Fatty acid profile variations after exposure to textile industry effluents in Indian Major Carps / Variações do perfil de ácidos graxos após exposição a efluentes da indústria têxtil nas principais carpas indianas

Abstract 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.

Resumo As carpas indianas são as espécies de peixes mais consumidas no Paquistão, sendo uma fonte barata de proteínas e de ácidos graxos insaturados e boa para a saúde cardiovascular. A poluição da água por causa do descarte de resíduos industriais não tratados em corpos d'água contamina essa preciosa fonte de nutrientes. Portanto, o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a deterioração do perfil de ácidos graxos de três principais espécies de carpas indianas em diferentes concentrações de resíduos industriais. As amostras de água foram coletadas do rio Chenab no local onde recebe esgoto industrial via dreno de Chakbandi. Após a exposição a diluições de 1,5%, 3% e 4,5% da água coletada em diferentes aquários, foi observado que a proporção de ácidos graxos insaturados em espécies de peixes selecionadas diminuiu significativamente com o aumento da intensidade da dose (P < 0,05). Por outro lado, o nível de ácidos graxos saturados aumentou com a elevação da dose de tratamento (P < 0,05). Essas descobertas sugerem que águas residuais não tratadas não apenas deterioram o perfil de ácidos graxos dos animais aquáticos, mas também essas substâncias tóxicas podem atingir o corpo humano por meio da carne de peixe e representar mais riscos à saúde. Portanto, é recomendável que os efluentes industriais sejam tratados antes de serem despejados em corpos d'água.

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

Abstract 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.

Resumo As carpas indianas são as espécies de peixes mais consumidas no Paquistão, sendo uma fonte barata de proteínas e de ácidos graxos insaturados e boa para a saúde cardiovascular. A poluição da água por causa do descarte de resíduos industriais não tratados em corpos dágua contamina essa preciosa fonte de nutrientes. Portanto, o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a deterioração do perfil de ácidos graxos de três principais espécies de carpas indianas em diferentes concentrações de resíduos industriais. As amostras de água foram coletadas do rio Chenab no local onde recebe esgoto industrial via dreno de Chakbandi. Após a exposição a diluições de 1,5%, 3% e 4,5% da água coletada em diferentes aquários, foi observado que a proporção de ácidos graxos insaturados em espécies de peixes selecionadas diminuiu significativamente com o aumento da intensidade da dose (P 0,05). Por outro lado, o nível de ácidos graxos saturados aumentou com a elevação da dose de tratamento (P 0,05). Essas descobertas sugerem que águas residuais não tratadas não apenas deterioram o perfil de ácidos graxos dos animais aquáticos, mas também essas substâncias tóxicas podem atingir o corpo humano por meio da carne de peixe e representar mais riscos à saúde. Portanto, é recomendável que os efluentes industriais sejam tratados antes de serem despejados em corpos dágua.

The Effects Between Spinal and General Anesthesia for Pre-Eclamptic Mothers Underwent Caesarean Delivery in a Tertiary Care Hospital- A Comparative Study

