Combining ability analysis in bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L. ) for potential quality improvement / Análise de capacidade de combinação em cabaça-amarga (Momordica charantia L. ) para melhoria potencial da qualidade

Abstract Combining ability analysis provides useful information for the selection of parents, also information regarding the nature and magnitude of involved gene actions. Crops improvement involves strategies for enhancing yield potentiality and quality components. Targeting the improvement of respective characters in bitter gourd, combining ability and genetic parameters for 19 characters were estimated from a 6×6 full diallel analysis technique. The results revealed that the variances due to general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) were highly significant for most of the important characters. It indicated the importance of both additive and non-additive gene actions. GCA variances were higher in magnitude than SCA variances for all the characters studied indicating the predominance of the additive gene effects in their inheritance. The parent P2 (BG 009) appeared as the best general combiner for earliness; P1 (BG 006) for number of fruits, average single fruit weight and fruit yield; P4 (BG 027) for node number of first female flower and days to seed fruit maturity; P3 (BG 011) for fruit length and thickness of the fruit flesh; P5 (BG 033) for 100-seed weight; and P6 for number of nodes per main vine. The SCA effect as well as reciprocal effect was also significant for most of the important characters in different crosses.

Resumo A análise da capacidade de combinação fornece informações úteis para a seleção dos pais, também informações sobre a natureza e a magnitude das ações dos genes envolvidos. A melhoria das safras envolve estratégias para aumentar a potencialidade da produção e os componentes de qualidade. Visando ao aprimoramento dos respectivos caracteres em cabaça-amarga, capacidade de combinação e parâmetros genéticos para 19 caracteres, foram estimados a partir de uma técnica de análise dialélica completa 6 × 6. Os resultados revelaram que as variâncias, devido à capacidade geral de combinação (GCA) e capacidade específica de combinação (SCA), foram altamente significativas para a maioria dos caracteres importantes. Indicou a importância das ações gênicas aditivas e não aditivas. As variâncias GCA foram maiores em magnitude do que as variâncias SCA para todos os caracteres estudados, indicando a predominância dos efeitos do gene aditivo em sua herança. O pai P2 (BG 009) apareceu como o melhor combinador geral para o início; P1 (BG 006) para número de frutos, peso médio de um único fruto e produção de frutos; P4 (BG 027) para número de nó da primeira flor fêmea e dias para a maturidade do fruto da semente; P3 (BG 011) para comprimento do fruto e espessura da polpa do fruto; P5 (BG 033) para peso de 100 sementes; e P6 para o número de nós por videira principal. O efeito SCA, bem como o efeito recíproco, também foi significativo para a maioria dos personagens importantes em cruzamentos diferentes.

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.

Progressive Changes of Colitis Into Colorectal Cancer Associated With Changes in Neutrophil Lymphocyte Ratio, Serum, Micrornas and Infiltrate Neutrophils

@#Introduction: Understand the progression of colorectal cancer from the beginning until the advance stages is difficult and challenging. However, this could be overcome with a good animal model. Methods: In this study, a modified approach had been used to develop colorectal cancer model. The model was developed and monitored from colitis formation until the late stage of colorectal cancer. The changes of neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR), serum microRNAs and infiltrate neutrophil in different stages of colorectal cancer were assessed in this study. Results: Results showed that the progression of the disease is correlated with NLR as early as the formation of colitis (r=0.121, p<0.026). Meanwhile, the size of the tumor at each stage is also associated with the NLR value (r=0.185, p<0.0012). In the serum microRNAs study, it was found microRNAs expression in blood serum change in different stages of colorectal cancer. In the early stage of colitis formation, miR223 (> 3 fold expression, p < 0.0025) were abundantly found in the blood serum. Meanwhile in others stage mild (miRNA345 > 2.5 fold, p<0.0011), moderate (miRNA347 & miR512 > 3 fold, p<0.002) and severe (miR31 & miR145 > 2 fold, p<0.0001) microRNAs were also found expressed differently. The quantities of infiltrate neutrophil were varied in different stages of the disease. Conclusion: This study provides an insight into the immunity and molecular level of colorectal cancer and it allows a progressive monitoring on the changes in the molecular, cellular and histological level.

