Assessment of dose due to natural radio-nuclides in vegetables of high background radiation area in south-eastern part of Bangladesh

The aims of the study are to determine the radioactivity concentrations of [226]Ra, [238]U, [232]Th and [40]K in vegetables of a recently found high background radiation area of south-eastern part of Bangladesh and to detect the radiological risks to human from intake of these vegetables. 10 plant samples were collected randomly from different locations of the study area. The radio-nuclides in papaya were measured by direct gamma-ray spectrometry using HPGe detector. The average activity concentrations of [226]Ra, [238]U, 232Th and [40]K in papaya samples were 80.95 +/- 13.61, 64.77 +/- 38.47, 83.53 +/- 20.50 and 1691.45 +/- 244.98 Bq kg[-1] respectively. The annual effective ingestion dose due to intake of papaya was 1.1 mSv Y[-1]. The concentrations of radio-nuclides in the papaya samples found in present study were higher than the world average values suggested by the UNSCEAR. The annual effective ingestion dose was found 3.8 times higher than total exposure per person resulting from the ingestion of terrestrial radioisotopes

Citalopram induced priapism-the hard fact

Priapism is a persistent, usually painful, erection that lasts for more than four hours and occurs without sexual stimulation. The condition develops when blood in the penis becomes trapped and is unable to drain. This condition appears to affect only the corpora cavernosa, while the corpora spongiosum of the glans penis and surrounding urethra remain flaccid. Priapism may be a urologic emergency that is associated with the development of irreversible erectile function problems. Therefore, immediate and aggressive management may be necessary. If the condition is not treated immediately, it can lead to scarring and permanent erectile dysfunction Citalopram is a relatively new selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor [SSRI] that is becoming widely administered for the treatment of depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors generally are associated with mild adverse sexual side effects; however, more serious reactions may occur. Although selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors [SSRIs] can induce sexual side effects, such as diminished libido, delayed orgasm, anorgasmia, ejaculatory disturbances, and erectile dysfunction, priapism occurs rarely [1]. We present a case report of 45 years old gentleman who presented in A and E of Gloucester Royal Infirmary, Gloucestershire UK, with priapism of 4 days' duration

Improved serum HDL cholesterol profile among Bangladeshi male students during Ramadan fasting

Effects of Ramadan fasting on serum lipids of 20 healthy males in Bangladesh were assessed. Anthropometric parameters and blood lipids were measured 1 day before Ramadan, day 26 of Ramadan and 1 month after Ramadan. Body weight and body mass index decreased significantly during Ramadan compared with before and after Ramadan. Fat intake was significantly higher during Ramadan than after. High-density lipoprotein [HDL] cholesterol increased significantly during Ramadan. Other lipids were not significantly different. Regression analysis of Ramadan HDL cholesterol levels indicated positive association with pulse rate and fat intake and negative association with systolic blood pressure and weight loss. The findings indicate improved HDL cholesterol profiles during Ramadan