Search

Background: Vitamin D receptor gene (VDR) polymorphism and its association with various diseases have been previously investigated. But the association of vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism with COPD has not been investigated yet. Objective: To assess the association between vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism (TaqI) and COPD. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Physiology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, from March 2019 to February 2020. For this study, 15 (fifteen) pulmonologists diagnosed COPD patients with age 40 to 80 years (post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC

Recent scientific advancements have sparked an increasing trend of returning to nature. Scientists worldwide prefer natural medical derivatives over synthetic ones due to fewer side effects. Green tea is abundant in bioactive components and vitamins. Although most components of green tea were thought to be absorbed inadequately by oral administration, they are essential for better health. In the present study, an in silico approach was taken to evaluate the effect or correlation of bioactive components of tea on memory retention, cognitive performance, and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases that result in memory alterations, dementia, and cognitive dysfunction. Furthermore, binding of bioactive components with brain-specific proteins and possible alterations in those proteins due to tea components were illustrated. Four critical brain-specific proteins were evaluated in the present molecular analysis. Cyclooxygenase 1 (COX1), Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Amyloid-β Precursor Protein (APP1), and Cytochrome P4502D6 (Cyp2D6) were the proteins involved. Their interaction with the bioactive components of green tea was evaluated using computational molecular docking analysis (CMDA). The bioactive molecules were Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), L-Theanine, Kaemferol, Coumarin, and Myricetin. The beneficial effect of green tea on memory was prioritized in this study. CMDA has shown possible inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, amyloid-β protein, cyclooxygenase 1, and Cytochrome P4502D6 (Cyp2D6). Bioactive components of green tea passed the blood-brain barrier and influenced short-term memory at low concentrations. Significant dosage or concentration in capsulated form might result in long-term effects since both bioavailability, and concentration of essential components of green tea are scarce. Bioresearch Commu. 8(2): 1113-1123, 2022 (July)

Background: Placenta praevia is a disorder that happens during pregnancy when the placenta is abnormally placed in the lower uterine segment, which at times covers the cervix. Placenta previa may be associated with placenta accreta (PA) or one of its more advanced forms as (placenta increta and percreta). Objective: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the maternal and neonatal outcomes in patients with placenta previa and placenta accrete. Methodology: This prospective descriptive study was carried out at Different privet chamber in Dhaka City, during study period from January 2018 to December 2019. Among 75 cases (45 had placenta previa and 30 had placenta accrete) diagnosed preoperatively by ultrasound or postoperatively with or without PA. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were evaluated. All intraoperative and postoperative data were reported. The obtained data was analyzed by means of SPSS software (version 23.0) and p0.05) between two groups. IUFD was found 1(3.3%) in placenta accrete group but not found in placenta previa group. Neonatal death was found 1(3.3%) in placenta accrete group but not found in placenta previa group. Conclusion: The incidence of both PP and PA is very high in present locality due to increase CS rate. Admission to maternity HDU, admission to ICU and mean Postoperative hospital stay (days) were significantly difference between women with placenta previa (PP) and placenta accreta (PA). Journal of Current and Advance Medical Research, January 2022;9(1):36-41

Background: Laboratory investigations has a great role for the detection of pelvic Inflammatory disease among women. Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to see the laboratory profiles of women presented with pelvic inflammatory diseases during reproductive age group. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from January 2008 to June 2009 for a period of one (01) and a half year. Women who were presented with pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) attended at the OPD of gynecology Department at Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh were selected as study population. Laboratory investigations of each patient were taken and were recorded. Result: A total number of 300 cases were recruited. The mean age with SD was 30.3±9.57 years. In this present study 92(30.7%) patients had haemoglobin level less than 60.0%. The total count of WBC was counted and was found that majority had normal count which was 246(82.0%) cases. Culture of endocervical swab was done in 86 cases of which 34(39.5%) cases showed a growth of bacteria. The most common isolated bacteria was Escherichia coli which was 28(82.0%) cases followed by the growth of Staphylococcus aureus which was in 6(18.0%) cases. Conclusion: In conclusion haemoglobin level, total count of WBC are most commonly found among the women presented with pelvic inflammatory diseases with the predominance of Escherichia coli. Bangladesh Journal of Infectious Diseases June 2021;8(1):3-6

Psoriasis is a common, chronic, immune mediated inflammatory disease that involves the innate immunological system (keratinocyte, dendritic cell, histiocytes, mast cells and endothelial cells) and acquired immunological system (T lymphocytes). Essential trace elements like iron (Fe), copper (Cu) undergo redox cycling and have physiological significance in inflammatory process. This study is aimed at measuring the level of copper, ceruloplasmin, iron and transferrin in psoriasis patient and to assess its relationship with the severity of the disease. This is an observational cross sectional study. It was conducted at the department of Dermatology and Venereology, BSMMU, Dhaka. Age range of the patient was 18 to 65 years. The mean age of the patients was 39.1±13.54 years, 57.9% patients were male and 42.1% were female. Male: female ratio was 1.4:1. Male patients were predominant. Mean duration of disease 5.36±4.05 years with range from 1.0 to 14 years. Most of the (76.3%) patients had mild disease followed by 23.7% had moderate to severe disease. Serum level of trace elements was compared between mild and moderate to severe group of psoriasis patients but difference were not statistically significant (p>0.05). Weak negative correlation was found between PASI score and serum levels of copper (r = “0.134, P = 0.423), iron (r = –0.080, p = 0.632), transferrin (r = –0.079, p = 0.638) and weak positive correlation was found with ceruloplasmin (r = 0.228, p = 0.168). The results of the present research provide valuable information and correlation between the measured biomarkers and severity of psoriasis. Serum Ceruloplasmin, copper, iron and serum transferrin could serve as a biomarker of psoriasis but not as a marker of psoriasis severity. J Dhaka Medical College, Vol. 29, No.1, April, 2020, Page 59-68