Effects of Residential Proximity to Industrial Zone on Respiratory Symptoms among Residents in Parit Raja, Batu Pahat

@#Introduction: The industrial park in the district of Parit Raja, Batu Pahat resulted in rapid growth of the town during the last 20 years and has been a reason of concern that this park also has contributed greatly to the problem of air pollution. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between industrial air pollution and respiratory symptoms in adults living in the Parit Raja. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was undertaken among residents in the district of Parit Raja, Batu Pahat, Johor, Malaysia. A total of 110 residents aged between 19 and 65 years were randomly selected and information on personal characteristics and respiratory symptoms was obtained through a validated questionnaire. The prevalence of respiratory symptoms was compared between residents recruited from the areas situated about 5km radius of the industrial park (exposed) and >5km radius from the industrial park (comparative). Results: A total of 34.5% and 25.5% of adults from the exposed group reported experiencing coughing for the last 3 months and chest tightness for the last 3 years. The logistic regression models showed that symptoms of coughing was associated with the exposed group (aOR=6.34, 95% CI=2.08-19.35), male respondents (aOR=3.18, 95% CI=1.10-9.16) and who stay in Part Raja for more than 14 years (aOR=3.16, 95% CI=1.14-8.79). Conclusion: This study demonstrated that long-term air pollution exposures are consistently associated with respiratory symptoms in residents living in the proximity of industrial parks. Therefore, public health initiatives that aim to provide more conducive environment are needed, especially for residents living near industrial parks.

Physiological Response and Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic among Malaysian Citizens: A Cross-sectional Study

@#Introduction: Studies have shown that staying at home for prolonged periods of crisis can pose a significant challenge to individuals and affect their mental health. Hence, this study was conducted to identify the susceptible subgroups among Malaysian citizens that are prone to mental health problems during the lockdown period of the COVID-19 pandemic and its association with sociodemographic factors. Methods: The mental health status was assessed using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale -21 (DASS-21) questionnaire. The survey link was distributed online between October and December 2020. Results: Of 637 respondents, one-third experienced mild to extremely severe depression and anxiety (31.1% and 35.1%, respectively). Female respondents (odds ratio = 1.516, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.057-2.172) were 1.5 times more likely to experience mild to severe depression than male respondents. Unmarried and divorced respondents were 2.1 times more prone to experience mild to severe depression than married respondents. A significant association was also found between employment status and age with depression symptoms among the respondents. For anxiety, a significant association was observed between the age group with mild to severe anxiety symptoms. Marital status, age, and employment status were socio-demographic factors significantly impacting stress levels. Conclusion: According to our findings, females, individuals aged 18-30 years old, students, unmarried and divorced respondents were more susceptible to mental health problems, suggesting that mental health support shall also be provided for these vulnerable groups during the COVID-19 crisis.

Survival Analysis and Prognostic Factors for Peri-ocular Malignancies in Malaysia