Background: Preeclampsia is a multisystem disorder characterized by new onset of hypertension systolic blood pressure ?140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ?90 mmHg and proteinuria >300 mg/24 h arising after 20 weeks of gestation in a previously normotensive woman and associated with significant maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Women with preeclampsia have an increased rate of cesarean section consequent upon the high incidence of intrauterine growth restriction, fetal distress, and prematurity. The aim of this study was to determine and compare maternal & neonatal outcome among pre-eclamptic women following caesarian delivery under general and spinal anesthesia. Material & Methods: This was a comparative observational study and was conducted in the Department of Anesthesiology of Holy Family red crescent Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh during the period from February,2020 to February,2023. In this study we included 250 preeclamptic women undergoing cesarean delivery. The patients were randomly divided into two groups – GA group (Patients who were given general anesthesia) & SA group (Patients who were given spinal anesthesia). Results: In total 250 patients from both the groups completed the study. In our study we found majority (44.8%) of our patients were aged 28-32 years. The mean age was 27.13 ± 3.76 years. Majority (62.8% ) of our patients were cases of emergency caesarean delivery & 37.2% were elective caesarean delivery classes. Most of the students (41.2%) used magnesium sulfate. Intraoperative systolic BP, diastolic BP was significantly lower in SA group than GA group. We found headache, vomiting, fever and wound gaping, postpartum hemorrhage & lower respiratory tract infection was significantly higher in GA group. On contrary, hypotension & pulmonary edema was higher in SA group. Apgar score at 1st, 5th & 10th minutes was significantly higher in GA group than SA group. In GA group, neonatal mortality at 48 h was 10.4% whereas it was 4.8% in SA group. Conclusion: In our study, we found intra-operative blood pressure and pulse rate was observed significantly higher in GA group than SA. Severe preeclamptic mothers receiving general anesthesia and their babies required more critical care support. Maternal as well as neonatal mortality was significantly higher with general anesthesia. Therefore, spinal anesthesia is a safer alternative to general anesthesia among women with severe preeclampsia following caesarean delivery with less postoperative morbidity and mortality.

A Comparative Analysis Between Spinal and General Anesthesia for Orthopedic Surgery

Background: Many surgeries can be performed with spinal anesthesia (SA) or general anesthesia (GA). However, there are only limited and confounding data available regarding costs and anesthesia-related times. Hip or knee replacement are common orthopedic surgeries that can be performed using SA or GA without differences regarding mortality or morbidity. Observational studies have suggested that spinal anesthesia may be associated with lower risks of death, delirium and major medical complications and with shorter lengths of stay in the hospital than general anesthesia. The aim of this study was to assess and compare the effects of spinal versus general anesthesia on postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing orthopedic surgery. Material & Methods: This was a comparative observational study and was conducted in the Department of Anesthesiology of Holy Family red crescent Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh during the period from March,2021 to March,2023. In this study we included 200 patients undergoing orthopedic surgery. The patients were randomly divided into two groups – Group A (Patients who were given general anesthesia) & Group B (Patients who were given spinal anesthesia). Results: In total 200 patients from both the groups completed the study. In our study we found majority (44.5%) of our patients were aged 60-69 years and most of our patients were female (56%) compared to male (44%).The mean age of our patients was 61.73 ± 7.92 years. The mean BMI was 31.67±3.24 kg/m.2Among all patients ,48% had mild systemic disease and followed by 31.5% had severe systemic disease. Majority (43.5%) of our patients had hypertension, 31% had diabetes. Vomiting was found 47% in group A on contrary only 23% had vomiting in spinal group. We found the mean anesthesia induction time was significantly higher in spinal group. Anesthesia time was lower in spinal group while PACU time was higher in group B. Time duration of surgery was significantly lower in spinal group. After 24 hours, spinal group showed less pain score than general anesthesia group. Conclusion: In our study, we found that SA is associated with less fixed and variable costs and lower postoperative pain scores during the stay in the PACU. Therefore, SA is a more reasonable alternative to GA in the immediate postoperative period for patients undergoing hip or knee replacement. When compared to general anaesthesia, spinal anaesthesia provides better operating circumstances, better postoperative pain control, and faster postoperative recovery.

Successful Outcome of a Rare Complication of Vaginal Birth: A Case Report

Uterine inversion is a condition in which the interior surface of the relaxed uterus protrudes through the vaginal entrance. Its causes are divided into two categories: puerperal and non-puerperal, with puerperal uterine inversion being more common than non-puerperal uterine inversion. The most common variety is acute inversion, which occurs immediately or within 24 hours after delivery. Chronic Uterine Inversions (CUI) that occur more than four weeks after delivery are uncommon. In this study we discuss a case of a 30-year-old woman who came with the complaints of feeling of a mass in the vagina after her last confinement which was gradually coming down through the vagina and remain outside the introitus for 5 years. Based on clinical and sonographic evaluation, she was diagnosed with CUI and developed post partum haemorrhage. We adopted Haultain’s method for correction of CUI. Since, CUI as a painless vaginal mass in the delayed post-partum period is uncommon and hence documented.