Background: Pelvic Inflammatory disease is a very common gynaecological condition among the women in reproductive age group. Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to find out the clinical findings of Pelvic inflammatory diseases among the women during reproductive age group. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from January 2008 to June 2009 for a period of one (01) and a half year. Women who were presented with pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) attended at the OPD of gynecology Department at Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh were selected as study population. Detailed clinical history of each patient was taken and thorough physical examination was performed. Result: A total number of 300 cases were recruited. The mean age with SD was 30.3±9.57 years. Majority of the patients had tenderness in the lower abdomen which was 96(64.0%) cases. However, 152(50.7%) patients had vaginal discharge and 34(11.3%) patients had uterovaginal proplapse. However, cervical tear was present in 96(32.0%) cases and chronic cervicitis was present in 138(46.0%) cases. Conclusion: In conclusion most common clinical feature is lower abdominal tenderness followed by vaginal discharge. Journal of National Institute of Neurosciences Bangladesh, January 2021, Vol. 7, No. 1, pp. 52-55

A-3-year- old Bangladeshi pediatric patient named Tasin was presented with a diagnosed case of congenital hypothyroidism (CH). This type of hypothyroidism may occur due to the alteration in the nucleotide sequences of the Thyroid transcription factor 2 gene. Few studies are present on the genetic basis of this disease. CH is common in Bangladesh, may be due to geographical variation or other causes. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify whether there was any genetic alteration in the exon2 of Thyroid transcription factor 2 gene. With due procedure and permission from the guardian of the pediatric patient, socio-demographic data was collected. Isolation of DNA, quantitation and qualitation of DNA was ensured, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed, the amplicons that was obtained from PCR; validated visually by gel electrophoresis methods; cycle sequencing was performed by Sanger sequencing. The chromatogram data that was obtained from Sanger sequencing was analyzed and compared with the National Center for Biotechnology Information database by Basic Local Alignment Search Tool search. Sanger sequencing revealed substitution (c.1051G>T) in the Sequence Tagged Site of the exon2 of Thyroid transcription factor 2 gene and this is new variants and not reported in National Center for Biotechnology Information database.

Background:Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most frequent type of cardiomyopathy. HCM is a disease of changing cardiac morphology that causes various form of cardiac dysfunction. HCM patients may remain asymptomatic and undiagnosed for a long time. If they become symptomatic, they commonly present with breathlessness, chest discomfort, and exertion. It is also responsible for the sudden cardiac death.Proper assessment of the functional status of the heart is required for proper management strategies of HCM. Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the IVS, PWT and LVEF in different cardiac phenotypes as well as to draw correlation among them. Materials and method:A descriptive cross-sectional study was undertaken on thirty-four adult Bangladeshi hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients (thirty-one male, three female). The study was carried out in the Department of Anatomy, BSMMU. Diagnoses adult HCM patients were selected as study patients. Transthoracic echocardiography was done to assess the interventricular septal thickness (IVS), left ventricular posterior wall thickness (PWT) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Result: The changes in the value of the left ventricular ejection fraction shows significant correlation with left ventricular posterior wall thickness,rather than the interventricular septal thickness. Conclusion:Though significant correlation between left ventricular ejection fraction and left ventricular posterior wall thickness was found, a large cohort study could be done to see the long term outcome of such correlation. University Heart Journal Vol. 15, No. 1, Jan 2019; 12-15

Cobb-500 broiler chicks were used to study the effects of probiotics on growth performances and haemato-biochemical parameters. A total of fifteen broiler chicks (16 days old) were randomly divided into three equal groups (n=5). Two groups of broilers were fed probiotics at the rate of 0.5 gm/kg and 1gm/kg respectively with commercial feed for 22 days. Chicks fed on only commercial feed were considered as control group. The results showed that broilers treated with probiotics grew faster compared to control group. After having completed the trial, the birds were sacrificed to collect blood sample for hematological and biochemical analysis. Dressed weight, weight of skin including feathers, leg weight, breast weight and liver weight were found higher in treated groups compared to control group. Total erythrocytes count and hemoglobin content were found increased in treated group compared to control group. ESR value was found decrease in treated groups compared to control group. Total cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL was significantly (P>0.01) lower in the treated groups compared to control group. The serum alkaline phosphatase significantly (P

