodents and shrews of Bangladesh

Hemoprotozoans are important pathogens of animals and humans, among which some species have zoonotic significance. The prevalence of different hemoprotozoa and Anaplasma spp. in larger mammals have been reported from different regions of the world. But, very few studies have been conducted to estimate the prevalence of hemoprotozoa in rodents and shrews of South-East Asia. The study assessed the prevalence of hemoprotozoa and Anaplasma spp. in rodents and shrews of Bangladesh. Blood samples (n=451) were collected from rodents and shrews between June 2011 and June 2013 and July-December 2015 from 4 land gradients of Bangladesh. Giemsa-stained blood smears revealed that 13% of animals were harboring hemoprotozoa (4.7% Babesia spp., 0.67% Plasmodium spp.), and Anaplasma spp. (7.5%). The study may serve as a guide for future hemoparasitic research of rodents and shrews.

Panhypopituitarism in an Adult Male and Hypogonadism as a First Clue

Hypopituitarism is a rare entity with reported incidence, 4 per 100,000 and about 50% of such patients present with three to five pituitary hormone deficits. A slow onset of symptoms is typical. But, diversified presentations from absence of symptoms to vague clinical features to lethal effects leading to mortality are not uncommon in such disorder. In adults, in such cases symptoms of hypogonadism may be the first noticeable illness for reporting to physicians, but it is often under evaluated or even ignored. Here, we present a case of 40-year-old adult male with panhypopituitarism, who presented with loss of generalized body hair and loss of libido for about last five years but the problem was not evaluated adequately. Later, he developed lethargy, generalized weakness, weight loss and then the underneath cause detected was panhypopituitarism due to pituitary macro adenoma. So, suspicion and hormonal evaluation for hypogonadism would help in early detection and management of progressive hypopituitarism in symptomatic adult patients. Cases of panhypopituitarism need lifelong hormone replacement and follow-up and if pituitary adenoma is present, surgical removal by trans-sphenoidal approach is preferable.

GenomeForest: An Ensemble Machine Learning Classifier for Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a complex and high impact disease affecting 176 million women worldwide with diagnostic latency between 4 to 11 years due to lack of a definitive clinical symptom or a minimally invasive diagnostic method. In this study, we developed a new ensemble machine learning classifier based on chromosomal partitioning, named GenomeForest and applied it in classifying the endometriosis vs. the control patients using 38 RNA-seq and 80 enrichment-based DNA-methylation (MBD-seq) datasets, and computed performance assessment with six different experiments. The ensemble machine learning models provided an avenue for identifying several candidate biomarker genes with a very high F1 score; a near perfect F1 score (0.968) for the transcriptomics dataset and a very high F1 score (0.918) for the methylomics dataset. We hope in the future a less invasive biopsy can be used to diagnose endometriosis using the findings from such ensemble machine learning classifiers, as demonstrated in this study.

A Study to find out the Correlation between Handgrip Strength and Hand Breadth of Bangladeshi Male Cricket Batsman

This cross sectional analytical type of study was conducted at department of Anatomy, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2015 to June 2016 on 50 adult Bangladeshi male sprinters (Group A) and 50 adult Bangladeshi male cricket batsman (Group B). Sample collection was done by convenient purposive sampling technique. History of any injury of hand during playing was excluded to construct standard measurement. Hand breadth was measured with the help of slide calipers. Hand grip strength Dynamometer was used to measure the hand grip strength. Paired Student's 't' test, unpaired student's 't' test and Pearson's correlation coefficient test were done for statistical analysis of the result. The aim of the present study was to determine hand breadth and average hand grip strength of Bangladeshi male cricket batsman to find out correlation between them that may be used as a baseline for other professions as well for future research in our country. The mean right and left hand grip strength was significantly higher in the cricket batsman than in the sprinters. The mean right and left hand breadth was found to be significantly higher in the cricket batsman than in the sprinters. Right and left hand grip strength showed significant positive correlation with hand breadth in both hand. The study findings suggest that regular physical exercise and training increase hand grip strength.

