Increased yield performance of mutation induced Soybean genotypes at varied agro-ecological conditions / Aumento no desempenho de rendimento de genótipos de soja induzidos por mutação em condições agroecológicas variadas

Abstract In soybean breeding program, continuous selection pressure on traits response to yield created a genetic bottleneck for improvements of soybean through hybridization breeding technique. Therefore an initiative was taken to developed high yielding soybean variety applying mutation breeding techniques at Plant Breeding Division, Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA), Bangladesh. Locally available popular cultivar BARI Soybean-5 was used as a parent material and subjected to five different doses of Gamma ray using Co60. In respect to seed yield and yield attributing characters, twelve true breed mutants were selected from M4 generation. High values of heritability and genetic advance with high genotypic coefficient of variance (GCV) for plant height, branch number and pod number were considered as favorable attributes for soybean improvement that ensure expected yield. The mutant SBM-18 obtained from 250Gy provided stable yield performance at diversified environments. It provided maximum seed yield of 3056 kg ha-1 with highest number of pods plant-1 (56). The National Seed Board of Bangladesh (NSB) eventually approved SBM-18 and registered it as a new soybean variety named 'Binasoybean-5' for large-scale planting because of its superior stability in various agro-ecological zones and consistent yield performance.

Resumo No programa de melhoramento da soja, a pressão pela seleção contínua para a resposta das características de rendimento criou um gargalo genético para melhorias da soja por meio da técnica de melhoramento por hibridação. Portanto, foi desenvolvida uma variedade de soja de alto rendimento, aplicando técnicas de reprodução por mutação, na Divisão de Melhoramento de Plantas, no Instituto de Agricultura Nuclear de Bangladesh (BINA), em Bangladesh. A cultivar popular BARI Soybean-5, disponível localmente, foi usada como material original e submetida a cinco doses diferentes de raios gama usando Co60. Em relação ao rendimento de sementes e às características de atribuição de rendimento, 12 mutantes genuínos foram selecionados a partir da geração M4. Altos valores de herdabilidade e avanço genético com alto coeficiente de variância genotípico (GCV) para altura da planta, número de ramos e número de vagens foram considerados atributos favoráveis ​​ao melhoramento da soja, garantindo, assim, a produtividade esperada. O mutante SBM-18, obtido a partir de 250Gy, proporcionou desempenho de rendimento estável em ambientes diversificados e produtividade máxima de sementes de 3.056 kg ha-1 com o maior número de vagens planta-1 (56). O Conselho Nacional de Sementes de Bangladesh (NSB) finalmente aprovou o SBM-18 e o registrou como uma nova variedade de soja, chamada 'Binasoybean-5', para plantio em larga escala por causa de sua estabilidade superior em várias zonas agroecológicas e desempenho de rendimento consistente.

Retinal ganglion cell topography and spatial resolving power of eye in the native chicken of Bangladesh / Topografía de células ganglionares de la retina y poder de resolución espacial del ojo en el pollo nativo de Bangladesh

SUMMARY: The distribution of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) was observed in the retinal wholemount of native chicken (Gallus gallus domestricus) of Bangladesh by using light microscopy. We considered five different anatomic regions (central, nasal, temporal, dorsal, and ventral) of Nissl stained wholemount, and the RGCs were counted, plotted, and measured accordingly. The average area of the retina was 431.75 mm2 while the total number of ganglion cells was 2124431 on average. Only the central area of the retina was the peak density (10400 cells/mm2) area, signifying the acute visual area, whilst the maximum spatial resolving power was 11 cycles/degree. The overall concentration of RGCs gradually declined towards the periphery but the size of cells generally decreased towards centrally. The size of ganglion cell was not uniform (12 to 180 µm2), specifically the central retina, just above the optic disc was packed with tiny-sized cells. The number, topographic distribution, and size of RGCs in native chicken signified their domesticated or terrestrial characters, uneven visual acuteness, and possibly only the central retina was the area for fine vision as the function of RGCs.