BACKGROUND : Wilson disease (WD) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutation in the Adenosine Triphosphate 7B (ATP7B) gene. The spectrum of ATP7B mutation varies in different populations. The objective of this study was to identify the mutation in exon 8 and exon 14 of ATP7B gene in Bangladeshi children clinically diagnosed as WD. We also aimed to explore the phenotypic presentation.It was a cross sectional observational study. The study was conducted at the Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh from January 2017 to June 2018. A total of 37 patients diagnosed with WD were enrolled for the study. Venous blood (about 3 mL) was drawn aseptically from each patient into tube containing ethyline diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) and preserved at -30°C for long-term preservation. The peripheral blood leukocytes of the patients and genomic DNAs were extracted. Exons 14 and 8 of ATP7B and their associated splice-site junctions were amplified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The size and quantity of PCR products were verified by electrophoresis in 1.5% (w/v) agarose gel. 74 (37 × 2) PCR products were sent for Sanger Sequencing. The sequences were analyzed by Chromas version 2.6.6 software and the nucleotide blast was done by National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) nucleoblast. Finally, the sequences were analyzed using AB Applied Bio systems and were matched with the reference sequences using MEGA software.In this study, a single novel homozygous mutation pLeu.1071Val in the exon 14 was found in every (100%) studied child clinically diagnosed with WD. Heterozygous mutation p.Gly1061Glu in exon14 was also found in 6 patients (11%) with WD, which is one of the common mutations in this disease. In exon 8, p.Arg778Leu mutation was detected in one patient (2.7%), which is common in the Chinese and the South Asian populations and was heterozygous. Two novel heterozygous missense mutations p.K785R (2.7%) and p.S744F (2.7%) were also found in two other children in the exon 8.We found three novel mutations in Bangladeshi children with WD, one of which may be tagged as founder mutation for Bangladeshi population. This finding indicates the necessity to study the mutation profiles of the whole ATP7B gene in our population for risk prediction. A further large-scale study will help in the development of a Mutational Data Base of Bangladeshi population with WD.

Context and rationale: Congenital hypothyroidism is a prevalent endocrine disease that may occur due to the alteration in the sequence of nucleotides of the NKX2.5 gene. Though congenital hypothyroidism is quite common among the Bangladeshi pediatric population, there are few studies on the genetic basis of this disease. Objective: This study aimed to identify any mutation in the exon2 of the NKX2.5 gene in Bangladeshi pediatric patients with congenital hypothyroidism. Methods: Forty (40) Bangladeshi pediatric patients with congenital hypothyroidism were recruited, the sociodemographic data were collected and analyzed, DNA was isolated, quantity and quality of DNA were checked, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was done, the amplicons were visually validated by gel electrophoresis and cycle sequencing was done by Sanger sequencing. The raw chromatogram data were analyzed and compared with the NCBI database by BLAST (Basic Local Alignment Search Tool) search. Results: Sanger sequencing revealed two types of alteration in the nucleotide sequence. Nine patients showed substitutions (c.1051G>T) and eight patients showed deletions (c.1143 delT-), and both substitution and deletion were present in four patients. This substitution and deletion occurred in the Sequence Tagged Site (STS) of the exon2 of the NKX2.5 gene and these are new variants and not reported in NCBI database. Conclusion: In the present study, two types of variants were identified. So, further study to find out mutational status among Bangladeshi children might be helpful in enriching the database of mutational spectra of pediatric patients with congenital hypothyroidism.

Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Due to long term impairment, high genetic component (heritability> 90%), lack of effective prevention and treatment, ASD has been prioritized for genetic studies. Studies on Copy Number Variations (CNV) at chromosome 16p11.2 locus have mostly been conducted in population of pure or predominant European ancestry. It is not known whether this is also prevalent among the ASD affected individuals in population of other ancestries such as Bangladeshi population. The aim of this research work is to detect CNV of SEZ6L2 gene at 16p11.2 locus and to describe the associated clinical characteristics in Bangladeshi cohort with clinically diagnosed ASD. Methods: The known SEZ6L2 gene was interrogated for copy number variation (CNV) in twenty five autistic patients with SYBR Green I assay using the real time qPCR. Probands were interrogated using relative standard curve (efficiency correction) method. Epilepsy with speech disorder and postnatal infection might be more common among autistic patients with CNV at this SEZ6L2 gene. Results: The two cases with characteristics CNV was detected who had clinically manifestation of convulsion at different ages, partial developmental delay in multiple domains including delay in walking, speech delay and mental age not corresponding with the chronological age. This work describes the frequency of CNV is 8.3 %. This rate is skewed due to small sample size and do not reflect the true frequency of 16p11.2 duplication impacting SEZ6L2 gene. Conclusion: Epilepsy with speech disorder and postnatal infection might be more common among autistic patients with CNV at this SEZ6L2 gene. Bangladesh J Medicine Jan 2019; 30(1) : 24-29

Background Worldwide, breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in female, in Bangladesh breast cancer is the second leading cancer in both sexes, and in women it occupied the top position. Highly penetrant mutations in BRCA1 gene constitute high risk of breast cancer. The spectrum of BRCA1 gene mutations varies in different population. The objective of this study was to identify mutation in exon11 of BRCA1 gene in Bangladeshi breast cancer patients. Methods Genomic DNA was extracted from the histopathologically diagnosed formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) breast cancer tissues of 65 adult female patients. Two regions of exon11 of the BRCA1 gene were amplified and the amplicons were sequenced using Sanger sequencing. The sequenced nucleotides were analyzed and blast using NCBI nucleoblast. Selected demographic, reproductive and medical histories were collected and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results The mean age of the patients was 46 years and the mean age at diagnosis was 44.64 years. The patients were married and had 2.65 ± 1.22 children except one was nulliparous, the mean age of menarche was 12.67 years. All patients had children, breastfed the babies for an average 1.5 years. Only 13.6% of the patients had hypertension and the rest had no comorbidity. The family history for cancer (breast and other cancer) was negative. Three novel mutations were found in a patient. Two among the three mutant sequences had effect on amino acid coding (DNA sequence change g.852G>C and g.709G>A and amino acid changes p.Gln284His and p.Glu237Lys respectively). Conclusion: We found three novel mutations in Bangladeshi breast cancer patients. This finding indicates the necessity to study the mutation profile of whole BRCA1 gene in our population for cancer risk prediction.