@#Introduction: This study aims to determine the prognostic factors and survival outcomes of patients that underwent this surgery. Method: A retrospective review of 43 patients who underwent exenteration for periocular malignancies over a 14-year period was carried out. Patient demographics, tumour histology, treatment details, surgical margins’ status and post-operative survival were recorded. The survival outcome examined was the overall survival (OS) rate. Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier analysis were used to evaluate post-exenteration survival. Results: In total, 20 females and 23 males with a median age of 62 ± 17.3 years were identified. The most common indication for exenteration was basal cell carcinoma (20.9%), followed by squamous cell carcinoma (18.6%), adenocystic carcinoma (14%), malignant melanoma (14%) and sebaceous gland carcinoma (11.6%). The independent predictors for worse OS on multivariate analysis were Chinese ethnicity (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 4.95, p =0.017), sebaceous gland carcinoma (aHR 57.61 p=0.006), adenocystic carcinoma (aHR 45.87, p=0.008), clear surgical margins (aHR 5.41, p=0.025), receiving only chemotherapy (aHR 169.13, p=0.004), and receiving both adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy (aHR 41.51, p=0.010). Conclusion: We recommend targeted public health initiatives for Chinese patients due to their increased mortality risk from peri-ocular malignancies. In addition, we advise comprehensive adjuvant therapy for all patients regardless of whether a clear surgical margin is achieved. Basal cell carcinoma and adenocystic carcinoma may also benefit from genetic research. We advocate more training for ophthalmologists to identify periocular malignancies earlier for better treatment options and increased chances of survival.

The role of irrational beliefs on psychological distress among female office workers in Bali

Objectives@#This study examined the association between irrational beliefs and psychological distress among female office workers in Bali, and formulate general equation to predict psychological distress from the irrational belief scores.@*Methods@#A cross-sectional study was conducted among 111 female office workers in Bali. The irrational beliefs were measured by the Smith Irrational Belief Inventory (SIBI) questionnaire and the psychological distress was assessed by a questionnaire quoted from the Brief Job Stress Questionnaire (BJSQ). Multivariable linear regression was performed to evaluate the role of irrational beliefs on psychological distress scores.@*Results@#There was a moderate, positive correlation between irrational beliefs and psychological distress, which was statistically significant (r = 0.451, n = 111, p = 0.000). The R squared was 0.205, indicating that 20.5% of psychological distress variance can be explained by irrational beliefs. The F-ratio in the ANOVA test shows that the independent variables statistically significantly predict the dependent variable, F(3,107) = 9.187, p < 0.0005. The general form of the equation to predict psychological distress from irrational belief scores is: Predicted psychological distress (Y) = 17.909 + (0.392 x Irrational belief scores).@*Conclusion@#Irrational beliefs are significantly associated with psychological distress among female office workers in Gianyar, Bali. This finding suggests the need for strategies anticipating better health and productivity among female workers.

Increased yield performance of mutation induced Soybean genotypes at varied agro-ecological conditions

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.

Combining ability analysis in bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) for potential quality improvement

Abstract Combining ability analysis provides useful information for the selection of parents, also information regarding the nature and magnitude of involved gene actions. Crops improvement involves strategies for enhancing yield potentiality and quality components. Targeting the improvement of respective characters in bitter gourd, combining ability and genetic parameters for 19 characters were estimated from a 6×6 full diallel analysis technique. The results revealed that the variances due to general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) were highly significant for most of the important characters. It indicated the importance of both additive and non-additive gene actions. GCA variances were higher in magnitude than SCA variances for all the characters studied indicating the predominance of the additive gene effects in their inheritance. The parent P2 (BG 009) appeared as the best general combiner for earliness; P1 (BG 006) for number of fruits, average single fruit weight and fruit yield; P4 (BG 027) for node number of first female flower and days to seed fruit maturity; P3 (BG 011) for fruit length and thickness of the fruit flesh; P5 (BG 033) for 100-seed weight; and P6 for number of nodes per main vine. The SCA effect as well as reciprocal effect was also significant for most of the important characters in different crosses.

