Occurrence of microplastics in fish gastrointestinal tracts belongs to different feeding habits from the Bangladesh coast of the Bay of Bengal.

The Bay of Bengal (BoB) is home to a range of commercially important species with different food habits and feeding features. Microplastic (MP) contamination in the fish of BoB, like in many other marine environments, is a significant environmental concern. The study aimed to investigate the presence of microplastics (MPs) in the gastrointestinal tracts (GITs) of selected commercial marine fishes from the Bangladesh coast of the BoB. Six fish species (Escualosa thoracata, Tenualosa ilisha, Johnius belangerii, Trichiurus lepturus, Planiliza parsia, and Mystus gulio) were investigated (n = 120) following hydrogen peroxide digestion, and floatation (saline solution) protocols. After analyses, a total number of 696 MPs (dimension 0.3 to 5 mm) were identified. Moreover, the highest occurrence of MPs in fish GITs was found in planktivorous fish (average of 7.7 items/individual), followed by omnivorous (average of 5.2 items/individual), and carnivorous fish (average of 4.6 items/individual) (p < 0.001). However, planktivorous E. thoracata showed the highest number of MPs per g of GIT (average of 30.99 items/g GIT), whereas T. ilisha showed the lowest count (average of 0.77 items/g GIT). Different types of MPs (fibers (19 to 76%), fragments (6 to 61%), films (8 to 35%), microbeads (0 to 5%), and foams (0 to 2%)) were also observed. In terms of the color of MPs, the transparent, black, green, and blue types were the most common. Polymers were found as polyethylene (35 to 43%), polyethylene terephthalate (28 to 35%), polyamide (20 to 31%), and polystyrene (0 to 7%). The study provides a significant incidence of MPs in fish from the Bangladesh part of the BoB, which is very concerning. Therefore, long-term research is indispensable to ascertain the variables affecting the presence of MPs in fish, their origins, and their potential effects on the BoB fisheries. Stringent policies on plastic use and disposal should be strongly urged in this coastal region.

The 25-hydroxyvitamin D level in Kidney Transplant Recipients and Its Association With Renal Function and Other Cardio-Metabolic Risk Markers.

BACKGROUND: Vitamin D is the main hormone that plays a critical role in controlling mineral homeostasis. Transplant recipients frequently have altered levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH] D) and 1, 25-hydroxyvitamin (1, 25[OH] D). OBJECTIVES: To explore the status of vitamin D level in renal allograft recipients and its association with renal function and cardio-metabolic risk markers. METHODS: One hundred two adult kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) were included. Clinical history and information about transplantation and immunosuppression were recorded. Blood and urine samples were collected for relevant laboratory tests, including chronic kidney disease (CKD)-mineral and bone disorder markers (Ca, PO4, and 25[OH] D). RESULTS: The mean age was 35 ± 8 years, with a male/female ratio of 89/11%. The transplant duration was 34 ± 26 (4.5-112) months. All donors involved were living-related: fathers comprised 44%, wives 16%, sisters 13%, mothers 11%, and the others 16% (ie, brothers, sons, daughters, uncles, aunts). The immunosuppression regimen included prednisolone and tacrolimus in all, with mycophenolate mofetil in 96%. The estimated glomerular filtration rate showed CKD distribution from stage 1 to 5 in 6%, 29%, 44%, 15%, and 6%, respectively. Vitamin D level was lower in 22% (<20 ng/mL), insufficient (20-30 ng/mL) in 48%, and adequate (>30 ng/mL) in 30%. We compared different clinical and laboratory variables in 3 different vitamin D groups but found no difference in cardio-renal risk factors (P = Not Significant). Similarly, no correlation was seen between vitamin D levels and other clinical and metabolic factors. CONCLUSION: According to conventional cutoffs, the vitamin D (25[OH] D) level is inadequate in 70% of renal allograft recipients. The hormone level has no apparent association with renal function and major cardio-metabolic risk factors.

Runx2 deletion in hypertrophic chondrocytes impairs osteoclast mediated bone resorption.