With the advancement of medical genetics, particular emphasis is given on the genetic counseling worldwide. In Bangladesh, genetic counseling services are not yet developed. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a malignant disease of the myeloid cells of bone marrow. Like other malignant diseases, it may result from a mutation in the DNA. A genetic counseling format will educate the AML patients and provide appropriate medical and emotional support. The aim of this descriptive cross-sectional study was to develop a genetic counseling format for adult Bangladeshi patients with AML. Taking this into account, a draft format was prepared by reviewing relevant documents available online which was later analyzed by an expert panel through a group discussion and thus a proposed format was developed. To make the format effective in the perspective of Bangladeshi population, the proposed format was applied in counseling, and thus a final format was developed in the English language. This format will educate the counselors, clinicians, and patients about the utility and importance of the genetic counseling and genetic tests. Also, the patients feel comfort regarding the whole counseling process and going for postcounseling treatments and advice. Though it is written in English, it may be translated into mother tongue for better communication during counseling.

Bacteria and archaea possess adaptive immunity against foreign genetic materials through clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) systems. The discovery of this intriguing bacterial system heralded a revolutionary change in the field of medical science. The CRISPR and CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) based molecular mechanism has been applied to genome editing. This CRISPR-Cas9 technique is now able to mediate precise genetic corrections or disruptions in in vitro and in vivo environments. The accuracy and versatility of CRISPR-Cas have been capitalized upon in biological and medical research and bring new hope to cancer research. Cancer involves complex alterations and multiple mutations, translocations and chromosomal losses and gains. The ability to identify and correct such mutations is an important goal in cancer treatment. In the context of this complex cancer genomic landscape, there is a need for a simple and flexible genetic tool that can easily identify functional cancer driver genes within a comparatively short time. The CRISPR-Cas system shows promising potential for modeling, repairing and correcting genetic events in different types of cancer. This article reviews the concept of CRISPR-Cas, its application and related advantages in oncology.

Facial anthropometry has well-known implications in health-related fields. Measurement of human face is used in identification of person in Forensic medicine, Plastic surgery, Orthodontics, Archeology, Hairstyle design and examination of the differences between races and ethnicities. Facial anthropometry provides an indication of the variations in facial shape in a specified population. Bangladesh harbours many cultures and people of different races because of the colonial rules of the past regimes. Standards based on ethnic or racial data are desirable because these standards reflect the potentially different patterns of craniofacial growth resulting from racial, ethnic and sexual differences. In the above context, the present study was attempted to establish ethnic specific anthropometric data for the Christian Garo adult females of Bangladesh. The study was an observational, cross-sectional and primarily descriptive in nature with some analytical components and it was carried out with a total number of 100 Christian Garo adult females aged between 25-45 years. Three vertical facial dimensions such as facial height from ‘trichion’ to ‘gnathion’, nasal length and total vermilion height were measured by photographic method. Though these measurements were taken by photographic method but they were converted into actual size using one of the physically measured variables between two angles of the mouth (chilion to chilion). The data were then statistically analyzed by computation to find out its normatic value. The study also observed the possible ‘correlation’ between the facial height from ‘trichion’ to ‘gnathion’ with nasal length and total vermilion height. Multiplication factors were estimated for estimating facial height from nasal length and total vermilion height. Comparison were made between ‘estimated’ values with the ‘measured’ values by using‘t’ test. The mean (±SD) of nasal length and total vermilion height were 4.53±0.36 cm and 1.63±0.23 cm respectively and the mean (±SD) of facial height from ‘trichion’ to ‘gnathion’ was 16.88±1.11 cm. Nasal length and total vermilion height showed also a significant positive correlation with facial height from ‘trichion’ to ‘gnathion’. No significant difference was found between the ‘measured’ and ‘estimated’ facial height from ‘trichion’ to ‘gnathion’ for nasal length and total vermilion height. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v39i2.19643 Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2013; 39: 61-64

The dimensions of the human body are affected by geographical, racial, ethnic, gender and age factors. So, a normative data of periocular measurements based on above factors are indispensa-ble to identify any ocular pathology and to precise determination of the degree of deviations from the normal. The study was descriptive, observational and cross-sectional in nature with some analytical components. The study group consisted of a convenient sample of 100 adult Bangladeshi Buddhist Chakma females aged between 25 and 45 years. Eleven variables were analyzed using photographic procedures and nine indices were calculated from photographically measured variables. Regression analyses showed that interpupillary distance has significant positive correlation with each of the orbital measurements except for right and left eye fissure height. Regression equations were calculated from those orbital variables showing significant positive correlation with interpupillary distance.

Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy, January 2012, Vol. 10 No. 1 pp 27-31 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bja.v10i1.15756

The analysis of facial soft tissue from the photographic records gives information about the standard normative values of different facial parameters of a specific population group, helps in the diagnosis of any abnormalities of face and also helps for the treatment plan of patients undergoing orthodontic treatment or facial plastic surgery. The aim of the present study was to measure some craniofacial angles of the Bangladeshi Garo males and females on standardized facial profile photographs and compare them with each other and with norms of different ethnic group proposed by the other investigators. The study was carried out with a total number of 100 Christian Garo adult male and female subjects. Statistical analysis showed that the females had significantly higher values than the males in three facial angles (p

This study examined whether circulating levels of soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products (sRAGE) alter in prediabetes and correlate with insulin resistance (IR) and beta cell function in prediabetes and newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Subjects without previous history of diabetes were recruited and grouped as control, prediabetes, and newly diagnosed T2DM. The control subjects (n=40) and people with prediabetes (n=52) and diabetes (n=66) were similar in terms of age, sex, BMI, systolic and diastolic BP, and fasting insulin level. HOMA-IR was found significantly higher in people with diabetes than control subjects (p<0.001) and people with prediabetes (p=0.005); and HOMA-%B was found significantly deteriorated in people with diabetes (p<0.001) compared to control subjects and people with prediabetes. However, serum sRAGE levels did not show any significant alteration in people with prediabetes compared to control subjects. Moreover, univariate and multivariate analyses did not identify any significant correlation and statistical association of sRAGE with HOMA-IR and HOMA-%B in people with prediabetes and newly diagnosed T2DM. Our data suggest that serum sRAGE levels do not alter in people with prediabetes compared to control subjects and do not correlate or associate with IR and beta cell function during development of T2DM.

The present descriptive, observational, and cross-sectional study was designed to establish the baseline measurements of the craniofacial anthropometrical parameters and indices of 100 adult Bangladeshi Buddhist Chakma females aged between 25 and 45 years, residing at different locations of Chittagong and Rangamati cities. A total of ten craniofacial variables were measured using physical and photographic procedures. Craniofacial indices were calculated from those craniofacial variables. The craniofacial indices showed that Chakma females are mostly hyperbrachycephalic, hypereuryprosopic, and mesorrhine, with intermediate eyes and long narrow ears.

Gene therapy is a novel approach to treat, cure, or ultimately prevent disease by changing the expression of a person's gene. It involves the transfer of a therapeutic or working gene copy into specific cells of an individual in order to repair a faulty gene copy. Thus it may be used to replace a faulty gene, or to introduce a new gene whose function is to cure or to favorably modify the clinical course of a condition. The scope of this new approach to the treatment of a condition is broad, with potential in the treatment of many genetic conditions. Though single gene disorders are best treated than multifactorial disorder; the challenge of developing successful gene therapy for any specific condition is considerable. The problem of ‘gene delivery’ into the desired tissues is very complex and challenging. Some of the ‘vectors’ for delivering the working copy of the gene to the target cells include using harmless viruses and non viral vectors. Till date, in gene therapy, only somatic cells and not the germ cells are targeted for treatment. The possible genetic manipulation of the germ cells remains the subject of intense ethical and philosophical discussion. Though some devastation was recorded in gene therapy trial; the potential benefits of new treatments must always be balanced against such risks. In particular, safety will appropriately remain an important consideration as the field of gene therapy evolves. The purpose of this review is to focus on merit and demerit of gene therapy and to provide information about its future prospective.

Death is always dreadful and the diseases those causes sudden death are universal threats in health concern. Brugada syndrom is a recently identified entity of arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death. This genetic and male dominant disorder is prevalent in Southeast Asian region. At least seven genes have been identified to associate with its occurrence though the detail pathophysiological mechanism is till to be resolved. The correlation of ion channel genes to Brugada syndrom is still dubious as the same genes also related to other cardiac diseases. Here we review the genetic aspects of Brugada syndrom with a breif overview of epidemiology, diagnosis and management system.

In 1992 a new syndrome was described consisting of syncopal episodes or sudden death in patients with a structurally normal heart and an electrocardiogram characteristic of right bundle branch block with ST segment elevation in leads V1 to V3. Brugada syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder. It has been shown to be associated with mutations in the gene (SCN5A) that encodes for the sodiumion channel in cardiac myocyte. Over 160 mutations of gene SCN5A have been identified. The incidence of the disease is difficult to estimate, but it causes sudden deaths of 5 per 10,000 inhabitants per year and involved much more frequently in people of Asian ancestry. Diagnosis can be easily made by means of genetic analysis and ECG. Recent data suggest that loss of the action potential dome in the right ventricular epicardium underlies ST segment elevation seen in this syndrome. Right ventricular epicardium is preferentially affected because of the predominance of transient outward current in this tissue. Antiarrhythmic drugs like amiodarone and beta-blockers do not prevent death in symptomatic or asymptomatic individuals. Though Implantation of an automatic cardioverter–defibrillator is the only recently proven effective therapy; Quinidine has been found to decrease Ventricular fibrillation and could prove to be a secured option of implantable cardioverter–defibrillator. However, researcher set focus on gene therapy that may offer an enduring cure in future years. The purpose of this brief review is to record the past highlights that have brought us to our present understanding of Brugada syndrome.