Resumo A análise da capacidade de combinação fornece informações úteis para a seleção dos pais, também informações sobre a natureza e a magnitude das ações dos genes envolvidos. A melhoria das safras envolve estratégias para aumentar a potencialidade da produção e os componentes de qualidade. Visando ao aprimoramento dos respectivos caracteres em cabaça-amarga, capacidade de combinação e parâmetros genéticos para 19 caracteres, foram estimados a partir de uma técnica de análise dialélica completa 6 × 6. Os resultados revelaram que as variâncias, devido à capacidade geral de combinação (GCA) e capacidade específica de combinação (SCA), foram altamente significativas para a maioria dos caracteres importantes. Indicou a importância das ações gênicas aditivas e não aditivas. As variâncias GCA foram maiores em magnitude do que as variâncias SCA para todos os caracteres estudados, indicando a predominância dos efeitos do gene aditivo em sua herança. O pai P2 (BG 009) apareceu como o melhor combinador geral para o início; P1 (BG 006) para número de frutos, peso médio de um único fruto e produção de frutos; P4 (BG 027) para número de nó da primeira flor fêmea e dias para a maturidade do fruto da semente; P3 (BG 011) para comprimento do fruto e espessura da polpa do fruto; P5 (BG 033) para peso de 100 sementes; e P6 para o número de nós por videira principal. O efeito SCA, bem como o efeito recíproco, também foi significativo para a maioria dos personagens importantes em cruzamentos diferentes.

Encefalopatia toxica secundaria a vigabatrina: Reporte de caso / Toxic encephalopathy secondary to vigabatrin: Case report

El síndrome de West es una encefalopatía epiléptica caracterizada por espasmos en flexión, hipsarritmia en el electroencefalograma y retraso en el neurodesarrollo. Reportamos el caso de una paciente de 11 meses con diagnóstico de Síndrome de West y encefalopatía tóxica secundaria al uso de vigabatrina

West syndrome is an epileptic encephalopathy characterized by flexing spasms, hypsarritmia in the electroencephalogram and delayed neurodevelopment. We report an 11-month-old patient with a diagnosis of West syndrome and toxic encephalopathy secondary to the use of vigabatrin

Prevalence of hypogonadism in transfusion-dependent ß-thalassemia patients of Bangladesh: investigating the role of serum ferritin level as a diagnostic tool

ABSTRACT Introduction: Hypogonadism is one of the most frequent complications in transfusion-dependent thalassemia patients and early recognition and treatment is the core element in restoring impaired gonadal function. Despite the high burden of disease, relevant studies are scarcely addressing the gonadal function of such patients in Bangladesh. The pattern of gonadal function in transfusion-dependent thalassemia patients must be characterized before planning a generalized management plan. Moreover, since iron overload is a key reason behind hypogonadism in thalassemia patients, investigating the role of serum ferritin level as a diagnostic tool for hypongadism was also an aim of this study. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Transfusion Medicine of the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 94 patients were enrolled in this study. A detailed history and thorough clinical examination were carried out in each patient and recorded using a pretested structured questionnaire. In addition, the laboratory assessment of serum ferritin, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone and estradiol in serum were also performed. The data were analyzed using the STATA (v.16). Results: The mean age of the patients with transfusion-dependent thalassemia was 18.81 ± 4.65 (SD), with 53.3% of the patients being male. The overall prevalence of hypogonadism was 35.11%, 18.1% being normogonadotropic, 11.7% being hypogonadotropic and 5.3% being hypergonadotropic. The serum ferritin level was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in patients with hypogonadism (Eugonadal: 2,174.79 (± 749.12) ng/ml; Hypogonadal: 3,572.59 (± 1,199.49) ng/ml). The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of serum ferritin was high (0.83) and the p-value was highly significant (< 0.001). Conclusion: Therefore, the serum ferritin level and gonadal hormone analysis of transfusion-dependent thalassemia patients can be considered a screening tool for assessing gonadal function and early detection and prevention of hypogonadism.

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.