Clinical and Laboratory Characteristics of Infertile Women with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency

Background: Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is the preferred term for the condition that was previously referred to as premature menopause or premature ovarian failure. The condition differs from menopause in that there are varying and residual ovarian functions. This study aimed to analyze the clinical characteristics of infertile women with premature ovarian insufficiency. Material & Methods: This prospective study was conducted at the OPD of Impulse Fertility Center, Impulse Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh. The study was conducted for a period from January 2022 to December 2022. A total of 23 patients who received outdoor treatment during the study period were purposively selected as sample size. A purposive sampling technique was followed in this study. After approval by the Ethics committee of the Hospital, informed consent from the respondents was obtained after explaining the purpose of the study to them. To be included in the study, respondents should have met the classical definition of infertility defined by the WHO as the inability of a sexually active non-contraceptive using woman to have a live birth after 12 or more months of regular sexual intercourse without a malefactor. Women who had male-factor infertility were excluded. In this study live birth was used as a measure of proven fertility (Because couples desire children, not simply pregnancies, infertility affects couples regardless of whether the etiology lies in conception or the progression of the pregnancy). All the necessary laboratory investigations were done. A questionnaire was developed and data were collected by interviewing the patients and some data were collected from the laboratory results. Data were processed and analyzed by SPSS 19 version. Results: All patients had normal puberty, and menarche occurred at ages 11–15, followed by a regular menstrual cycle. Women who presented with oligomenorrhea were younger than patients with infertility. The mean period of oligomenorrhea before diagnosis was 0.9 years in the oligomenorrhea group and 1.8 years in the infertility group. The mean age when the infrequent periods started was 28 years in the group with oligomenorrhea and 29 years in the group with infertility, and their anthropometric characteristics were not different. In most patients, the FSH levels on day 3 of their menstrual cycle were less than 25?mU/ml. FSH levels >25?mU/ml were confirmed in two patients with oligomenorrhea and five patients in the infertility group. AMH levels were low than 1.0?ng/ml (considered to be in poor ovarian reserve ranges: from 0.13 to 1.0?ng/ml in patients with oligomenorrhea and from 0.13 to 0.9?ng/ml in the infertility group. Transvaginal ultrasound-determined AFC on menstrual cycle days 4–8 was accessed in all patients. We consider AFC?<?6 small follicles (diameters 3–9?mm) as a low ovarian reserve indicator. The lowest AFC (one small follicle) was noted in one infertile patient with oligomenorrhea. Conclusion: This study concluded that the subjects usually present with menstrual irregularity (oligomenorrhea) or infertility, and after proper evaluation, their poor ovarian reserve can be confirmed and an occult form of POI established. women who presented with only oligomenorrhea were younger than infertile patients; therefore, menstrual irregularity may be the earliest clinical symptom of occult POI.

Quantitative estimation of Carthamin and Carthamidin from the Florets C. tinctorius L., (Safflower Florets)

Natural colorants derived fom plant materials have gained increasing popularity due to their non toxic nature. pigment extraction from the florets is normally done by Soxhlet extraction, maceration, and hydro distillation are conventional methods that have been widely used in industry and laboratory .phytochemical analysis of safflower florets revealed the plant presence of high amount of Carthamin and carthamidin.