RESUMEN: En este studio se observó la distribución de las células ganglionares en la retina (CGR) de pollo nativo (Gallus gallus domesticus) de Bangladesh mediante el uso de microscopía óptica. Consideramos cinco regiones anatómicas diferentes (central, nasal, temporal, dorsal y ventral). Las muestras de CGR se tiñeron con Nissl, posteriormente, se midieron y contó el número de células totales. El área promedio de la retina fue de 431,75 mm2, mientras que el promedio del número total de células ganglionares fue de 2124431. El área central de la retina fue el área de densidad máxima (10400 células / mm2), señalando el área visual aguda, mientras que el poder de resolución espacial máximo fue de 11 ciclos / grado. La concentración general de CGR disminuyó gradualmente hacia la periferia, sin embargo, el tamaño de las células disminuyó hacia el centro. El tamaño de las CGR no fue uniforme (12 a 180 mm2), específicamente en la retina central, por encima del disco óptico, aumentaron significativamente las células pequeñas. El número, la distribución topográfica y el tamaño de las CGR en pollos nativos determinaron las características domésticas o terrestres, agudeza visual desigual y, posiblemente, la función de las CGR, en la retina central era el área de visión fina.

3D CT Soft Tissue Craniofacial Analysis and Lip Morphology

ABSTRACT Objctive: To assess the soft tissue characteristics of Bangladeshi adults to formulate soft tissue 3D CT standards using Holdaway's (HA) and lip morphology (LM) analyses. Another aim of this study was to assess the gender dimorphism of Bangladeshi population. Material and Methods: One hundred and seventeen (Eighty-five men and Thirty-two women) Bangladeshi adults have obtained their computed tomography (CT) scan at the Radiology Department for normal diagnosis. Craniofacial deformities were undetected in all cases. The CT images were prepared by a 3D imaging programming software (Mimics 11.02 Materialise). Parameters from the identified landmark points were measured in 3D through this software. Results: Upper lip thickness (ULT) (vermillion UL-A point) measurement was significant in HA and in LM analyses, upper lip protrusion (ULP) (Ls to Sn-SPog) measurement has demonstrated significant difference among both genders, where p-value was less than 0.05. Mean measurements of Bangladeshi adults were relatively comparable except the face convexity (FC) when compared with the HA cephalometric soft tissue values. Conclusion: By using HA and LM analyses, 3D CT soft tissue standards were established for Bangladeshi adults. Measurements for all parameters have remained equivalent with the HA standard data apart from the FC measurement. This consequently may demonstrate that the Bangladeshi population retains a convex shape with a slight protrusive lip or retruded chin.

Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus Individuals Carry Different Periodontal Bacteria

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify etiologic microbiota associated periodontal diseases among diabetes patients and the factors related to the most commonly identified bacteria species. Material and Methods: Periodontal plaque samples from 11 diabetic participants and 13 non-diabetic controls were collected to assess their aerobic and anaerobic bacterial growth. Different distinct colonies were identified by microscopic and 16srDNA sequencing. Pearson's chi-square tests were conducted to examine any association between categorical variables. Results: The diabetic subjects revealed a more intense plaque formation with a mean plaque index of 2.4 compared to 1.8 in non-diabetics. A total of 86 bacteria were isolated from 24 plaque samples, 44 were aerobic, and 42 were anaerobic. Only aerobic isolates, 22 from diabetic patients and 22 from non-diabetic patients, were evaluated in these analyses. Bacillus spp. (B. cereus mainly) and Klebsiella spp. (K. pneumoniae, K. aerogenes, K. oxytoca) were detected markedly higher in non-diabetic individuals than in diabetic subjects (p=0.026 and p=0.021, respectively). Some bacteria were only identified in the dental plaque of diabetic individuals, namely, Bacillus mojavensis, Enterobacter cloacae, Proteus mirabilis, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus hominis, Staphylococcus pasteuri, Streptococcus mutans, and Streptococcus pasteurianus. The presence of acid reflux and jaundice were significantly associated with the most common bacterial isolate, namely Bacillus spp., with the p-values of 0.007 and 0.001, respectively. Conclusion: Type-2 diabetes mellitus is associated with a higher amount of dental plaques. Periodontal plaque samples from diabetic and non-diabetic subjects possess differential microbial communities. Diabetic plaques contain more versatile microbes predominated by gram-positive streptococci and staphylococci.