Associated Risk Factors and Clinical Outcomes of Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients in A Tertiary Care Hospital

Background: Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Identifying the risk factors, clinical outcomes, and complications of ACS patients is crucial for optimal patient management and resource allocation. This study aimed to investigate these factors in a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh. Material & Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted with a sample of 100 ACS patients at the Department of Cardiology, Cumilla Medical College Hospital, Cumilla, Bangladesh. The study duration was 6 months, from March 2013 to August 2013. Data were collected on socio-demographic characteristics, physical measurements, risk factors, presenting symptoms, ACS types, and outcome complications. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Results: The study population comprised 76% males and 24% females, with a mean age of 55.4 years. The most prevalent risk factors were smoking (59%), hypertension (41%), and diabetes mellitus (10%). Chest pain was the most common presenting symptom (86%). STEMI (48%), unstable angina (44%), and NSTEMI (8%) were the identified ACS types. Complications observed included heart failure (9%), cardiogenic shock (8%), conduction defects (10%), and arrhythmias (13%), with no reported deaths. Conclusion: Our findings emphasize the importance of addressing modifiable risk factors such as smoking, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus through targeted interventions and public health initiatives. Additionally, the study highlights the need for healthcare providers to be aware of both typical and atypical presentations of ACS to facilitate prompt diagnosis and treatment. Further research with larger, multicenter studies is needed to better understand the complexities of ACS risk factors and outcomes in Bangladesh and other low- and middle-income countries

Dyslipidemia Associated with Hypertension Increases the Risks of CHD among cardiac patients: A Case-Control Study

Background: Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) is one of the largest contributors to mortality and morbidity worldwide. Globally, CHD accounts for 17.5 million deaths in 2012, with over 75% of deaths occurring in developing countries. By 2015, 16% of all female and male deaths were caused by CHD. Dyslipidemia is the most common risk factor of CHD for the excessive level of lipids in blood. Most dyslipidemias are hyperlipidemias in developing countries; that is, an accumulation in blood lipids. CHD was 18 times more likely to grow according to hypertension with dyslipidemia category than with non-dyslipidemias. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of dyslipidemia associated with hypertension for coronary heart disease and identify risk factors for CHD among cardiac patients. Material & Methods: This was a case control study and was conducted in the Department of Medicine, LABAID Specialized Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh during the period from May,2022 to March,2023. We included 170 cardiac patients in our study. The patients were divided into two groups – Case group (Patients diagnosed with CHD) & Control group. Results: In total 170 patients from both the groups completed the study. In our study we found most of our patients were male (58%) compared to female (42%). We found the mean age was 46.1±11.3 & 47.1±9.3 years in case & control group respectively. Family history of hypertension was significantly higher in case group (52%). Among all patients, BMI was higher in case group. Cholesterol, systolic & diastolic bp was found significantly higher in case group than control group. HDL was found lower & LDL was found higher in case group. Among 85 cases, majority (68%) had dyslipidemia associated with hypertension. We found dyslipidemia was 55% & 36% in case & control group respectively. Hypertension was also found significantly higher in case group. Age ? 60 years, family history of CHD, smoking, diabetes & obesity were also individual risk factors of CHD among cardiac patients. In dyslipidemia with hypertension group 68 patients were diagnosed with CHD which is higher than non-hypertension group. Conclusion: In our study, we found that dyslipidemia, hypertension, age ? 60 years, family history of CHD, smoking, diabetes & obesity are individual risk factors of CHD development. Relationship of dyslipidemia with coronary heart disease in hypertension is significant. We also found dyslipidemia with hypertension is an established risk factor of prime importance that increased the risks of CHD among cardiac patients

Comparison of Characteristics among Suspected ACS Patients by Normal and Elevated Hs-Troponin Levels

