Pattern and treatment of Parkinson’s disease at different health care levels in Bangladesh: a hospital based survey

Background:Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a condition in which part of the brain becomes progressively damaged over many years. This study represents the pattern of Parkinson’s disease and help to identify various drugs which are being used at different health care levels in Bangladesh.Methods:Cross-sectional technique was applied as study design in this research work. We accessed the patients with formulated questionnaire of the Department of Neuroscience of National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital, Dhaka Medical College and Hospital and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) for data collection from January 2017 to August 2019.100 patients were selected in the ages between 25-80 years, among them 66were male and 34females.Results:A total number of 100 Parkinson’s disease patients (male 66%, female 34%) were recruited for this study. Genetic factor (56%) is the main cause of PD found in this study. Among various symptoms, the prominent symptoms were voice disorders (96%), slowness of movement (90%), mask-like face expression (86%), tremor (80%), sensory and sleep difficulties (78%), excessive sweating (60%) and insomnia (56%). It was observed that along with physiotherapy, drugs used to manage PD were levodopa (14%), carbamazepine (12%), quetiapine (12%), haloperidol (11%), pramipexole (10%), trihexyphenidyl HCl (10%), carbidopa (8%), amlodipine (8%)andclonazepam (8%).Conclusions:Disgrace exists in the personal life and social context of the PD patients which also unfavourably affects their psychosocial aspects of life. Our population-based data provide evidence for a protective effect of Parkinson’s disease in our country.

Climate Change Impact on Agriculture and Related Sustainable Land Management Practices in Bangladesh – A Review

Sustainable land management (SLM) is an effective climate adaptation technique in the present world. Bangladesh is listed in long-term Climate Risk Index 2019 due to its unicorn geographic features (e.g. low-lying riparian lands, big rivers, dense population and coastal settings). The livelihoods of Bangladesh are directly or indirectly linked to agricultural practices and or agribusiness. Many studies revealed that climate change-induced natural calamities (e.g. rainfall and temperature variability, sea level rise, flood, cyclone, drought, groundwater depletion, salt intrusion) unfavorably effect on agricultural production and livelihood activities and these are making critical food insecurity situation. Thus, identification and implementation of SLM practices to maintain food security of the bursting population are a prerequisite in Bangladesh. In this study, we have compiled the prospective SLM practices based on land management objective, land user requirements, crop and land suitability by reviewing peer-reviewed articles and grey literature. The potential SLM identified includes land resource conservation, erosion control, tillage technology, soil fertility management, vegetation management, efficient groundwater use, salinity-drought adaptations, land zoning and site-specific climate-smart agriculture. Among these SLM practices, the cultivation of suitable crop based on land quality and resource availability requires knowledge of decision support components involving the stakeholders for meaningful implementation of SLM. We proposed conceptual decision support components (e.g. land user, land quality, crop suitability, site-specific management, capital and governance) that would be the basis for the development and implementation of SLM towards land users and or farmers. The motivation of farmers through efficient extension activity and agri-governance for optimized land management can lead to minimizing the climate-induced vulnerability in agriculture. We concluded that the identified SLM practices, if implemented by adequate decision supports, SLM will help to achieve agricultural production as required by the sustainable Millennium Development Goals in Bangladesh.

Assessment of analgesic and neuropharmacological activity of leaves of Bixa orellana (Family: Bixaceae)

Background:Bixa orellanaLinn, (Family: Bixaceae) commonly known as “Lipstick tree” have been extensively used traditional medicine in India and others part of the world to cure laxative, cardiotonic, hypotensive,expectorant, antibiotic, antipyretic, aphrodisaic etc. It has been found that B. orellanacontains different phytochemical groups such as phenolic compounds, glycosides, tannins, steroids, alkaloids, saponins.The project work has been designed to investigate the phytochemical nature (group determination of plant constituents), analgesic and neuropharmacological activity of B.orellanaleaves extract. Methods:Analgesic activity of B. orellanawas determined by acetic acid induced writhing, hot plate, tail immersion and paw tickling test/formalin induced nociceptortest. Open field, hole cross, tail suspension and light/dark box test were employed for the assessment of neuropharmacological activity of B. orellana.Results:Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of reducing sugar, alkaloids, glycosides, gum,terpenoids, tannins, steroids and flavonoids. In analgesic activity test, the sample showed significant analgesic activity. The dose-dependent neuropharmacological activity is shown in neuropharmacological activity test.Conclusions:Our exploration suggests that B. orellanacontains bioactive compounds and it should be studied further for isolation and purification of such novel compounds

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.