Factors associated with food safety knowledge and practices among meat handlers in Bangladesh: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND@#Food handlers can play a vital role into reducing foodborne diseases by adopting appropriate food handling and sanitation practices in working plants. This study aimed to assess the factors associated with food safety knowledge and practices among meat handlers who work at butcher shops in Bangladesh.@*METHODS@#A cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 meat handlers from January to March, 2021. Data were collected through in-person interviews using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of three parts; socio-demographic characteristics, assessments of food safety knowledge, and food safety practices. A multiple logistic regression model was used to identify the factors associated with food safety knowledge and practices.@*RESULTS@#Only 20% [95% confidence interval, (CI) 15.7-24.7] and 16.3% (95% CI 12.3-20.7) of the respondents demonstrated good levels of food safety knowledge and practices, respectively. The factors associated with good levels of food safety knowledge were: having a higher secondary education [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 4.57, 95% CI 1.11-18.76], income above 25,000 BDT/month (AOR = 10.52, 95% CI 3.43-32.26), work experience of > 10 years (AOR = 9.31, 95% CI 1.92-45.09), ≥ 8 h per day of work (AOR = 6.14, 95% CI 2.69-13.10), employed on a daily basis (AOR = 4.05, 95% CI 1.16-14.14), and having food safety training (AOR = 8.98 95% CI 2.16-37.32). Good food safety knowledge (AOR = 5.68, 95% CI 2.33-13.87) and working ≥ 8 h per day (AOR = 8.44, 95% CI 3.11-22.91) were significantly associated with a good level of food safety practice.@*CONCLUSIONS@#Poor knowledge and practices regarding food safety were found among Bangladeshi meat handlers. Findings may help public health professionals and practitioners develop targeted strategies to improve food safety knowledge and practices among this population. Such strategies may include education and sensitization on good food safety practices.

Associations between urinary heavy metal concentrations and blood pressure in residents of Asian countries

BACKGROUND@#Previous studies have suggested that exposures to heavy metals (arsenic, cadmium, lead, and selenium) may be associated with differences in blood pressure. However, the findings of these studies have been inconsistent. This study was performed to examine the associations between urinary heavy metal concentrations and blood pressure among residents of four Asian countries (Bangladesh, Indonesia, Nepal, and Vietnam).@*METHODS@#This cross-sectional study examined 1899 adults in four Asian countries. Urinary concentrations of heavy metals were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. A questionnaire survey was administered regarding individual characteristics. Anthropometric measurements (height and weight) were performed. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were measured after a short rest. Multiple linear regression models were applied to investigate associations between urinary heavy metal concentrations and blood pressure after adjustments for age, sex, and body mass index.@*RESULTS@#The geometric means of the urinary concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, lead, and selenium were 84.6, 0.885, 2.09, and 16.5 μg/g creatinine, respectively. The urinary arsenic concentrations were slightly higher than those typically reported in non-polluted populations, while urinary cadmium, lead, and selenium concentrations were equivalent or slightly lower. The urinary lead concentrations were positively associated with both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, but urinary selenium concentrations were negatively associated with them.@*CONCLUSIONS@#Variations in the urinary concentrations of lead and selenium were associated with blood pressure at low levels of exposure/intake.

Infection and Death Patterns of COVID-19 Disease in Bangladesh / Padrões de infecção e morte da doença COVID-19 em Bangladesh

Objectives: This study aimed to reveal the prevalence of COVID-19 and investigate the patterns of deaths due to novel coronavirus in Bangladesh. Methods: The data about daily incidences, sex and deaths by the geography of COVID-19 for Bangladesh as of August 29, 2020 have been collected from the daily press releases of the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) and Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Case fatality rates (CFR), doubling time, correlation coefficient and graphical presentation were used to investigate the prevalence and patterns of infection and deaths. Results: Infection to tests, recovery to infections and death to infection rates due to novel coronavirus in Bangladesh until August 29, 2020 was 20.25%, 64.37% and 1.36% respectively. The correlation coefficient between daily tests and infections has found 0.978 with a 95% confidence interval 0.971 to 0.984. About 78.46% male and only 21.54% of females have died. Most deaths were found in the Dhaka division (48.26%) and the least deaths in the Mymensingh division (2.12%). The sex ratio of males to females in deaths was 364.23%. The age below 10 has found the least prevalent (0.45%) to deaths and above 60 has found most vulnerable (49.26%) to death. Conclusions: This study showed a strong positive relationship between daily tests and infections. The doubling time of infections and deaths in Bangladesh increased over time maintaining very low differences. Male people are more vulnerable to death compare to females. Aged people are extremely vulnerable to death. The most deaths geographical division is Dhaka and the least deaths in Mymensingh.