Context: Body physique is influenced to a greater extent by climatic, hereditary, nutritional and racial factors. Since in Bangladesh variegated ethnic groups inhabit in different conditions, no single anthropometric formula is suitable. The stature prediction occupies relatively a central position in the anthropometric research. And estimation of stature of an individual from the mutilated or amputated limbs has obvious significance in the personal identification in the events of murders, accidents or natural disasters. The present study was undertaken to measure the stature, as well as some length and breadth of hand and to determine whether there is any correlation between the stature and the hand variables. And to estimate using respective multiplication factors the stature from these variables and to assess the effectiveness of the above estimations by comparing the ‘estimated' values with the ‘measured' values. Methods: The study was carried out with a total number of 100 Christian Garo adult females aged between 25 to 45 years. Hand length and breadth along with their stature were measured directly from the subjects by using anthropometric sliding, spreading calipers and measuring tape. The data were then statistically analyzed by computation to find out its normative value. Multiplication factors were estimated for estimating stature and comparison were made between measured and estimated stature using paired "t" test. Result: The mean normal values of the hand measurements (right and left hand length were 16.39 ± 0.72 cm and 16.33 ± 0.67 cm respectively and breadth of right and left hand were 7.22 ± 0.38 cm and 7.18 ± 0.3 cm respectively) and the stature (152.79 ± 5.62 cm) were found. The multiplication factors were estimated for the same hand measurements with the stature. Significant positive correlation was found in case of hand length with the stature. There was positive correlation (r=0.17, p=0.09 and r=0.15, p=0.12) between the stature and breadth of the right and left hand (Figure 3.21) but the result did not reach any statistically significant level. Key words: Anthropology; correlation; multiplication factor; stature DOI: 10.3329/bja.v8i1.6105 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2010, Vol. 8 No. 1 pp. 21-27

Context: Pregnancy complicated by diabetes is a significant medical problem not only affecting maternal health, but also jeopardizing fetal normalcy. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common metabolic disorder that frequently causes maternal and fetal complications. The present study was done to see the impacts of GDM on mother and neonate. Study design: Cross sectional descriptive study. Place and period of study: Department of Anatomy Chittagong Medical College, Chittagong. From May 2006 to April 2007. Material: Total number of subjects were seventy, of which 35 were non diabetic pregnant Bangladeshi Bengoli mother (Control group) and 35 were mothers with GDM (GDM group). All GDM mother were under insulin therapy having HbA1C within 6.5% to 6.8%. Method: Relevant data of the mother (Age, weight, gestational period, parity) and the neonate (birth weight, APGAR score) were collected by taking history and hospital record book. APGAR score at 1st minute was taken from the records as determined by the on-duty Anesthetist. Result: Among the maternal and neonatal variables the mean age, gestational period and parity of the mother were significantly higher in the GDM group than in the Control group (P = 0.01, P = 0.00, P = 0.01 respectively). The mean weight of the mother and the mean neonatal birth weight were also higher in the GDM group, but not differ significantly. The mean APGAR score was found to be slightly lower in the GDM group than in the Control group, but the difference was not significant from the statistical point of view. Conclusion: The present study shows that the GDM may have some adverse impacts on the mother and neonate. Further study with larger sample size having vigorous exclusion criteria is recommended. Key words: Gestatational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM); Mother; Neonate. DOI: 10.3329/bja.v8i2.7018 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy July 2010, Vol. 8 No. 2 pp. 64-63

Context: Anatomy is a compulsory subject for postgraduate medical courses of Bangladesh. MD internal medicine is a clinical course run by different universities of Bangladesh. To maintain a standard of medical education a curriculum is essential for a course. Again course content is an essential part of a curriculum. Doctor of Medicine (MD) courses consist of three parts. In Part-I, students study the basic medical subjects for six months. To produce clinicians with appropriate anatomical knowledge in a short time within six months period proper customized (relevant) course content regarding Anatomy part is necessary. But the problem is that in our postgraduate course much subjectivity is present in every aspects of curriculum. This subjectivity is due to inclusion of more general aspects of Anatomy and exclusion of specific deeper relevant Anatomy. Realizing this problem the present study was designed to formulate some principles for selecting course contents for the Anatomy portion of MD Internal Medicine course. Study Design: This was a descriptive study. Place & Period of study: Center for Medical Education, Dhaka from July 2007-June 2008. Method: It was based on analyses of opinion of students and teachers through focus group discussion involving teachers of Internal Medicine and Anatomy. These people were chosen through two stage random sampling within clusters. Two Focus group discussions were used to get feedback on the importance of various anatomical topics that should be included as course content. Of a total of 18 teachers response in focus group discussion. In FGD 83% response was received from the teachers in Anatomy and 66 % on teachers in Medicine. Result: Opinion derived from the FGD indicate that for the selection of the course content following concluding remarks should be made: Cardiovascular anatomy, respiratory anatomy and anatomy of the nervous system should be considered important for the Internal Medicine. For knowing the anatomical landmarks all of the surface anatomy should receive attention for Medicine. Functional implication and effect of obliteration of arterial supply, lymphatic drainage and nerve supply receives importance. Sectional and radiological anatomy is considered important for the course for interpretation of X-ray, CT scan and MRI. Anatomical variation should be considered important as well as congenital anomalies of cardiovascular and genitourinary system. Knowledge of the structure of the mucous membrane is important for clinical correlation of the biopsy reports. Basic genetics, cell biology should be important but kept in mind that repetition should be avoided in others subjects as in Biochemistry and Physiology. Key words: Anatomy, Course content, MD Internal medicine. doi: 10.3329/bja.v7i1.3027 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2009, Vol. 7 No. 1 pp. 55-61