Sensory Conduction Parameters in Hypothyroidism: A Cross Sectional Study

Background: Thyroid hormones play critical roles in differentiation, growth, and metabolism. Thyroid hormone play important role in development of Central Nervous System and in myelination of neurons. hypothyroidism is a chronic and insidious disease caused by failure of thyroid hormone production mostly due to inflammation, thyroidectomy, use of I131, and anti-hyperthyroidism drugs. Involvement of Peripheral nerve is frequent in hypothyroid patients. Objective of study: To evaluate the dysfunction of Sensory Nerve in Hypothyroid patients. Methods: 30 patients of hypothyroidism were included in the study, detailed history and clinical examination was performed. 30 normal subjects were included as control. Nerve Conduction Studies were performed in neurophysiology lab of Physiology dept of JNMC Aligarh. Results: While comparing the Sensory Nerve Conduction velocity of Median nerves between the two groups, the Sensory NCV of right Median (44.59±8.39) is found to be significantly decreased in hypothyroid subjects. While comparing the Sensory latency of Median nerve between the two groups, the latency of right median nerve (3.69±.69), left median nerve (3.43±.80) is significantly increased bilaterally in hypothyroid subjects. Conclusion: Hypothyroidism is a definite cause of neuropathy, it affects sensory nerves first than motor nerves. We suggest performing electrophysiological studies in hypothyroid patients, even asymptomatic patients in an early course of disease. So we can prevent the progression of neuropathy

Evaluation of knowledge and practice of handling chemotherapy agents by nurses: a multi-centre studies in Bangladesh

Background: Along with several significant factors in chemotherapy treatment management’s nurses plays the pivotal role. The objective of this study was to evaluate the knowledge of nurses in relation to handling chemotherapy and the current practice of cancer centers in different hospitals in Bangladesh.Methods: The cross-sectional study was designed based on anonymous self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire was developed from literature and expert input and validated by subject experts.Results: A total of 96 nurses were the respondents in this study. Around half of them already exposed directly with chemotherapy agents. Some 72.9% of nurses had not any training and 58.3% of respondents were not aware about use of closed system transfer devise in chemotherapy. A greater proportion 58.3% of nurses did not know the same health hazard of both oral and parenteral drugs. One third (33.3%) respondents used biological safety cabinet for doing preparation. Nurses’ did not use especial personal protective equipment and the designed treatment room also was absent. None of nurses went through regular medical checkup.Conclusions: The evidence-based results suggested that nurses have average knowledge about chemotherapy handling, however, use of personal protective equipment and biological safety cabinet, follow guidelines, medical surveillance and training are appeared to be a hindrance. More fundamentally, nurses need more education and professional training about chemotherapy agents handling in nursing school and through in-service continuing education as well as adopt required facilities are necessary.

Bacterial etiology and antibiotic resistance pattern of neonatal sepsis: a study in a tertiary care hospital, in Bangladesh

Background: Neonatal sepsis is a leading cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity. The objective of the study was to detect causative microorganisms of neonatal sepsis and their antimicrobial resistance patterns.Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2017 to June 2018 in the Department of Neonatal Medicine and NICU of Dhaka Shishu (Children) Hospital (DSH). Neonates diagnosed with probable sepsis were studied. After enrollment, 1 mL blood was taken and sent to Microbiology department of DSH for culture and sensitivity. With baseline characteristics, clinical examination findings and outcome, were also recorded.Results: Rate of isolation of single organism was 9.2% (84/913). Out of 84 isolates, gram negative bacteria were 77.4% with Klebsiella pneumonae being the commonest (35, 41.7%), gram positive bacteria were 11.9% with Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus were equal (5, 5.95% each) and the remaining (9, 10.7%) isolated organism was Candida. Most of the isolated gram-negative bacteria were resistant to ampicillin, gentamicin, and ceftazidime; but gram-positive bacteria preserved 20-80% sensitivity. Klebsiella was more resistant than Acinetobacter to amikacin, netilmicin, ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin. Around 45-65% of gram-negative bacteria were resistant to imipenem and meropenem but gram-positive bacteria showed lesser resistance. Among the gram-negative bacteria, Klebsiella and Acinetobacter were resistant to piperacillin as same as carbapenem group, but gram-positive bacteria were 100% sensitive to piperacillin. All the gram-negative bacteria showed more resistance to 4th generation cephalosporin, cefepime than carbapenem. Out of culture positive 84 neonates, 63 (75.0%) were cured but 21 (25.0%) died. Among the 21 expired neonates, 47.6% (10/21) were infected with Klebsiella.Conclusion: This study observed that gram-negative bacteria causing neonatal sepsis predominantly, with emergence of Candida. All the isolated gram-positive and gram-negative organisms were mostly resistant to available antibiotics