Objetivos: o objetivo deste estudo foi revelar a prevalência de COVID-19 e investigar os padrões de mortes por novos coronavírus em Bangladesh. Métodos: os dados sobre incidências diárias, sexo e mortes por geografia de COVID-19 para Bangladesh em 29 de agosto de 2020 foram coletados dos comunicados de imprensa diários do Instituto de Epidemiologia, Controle e Pesquisa de Doenças (IEDCR) e da Diretoria Geral de Serviços de Saúde (DGHS). As taxas de letalidade (CFR), o tempo de duplicação, o coeficiente de correlação e a apresentação gráfica foram usados para investigar a prevalência e os padrões de infecção e mortes. Resultados: as taxas de infecção para testes, recuperação de infecções e morte por infecção devido a novo coronavírus em Bangladesh até 29 de agosto de 2020 foram de 20,25%, 64,37% e 1,36%, respectivamente. O coeficiente de correlação entre os testes diários e infecções encontrou 0,978 com intervalo de confiança de 95% 0,971 a 0,984. Cerca de 78,46% homens e apenas 21,54% mulheres morreram. A maioria das mortes foi encontrada na divisão de Dhaka (48,26%) e menos mortes na divisão Mymensingh (2,12%). A proporção do sexo entre homens e mulheres nas mortes foi de 364,23%. A faixa etária abaixo de 10 apresentou menor prevalência (0,45%) aos óbitos e acima de 60 foi considerada mais vulnerável (49,26%) ao óbito. Conclusões: este estudo mostrou uma forte relação positiva entre testes diários e infecções. O tempo de duplicação de infecções e mortes em Bangladesh aumentou com o tempo, mantendo diferenças muito baixas. Os homens são mais vulneráveis à morte do que as mulheres. Pessoas idosas são extremamente vulneráveis à morte. A divisão geográfica com mais mortes é Dhaka e menos mortes é Mymensingh.

Prevalence and factors related to malocclusion, normative and perceived orthodontic treatment need among children and adolescents in Bangladesh

ABSTRACT Objective: The purpose of the present study was to assess the prevalence of normative and perceived orthodontic treatment need in schoolchildren and adolescents, related risk factors, and children/parent's aesthetic perception, compared to orthodontist's opinion, in Dhaka city, Bangladesh. Methods: A random sample of 800 schoolchildren aging 11-15 years was selected from different schools in the city of Dhaka, Bangladesh. The Dental Health Component (DHC) and Aesthetic Component (AC) of the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN) were assessed as normative treatment need. The Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth (DMFT) index was used to record caries experience. Children were interviewed on the perception of orthodontic treatment need. Parents also completed a questionnaire on the perception of their child's orthodontic treatment need, assessed by AC/ IOTN. Results: According to the DHC/IOTN, only 24.7% were in the category of definite need (grade 4-5) for orthodontic treatment. A significant difference was found between the clinician/children and clinician/parents perceived AC score of IOTN (p= 0.0001). Multiple logistic regression showed children with a higher DMFT were significantly more likely to need orthodontic treatment, according to the DHC of IOTN. Conclusion: A low proportion of schoolchildren needs normative orthodontic treatment in the city of Dhaka, Bangladesh. Children with a higher DMFT score were significantly more likely to need orthodontic treatment, according to the DHC of IOTN.

RESUMO Objetivo: o objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a prevalência de necessidade real e percebida de tratamento ortodôntico em crianças e adolescentes em idade escolar, bem como de fatores de risco relacionados, e comparar a percepção estética das crianças e responsáveis com a percepção de ortodontistas na cidade de Dhaka, Bangladesh. Métodos: uma amostra aleatória composta por 800 crianças, com idades entre 11 e 15 anos, foi selecionada em diferentes escolas da cidade de Dhaka, Bangladesh. Para avaliação da necessidade real de tratamento, utilizou-se o Dental Health Component (DHC) e o Aesthetic Component (AC) do Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN). O índice de Dentes Cariados, Perdidos e Obturados (CPO-D) foi usado para registrar a prevalência de cáries dentárias. As crianças foram entrevistadas sobre sua percepção da necessidade de tratamento ortodôntico, e os pais também responderam a um questionário sobre a percepção da necessidade de tratamento ortodôntico de seus filhos, avaliada pelo AC do IOTN. Resultados: de acordo com o DHC, apenas 24,7% das crianças foram alocadas na categoria de necessidade real (notas 4-5) de tratamento ortodôntico. As pontuações no AC foram significativamente diferentes entre os ortodontistas, as crianças e os responsáveis (p= 0,0001). A análise da regressão múltipla mostrou que as crianças com maiores pontuações no CPO-D tinham chance significativamente maior de precisar de tratamento ortodôntico, segundo o DHC. Conclusão: um número reduzido de crianças em idade escolar necessita realmente de tratamento ortodôntico em Dakha, Bangladesh. Além disso, as crianças com maior CPO-D apresentaram chance significativamente maior de precisar de tratamento ortodôntico, segundo o DHC.