Deletion of Runx2 gene in proliferating chondrocytes results in complete failure of endochondral ossification and perinatal lethality. We reported recently that mice with Runx2 deletion specifically in hypertrophic chondrocytes (HCs) using the Col10a1-Cre transgene survive and exhibit enlarged growth plates due to decreased HC apoptosis and cartilage resorption. Bulk of chondrogenesis occurs postnatally, however, the role of Runx2 in HCs during postnatal chondrogenesis is unknown. Despite limb dwarfism, adult homozygous (Runx2HC/HC) mice showed a significant increase in length of growth plate and articular cartilage. Consistent with doubling of the hypertrophic zone, collagen type X expression was increased in Runx2HC/HC mice. In sharp contrast, expression of metalloproteinases and aggrecanases were markedly decreased. Impaired cartilage degradation was evident by the retention of significant amount of safranin-O positive cartilage. Histomorphometry and µCT uncovered increased trabecular bone mass with a significant increase in BV/TV ratio, trabecular number, thickness, and a decrease in trabecular space in Runx2HC/HC mice. To identify if this is due to increased bone synthesis, expression of osteoblast differentiation markers was evaluated and found to be comparable amongst littermates. Histomorphometry confirmed similar number of osteoblasts in the littermates. Furthermore, dynamic bone synthesis showed no differences in mineral apposition or bone formation rates. Surprisingly, three-point-bending test revealed Runx2HC/HC bones to be structurally less strong. Interestingly, both the number and surface of osteoclasts were markedly reduced in Runx2HC/HC littermates. Rankl and IL-17a ligands that promote osteoclast differentiation were markedly reduced in Runx2HC/HC mice. Bone marrow cultures were performed to independently establish Runx2 and hypertrophic chondrocytes role in osteoclast development. The culture from the Runx2HC/HC mice formed significantly fewer and smaller osteoclasts. The expression of mature osteoclast markers, Ctsk and Mmp9, were significantly reduced in the cultures from Runx2HC/HC mice. Thus, Runx2 functions extend beyond embryonic development and chondrocyte hypertrophy by regulating cartilage degradation, osteoclast differentiation, and bone resorption during postnatal endochondral ossification.

Dialysis capacity and nutrition care across Bangladesh: A situational assessment.

Hemodialysis (HD) is a treatment for ensuring the survival of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients, and nutrition care is integral to their management. We sent questionnaires to evaluate the total dialysis service capacity and nutrition services across all dialysis facilities (DF) in Bangladesh, with responses from 149 out of 166 active DFs. Survey results revealed that 49.7% of DFs operated two shifts, and 42.3% operated three shifts daily, with 74.5% holding between one and ten dialysis machines. Sixty-three percent of DFs served between one and 25 patients per week, and 77% of patients received twice-weekly dialysis. The average cost for first-time dialysis was 2800 BDT per session (range: 2500-3000 BDT), but it was lower if reused dialyzers were used (2100 BDT, range: 1700-2800 BDT). Nutritionists were available in only 21% of the DFs. Parameters related to nutritional health screening (serum albumin, BMI, MIS-malnutrition inflammation assessment, and dietary intakes) were carried out in 37.6%, 23.5%, 2%, and 2% of the DFs, respectively, only if recommended by physicians. Nutrition education, if recommended, was provided in 68.5% of DFs, but only in 17.6% of them were these delivered by nutritionists. The recommendation for using renal-specific oral nutrition supplements (ONS) is not a familiar practice in Bangladeshi DFs and, therefore, was scarcely recommended. Dialysis capacity across Bangladesh is inadequate to meet current or projected needs and nutrition education and support across the DFs to benefit improving patients' quality of life is also inadequate.

Identifying Challenges and Potential Solutions for Sustainable Kidney Nutrition Care Delivery in Selected Asian Countries.