Background: Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. However, some patients with ACS may have normal levels of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin (hs-cTn), a biomarker of myocardial injury, at presentation. This study aimed to compare the characteristics and outcomes of ACS patients with normal and elevated hs-cTn levels using different assays and thresholds. Material & Methods: This 2-year retrospective observational study was conducted in Bangladesh, using data from hospital records of 420 suspected ACS patients. Patients were divided into two groups based on their Hs-Troponin levels, with group 1 having 60 patients with Hs-Troponin ?0.014 ug/L, and group 2 having 360 patients with Hs-Troponin >0.014 ug/L. Patients less than 18 years old and those with incomplete records were excluded. Ethical approval was obtained, and SPSS v.25 was used for analysis. Results: Group 1 had a significantly younger mean age of 41.8±14.3 compared to Group 2’s mean age of 68.4±12.6, with a p-value less than 0.001. Group 2 had a higher percentage of male patients (70.56%) compared to Group 1 (31.67%), with a p-value of less than 0.01. Group 2 had a significantly higher mean heart rate of 80.18±20.64 beats per minute compared to Group 1’s mean heart rate of 71.02±12.21, with a p-value less than 0.001. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, BMI, history of smoking, history of AMI, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus. Group 1 had a significantly lower percentage of patients with hypercholesterolemia (55.00%), but a higher percentage of patients with a history of ACS (25.00%), and a family history of CAD (70.00%) compared to Group 2, with p-values less than 0.001. Group 2 had a significantly higher percentage of patients with known renal failure (21.67%) compared to Group 1 (1.67%), with a p-value less than 0.001. Creatinine levels were significantly higher in Group 2 (98±53 µmol/L) compared to Group 1 (76±17 µmol/L) with a p-value of less than 0.001, and eGFR was significantly lower in Group 2 (76±27 mL/min/1.73 m2) compared to Group 1 (97±23 mL/min/1.73 m2) with a p-value of less than 0.001. The cardiac Troponin T (cTnT) levels were significantly higher in Group 2 (0.28±1.68 ug/L) compared to Group 1 (0.01±0.01 ug/L) with a p-value of less than 0.001, indicating worse kidney function and cardiac damage in Group 2 compared to Group 1. Conclusion: The study found that very few patients presenting with ACS symptoms had normal Hs-Troponin levels, and ultimate diagnosis proved that they did not have ACS, indicating the usability of Hs-Troponin as a biomarker for ACS. Significant differences were observed in age, gender, heart rate, hypercholesterolemia, family history of ACS, family history of CAD, and renal failure between the two groups. The study also found a consistent association between elevated creatinine levels and lower eGFR with higher Hs-Troponin levels.

Monitoring of Air and Water Bacterial Load in the Operation Theatres and Intensive Care Units of Selected Hospitals in Dhaka city: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Hospital milieu monitoring is an essential component for controlling healthcare associated infections (HCAIs) as it serves as the reservoir for pathogenic microbes. Aim of this study was to identify the bacterial load in Intensive care units (ICU) and Operation theaters (OT) air and water sources of selected tertiary care hospitals. Material & Methods: The study was organized in Microbiology department, BIRDEM General Hospital. A sum total 28 air samples & 6 water samples were collected from three selected hospitals and those were processed according to the set of protocols. Results: From air sampling, highest load of bacteria was found 480 CFU/dm²/hr in Hospital C ICU, 38.40 ± 9.99 CFU/dm²/hr in pre-OT samples & 218.2±43.35 CFU/dm²/hr in intra OT samples of Hospital C. From water sampling, unacceptable level of coliforms was found in all three hospitals. Among the non-pathogens, 24% – 37% Micrococcus spp. (normal flora) and 2% -18% Bacillus spp. (contaminants) were found in the OTs. Whereas pathogens found were Acinetobacter spp. (20.7%) followed by Pseudomonas spp. (19.4%), Klebsiella spp. (12.1%) & S. aureus (9.2%) in the ICUs. Conclusion: It could be deduced from the study that environmental sources such as air and water contaminations with multidrug resistant pathogens are an ultimate risk factor for all related to the healthcare settings, specially the indoor patients.