Context: Preterm birth is the major cause of perinatal mortality and morbidity. For the last few decades, it has become an important issue in public health policies of developing countries. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the high-risk factors for the preterm birth and altered fetal development. This pregnancy induced disorder leads to an increased level of all metabolic substances to the fetal circulation due to development of maternal insulin resistance. It imposes a heavy burden on the mother who is pregnant and these patients have a tendency toward metabolic instability. As there is an intimate relationship between the fetus and placenta, the present study aimed to observe the effect of this pregnancy induced disorder to the preterm placenta. Study design: The study was observational, analytical and cross sectional. Place and period of study: The study was carried out in the Department of Anatomy, BSMMU, Dhaka during the study period of January 2005 to December 2005. Materials and Methods: A total of forty-four samples were collected from women during 28 weeks to 36 completed weeks of gestation. Among them, twenty-two samples belonged to mothers having GDM and twenty-two belonged to normal pregnancy (control group). The placentas were examined to measure their diameter, thickness, cotyledons number, weight, and volume. Result: In this study, the GDM group showed significantly higher values for the variables of diameter, weight and volume. On the other hand, the thickness of the placenta showed lower values and cotyledons number showed higher values in GDM group but the result did not reach a significant level. Conclusion: The findings in this study supported that the gross morphological structure of the placentas in GDM mother did not present any specific, constant or uniform pattern of abnormality. Therefore, it is difficult to establish a clear cut correlation between the placental changes and diabetic state in the mother during pregnancy. However, increased placental weight, volume and diameter found in gestational diabetic mother have supported that these changes may be a long term compensatory mechanism, aiming to secure a sufficient nutrient supply to support the growth of large-for-gestational age (LGA) fetus. But the hormonal and metabolic abnormalities present in the diabetic mother and the fetus are important variables to be considered when studying the placenta. Key words: Preterm Placenta; GDM; Gross morphology. DOI: 10.3329/bja.v8i1.6107 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2010, Vol. 8 No. 1 pp. 34-38

Context: The thyroid gland is the first endocrine organ to evolve in the vertebrates. It has right and left lobes and connected by narrow median isthmus which lies over the second, third and fourth tracheal rings. A conical pyramidal lobe often ascends towards the hyoid bone from isthmus or the adjacent part of either lobe. It measures about 1.25 cm transversely and vertically. Its size and site vary greatly. Isthmus is topographically related with some important anatomical structures. So this study was carried out to determine the incidence of presence & variation in anatomical position of isthmus of thyroid gland of Bangladeshi people of different age groups to establish a normal standard. Study type: Descriptive cross-sectional study. Place and period of study: Department of Anatomy, Mymensingh Medical College. from October’2004 to February’2005. Materials: The study was carried out on 60 cadavers of different age groups age ranging from 11 to 70 years. Thyroid glands were collected from unclaimed dead bodies autopsied in Forensic Medicine Department of Mymensingh Medical College. Methods: The collected specimens were divided into age group A (upto 18 years), group B (18 to 45 years), group C (above45 years). All specimens were examined morphologically by fine dissection method. Result: In the present study isthmus was present in 41 (68.33%) cases. In those thyroids which were devoid of isthmus, lobes were found to be merged with each other in the midline but in one case two lobes were found completely separated from each other. It was evident that the posterior relations of isthmus were widely variable. In only 18% cases it was found at its usual position- against the 2nd, 3rd and 4th tracheal rings. In the present study more frequent location of isthmus was found at 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 2nd, 3rd, 4th tracheal rings. In both cases their incidences were 18.3%. Conclusion: The present study will help to increase the information pool on the anatomy of thyroid gland of Bangladeshi people. To establish a normal standard for Bangladeshi people, further studies with large samples from different zones of the country are suggested. Key Word- Isthmus; Human Thyroid gland; Incidence; Posterior relation; Bangladesh DOI: http://dx.doi.org/ 10.3329/bja.v9i1.8144 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2011, Vol. 9 No. 1 pp 26-29

Ultimately, every cell in the human body can be traced back to a fertilized egg that came into existence from the union of ovum and sperm. But the body is made up of over 200 different types of cells, not just one. All of these cell types come from a pool of cells in the early embryo, called stem cells. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bja.v9i1.8138 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2011, Vol. 9 No. 1 pp 1-4

Context: Stature is the height of the person in the upright posture. It is an important measure of physical identity. Interrelationships among different body measurements may be used to estimate one from another in case of missing body parts. As any part of the human skeleton can be found as the evidences, there arise a need to investigate whether there is any possible significant correlation between stature and any parts in human body. Garos, our study subject living in Bangladesh are usually recognized as an ethnic community, they have a separate identity and their physical appearance is distinctive to some extent. The present study was conducted with the intention to establish ethnic specific anthropometric data for the Bangladeshi Garo tribal populations and also to determine whether there is any correlation between the measured values of the stature and the physically measured cranial variables, to estimate (using respective multiplication factor) the stature from the physically derived cranial measurements and to assess the effectiveness of such estimation. Study design: The study was an observational, cross-sectional and descriptive in nature with some analytical components. Study settings and study period: The study was carried out in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, during the session of January to December 2008. Selections of the subjects: A total number of one hundred Garo female subjects were included from Dhaka city and Mymensingh district. Methods: Cranial dimension such as head circumference, head length and stature were measured using a measuring tape, spreading caliper, steel plate and steel tape. Results: Head circumference showed significant positive correlation with stature but head length did not reach statistically significant level with stature. No significant difference was found between the ‘measured' and ‘estimated' stature for head circumference and head length. Key words: Anthropometry; stature; correlation; head circumference; head length DOI: 10.3329/bja.v7i2.6096 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy July 2009, Vol. 7 No. 2 pp. 101-104