Secondhand smoking, knowledge/attitudes and socioeconomic status among married Bangladeshi women: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: There is a paucity of research on knowledge/attitudes regarding the dangers of exposure to secondhand smoking (SHS) among women. The relationship between exposure to SHS, socioeconomic status (SES) and knowledge/attitudes regarding the risks of SHS has often been ignored. We therefore aimed to examine (1) whether SES and exposure to SHS were independently associated with knowledge/attitudes regarding the risks of SHS; and (2) whether women with low SES and exposure to SHS were uniquely disadvantaged in terms of deficient knowledge and more dismissive attitudes towards the risks of SHS. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study in the Rajshahi district, Bangladesh. METHODS: A total of 541 women were interviewed. Knowledge of and attitudes towards the risks of SHS were the outcomes of interest. RESULTS: A majority of the respondents were exposed to SHS at home (49.0%). Only 20.1% had higher levels of knowledge, and only 37.3% had non-dismissive attitudes towards the risks of SHS. Participants in the low SES group and those exposed to SHS had lower odds of higher knowledge and their attitudes towards the risks of SHS were more dismissive. Regarding deficient levels of knowledge and scores indicating more dismissive attitudes, women in the low SES group and who were exposed to SHS were not uniquely disadvantaged. CONCLUSIONS: Exposure to SHS and low SES were independently associated with deficient knowledge and scores indicating more dismissive attitudes. Regarding knowledge/attitudes, the negative effect of exposure to SHS extended across all socioeconomic backgrounds and was not limited to women in either the low or the high SES group.

Comparative Study Between Standard Ward's Incision and Coma Shaped Incision and its Postoperative Outcome on Impacted Mandibular Third Molars Extraction in Bangladeshi Population

Objective: To evaluate the postoperative outcome in standard Comma Shaped incision and Ward's incision on postoperative complications in surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molar. Material and Methods: In this study, 100 patients with impacted mandibular third molar were selected for study. The patients were divided in to two groups. Each group contains 50 patients. A standard Ward's incision was made on one group and a Comma incision was made on another group to reflect the mucoperiosteal flap, after the common steps for removal of impacted third molars were followed. The postoperative parameters were recorded immediately on the postoperative days 1, 3 and 7. For bivariate analyses, Chi square and Student t test were used. The significance level was set at 5%. Results: The pain and swelling scores were found to be significantly lower in the surgical area with Comma incisions, which was recorded on days 1, 3 and 7 as compared to the area where standard Ward's incision were made. In mouth opening, there was a sufficiently great difference seen between the two incisions on first postoperative day, but on day 3 and 7 there was no statistical significance. Conclusion: the Comma Shaped incision design was preferable over the standard Ward's incision, considering the lesser degree of postoperative complications.

Theranostics in Bangladesh: Current Status, Challenges, and Future Perspective / 대한핵의학회잡지

BACKGROUND AND CURRENT STATUS OF THERANOSTICS: Therapeutic nuclear medicine (NM) in Bangladesh began in the early 1980s with the application of radioactive iodine for treatment of thyroid cancer and primary hyperthyroidism. Since then, NM practice has remarkably developed in the country with the advancement of instrumentation, radiopharmacy, and information technology. The government took the initiative to establish four PET-CTcenters at different NMcenters, including one at the National Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (NINMAS). A further development is the installation of a cyclotron center (18-MeV cyclotron) at NINMAS by the government's fund. Currently, NM is providing good health services to oncology patients throughout the country. More than 20 NM centers are functioning in different parts of the country, and therapeutic NM has an important place. However, conventional radioactive iodine still remains the major theranostic application.CHALLENGES AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVE: The expansion and development of therapeutic NM for other cancers have been limited due to a number of challenging factors. A brief overview of the history and current status ofNMin Bangladesh is presented here with an examination of factors that pose as obstacles to the introduction and development of new therapeutic technologies. Finally, future perspectives are discussed with ways to mitigate existing problems and challenges.