Socio-Demographic, Clinical and Diabetes Status of Foot Ulcer Patients

Background: Foot ulcers are considered as a serious complication, especially for patients with diabetes. People with diabetes and people with peripheral vascular disease are more likely to develop foot ulcers. If an infection occurs in an ulcer and is not treated in the proper way, it can develop into cellulitis, osteomyelitis, or gangrene that may require some part of the toe, foot, or lower leg to be amputated. The aim of this study was to find the socio-demographic, clinical, and diabetes status of foot ulcer patients. Material & Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Surgery, Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, Rajshahi, Bangladesh, during the period from March 2012 to August 2012. In total 100 patients with foot ulcers in the different surgical units of the mentioned hospital were enrolled in this study as study subjects. Data from the study regarding age, sex, occupation, smoking habit, and socio-demographic condition were recorded in the prescribed questionnaire. The purposive sampling technique was used for this study. All data were processed, analyzed, and disseminated using MS Excel and SPSS version 23 programs as necessary. Results: In this study, the male-female ratio of the participants was 2:1. The maximum number of patients (42%) were from the age of 51-60 years and the highest number of patients were housewives (28%), followed by farmers (22%). Among the total male patients, 87.88% were smokers. Low HDL was found in 51% of patients and 68% of patients had been suffering from diabetes mellitus,18% from Buerger’s disease and 6% from atherosclerosis, and 8% from malignant foot ulcer. Most of the diabetic patients (95.59%) were hyperglycemic on admission and 55.88% had diabetes for 6-10 years. On admission, 3 patients (4.41%) had controlled blood sugar and 65 patients (95.59%) had uncontrolled blood sugar. Conclusion: The frequency of foot ulcers among the male population was higher than that in females. Concerning occupation of the patients, housewives and farmers were the most prevalent. Smokers were most affected groups among the study population. Pre-diagnosed diabetes mellitus for a long period was one of the major clinical issues in most of the patients. Uncontrolled blood sugar was also seen in majority of the patients regarding clinical background.

Evaluation of Clinical & Functional Outcomes Bristow Latarjet Procedure in the Management of Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Dislocation

Background: Glenohumeral joint is highly susceptible to dislocation due to its wide range of movements. Recurrent anterior shoulder dislocations are common in young adults. The Bristow Latarjet procedure is one of the effective techniques for the treatment of recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation. This study aimed to assess the clinical and functional outcome of the Bristow Latarjet procedure in the management of recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation. Material & Methods: This prospective interventional study was conducted in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, BSMMU, from October 2017 to September 2019. Within this period, a total of 40 cases of recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation that meet inclusion criteria were taken as a sample. Patients were evaluated both pre and postoperatively for functional outcomes according to Rowe’s score for instability. A purposive non-randomized sampling technique was used in this study. All the data were compiled and sorted properly and the quantitative data were analyzed statistically by using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS-25). The results were expressed as frequency, percentage and mean ± SD. Paired Student’s‘t’ test was performed to compare pre and final postoperative follow-up. The level of significance was calculated at a confidence interval of 95% and p-value <0.05. Results: : In this study age of the patient ranged from 18-40 years and the mean age was 28.2±6.3. 29(72.5). Surgery was done within 4-6 months of the first dislocation in 5 patients, within 6-12 months in 21 patients and after 12 months in 14 patients. The mean (±SD) Rowe score for instability was significantly (p<0.001) higher 6 months after the Bristow Latarjet procedure at 91.87(±9.00) in comparison to preoperative periods 52.62(±18.40). Results were excellent in 32(80%), good in 4(10%), fair in 3(7.5%) and poor in 1(2.5%) patients. 36(90%) patients were in the satisfactory group and only 4(10%) in the unsatisfactory group. Only 1(2.5%) patient developed screw migration, 2(5%) patients developed subluxation, and 1(2.5%) patient developed postoperative arthritis. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the Bristow-Latarjet procedure is a very effective and safe procedure with reduced complications, presenting very satisfactory functional results in the treatment of recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation.