Depression among Medical Students of Bangladesh

Now a days depression is one of the leading cause of disabilities all over the world. Depression leads to a wide range of disorders and affects people of all communities. Medical students pass through a relatively high level of stress. Several studies revealed that anxiety and depression is significantly prevalent among medical students and often it persists even when they become physicians. The study was designed with an aim to estimate the prevalence of depression among the medical students of Bangladesh. The cross sectional descriptive type of observational study was conducted among randomly selected 399 Bangladeshi students of third year MBBS from six (6) randomly selected public medical colleges of Bangladesh from February 2017 to July 2017. Data were collected by a semi-structured self-administered questionnaire containing Beck's Depression Inventory. Data were entered and analyzed by SPSS version 20.0. Among 399 medical students, 45.6% were male and 54.4% were female. Regarding presence of depression among the medical students, 35.8% students had normal score. More than one fourth of the students (25.1%) had mild mood disturbance. Borderline clinical depression was found in 15.5% and moderate depression was found in 18.0% of the students. Severe depression was found in 5.3% students and one (0.3%) student was suffering from extreme depression. Overall 39.1% students were suffering from different levels of depression. Depression was prevalent more in female students (45.6%) than male students (31.3%). Suicidal tendency was present in 18.8% students. Among them 14.3% had thoughts of killing themselves but they would not carry them out; 3% would like to kill themselves and 1.5% would kill themselves if they had the chance. Suicidal tendency was also a bit higher in female students (19.3%) than male students (18.1%). A significant number (39.1%) of medical students of Bangladesh are suffering from depression and many of them (18.8%) have suicidal tendency which demands immediate attention of the authority. The findings of the study warrant a need for psychiatric counseling and support services for vulnerable students.

Study of Diameter of Lymphoid Follicle of Vermiform Appendix in Bangladeshi People of Different Age and Sex

A cross sectional descriptive study was performed on 40 postmortem vermiform appendix (male 24 and female 16) to find out the diameter of lymphoid follicle of vermiform appendix of Bangladeshi people. The specimens were collected from autopsy laboratory of the Department of Forensic Medicine, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh by purposive sampling technique and were divided into four age groups. They were Group A (upto 20 years), Group B (21 to 40 years), Group C (41 to 60 years) and Group D (above 60 years). For this purpose, about 3mm long of whole thickness transverse section was taken from the middle of the vermiform appendix and thus the permanent slides were made for microscopic examination. To measure the diameter of the lymphoid follicle two measurements were taken. One was taken at the maximum diameter and another was perpendicular to it by ocular micrometer. Diameter of one largest and one smallest lymphoid follicles were measured and find out the mean diameter of lymphoid follicle between them. Diameter of lymphoid follicle = (Maximum transverse diameter + perpendicular diameter) /2. All data were recorded in the predesigned data sheet, analyzed by SPSS program (version 21, 2012) and compared with the findings of other national and international studies and standard text books. It was observed that diameter of lymphoid follicle of vermiform appendix gradually decreased as age advanced. The mean±SD diameter of lymphoid follicle was 580.31±37.07, 545.58±38.37, 485.68±40.20 and 428.12±68.41μm in Group A, B, C and D respectively. Statistical analysis shows that the mean differences of diameter of lymphoid follicle between A&B, C&D were statistically non significant at p= or >0.05 level, difference between Group B&C was statistically moderately significant at p<0.01 level and differences between Group A&C, B&D, A&D were statistically highly significant at p<0.001 level. Mean diameter of lymphoid follicle of vermiform appendix in male was higher (584.30±12.65μm in Group A, 549.42±38.36μm in Group B, 487.38±39.91μm in Group C, 430.68±70.30μm in Group D) than in female (576.31±53.77μm in Group A, 536.61±45.14μm in Group B, 483.14±46.68μm in Group C, 424.28±75.95μm in Group D) but mean difference between sexes in the different groups was statistically non significant at p=or >0.05 level. The present study will help to increase the information pool on the diameter of lymphoid follicle of vermiform appendix of Bangladeshi people.