Perinatal Outcome According to Gestational Age- A study of 50 Cases

Background: Gestational age supports predicting a potential due date, informing obstetrical care and testing, and assessing the baby’s health at birth. It is vital to obtain a gestational age in all pregnancies to offer regular care and medical management for both mother and fetus. The ultimate suitable techniques for calculating gestational age are ultrasonography. The study aims to investigate the perinatal outcome according to gestational age. Material & Methods: A Prospective cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Hospital, from January 2008 to June 2008. A total of 50 patients were enrolled in this study following the inclusive criteria. Data were collected using the predesigned semi-structured questionnaire. Verbal consent was taken before recruiting the study population. Completed data forms were reviewed, edited, and processed for computer data entry. Results: Among the study population (N=50), one-fifth of the mothers’ (10,20.0%) age was under twenty. The majority of mothers were (34,68.0%) between 20-30 years old with a mean age of 25.4 ± 4.32 years. Twenty-three patients (23,46.0%) came at 40+ weeks of pregnancy, eighteen patients came at (18,36,0%) on 41 weeks of pregnancy and nine patients (9,18.0%) came at41+ weeks of pregnancy. There was no perineal tear and two patients (2,4.0%) had cervical tears which were repaired. In two patients (2,4.0%) there was postpartum haemorrhage, among them two patients (2,4.0%) needed a blood transfusion. Among the healthy babies, the majority of the babies (20,40.0%) were born at 40 completed weeks of gestation, eighteen babies (18,36.0%) at 41 completed weeks and two babies (2,4.0%) were born at 42 completed weeks of gestation. Conclusion: Many childhood and adult diseases are linked with size at birth and are mostly inclined by early postnatal growth is widely accepted. The evolving fetus formulates itself for post-partum life by reporting to metabolic signals in its uterine environment.

Relationship of Serum Lipid Profile and Blood Pressure with Body Mass Index (BMI)

Background: Obesity and overweight is a disorder of unusually increased body fat generally resulting from increased energy intake relative to energy expenditure and is a primary sustenance-related disorder globally. The extensive increase in its prevalence in current years and its association with reduced life expectancy has made obesity one of the most vital public health problems. The purpose of the study was to determine the relationship between serum lipid profile and blood pressure with body mass index (BMI). Material & Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Rangpur Medical College, Rangpur from January 2013 to December 2013. A purposive sampling technique was followed. A total number of 90 people from 18 to 45 years old were included in the study, categorized into three groups, such as Group-A:(Control 30): Healthy subject of normal weight, Group-B:(Experimental 30): Healthy subject of overweight & Group-C(Experimental-30): Healthy subjects of obese. Verbal consent was taken before recruiting the study population. Completed data forms were reviewed, edited, and processed for computer data entry. The data analysis was performed using the “t” test, “r” test & Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 25.0. Results: In group A, the mean BMI of patients was 18.5-22.9, in group B mean BMI of patients was 23.0-24.9, and in group C, the mean BMI of people was 25.0 or greater. The mean ± SD serum LDL-C levels were 107.77 ± 26.720 mg/dl in group A and 134.70 ± 41.787 mg/dl in group B. There was a significant difference (p<0.001) between the two groups. The mean ± SD pulse pressure levels were 38 ± 6.644 mmHg in group A and 41.67 ± 11.167 mmHg in group B. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) between the two groups. Serum total cholesterol levels were positively correlated in groups A & B but the relationship of serum total cholesterol levels was statistically significant in groups A and B. Blood pressure levels were positively correlated in groups A &C but the relationship was statistically non-significant. Conclusion: In this current content, it is difficult to define the specific mechanism involved for significantly higher serum total cholesterol, serum triglyceride, and serum LDL-C levels and non-significantly lesser serum HDL-C levels in overweight & obese people and also non-significantly higher blood pressure in overweight people but significantly higher blood pressure in obese subjects.