BACKGROUND: Recent surveys highlight gross workforce shortage of dietitians in global kidney health and significant gaps in renal nutrition care, with disparities greater in low/low-middle income countries. OBJECTIVE: This paper narrates ground experiences gained through the Palm Tocotrienols in Chronic Hemodialysis (PaTCH) project on kidney nutrition care scenarios and some Asian low-to-middle-income countries namely Bangladesh, India, and Malaysia. METHOD: Core PaTCH investigators from 3 universities (USA and Malaysia) were supported by their postgraduate students (n = 17) with capacity skills in kidney nutrition care methodology and processes. This core team, in turn, built capacity for partnering hospitals as countries differed in their ability to deliver dietitian-related activities for dialysis patients. RESULTS: We performed a structural component analyses of PaTCH affiliated and nonaffiliated (Myanmar and Indonesia) countries to identify challenges to kidney nutrition care. Deficits in patient-centered care, empowerment processes and moderating factors to nutrition care optimization characterized country comparisons. Underscoring these factors were some countries lacked trained dietitians whilst for others generalist dietitians or nonclinical nutritionists were providing patient care. Resolution of some challenges in low-to-middle-income countries through coalition networking to facilitate interprofessional collaboration and task sharing is described. CONCLUSIONS: We perceive interprofessional collaboration is the way forward to fill gaps in essential dietitian services and regional-based institutional coalitions will facilitate culture-sensitive capacity in building skills. For the long-term an advanced renal nutrition course such as the Global Renal Internet Course for Dietitians is vital to facilitate sustainable kidney nutrition care.

Investigations of hemato-biochemical and histopathological parameters, and growth performance of walking catfish (Clarias batrachus) exposed to PET and LDPE microplastics.

Fish inhabiting various trophic levels are affected differently as the presence of microplastic (MP) in the water column and their ingestion by fish varies. Walking catfish (Clarias batrachus) inhabits the bottom of the water bodies. To understand the effects of MP, we exposed C. batrachus to two types of MP - polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) for 60 days. After exposure, hematological indices, mainly red blood cells and hemoglobin levels decreased, and white blood cells increased significantly compared to the control group (p < 0.05). A significant increase in the levels of blood urea and glucose was observed, and serum glutamic pyruvate transaminase and serum glutamyl oxaloacetic transaminase activity remained elevated (p < 0.05). Histopathological examination of the liver, kidney, intestine, and gills showed morphological alterations. Moreover, MP exposure caused growth retardation (p < 0.05) in C. batrachus. Widespread pollution of water bodies by MP may impose serious ecological risks to bottom-feeding fish in Bangladesh.

Gender Disparities of Youths in Trust on Health Management System during Post-COVID-19 in Bangladesh / Disparidades de gênero de jovens na confiança em sistemas de gestão de saúde durante o período pós-COVID-19 em Bangladesh

Objective: The purpose of this paper is to find out the gender-based disparities in trust in the public health measures taken in Bangladesh during the post-COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional study design and quantitative research approach were used to collect primary data. A total of 742 students from different socioeconomic backgrounds participated in the survey randomly by filling up a structured questionnaire from 15 June 2022 to 10 July 2022. The Wilks' λ statistic, MANOVA, and Regression analysis were performed in this study to find out the gender-based differences in trust in the public health measures taken in Bangladesh during the post-COVID-19 pandemic. Results: In a multivariate test, the p-value is 0.018 (p<0.05), which implies a significant difference between the trust of males and females among youths about public health measures during the post-COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh. This study provides that overall infrastructure, responsiveness, and attachments have a significant correlation with youth trust as all the p-values < 0.001. Conclusions: Health infrastructure and youths' attachment to the various networks and institutions have more impact on determining the level of trust in government health measures during the post-pandemic than the way of government responsiveness; policymakers and advocates will get significant insight from the findings of the study during post-COVID-19. Without gender-sensitive health policy measures, gaining citizens' trust in the government will be difficult.