Application of near- and mid-infrared spectroscopy combined with chemometrics for discrimination and authentication of herbal products: A review

Herbal medicines along with its preparations have been commonly used as preventive and promotive agents around theworld, especially in developing countries. Motivated by economic profits, the high-priced value of herbal medicinesmay be substituted or adulterated with less expensive ones; therefore, the authentication methods must be developedto overcome the adulteration practices. Due to their properties as fingerprint analytical techniques, near-infrared (NIR)and mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopies offered fast and reliable techniques for authentication of herbal medicine.The data generated during authentication of herbal medicines were complex and difficult to be interpreted; therefore,the statistical approach called chemometrics has been used to treat data. The objective of the present review was tohighlight the updates on the application of NIR and MIR spectroscopies and chemometrics techniques (discrimination,classification, and quantification) for discrimination and authentication of herbal medicine.

Application of near- and mid-infrared spectroscopy combined with chemometrics for discrimination and authentication of herbal products: A review

Herbal medicines along with its preparations have been commonly used as preventive and promotive agents around theworld, especially in developing countries. Motivated by economic profits, the high-priced value of herbal medicinesmay be substituted or adulterated with less expensive ones; therefore, the authentication methods must be developedto overcome the adulteration practices. Due to their properties as fingerprint analytical techniques, near-infrared (NIR)and mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopies offered fast and reliable techniques for authentication of herbal medicine.The data generated during authentication of herbal medicines were complex and difficult to be interpreted; therefore,the statistical approach called chemometrics has been used to treat data. The objective of the present review was tohighlight the updates on the application of NIR and MIR spectroscopies and chemometrics techniques (discrimination,classification, and quantification) for discrimination and authentication of herbal medicine

Alumina Catalyst: Synthesis Of Novel Quinazoline Derivatives And Their Solubility Increases Through Inclusion With Β-Cyclodextrin

Objective: To synthesis a novel methodology of bioactive quinazoline derivatives under greener process to an excellent yields and increases their solubility via inclusion with β-cyclodextrin (CD). Methods: Derivatives of quinazoline compounds were prepared by the mixture of 3-amino-2-phenylquinazolin-4(3H)-one, derived from 2-phenyl-4H-benzo[1,3]oxazin-4-one by refluxing with hydrazine, substituted aromatic aldehyde and alumina intimately in an agate mortar and pestle under solvent-free condition. Using various techniques for preparing inclusion complexes, kneaded method is the best method for encapsulation in host-guest complex chemistry. All compounds including inclusion complexes were characterised by spectral methods. Results: Synthesized a series of novel quinazoline compounds under a very easier greener process with a commercially available reagent. However, their low bioavailability, due to low absorption and solubility, can limit their potential applications. CD was used to resolve this solubility problem. CD can easily accommodated the guest molecules to encapsulate inside its cavity due to interior the hydrophobic nature with a hydrophilic exterior part to form thermodynamically more stable molecular microcapsules, commonly name as host-guest complexes or inclusion complexes. In this sense, CD was utilized to enhance not only the solubility and bioavailability of these quinazoline compounds but also their antibacterial capacity. The formation of inclusion complex was thus confirmed by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and solubility study technique. Conclusion: Here we have successfully unfolded an eco-friendly methodology for the synthesis of derivatives of quinazoline and increased their solubility via host-guest inclusion technique. From the spectral analysis, it was concluded that the quinazoline compound is fully encapsulated inside the cavity of the CD.

Effect of Arsenic (As) on the Spermatogenesis of Black Bengal Goat (Capra hircus) Reared at the Arsenic Prone Area of Mymensingh District in Bangladesh.