Undiagnosed Isolated Systolic and Diastolic Hypertension Subtypes and Their Correlates in Bangladesh: A Nationwide Survey

OBJECTIVES: This study was performed to identify the distribution of undiagnosed isolated hypertension subtypes and their correlates amongst adults aged 35 years and older in Bangladesh using data from the Bangladesh Demography and Health Survey 2011. METHODS: Out of a total of 17,964 selected households, 7,880 were included in the final analysis for this study. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) were measured 3× at 10-minute intervals. Hypertension subtypes were defined for individuals not under antihypertensive treatment as systolic-diastolic hypertension (SDH): systolic BP (SBP) ≥ 140 mm Hg and diastolic BP (DBP) ≥ 90 mm Hg; isolated diastolic hypertension (IDH): SBP < 140 mm Hg and DBP ≥ 90 mm Hg, and isolated systolic hypertension (ISH): SBP ≥140 mm Hg and DBP < 90 mm Hg. RESULTS: The predominant hypertension subtypes were SDH and IDH [5.2%; 95% confidence interval (CI): 4.7–5.1] followed by ISH (3.8%; 95% CI: 3.4–4.2). Multiple logistic regression showed that age and gender were significant predictors of ISH. SDH was associated with females [odds ratio (OR): 1.8; 95% CI: 1.3–2.6], the older age group (OR-7.4; 95% CI: 4.3–12.7), and overweight or obese individuals (OR: 1.6; 95% CI: 1.1–2.4). Non-manual work (OR: 1.5; 95% CI: 1.0–2.0]) and being overweight or obese (OR: 1.9; 95% CI: 1.4–2.8) were factors associated with IDH. CONCLUSION: ISH, IDH and SDH represent salient subtypes of hypertension in Bangladesh. To identify preventive intervention for averting adverse cardiovascular events, further research is needed.

Peer Smoking and Smoking-related Beliefs Among College Students in Bangladesh / 예방의학회지

OBJECTIVES: Smoking is a significant public health issue in Bangladesh. The purpose of this study was to examine peer smoking and smoking-related beliefs among college students in Bangladesh. METHODS: College students at two universities in Dhaka, Bangladesh participated in a self-administered survey in May and June 2017. RESULTS: First, being a current or former smoker is associated with lower levels of beliefs among respondents that they would not smoke even with smoker friends or nervousness, and lower levels of intentions that they would not smoke, while current smokers and former smokers have different smoking-related beliefs. Second, having smoker friends is associated with lower levels of intentions that they would not smoke. Third, higher levels of normative beliefs that it is important not to smoke are associated with higher levels of beliefs that they would not smoke even with smoker friends or nervousness, higher levels of intentions that they would not smoke, and higher levels of avoidance of smoking. CONCLUSIONS: Smoking-related beliefs and perceived norms in individuals’ social networks are important components in promoting tobacco cessation in Bangladesh. But it is challenging to prevent or intervene in smoking because of the high rates of smoking in this country and the high prevalence of smokers in individuals’ social networks. Future studies should examine the most effective interventions to combat smoking in high-smoking social networks, such as using mobile apps or social media, and evaluate the effectiveness of such interventions.

Differences in High Dose Antipsychotic Prescriptions in Patients with Schizophrenia in Asian Countries/Areas: Findings from the REAP-AP Study

The REAP-AP study recruited 3,746 patients with schizophrenia, in March and April 2016, from 71 centers in 15 Asian countries/territories namely Bangladesh, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam. Our findings reveal a trend according to which high dose antipsychotic prescription is more prevalent in Eastern Asia (especially, Japan and Korea) than in other regions of Asia. This historical factor may be associated with our finding of an Eastern Asian preponderance of high dose antipsychotic prescription.

Exposure to intimate partner violence and malnutrition among young adult Bangladeshi women: cross-sectional study of a nationally representative sample / Exposição à violência entre parceiros íntimos e desnutrição entre mulheres jovens de Bangladesh: um estudo transversal de uma amostra nacional representativa / Exposición a la violencia doméstica y malnutrición entre mujeres adultas jóvenes bangladesíes: estudio transversal de una muestra representativa nacionalmente

Abstract: This study explores the relationship between malnutrition and intimate partner violence (IPV) among 1,086 young adult Bangladeshi women aged 15-24 years using a cross-sectional data from the 2007 Bangladesh Demographic Health Survey (BDHS). About one-third (33.4%) young adult women experienced physical and/or sexual IPV, 14.5% experienced only sexual IPV and 29% experienced only physical IPV by husbands. About 32.6% young adult women were reported as being underweight (BMI < 18.5) and 6.2% were overweight (BMI ≥ 25). Underweight women experienced more physical IPV (OR = 1.39; 95%CI: 1.09-2.71) and physical and/or sexual IPV (OR = 1.48; 95%CI: 1.12-2.75) than normal range women. Results also indicate a positive association between being overweight/obese and all the forms of IPV. The study findings indicate that the IPV experience plays a significant role in underweight and overweight/obese young adult women and support that younger women's health and nutrition program and policies need to address IPV.