Objective: Clinically the adverse effects of the diabetes on the out come of pregnancy are well established. The present study was designed to look for the impacts of gestational diabetes on the gross and histomorphological features of the umbilical cord. Type of study: A descriptive study having analytical components. Place and period of study: Department of Anatomy, Chittagong Medical College, Chittagong, from May 2006 to April 2007. Materials: Total fifty (50) umbilical cords with the placenta were collected within 36th to 40th weeks of gestation from Chittagong Medical College hospital and Memon maternity hospital of Chittagong City Corporation. Out of them 25 cords were from non diabetic pregnant mother (Control group) and 25 cords from mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM group). Method: After proper fixation with 10% formalin the diameter of the umbilical cord were measured with a vernier calipers in millimeters. Circumference, Cross-Sectional Area (CSA) of the umbilical cord and CSA of the Wharton’s jelly were measured by computerized micrometric method in millimeters and sq. millimeters respectively. Number of the umbilical vessels were examined and counted on the cut surface of the umbilical cord, later confirmed by histological examination. Presence or absence of the true knots were noted. Result: Among the gross morphological variables of the umbilical cord, the mean diameter was significantly larger in the GDM group than in the Control group (P< 0.05). Though the mean circumference, mean CSA of the umbilical cord and mean CSA of the Wharton's jelly were found to be higher in the GDM group than in the Control group, but the difference did not reach to the significant level. All the cords of the GDM group, the umbilical cord contained two arteries and one vein, whereas, two cords of the Control group, the umbilical cord had three arteries and one vein and one cord contain four arteries and one vein. No true knots were found in any groups. Pearson’s correlation test revealed significant positive correlation in both GDM and Control groups between mean diameter and circumference of the umbilical cord (r = 0.881, P = 0.000 & r = 0.689, P = 0.000) and between CSA of the umbilical cord and Wharton's jelly (r = 0.988, P = 0.000 & r = 0.990, P = 0.000). Key words: Umbilical cord; Gross and Histomorphology; GDM. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/ 10.3329/bja.v9i1.8143 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2011, Vol. 9 No. 1 pp 21-25

Three hundred and thirty four medical students were questioned regarding their views on anatomy as an emerging science and further career option. A questionnaire with 16 statements was given to these students and their answers were compiled. The results of this study were encouraging. 99% of students consider anatomy as an essential pillar of medical science. A vast majority (94%) felt that a sound knowledge of anatomy helped them in their clinical term. However, more than 50% termed anatomy was difficult to understand and more than two-third agreed to the question that the duration of teaching anatomy should not be limited to one and a half year. Though 73% placed anatomy apart with clinical subjects. More than 80% compared teaching anatomy as favorable as treating a patient. In Bangladesh, lack of satisfactory job opportunities and adequate research facilities limits the uptake of anatomy as a career option. Even with a modified curriculum two third were willing to become an anatomist. A formal course in teaching was welcomed by most in case they sought to become anatomist. Key words: Anatomy; an emerging science; career option; students view. DOI: 10.3329/bja.v8i1.6106 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2010, Vol. 8 No. 1 pp. 28-33

Context: Aiming the effects of severity of diabetes mellitus on human placenta and the neonatal outcome, a quantitative study at the macroscopic level was designed. Material and Methods: Sixty post caesarean section human placentae were studied of which thirty were from mothers having established diabetes mellitus considered as EDM and thirty were from control mother having no diabetes mellitus. EDM mothers were treated with insulin. Venous plasma glucose level (fasting and 2 hours after breakfast) of the EDM mothers in 2nd and 3rd trimester were recorded and the mean of the values were calculated. Results: The values ranged from 5.93 to 10.10mmol/L and the mean was 7.28±0.99 m mol/L. The mothers having EDM were grouped according to the mean venous plasma glucose level. The mothers having a mean level up to 8.3 m mol/L and those having a level above 8.3 m mol/L were designated as the Low-EDM and High- EDM group respectively. Placental weight in Control, Low-EDM and High-EDM groups were 414.93±95.41, 403.83±68.53 gm and 446.33± 82.23gm respectively. The value showed lower mean value in Low-EDM group. The difference did not reach a significant level. The neonatal weight in Control, Low-EDM and High-EDM groups were 2958.33±537gm, 2997.91±540 gm and 3300.00±379 gm respectively. The weight of the neonates did show a tendency towards being heavier in EDM groups but did not reach the significant level. There was a significant positive correlation between the neonatal weight and placental weight in control and Low-EDM group. Key words: Established diabetes mellitus; Placenta; Neonates DOI: http://dx.doi.org/ 10.3329/bja.v9i1.8150 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2011, Vol. 9 No. 1 pp 53-58