Maternal Characteristics of Full-Term Birth Asphyxia Neonates

Background: In developing countries, perinatal hypoxia is still a leading cause of mortality and disability. In 2011, the infant mortality rate dropped from 92 per 1000 live births in 1991 to 43 per 1000 live births. However, neonatal mortality in Bangladesh remains high, accounting for more than half of all deaths under the age of five and more than two-thirds of infant mortality. As a result, any qualities that can operate as a risk factor for prenatal asphyxia can be quite beneficial. The aim of the study was to observe the maternal characteristics of perinatal asphyxia in full-term pregnancies. Material & Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Pediatrics, Rangpur Medical Collage, and Hospital, Rangpur, Bangladesh. The study duration was 2 years, from January 2012 to December 2013. The study was conducted with a total of 60 cases of birth asphyxia, who were delivered or admitted into the study hospital. Results: In 70% of cases, the mother was Primipara. Among the neonates, 61.67% were male, and 38.33% were female. Only 33% of the case neonates had received regular antenatal check-ups, while 55% had irregular check-ups, and 11.67% had no antenatal checkups. According to the grading of asphyxia, 51.67% of neonates had moderate asphyxia, 20% had mild asphyxia, and 28.33% had severe asphyxia. The mean serum sodium value in mild, moderate, and severe asphyxia were 135.33, 123.42, and 121.53 mmol/L respectively. Mean serum potassium values were 4.11, 4.86, and 5.51 mmol/L respectively. Mean serum creatinine 0.72, 1.00, and 1.83 mg/dl respectively. Mean blood urea levels were 36.17, 58.97, and 88.06 mg/dl respectively. A significant difference was observed between the mean values of serum electrolytes and patients’ asphyxia grade. Conclusion: The study findings revealed that birth asphyxia was more common among vaginal deliveries and irregular or no neonatal care cases. Primipara patients had a higher likelihood of neonatal asphyxia. Serum electrolyte levels varied significantly based on the grade of asphyxia.

Prevalence of antibiotic resistant UTI in immunocompromised patients

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are amongst the most common bacterial infections, affecting about 150 million individuals per year.Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common diseases in human societies which occur in women more than men. Women of all ages are more likely to experience such an infection than men, while half of them may be affected by a uropathogen once in their lives, and 25-30% may develop recurrent UTIs not associated with any functional or anatomical abnormality. The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence of antibiotic resistance of urinary tract infections in immunocompromised patients. Material & Methods: This was a retrospective observational study and was conducted in the Department of Medicine of Dhaka Central International Medical College and Hospital, and National Institute of Kidney Diseases & Urology, Dhaka, Bangladesh during the period from June, 2021 to June, 2022. We included 70 immunocompromised patients with UTI. Results: In our study we found 44% patients were aged between 18-30 years old and 83% of our patients were female. Among all respondents, 58 patients were culture positive. We found 38% & 62% and 33% & 67% had history of upper & lower UTI in female and male patients respectively, 29% & 36% and 17% & 25% had urethritis & cystitis in female and male patients respectively. We found culture positive patients with E. coli (41%), Klebsiella spp.(19%), Enterobacter spp.(16%) and 12% with Pseudomonas spp in our study. We found amoxicillin showed resistance to E. coli (58.3%), Staphylococcus (75%), & Klebsiella (36.4%) and amikacin showed resistance mostly to E. coli(50%), Klebsiella (54.5%) & Pseudomonas (42.9%). Conclusion: In our study, we found the most common MDR pathogen among patients with UTI in our institution was E. coli & Staphylococcus. We discovered that being above 40 years old, having DM, CKD and previously received antibiotic medication inappropriately were risk factors for the development of MDR infection. Given the high prevalence of multidrug resistant uropathogens among immunocompromised patients, the growth in Penicillin resistance is alarming. We discovered the significant incidence of MDR bacterial strains, adherence to currently suggested empiric therapy is extremely challenging and is linked with high failure rates.