Objetivo: descobrir as disparidades de confiança baseadas em gênero nas medidas de saúde pública tomadas em Bangladesh, durante a pandemia pós-COVID-19. Métodos: um desenho de estudo transversal e abordagem de pesquisa quantitativa foram usados para coletar dados primários. Um total de 742 estudantes de diferentes origens socioeconômicas participaram da pesquisa aleatoriamente, preenchendo um questionário estruturado de 15 de junho de 2022 a 10 de julho de 2022. A estatística λ de Wilks, MANOVA e a análise de regressão foram realizadas neste estudo para descobrir o sexo - diferenças baseadas na confiança nas medidas de saúde pública tomadas em Bangladesh, durante a pandemia pós-COVID-19. Resultados: em um teste multivariado, o p-valor é 0,018 (p<0.05), o que implica uma diferença significativa entre a confiança de homens e mulheres entre jovens sobre medidas de saúde pública durante a pandemia pós-COVID-19 em Bangladesh. Este estudo fornece que a infraestrutura geral, a capacidade de resposta e os vínculos têm uma correlação significativa com a confiança dos jovens, pois todos os valores de p < 0.001. Conclusões: a infraestrutura de saúde e o vínculo dos jovens às várias redes e instituições têm mais impacto na determinação do nível de confiança nas medidas governamentais de saúde durante o pós-pandemia do que na forma de resposta do governo; os formuladores de políticas e defensores obterão uma visão significativa das descobertas do estudo durante o período pós-COVID-19. Sem medidas de política de saúde sensíveis ao gênero, será difícil ganhar a confiança dos cidadãos para o governo.

Microplastics pollution in the river Karnaphuli: a preliminary study on a tidal confluence river in the southeast coast of Bangladesh.

Bangladesh is a deltaic country in Asia, and its riverine systems ultimately drain into the Bay of Bengal. Plastic is a severe environmental issue for coastal-marine ecosystems due to the indiscriminate usage and discarding of plastic items in the upstream river that eventually find their route into the Bay of Bengal. Microplastics (MPs) are widespread pollutants in almost all environmental compartments, including aquatic environments. This study aimed to quantify and understand the distribution of microplastics in surface water and sediments of the river Karnaphuli, a tidal confluence river adjacent to the Chattogram seaport city of Bangladesh, a highly inhabited and industrial area on the southeast coast of the Bay of Bengal. A manta trawl net (300-µm mesh size) was used to collect surface water samples, while an Ekman dredge was used to collect sediment samples. The concentrations of microplastics in the surface water of the river Karnaphuli during late monsoon, winter, and early summer were recorded to be 120,111.11, 152,222.22, and 164,444.44 items/km2, respectively, while in sediments, those were recorded to be 103.83, 137.50, and 103.67 items/kg, respectively. A higher abundance of microplastics was observed in downstream surface water (228,888.88 items/km2) and sediments (164.17 items/kg). Smaller sizes (0.3 to 0.5 mm) of microplastics were predominant, fibers or threads were the frequent types, and black was the most common color in the river Karnaphuli. The Fourier transform infrared analysis revealed that polyethylene terephthalate (surface water: 22%, sediments: 19%), polyamide (surface water: 15%, sediments: 13%), polyethylene (surface water: 12%, sediments: 18%), polystyrene (surface water: 13%, sediments: 11%), and alkyd resin (surface water: 13%, sediments: 10%) were the most prevalent polymers in the river Karnaphuli. Moreover, there was a moderate positive correlation between MPs abundance in surface water and sediments. Therefore, improved long-term research (in different seasons with horizontal and vertical monitoring) is necessary in order to accurately determine the flux of microplastics from the river Karnaphuli to the Bay of Bengal.

Application of fenitrothion on Heteropneustes fossilis causes alteration in morphology of erythrocytes via modifying hematological parameters.