Outcome of Bone Marrow Injection in Patient with Delayed Union and Non-Uninon of Long Bone Fracture

Bone marrow is a source of osteoprogenitor cells which are the most important factor of bone formation and healing of fracture. The aim of the study is to evaluate the outcome of bone marrow injection in the management of delayed union and non-union. This prospective study was performed in the department of Orthopaedics, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from January 2017 to June 2019. In this study 21 patients with delayed union and non-union were treated by bone marrow injection. Bone marrow were aspirated from the anterior or posterior iliac crests then injected percutaneously into the fracture site. Full union was achieved in 15 cases, while failed in the others. No major complications were seen during or after the procedure. It is a safe, easy and a minimally invasive procedure compared to usual open bone graft especially for cases with high risk of anesthesia or risk of infection.

Frequencies of Different Types of Cleft Lip, Cleft Lip with Palate and Cleft Palate in Bangladeshi Children

Cleft lip and cleft palate, also known as orofacial cleft, is a group of conditions that includes Cleft lip (CL), Cleft palate (CP) and both together (CLP). Cleft lip with/or palate are the major human orofacial congenital malformations seen in live birth as well as in still birth. This descriptive cross sectional study was done to determine how the different types of Cleft lip (CL), Cleft lip with palate (CLP) and Cleft palate (CP) are distributed among Bangladeshi Children. This study was performed at a health screening camp for patients with cleft lip with/or palate at Dhaka Shishu Hospital, Dhaka. A total 30 patients irrespective of their age and gender, presenting with cleft lip with/or palate deformities were included in the study. A questionnaire was constructed to be filled out by the present researcher through a face-to-face interview with the respondent preferably the mother. The data were organized and analyzed through Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS, Version 20). Looking frequencies of different types of cleft lip with/or palate some trends can be noted regarding the laterality, completeness, extent, side involved and involvement of the alveolus. Out of the 14 CL cases, only 1 (7.14%) showed bilateral cleft. This cleft was complete but simple. All the others were unilateral cleft. A vast majority 9(about 65%) of the cleft lips belonged to the unilateral incomplete left sided simple type. One (7.14%) showed unilateral incomplete right sided simple type of CL. Only 2(14.28%) cases involved the alveolus. Out of the 11 CLP cases, unilateral cleft lip was present in 8 (more than 70% cases). Among them 6 cases showed complete cleft lip and 2 cases showed incomplete cleft lip. Out of all CLP cases 1 but all showed complete cleft palate. The most common type of CLP was "unilateral complete left sided compound cleft lip with unilateral complete left sided cleft palate" present in 5 of the children (i.e. more than 45% of the CLP cases and more than 16% of all cleft cases). Out of the 5 CP cases, only 1(20%) had involvement of the uvula plus posterior part of the soft palate. The rest 4(80%) had involvement of soft palate. Cleft lip with/or palate commonly occurred in Bangladeshi children. Genetic and environmental factors cause this birth defect. Therefore, integrated research among those factors is essential to prevent this birth defect.

Machine Learning Classifiers for Endometriosis Using Transcriptomics and Methylomics Data