Adiposity Indices as Predictors for Metabolic Syndrome Among Bangladeshi Women: A Cross Sectional Study

Background: The metabolic syndrome (MS) is described by the clustering of several risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity, insulin resistance, and high fasting plasma glucose. The prevalence of MS is increasing worldwide and previous studies have shown that MS and CVD are more common in women above 55 years of age in the post menopausal phase. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and adiposity indices as predictors and the related risk factors among Bangladeshi women. Material & Methods: This was a cross-sectional study and was conducted in the Outpatient departments of Bangladesh Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh during the period from May, 2022 to October, 2022. There was total 300 women (150 Premenopausal & 150 Postmenopausal) in our study. Fasting blood glucose, lipid profile, blood pressure and relevant adiposity indices (BMI, WC, WHR, WHtR &VAI) were determined using standard protocols. To analyze the correlation of WC,WHR, WHtR, BMI and VAI with MS Spearmann test was used. Results: Metabolic syndrome was presented in 61.58% respondents and it was more prevalent among postmenopausal (69.09 %) as compared to premenopausal (51.25 %) women. Prevalence of high blood pressure, elevated fasting blood glucose, and high triglyceride were significantly higher in postmenopausal women than premenopausal women. However, prevalence of low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was significantly lower in postmenopausal women than premenopausal women. Conclusion: In our study we found a high prevalence of MS in post-menopausal women which was significantly higher than pre-menopausal women. Low HDL cholesterol, elevated fasting blood glucose, and high blood pressures were the most frequent features in comparison to the others.

Evaluation of Antioxidant Properties, Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) on Selected Dietary Supplements (Barley Grass, Wheatgrass and Chlorella vulgaris powders)

@#Introduction: Three selected dietary supplements (DS), barley grass (BG), wheatgrass (WG), and Chlorella vulgaris (CV), are commercially available. However, more information is needed about the antioxidant properties of the three DS and their potential health benefits on adults’ health and well-being. Thus, this study aimed to determine the antioxidant properties and adults’ knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of the three selected DS. Methods: In phase 1, an experimental study was conducted on antioxidant analysis, total phenolic content (TPC) and DPPH radical scavenging activity for the three DS. For phase 2, a cross-sectional survey (n=338) was conducted for the three DS through an online platform where convenience sampling was performed. Results: In phase 1, BG (2.83±0.50mg GAE/g DW) had the highest TPC, followed by WG (2.02±0.20mg GAE/g DW) and CV (1.74±0.65mg GAE/g DW); DPPH radical scavenging activity, BG (198.23±0.15µg/mL) and WG (177.25±0.17µg/mL) had lower IC50 compared to CV (1185.84±0.28µg/mL). Significant differences (p<0.05) were found between IC50 of the three DS and standards, butylated hydroxytoluene (24.51±0.37µg/mL) and quercetin (26.04±0.55µg/mL). While in phase 2, poor knowledge (51.5%), moderate attitude (39.6%), and poor practice (43.2%) levels were observed in most of the participants. Moreover, working adults reported higher scores in knowledge (3.70±1.51) compared to students (3.33±1.63, p=0.037). Males had higher scores (29.27±2.42) in attitude compared to females (28.49±2.68, p=0.030). Besides, participants who were single and completed tertiary education with 4-6 years of working experience showed better practice scores. The overall knowledge (r=0.134, p=0.013) and attitude (r=0.273, p<0.001) scores correlated significantly with practice scores. Conclusion: Participants’ poor knowledge, moderate attitude, and inadequate practice in phase 2 caution against over-reliance on supplements, emphasizing the importance of an active lifestyle and balanced diet for optimal health and longevity.

Gut microbiota and microbiota-derived metabolites in cardiovascular diseases / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