Aim: Arsenic (As) alters the spermatogenic process as well as testicular histology has been reported in different species of domestic, wild, aquatic life, and laboratory animals. The present study was conducted to investigate the impact of toxicity of arsenic poison on the spermatogenesis of the Black Bengal goat at the most arsenic polluted area of Mymensingh district in Bangladesh by using histopathological techniques. Methods: A total of 12 adult Black Bengal male goats (Capra hircus) were used in this study.Among these, 6 were selected from the arsenic polluted area, and the rest were from the less contaminated area as control. Goats were sacrificed by using conventional animal killing method adopted in the laboratory. Both the right and left testes were collected aseptically. Testicular tissues were cut perpendicular to the long axis of the testis and preserved in Bouin’s solution. Paraffin block was made and tissue sections were cut at 5-μm in thickness. Tissues were processed for routine hematoxylin and eosin and Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS)-hematoxylin stains. Thickness of tunica albugenia, spermatigenic cell layer, diameters of the seminiferous tubules, number of spermatogenic, sertoli, and leydig cells were counted and tabulated. Apoptotic spermatogenic cells were detected by using Apoptosis Detection Kit. The data collected was statistically analyzed for any significant differences between the arsenic exposed and control goats. Results: Our results revealed comparatively increased thickness of the tunica albugenia, wide intertubular spaces, low height of the spermatogenic cell layer, decreased diameter of the seminiferous tubules, decreased spermatogenic, sertoli, and leydig cell counts, and marked increased of apoptotic spermatogenic cells in the arsenic affected goats. The data differences between the arsenic affected and control goats were statistically significant (P<0.01). Conclusion: Our histopathological study revealed alteration of testicular tissues in arsenic affected goats. This morphological changes of testes significantly affected on the spermatogenic processes. But it was not possible to determine the possible stage of the spermatogenesis was interrupted by the arsenic. Decreased number of spermatogenic, sertoli, and leydig cell counts, and distinctly increased number of apoptotic spermatogenic cell indicates high toxic effects of arsenic poisoning on the male gonad. The mechanism of action of toxicity of the arsenic could not be understood clearly. It is suggested here that the Black Bengal goats can be experimentally used as animal model in the laboratory for investigating the role of arsenic on the reproduction of the domestic animals.

Mass propagation of Cymbidium giganteum Wall. ex Lindl. using in vitro seedlings.

In vitro seedlings were used as explants for protocorm like bodies (PLBs) production which in turn were used for regeneration purpose. PLBs were induced from the base of seedlings (1.0-1.5 cm in size) in MS + BAP (8.88 µM). After 90 days of inoculation, PLBs production rate started declining and most of the PLBs turned into plantlets. Preculture of seedlings in 1.0 µM thidiazuron (TDZ) for 7 days and transfer to BAP supplemented medium resulted in production of 16 PLBs per seedling within 90 days of culture. Increase of TDZ concentration to 2.5 µM and preculture time 15 days, resulted in induction of highest number of PLBs (19 PLBs per seedling) in the basal medium. The results emphasized the importance of thidiazuron (TDZ) concentration and preculture time for PLBs proliferation from the base of seedlings. The PLBs thus produced were used for regeneration studies. Irrespective of single, segmented or clumps of PLBs, the regeneration response was 100% in 2,4-D (4.52 µM) and KN (4.64 µM) but when KN was replaced by BAP (8.88 µM), response was observed only in clumps of PLBs, whereas in single and segmented ones it was 99 and 97%, respectively. Regenerants developed stout root system in half strength M medium supplemented with 2.84 µM of IAA and transferred to greenhouse with 90% survival. The present study holds tremendous potential as the mother plant is not destroyed and PLBs are produced as a continuous system.

A Rare Case Report on Benign Recurrent Intrahepatic Cholestasis.

Benign recurrent intrahepatic cholestasis is an inherited and occasionally sporadic disease presents as recurrent episodes of obstructive jaundice without any obstruction in billiary channel with intervening symptom free periods. Here we are presenting a case of 20-year-old male with a recurrent jaundice and pruritus who later diagnose as BRIC.

Management of Patient with Sturge-Weber Syndrome: a Case Report.

Sturge-Weber syndrome sometimes referred to as encephalotrigeminal angiomatosis, is a rare congenital neurological and skin disorder. This is case report of 7 years old mentally disabled boy, with long-standing seizures, with a portwine nevi on the right side of the face along the distribution of trigeminal nerve. Interictal encephalogram showed bilateral slow activity, pronounced in the right hemisphere, with epileptogenic activity in the right fronto-parietal region. Computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed intracranial calcifications and atrophy of the right hemisphere of brain. Professional counseling and support in addition to drug treatment provide help to patients and their family to overcome their problems and improve the treatment outcome.

Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Activities of the Fruit Extract of Ampelocissus latifolia (Roxb) on Laboratory Animals.