Endometriosis is a complex and common gynecological disorder yet a poorly understood disease affecting about 176 million women worldwide and causing significant impact on their quality of life and economic burden. Neither a definitive clinical symptom nor a minimally invasive diagnostic method is available, thus leading to an average of 4 to 11 years of diagnostic latency. Discovery of relevant biological patterns from microarray expression or next generation sequencing (NGS) data has been advanced over the last several decades by applying various machine learning tools. We performed machine learning analysis using 38 RNA-seq and 80 enrichment-based DNA methylation (MBD-seq) datasets. We experimented how well various supervised machine learning methods such as decision tree, partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLSDA), support vector machine, and random forest perform in classifying endometriosis from the control samples trained on both transcriptomics and methylomics data. The assessment was done from two different perspectives for improving classification performances: a) implication of three different normalization techniques and b) implication of differential analysis using the generalized linear model (GLM). Several candidate biomarker genes were identified by multiple machine learning experiments including NOTCH3, SNAPC2, B4GALNT1, SMAP2, DDB2, GTF3C5, and PTOV1 from the transcriptomics data analysis and TRPM6, RASSF2, TNIP2, RP3-522J7.6, FGD3, and MFSD14B from the methylomics data analysis. We concluded that an appropriate machine learning diagnostic pipeline for endometriosis should use TMM normalization for transcriptomics data, and quantile or voom normalization for methylomics data, GLM for feature space reduction and classification performance maximization.

Assessing risk to human health for heavy metal contamination through street dust in the Southeast Asian Megacity: Dhaka, Bangladesh

Contaminants in road dusts can directly pose significant human health risks through oral ingestion, particle inhalation, and dermal contact. Therefore, this study has been designed to analyze heavy metal contaminations in 88 street dusts collected from the 22 high traffic sites and industrial areas of the Southeast Asian Megacity: Dhaka (capital of Bangladesh) using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectroscopy. This study revealed that the maximum Pb, Cd, Zn, Cr, Ni, As, Mn and Cu contents in the street dust samples were 18.9, 11.6, 239.2, 144.3, 37.1, 8.1, 261.5 and 49.6 mg/ kg respectively in which Ni and Pb concentration were 2 times, and Cd concentration was 200 times higher than the background level in soil; and As concentration was slightly higher than soil background level. The spatial distribution of heavy metal concentrations in street dust samples in Dhaka City was revealed that the hot spot areas of Pb, Ni, Cd and As were mainly associated with heavy traffic and industrial activities. The risk assessment strategies were used for this study for identifying the routes of exposure through oral ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact by the fine particles (~75 μm) of street dust, especially for children based on the US EPA health risk models. Both non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks of heavy metals were characterized in street dust samples. Results based on the hazard index (HI), in the case of non-cancer effect, the ingestion of dust particles of children and adults in Dhaka City appeared to be the route of exposure to street dust that results in a higher risk for heavy metals, followed by dermal contact. This study revealed that the inhalation of re-suspended particles through mouth and nose were almost negligible. It was also noticed that children were experiencing the potential health risk due to HI for Cr (1.04), which was slightly higher than the safe level 1, and Cd (0.69) was close to the safe level 1. Reversely, cancer risk for Cr (i.e. 4.27 × 10^-6) was fallen within the range of threshold values (10^-4 to 10^-6) and As (i.e. 9.59 × 10^-7) was close to the upper limit of threshold values (10^-4 to 10^-6).

Source of metal contamination in sediment, their ecological risk, and phytoremediation ability of the studied mangrove plants in ship breaking area, Bangladesh

Samples for sediment and two species of native mangrove plants were collected from seven sampling sites for assessing the level of metal contamination. Results of the studied metals displayed the order of pollution as Fe > Ti > Zr > Rb > Zn > Sr > Pb > Y > Cu > Cr > As accordingly. Geoaccumulation index and contamination factor revealed that the sediment samples were unpolluted to moderately polluted by Zn, Fe, Ti, Rb, Y, and Zr. Ecological risk factor depicted a pollution-free condition in the study areas. PCA, CA, and correlation coefficient indicated that the source of the metals in the environment was anthropogenic. Bioconcentration factor values were found to be below 1 in both plant species. Conversely, transfer factor values for most heavy metals were found to be >1 in both plant species, which reflects the phytoremediation ability of plants.