Cardiovascular diseases, including heart failure, coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis, aneurysm, thrombosis, and hypertension, are a great economic burden and threat to human health and are the major cause of death worldwide. Recently, researchers have begun to appreciate the role of microbial ecosystems within the human body in contributing to metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that the gut microbiota is closely associated with the occurrence and development of cardiovascular diseases. The gut microbiota functions as an endocrine organ that secretes bioactive metabolites that participate in the maintenance of cardiovascular homeostasis, and their dysfunction can directly influence the progression of cardiovascular disease. This review summarizes the current literature demonstrating the role of the gut microbiota in the development of cardiovascular diseases. We also highlight the mechanism by which well-documented gut microbiota-derived metabolites, especially trimethylamine N-oxide, short-chain fatty acids, and phenylacetylglutamine, promote or inhibit the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. We also discuss the therapeutic potential of altering the gut microbiota and microbiota-derived metabolites to improve or prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Coronavirus disease 2019 in kidney transplant recipients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION@#The clinical presentation and outcomes of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) have not been well studied.@*METHODS@#We performed a meta-analysis to examine the presenting features, outcomes and the effect of treatment on outcomes of KTRs with COVID-19. Database search was performed up to 5 September 2020 through PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus and CENTRAL.@*RESULTS@#Overall, 23 studies (1,373 patients) were included in the review and meta-analysis. The most common presenting symptoms included fever (74.0%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 65.3-81.1), cough (63.3%, 95% CI 56.5-69.6) and dyspnoea (47.5%, 95% CI 39.6-55.6). Pooled rates of mortality and critical illness were 21.1% (95% CI 15.3-28.4) and 27.7% (95% CI 21.5-34.8), respectively. Acute kidney injury occurred in 38.9% (95% CI 30.6-48.1) and dialysis was required in 12.4% (95% CI 8.3-18.0) of the cases.@*CONCLUSION@#Kidney transplant recipients with COVID-19 have a similar clinical presentation as the general population, but they have higher morbidity and mortality. It is uncertain whether high-dose corticosteroid or hydroxychloroquine reduces the risks of mortality in KTRs with COVID-19.

Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis activity in SARS-CoV-2 infected noncritically ill hospitalized patients / Journal of the ASEAN Federation of Endocrine Societies

Objectives@#This study determined the baseline hormonal levels of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and their associated factors in noncritically ill hospitalized patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).@*Methodology@#This cross-sectional observational study was carried out in 91 noncritical RT-PCR-confirmed COVID-19 patients (18-65 years) recruited consecutively from the COVID unit, of two tertiary care hospitals over a period of six months. After screening for exclusion criteria relevant history and physical examinations were done, and blood was drawn between 07:00 am to 09:00 am in a fasting state to measure serum cortisol and plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay.@*Result@#Of 91 patients, 54, 26, and 11 had mild, moderate, and severe disease respectively. Median values of serum cortisol (p=0.057) and plasma ACTH (p=0.910) were statistically similar among the severity groups. Considering cortisol cut-off of 276 nmol/L (<10 μg/dL), the highest percent of adrenal insufficiency was present in severe (27.3%), followed by mild (25.9%) and least in moderate (3.8%) COVID-19 cases. Using the cortisol/ACTH ratio >15, only 6.6% had enough reserve.@*Conclusions@#The adrenocortical response was compromised in a significant percentage of noncritically ill hospitalized patients with COVID-19, which is unrelated to infection severity, with greater percentages present in severely infected cases.

Association of CAPN10 gene (rs3842570) polymorphism with the type 2 diabetes mellitus among the population of Noakhali region in Bangladesh: a case-control study

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a multifactorial, polygenic, and metabolically complicated disease. A large number of genes are responsible for the biogenesis of T2DM and calpain10 (CAPN10) is one of them. The association of numerous CAPN10 genetic polymorphisms in the development of T2DM has been widely studied in different populations and noticed inconclusive results. The present study is an attempt to evaluate the plausible association of CAPN10 polymorphism SNP-19 (rs3842570) with T2DM and T2DM-related anthropometric and metabolic traits in the Noakhali region of Bangladesh. This case-control study included 202 T2DM patients and 75 healthy individuals from different places in Noakhali. A significant association (p 0.05). Additionally, SNP-19 genetic variants showed potential associations with the anthropometric and metabolic traits of T2DM patients in terms of body mass index, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. Our approach identifies the 2R/3R genotype of SNP-19 as a significant risk factor for biogenesis of T2DM in the Noakhali population. Furthermore, a large-scale study could be instrumental to correlate this finding in overall Bangladeshi population.