Aim of Study: This study was aimed to evaluate the possible analgesic and antiinflammatory properties of the ethanol extract of fruit of Ampelocissus latifolia (Roxb). Study Design: Assessment of analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pharmacy, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh, between June 2012 and March 2013. Methodology: The crude ethanol extract was investigated for the anti-inflammatory effect on Long Evans rats using carrageenan induced rat paw edema method. For antiinflammatory study, 20 rats were divided into 4 different groups, each receiving either distilled water, standard drug or the extract at the doses of 250 and 500mg/kg body weight (BW). The analgesic activity was evaluated by hot plate and acetic acid induced writhing method in Swiss albino mice divided into 4 different groups (control, standard and extract at two different doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg BW). Results: The results of preliminary phytochemical study revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, glycosides in significant amounts. The results of anti inflammatory activity study showed that the fruit extracts at a dose of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg inhibited carrageenan-induced paw edema in Long- Evans rats. Both the extracts were able to show a dose dependent anti-inflammatory activity as compared to diclofenac sodium used as a standard drug. The extract elicited a highly significant (p<0.001) analgesic activity in a dose dependent manner on hot plate method, acetic acid-induced writhing test. In the hot plate method, the extract increased the reaction time of heat sensation to 94.71% and 82.7% at the doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg BW while that of the standard drug was 61.45% at the 3rd hour of study. In acetic acid induced writhing test, the percent inhibition of writhing response by the extract was 50.57% and 59.77% at 250 and 500 mg/kg doses respectively (p<0.001). Conclusion: The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect of the ethanol fruit extract of Ampelocissus latifolia (Roxb) may be due to the presence of various chemical constituents especially flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids or terpenoids. These experimental findings would further establish the scientific basis of the traditional uses of the plant in the management of inflammatory conditions as well as control of pain.

In vitro antioxidant potential of the essential oil and leaf extracts of Curcuma zedoaria Rosc.

In this study, we examined the chemical composition of the essential oil and tested the antioxidant potential of the oil and leaf extracts of Curcuma zedoaria Rosc. The chemical compositions of the oil were analysed by GCMS. Twenty-four compounds representing 92.4% of the total oil was identified. The antioxidative potential was evaluated using two separate methods, inhibition of free radical 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and superoxide radicals scavenging activities assay. In the first case, the IC50 value of the oil was 14.8 ± 2.2. Among the extracts, the strongest activity was exhibited by the ethyl acetate extract (IC50 = 17.56 ± 1.6 μg/ml). In the superoxide radicals scavenging activities assay, ethyl acetate extract was superior to all other extracts (IC50 = 23.47 ± 1.2 μg/ml). Furthermore, the amount of total phenolic compounds was also determined as gallic acid equivalent. Thus, the natural products produced from C. zedoaria may be used in food and pharmaceutical industries.

Diagnostic Accuracy of Imprint Cytology and Frozen Section for CNS Tumor.

The present study was a cross-sectional type of descriptive one carried out with the objective of determining the diagnostic accuracy of imprint cytology and frozen section of central nervous system tumors. A purposively selected sample of 33 clinically diagnosed patients with CNS tumors has been included for the study. The relevant data on CNS tumors were collected by using imprint cytology, frozen section and paraffin section. The sensitivity of imprint cytology was 75.0% and specificity was 55.17% respectively. On the other hand positive predictive value of imprint cytology was 18.75% and negative predictive value was 94.11%. The sensitivity of frozen section was 100% and specificity was 86.21% respectively. Comparing the findings of the frozen section to histopathology, the positive predictive value was 50.0% and negative predictive value was 100%. The sensitivity and specificity of imprint cytology was lower in comparison to frozen section and paraffin section. Still then imprint cytology is preferred, because it can be carried out rapidly and easily. It will also be a very helpful aid especially when facilities for frozen section are limited but neurosurgical-procedure is available. A well designed research with adequate sample size should be carried out to get better diagnostic accuracy of imprint cytology in central nervous system tumors.

Respiratory Health Problems Among the Ceramic Workers in Dhaka,.

Ceramic factory workers are potentially at risk to develop occupational respiratory diseases due to chronic inhalation of dust particles generated in the ceramic factory. A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out to assess the respiratory and other health problems among the workers of Mirpur Ceramic Works Limited, Dhaka, Bangladesh during the period of April to June, 2011. Among 200 participants, 132 (66%) were males and 68 (34%) were females. Less than one-third of the workers were habituated to use personal protective equipments (PPE), while more than two-third were not habituated. Nearly half (45.5%) of the workers were suffering from at least one respiratory problem and of them 86.8% (P = 0.001) had problems after joining the factory. Of the respiratory sufferers 27% had chronic bronchitis, 20% bronchial asthma, 1% pulmonary tuberculosis, and 0.5% had silicosis. A significant numbers (60.5%) of workers were suffering from other health problems along with or without respiratory problems, in terms of musculoskeletal pain, back pain, headache, dermatitis, anaemia and fever. The prevalence of respiratory problems was significantly higher among non-users of PPE than PPE users (P = 0.006), and it was found to be higher with the increased of job duration. The study showed the notable higher prevalence of respiratory problems among the workers exposed to ceramic dust, although the other potential environmental confounding factors could not be ruled out in the analysis. Obligatory use of PPE by all workers and health education to increase awareness among the workers might have role to reduce the prevalence.