Resumo: O estudo explora as relações entre desnutrição e violência entre parceiros íntimos (VPI) em uma amostra de 1.086 mulheres adultas jovens (15-24 anos) de Bangladesh, usando dados transversais do Bangladesh Demographic Health Survey (BDHS) de 2007. Cerca de um terço (33,4%) dessas mulheres relataram terem sofrido VPI física e/ou sexual, 14,5% apenas VPI sexual e 29% apenas VPI física praticada pelo marido. Cerca de 32,6% das mulheres adultas jovens eram desnutridas (IMC < 18,5), enquanto 6,2% apresentavam sobrepeso (IMC ≥ 25). As mulheres com baixo peso sofriam mais VPI física (OR = 1,39; IC95%: 1,09-2,71) e VPI física e/ou sexual (OR = 1,48; IC95%: 1,12-2,75) quando comparadas às mulheres eutróficas. Os resultados também indicam uma associação positiva entre sobrepeso/obesidade e todas as formas de VPI. Os achados indicam que a exposição à VPI tem um papel significativo na experiência das adultas jovens de baixo peso e com sobrepeso/obesidade e confirmam que são necessários programas e políticas nutricionais e de saúde para as mulheres jovens de Bangladesh.

Resumen: Este estudio explora la relación entre la malnutrición y violencia doméstica (IPV por sus siglas en inglés) entre 1.086 mujeres adultas jóvenes bangladesíes, con una edad entre 15-24 años, usando datos de un estudio transversal, procedentes del 2007 Bangladesh Demographic Health Survey (BDHS). Cerca de un tercio (33,4%) de las mujeres adultas jóvenes sufrieron violencia física y/o sexual IPV, 14,5% sufrieron sólo sexual IPV, y un 29% sufrieron sólo física IPV por parte de sus maridos. Cerca de un 32,6% de las mujeres adultas jóvenes se encontraban por debajo del peso ideal (IMC < 18,5) y un 6,2% tenían sobrepeso (BMI ≥ 25). Las mujeres con el peso por debajo del apropiado sufrían más violencia física IPV (OR = 1,39; IC95%: 1,09-2,71) y física y/o sexual IPV (OR = 1,48; IC95%: 1,12-2,75), en comparación con el rango normal de mujeres. Los resultados también indican una asociación positiva entre sufrir sobrepeso/obesidad y todas las formas de IPV. Los hallazgos del estudio indican que sufrir IPV tiene un papel significativo en el peso por debajo del peso ideal y con sobrepeso/obesas de las mujeres adultas jóvenes y el apoyo a salud de estas mujeres más jóvenes, que necesitan tanto programas de nutrición, como políticas especialmente dirigidas a mujeres que sufren violencia doméstica.

The Relationships among Postpartum Fatigue, Depressive Mood, Self-care Agency, and Self-care Action of First-time Mothers in Bangladesh

PURPOSE: Postpartum fatigue can impact maternal well-being and has been associated with levels of perceived self-care. This study aimed to examine the relationship among fatigue, depressive mood, self-care agency, and self-care action among postpartum women in Bangladesh. METHODS: A descriptive cross sectional survey was done with 124 first-time mothers from two tertiary hospitals in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The Modified Fatigue Symptoms checklist, Denyes' Self Care Instrument, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, and items on sociodemographic and delivery-related characteristics, were used in Bengali via translation and back-translation process. RESULTS: High fatigue levels were found in 18.5%(n=23) and 73.4% had possible depression (n=91). There was a significant negative relationship between fatigue and self-care agency (r=−.31, p < .001), and self-care action (r=−.21, p < .05). Fatigue differed by level of self-care agency (t=4.06, p < .001), self-care action (t=2.36, p=.023), newborn's APGAR score (t=−2.93, p=.004), parental preparation class participation (F=15.53, p < .001), and postpartum depressive mood (t=-4.64, p < .001). CONCLUSION: Findings suggest that high level of self-care efficacy and behaviors can contribute to fatigue management, and highlight the need for practical interventions to better prepare mothers for postpartum self-care, which may, in turn, alleviate postpartum fatigue.