Current clinical application of dantrolene sodium

Dantrolene sodium (DS) was first introduced as an oral antispasmodic drug. However, in 1975, DS was demonstrated to be effective for managing malignant hyperthermia (MH) and was adopted as the primary therapeutic drug after intravenous administration. However, it is difficult to administer DS intravenously to manage MH. MH is life-threatening, pharmacogenomically related, and induced by depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents or inhalational anesthetics. All anesthesiologists should know the pharmacology of DS. DS suppresses Ca2+ release from ryanodine receptors (RyRs). RyRs are expressed in various tissues, although their distribution differs among subtypes. The anatomical and physiological functions of RyRs have also been demonstrated as effective therapeutic drugs for cardiac arrhythmias, Alzheimer’s disease, and other RyR-related diseases. Recently, a new formulation was introduced that enhanced the hydrophilicity of the lipophilic DS. The authors summarize the pharmacological properties of DS and comment on its indications, contraindications, adverse effects, and interactions with other drugs by reviewing reference articles.

Tea tree oil, a vibrant source of neuroprotection via neuroinflammation inhibition: a critical insight into repurposing Melaleuca alternifolia by unfolding its characteristics / 浙江大学学报（英文版）（B辑：生物医学和生物技术）

Over the past few decades, complementary and alternative treatments have become increasingly popular worldwide. The purported therapeutic characteristics of natural products have come under increased scrutiny both in vitro and in vivo as part of efforts to legitimize their usage. One such product is tea tree oil (TTO), a volatile essential oil primarily obtained from the native Australian plant, Melaleuca alternifolia, which has diverse traditional and industrial applications such as topical preparations for the treatment of skin infections. Its anti-inflammatory-linked immunomodulatory actions have also been reported. This systematic review focuses on the anti-inflammatory effects of TTO and its main components that have shown strong immunomodulatory potential. An extensive literature search was performed electronically for data curation on worldwide accepted scientific databases, such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and esteemed publishers such as Elsevier, Springer, Frontiers, and Taylor & Francis. Considering that the majority of pharmacological studies were conducted on crude oils only, the extracted data were critically analyzed to gain further insight into the prospects of TTO being used as a neuroprotective agent by drug formulation or dietary supplement. In addition, the active constituents contributing to the activity of TTO have not been well justified, and the core mechanisms need to be unveiled especially for anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects leading to neuroprotection. Therefore, this review attempts to correlate the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity of TTO with its neuroprotective mechanisms.

Characterization of the species of genus Physa on the basis of typological species concept from Central Punjab / Caracterização das espécies do gênero Physa com base no conceito tipológico de espécie do Punjab Central

Abstract 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.

Resumo Os físidos pertencem à classe Gastropoda; o filo Mollusca possui importante posição na teia alimentar e atua como bioindicador, praga e hospedeiro intermediário. Por serem resistentes, são chamadas baratas de malacologia. Os caramujos físidos foram coletados em diferentes corpos d'água de Faisalabad (Punjab) e identificados até as espécies por meio de marcadores morfológicos. A morfometria dos corpos de prova foi realizada com auxílio de paquímetro digital Vernier em milímetros (mm) por meio de medida linear dos caracteres da casca. A análise de regressão linear da razão AL / SW vs. AL e razão SL / SW vs. AL indicou que o crescimento alométrico existe apenas em Physa acuta quando comparado com P. gyrina e P. fontinalis. Este estudo levará a avaliar a situação das espécies de físido no Punjab Central. A análise do componente principal mostra que o componente 1 (comprimento da casca) e o componente 2 (largura da casca) são os componentes mais prolíficos e quase 80% da identificação. A distância entre P. acuta e P. fontinalis é 5,4699, P. acuta e P. gyrina é 7,6411, P. fontinalis e P. gyrina é 16,6080, mostrando que P. acuta se assemelha a P. fontinalis, e ambos os espécimes não se parecem com P. gyrina. P. acuta é uma espécie invasora e apresenta bioatividade, tornando-se uma candidata potente para substâncias bioativas.