In Bangladesh, the extensive use of fenitrothion on crops and in aquaculture ponds inevitably threatens a range of aquaculture species, including fish, owing to stress responses and physiological disturbances. The present study elucidated the potential toxic effects of fenitrothion on the blood biomarkers (haemato-biochemistry and structure of erythrocytes) of stinging catfish (Heteropneustes fossilis), a commercially significant aquaculture species. Fish were exposed to four sub-lethal concentrations (0%, 10%, 20%, and 40% of the 96-h LC50 value) of fenitrothion in triplicate and observed on the 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th day following exposure. With increasing fenitrothion concentration, blood glucose and white blood cell levels increased significantly; in contrast, hemoglobin, red blood cell, and packed cell volume substantially decreased. However, the mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular hemoglobin did not change significantly during the exordial period (0-7 d); although, at a later stage, changes were observed. Frequencies of observed erythrocytic nuclear abnormalities, such as degeneration, bi-nucleus, micronucleus, notch nucleus, and nuclear bridge and erythrocytic cellular abnormalities, such as echinocytes, fusion, elongation, and tear drop morphology increased significantly in a concentration-dependent manner. Differences between the control individuals and those individuals under treatment were considered insignificant for twin cells on the 14th day of exposure. The study showed the pernicious impact of the effects of fenitrothion on H. fossilis through physiological alteration, which is likely to pose challenges for aquaculture production.

Thiamethoxam affects the developmental stages of banded gourami (Trichogaster fasciata).

Thiamethoxam (THM), a type III systemic neonicotinoid insecticide, is widely used in agriculture in many countries, including Bangladesh. THM can enter the aquatic systems through the runoff, spray-drift and groundwater leaching and can affect the aquatic organisms, including fish. Current environmental levels of THM in Bangladesh waters are variable. However, the presence of this chemical in the aquatic environment and its possible effects on the fish inhabiting those water bodies is concerning. To understand the effects of environmental THM on the development of embryo and larvae, the present study used banded gourami (Trichogaster fasciata), a freshwater fish species distributed in different Asian countries, including Bangladesh. In laboratory setting, fertilized eggs (n = 100) and one-day-old banded gourami larvae (n = 100) were exposed to six concentrations of THM (0, 0.02, 0.2, 2, 20, 200 mg/L) in three replicates, in which three concentrations were within the environmentally relevant levels. Hatching rate, incubation period, mortality, and malformations of embryo and larvae were observed. The hatching success and survival of embryo and larvae significantly decreased with increasing THM concentrations. The 24-h LC50 of THM for the embryo was 4.24 mg/L. The 24-h, 48-h, 72-h, and 96-h LC50 values of THM for one-day-old larvae were 12.20, 3.80, 0.78, and 0.27 mg/L, respectively. Overall developmental malformations included lordosis, notochord abnormality, yolk-sac edema, dark brown yolk sac, hemorrhage, and irregular caudal fin. These abnormalities in embryos were common across all the concentrations of THM applied. The results of the present study suggest that environmentally relevant concentrations of THM can induce developmental defects in the embryo and larvae of banded gourami.

Loss of early B cell protein λ5 decreases bone mass and accelerates skeletal aging.

The early B cell protein λ5 is an essential component of the surrogate light chain and the preB cell receptor (preBCR), which is critical for optimal B cell development. To investigate the effect of λ5 and/or B cells on bone acquisition over time, we developed a panel of JH -/- , λ5-/-, JH -/- λ5-/-, and wild-type (WT) BALB/c mice and then studied postnatal bone development and aging in these mice at one, six, twelve, and twenty-two months of age. The trabecular bone volume over total volume (BV/TV) in JH -/- mice was similar to WT mice at all ages. In contrast, at six months of age and thereafter, λ5-/- and JH -/- λ5-/- mice demonstrated a severe decrease in trabecular bone mass. Surprisingly, bone mass in six-month-old λ5-/- and JH -/- λ5-/- mice was similar to or even lower than in aged (twenty-two-months) WT mice, suggesting accelerated skeletal aging. The postnatal development and the acquisition of cortical bone mass in JH -/- λ5-/- mice were generally comparable to WT. However, JH -/- λ5-/- mice showed a significant decrease in cortical BV/TV at six- and twelve months of age. To examine the contribution of λ5 and B cells to postnatal bone synthesis, we separately transplanted whole bone marrow cells from JH -/- λ5-/- and WT mice into irradiated JH -/- λ5-/- and WT recipients. WT recipients of JH -/- λ5-/- marrow cells failed to show acquisition of trabecular bone mass, whereas transplanting WT marrow cells into JH -/- λ5-/- recipients led to the recovery of trabecular bone mass. Transfer of WT marrow cells into JH -/- λ5-/- mice promoted synthesis of new cortical and trabecular bone. Our findings indicate that λ5 plays a major role in preserving bone mass during postnatal development and skeletal aging which is distinct from its role in B cell development. The absence of both λ5 and B cells in JH -/- λ5-/- mice leads to delayed acquisition of cortical bone during postnatal development. Dissecting the mechanism(s) by which λ5 regulates bone homeostasis may provide new avenues for the treatment of age-related loss of bone mass and osteoporosis.