Growth performance of local and genetically improved chicken of Bangladesh

The experiment was conducted to compare the growth performance among four genotypes of indigenous chicken namely Non-descriptive Native (ND), genetically Improved Native (IN), Hilly (HC) and Naked Neck (NN) of Bangladesh under free-range rearing system.  A total of 288 day old chicks (DOC) from four genotypes were divided into four treatments having eight replications of each for a period of 12 weeks under free-range system with supplementation of commercial broiler diet. During first 4 weeks, all chicks were kept together, whereas chicks of ND was brooded in the same room but separated by a partition. At 5 weeks of age chicks were randomly distributed to the selected farmers. Growth parameters were recorded to determine the comparative growth performance among four genotypes of chicken. The highest body weight (1110.76 g/bird) was achieved by HC, followed by IN (900.63 g/bird) and NN (831.13 g/bird) at 12 weeks of age. The lowest body weight (734.13 g/bird) however was found in ND chicken. During the growing period under free range rearing (5-12 weeks), HC group consumed the highest amount of feed (2697.02 g/bird) with an average FCR of 3.06 while the lowest feed consumption (2666.13 g/bird) with the highest FCR of 4.90 was observed in ND. IN consumed (2674.63 g/bird) feed with an average FCR of 3.92 and BLRI improved NN consumed (2668.13 g/bird) feed with an average FCR of 4.19. Live weight gains in all the four genotypes of indigenous chicken were changed almost in a similar pattern. Significant differences were observed in live weight, dressing percentage, breast meat, drumstick, thigh meat among the four genotypes of chicken. The HC was superior to other genotypes of indigenous chicken including ND in terms of growth performance, meat yield characteristics and net returns. Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2018. 47 (2):76-84

mHealth - an Ultimate Platform to Serve the Unserved

Objectives: To summarize major current developments and research in the field of mobile health (mHealth) services.

Methods: Reports on the unique characteristics of mHealth platform and its role in delivering health services to the resource poor settings. Also, it evaluates different mHealth applications and identifies key success factors and challenges.

Results and Conclusion: mHealth, based on the most ubiquitous and widely accepted technology, offers an unprecedented opportunity to serve the unserved by right time medical information services. There is growing evidence that it has already transformed healthcare delivery in many resource poor settings through its low cost, high reach and versatile applications. However, challenges still remain with regard to the development of consumer centric solutions, and services quality in terms of knowledge and competence of the provider, integration of the information systems and interoperability of the information services. Additional problems arise from the collaboration, partnership and regulation perspectives. There are noticeable trends towards solutions for these problems.

An Evaluation of the Result of Fenestration and Discectomy for the Treatment of Prolapsed Lumber Intervertrebal Disc (PLID)

The aim of this study is to asses the result of fenestration and discectomy for the treatment of PLID. This Prospective quasi experimental study was conducted on 29 Patient of PLID with different ages at Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2014 to June 2016. Post Operative outcome was assessed through Modified Macnab Criteria & Visual Analogue Score (VAS). The mean age of patient were 38.14±9.20 years and ranging from 24 to 55 years. The mean age of male was 37.21±9.72 years and female patient was 39.90±8.32 years. Overall subjective assessment of this study revealed that 79.2% patients had excellent functional outcome, 13.8% good and 6.9% fair and there was no poor functional outcome a according to modified Macnab criteria.

Molecular characterization of extended spectrum βlactamase producing bacteria isolated from urinary tract infected patients, Bangladesh