Validity of pont’s analysis in a sample of Bangladeshi orthodontics patients

To assess the applicability of Pont’s index for arch width prediction among the Bangladeshi population. Materials and Methods: Models of 37 male and 63 female subjects ranging in age between 16 to 25 years were randomly selected out of all patients attending the Orthodontic clinic of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU). Teeth size and arch size were measured to determine the Pont’s value. Results: The reported value of Pont’s ratio is 0.87 +/- 0.08 (premolar) and 0.67 +/- 0.05 (molar). The mean value of Pont’s ratio in the present study is 0.88 +/- 0.07 and 0.67 +/- 0.05 for females, and 0.89 +/- 0.09 and 0.66 +/- 0.05 for males. The reported mean index value of Pont is 0.80 and 0.64 with the differences 0.03 and 0.01 whereas, in this study, index value were 0.87 and 0.67, and the differences are 0.07 and 0.03 respectively which are statistically significant compared to the reported values. Conclusion: Based on the results of the current study, Pont’s index is not applicable in the Bangladeshi population.

Depression and Quality of Life among Postmenopausal Women in Bangladesh: A Cross-sectional Study

OBJECTIVES: The aims of the research are to examine the problems of abnormal menopausal women: the relationship between depression and menopausal-specific quality of life (MENQOL)-symptoms among postmenopausal women; the association of MENQOL-symptoms between pre- and postmenopausal female society in Bangladeshi real community. METHODS: This cross sectional study was conducted on 435 women of Tangail, aged (≥ 17) years, using a structured questionnaire where is inaacluded the information of MENQOL and one of the main outcomes “depression” is measured by beck depression inventory. RESULTS: Menopausal status and MENQOL symptoms (except pain) are significantly (P < 0.05) associated. By using post-hoc analysis, the proportion of menopausal women, classified as having a depressive mood of early menopause is significantly higher than natural-menopause. Among postmenopausal women, there is a significant correlation between “concentration problem” and “depression”. Here mean depression score (29.40 ± 6.42) of menopausal women who have any difficulty in concentrating is higher than mean depression score (20.89 ± 6.64) of menopausal women who have no difficulty in concentrating. Another six factors (osteoporosis, heart-beating, fatigue, pressure, tingling, headaches) of MENQOL-symptoms were significantly correlated with depression and P-values are 0.000, 0.000, 0.000, 0.033, 0.006, and 0.002, respectively. Finally the presence of “difficulty in concentrating” and “fatigue” are strongly associated factors with depression score (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The early postmenopausal women have to face more psychological problems (e.g., depression) compare to others. Among postmenopausal women, there is no significant relation between depression and vasomotor symptom (e.g., hot-flashes) perspective to menopausal female society of Bangladesh.

Distribution and Determinants of Out-of-pocket Healthcare Expenditures in Bangladesh / 예방의학회지

OBJECTIVES: As in many low-income and middle-income countries, out-of-pocket (OOP) payments by patients or their families are a key healthcare financing mechanism in Bangladesh that leads to economic burdens for households. The objective of this study was to identify whether and to what extent socioeconomic, demographic, and behavioral factors of the population had an impact on OOP expenditures in Bangladesh. METHODS: A total of 12 400 patients who had paid to receive any type of healthcare services within the previous 30 days were analyzed from the Bangladesh Household Income and Expenditure Survey data, 2010. We employed regression analysis for identify factors influencing OOP health expenditures using the ordinary least square method. RESULTS: The mean total OOP healthcare expenditures was US dollar (USD) 27.66; while, the cost of medicines (USD 16.98) was the highest cost driver (61% of total OOP healthcare expenditure). In addition, this study identified age, sex, marital status, place of residence, and family wealth as significant factors associated with higher OOP healthcare expenditures. In contrary, unemployment and not receiving financial social benefits were inversely associated with OOP expenditures. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study can help decision-makers by clarifying the determinants of OOP, discussing the mechanisms driving these determinants, and there by underscoring the need to develop policy options for building stronger financial protection mechanisms. The government should consider devoting more resources to providing free or subsidized care. In parallel with government action, the development of other prudential and sustainable risk-pooling mechanisms may help attract enthusiastic subscribers to community-based health insurance schemes.