MRI as a Diagnostic Tool for the Determination of Acute Ischaemic Stroke: A Study in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Background: Stroke is a prevalent and potentially fatal medical condition that affects individuals worldwide. Ischemic strokes, caused by arterial blockages, are the most common type, accounting for about 80% of all cases. Hemorrhagic strokes, on the other hand, are less frequent but can have more severe consequences. Accurate and timely diagnosis of stroke is critical for effective treatment and optimal patient outcomes. In this context, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) has emerged as a valuable tool for identifying and monitoring ischemic stroke. This article provides an overview of the role of DWI in stroke assessment and management, with a focus on early detection and intervention. The aim of this study is to investigate the reliability of diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI) as an imaging modality in the evaluation of acute ischemic stroke. Material & Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Radiology and Imaging at the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Dhaka, Bangladesh, between June 2020 and June 2021. The study aimed to examine 120 patients clinically diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke. Prior to the study, verbal consent was obtained from all patients. The Study subjects were identified in the emergency and casualty department and had undergone an MRI of the brain in the Department of Radiology and Imaging at CMH, Dhaka. . Data were collected on pre-designed forms, and the relevant information was compiled on a master chart for statistical analysis using SPSS software. Descriptive analysis and frequency of results were presented in the form of tables, pie charts, and bar graphs. The ethical clearance of this study was obtained from the Institutional Ethics Committee of CMH, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Results: The study included 64 males and 56 females with a mean age of 65.2 ± 7.83 years. The majority of patients had an acute ischemic lesion (88.30%) in the MCA (50.0%) with small-sized lesions (41.7%) and low ADC values (90.0%). The most common clinical presentation was hemiplegia (100%), and diffusion-weighted MRI had a high diagnostic accuracy in detecting acute ischaemic lesions (96.3%). Overall, these findings highlight the importance of MRI in the evaluation of stroke patients and can guide clinical decision-making. Conclusion: The present study concluded that DWI in conjunction with ADC map MR imaging is a gold standard diagnostic modality in the evaluation and management of acute ischaemic stroke.

Pott’s Disease– When & How to Operate?

Background: Pott’s disease is a rare form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis that manifests in a variety of clinical patterns. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can lead to serious complications. About 10-40% of patients with spinal tuberculosis may have a neurological deficit. Urgent measures are needed to halt the progression of the disease and deformity, especially to prevent and overcome paraplegia. In regards to management, every case is different and has a unique procedure. It includes simple medical management, simple decompression and debridement, anterior approach, and posterior approach, etc. Surgical decompression of the cord and instrumentation are needed in many cases besides chemotherapy. Although the anterior approach is used for cervical Pott’s disease but this procedure is very time-consuming and technically difficult in the lumbar and dorsal spine, especially in compromised patients and morbidity is more. The posterior approach alone is enough for achieving adequate decompression, debridement, reduction, fusion, reconstruction of the body, and maintaining sagittal alignment in the dorsal and lumbar Pott’s spine. The aim of the study was to describe the treatment modality and observe the outcome of treatment methods and incidence rate of infection sites among the patients of Potts spine. Material & Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at the Department of Neurosurgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Bangladesh. The study duration was 7 years, from March 2016 to January 2023. During this period, a total of 30 cases of Pott’s disease were included in the study following inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: 53.33% had been from the youngest age group of 15-34 years, and 80 % were male. Very few participants had been female in the present study. Back pain was the primary complication for 50% of cases, while spinal infection was observed in the cervical region for 16.67% of cases, 43.33% had infections in the dorsal region, and 30 % in the lumbar region. 10.00% of the participants had been treated with non-surgical methods, with only anti-TB medication for 18 months or more. Posterior decompression was the most common treatment method, with 23.33% having only posterior decompression, and 40.00% having posterior decompression with the use of additional instruments. Conclusion: The study observed that Pott’s disease was most common among young adult males, and the most common sites of spinal infections were in the dorsal and lumbar regions in the present study population, contradictory to the general findings. Decompression treatment, with and without additional instruments, was the most common form of treatment among the present study population.