The aims of the study were to examine the presence of extended spectrum βlactamase (ESBL) producing pathogen in urinary tract infected (UTI) patients and their respected molecular characterization and classification. The isolates collected from UTI patients attending a private hospital during the period between January and June, 2012, were biochemically identified and subjected to double disc synergy method for the detection of ESBL. ESBL genes were detected by multiplex PCR and antibiotic sensitivity test was performed. Thirty two percent of all Gram negative isolates were found as ESBL producer. Among 65 ESBL positive isolates, 77% were Escherichia coli, 20% Klebsiella pneumoniae and 3% were Pseudomonas spp. Around 48% isolates were found carrying at least one of the four ESBL genes, bla_CTX-M, bla_TEM, bla_SHV and bla_OXA, and were found in 32%, 23%, 18.5% and 3% of the isolates respectively. In antibiotic sensitivity assay, higher resistance was found in E. coli than K. pneumonia against ciprofloxacin and nalidixic acid. Interestingly, two E. coli and three K. pneumonia strains were found resistant to only 3^rd generation cephalosporines, but susceptible to all other antibiotics assessed. One E. coli strain was found resistant to ciprofloxacin but sensitive to nalidixic acid. Pseudomonas spp. was found resistant to most of the antibiotics. The susceptible rate to nitrofurantoin, amikacin, and gentamicin was also not satisfactory. Susceptibility (100%) to meropenem and imipenem render these as good alternatives to treat UTI. The majority of the isolates were positive for bla_CTX-M and adverted to molecular class A. Two strains carrying blaOXA gene along with bla_SHV/bla_TEM/bla_CTX-M, could not be included in any of the established ESBL classification.

Heavy metal contamination of freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) and prawn feed in Bangladesh: A market-based study to highlight probable health risks

An assessment of the dietary risk of heavy metal exposure to humans is important since it is the main source of exposure. This study aimed to estimate the degree of contamination and assess the probable health risk in the prawn food chain. In prawn feed, the concentrations of metals were detected in the following order: Hg > Co > Pb > Cd. The concentrations of heavy metals in prawn were the highest for Co and lowest for Cd. Trace amounts of As and Cr were detected in the analyzed sample. Target hazard quotients for heavy metals for adults were >1 for Pb, Cd, Hg, and Co, and for children, the same were high for Co and Hg, indicating significant health risks upon dietary exposure. All the prawn samples contained nine-fold and fourteen-fold higher concentrations than the maximum acceptable levels for Pb and Hg, respectively (0.5 mg kg^-1; WHO/FAO). Human health risk due to the Co exposure is quite alarming as the level of exposure was found to be very high. In the prawn samples intended for human consumption, the hazard index (HI) was highest in the samples obtained from Bagerhat (3.25 in flesh and 3.26 in skin), followed by the samples obtained from Satkhira (2.84 in flesh and 3.10 in skin) and Dhaka City Corporation (2.81 in flesh and 3.42 in Skin); this indicates a potential risk of prawn consumption obtained from Southeast Bangladesh. This is particularly problematic as this area accounts for the majority of prawn production and export of the country.

Transcriptomic effects of metformin in skeletal muscle arteries of obese insulin-resistant rats

We examined the effects of metformin, a commonly used antidiabetic drug, on gene expression in multiple arteries. Specifically, transcriptional profiles of feed arteries and second branch order arterioles in the soleus, gastrocnemius, and diaphragm muscles as well as aortic endothelial scrapes were examined from obese insulin-resistant Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty rats treated with ( n = 9) or without ( n = 10) metformin from 20 to 32 weeks of age. Metformin-treated rats exhibited a reduction in body weight, adiposity, and HbA1c ( P < 0.05). The greatest number of differentially expressed genes (FDR < 15%) between those treated with and without metformin was found in the red gastrocnemius 2a arterioles (93 genes), followed by the diaphragm 2a arterioles (62 genes), and soleus 2a arterioles (15 genes). We also found that two genes were differentially expressed in aortic endothelial cells (LETMD1 and HMGCS2, both downregulated), one gene in the gastrocnemius feed artery (BLNK, downregulated), and no genes in the soleus and diaphragm feed arteries and white gastrocnemius 2a arterioles. No single gene was altered by metformin across all vessels examined. This study provides evidence that metformin treatment produces distinct gene expression effects throughout the arterial tree in a rat model of obesity and insulin resistance. Genes whose expression was modulated with metformin do not appear to have a clear connection with its known mechanisms of action. These findings support the notion that vascular gene regulation in response to oral pharmacological therapy, such as metformin, is vessel specific. Impact statement This study provides evidence that metformin treatment produces artery-specific gene expression effects. The genes whose expression was modulated with metformin do not appear to have a clear connection with its known mechanisms of action.