Type I Interferons Enhance the Repair of Ultraviolet Radiation-Induced DNA Damage and Regulate Cutaneous Immune Suppression.

Type I interferons (IFNs) are important enhancers of immune responses which are downregulated in human cancers, including skin cancer. Solar ultraviolet (UV) B radiation is a proven environmental carcinogen, and its exposure contributes to the high prevalence of skin cancer. The carcinogenic effects of UV light can be attributed to the formation of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPD) and errors in the repair and replication of DNA. Treatment with a single dose of UVB (100 mJ/cm2) upregulated IFNα and IFNß in the skin of C57BL/6 mice. IFNα and IFNß were predominantly produced by CD11b+ cells. In mice lacking the type I IFN receptor 1 (IFNAR1), the repair of CPD following cutaneous exposure to a single dose of UVB (100 mJ/cm2) was decreased. UVB induced the expression of the DNA repair gene xeroderma pigmentosum A (XPA) in wild-type (WT) mice. In contrast, such treatment in IFNAR1 (IFNAR1-/-) mice downregulated XPA. A local UVB regimen consisting of UVB radiation (150 mJ/cm2) for 4 days followed by sensitization with hapten 2,4, dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) resulted in significant suppression of immune responses in both WT and IFNAR1-/- mice. However, there were significantly higher CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T-cells in the draining lymph nodes of IFNAR1-/- mice in comparison to WT mice. Overall, our studies reveal a previously unknown action of type I IFNs in the repair of photodamage and the prevention of UVB-induced immune suppression.

Provision of renal-specific nutrition knowledge for changing dietary practice in Bangladeshi hemodialysis patients.

Objective: Studies show that provision of nutrition knowledge help renal patients make informed food choices. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of nutrition knowledge for changing dietary practice among Bangladeshi dialysis patients. Methods: Following development of a renal-specific nutrition booklet, a pilot study was conducted among 50 hemodialysis patients from a single dialysis setting. Demographic, anthropometric, clinical, biochemical, dietary data, and a 10-item MCQ on renal-specific nutrition information were collected before and 3 months after the provision of the booklet. Results: 52% of the participants were male, 54% had twice weekly dialysis, age 53 ± 12 years, and dialysis vintage was 46 ± 25 months. Serum potassium and phosphorous, dietary potassium, phosphorous, and phosphorous to protein ratio were significantly reduced after the provision of the booklet. Additionally, patients consuming >3 meals/day increased to 66% while adherence to renal-specific cooking method and vegetable preference were significantly increased to 70% and 62%, respectively. Conclusion: Provision of knowledge via renal-specific nutrition booklet was able to improve patients' dietary practice and enhance their dietary adherence to renal specific recommendations. Innovation: The booklet was developed using locally available food items in local language and was found beneficial in low-resource settings where overall health care facilities, including nutrition support are limited.

Corrigendum: Loss of early B cell protein λ5 decreases bone mass and accelerates skeletal aging.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.906649.].

A Food Frequency Questionnaire for Hemodialysis Patients in Bangladesh (BDHD-FFQ): Development and Validation.

Diet is a recognized risk factor and cornerstone for chronic kidney disease (CKD) management; however, a tool to assess dietary intake among Bangladeshi dialysis patients is scarce. This study aims to validate a prototype Bangladeshi Hemodialysis Food Frequency Questionnaire (BDHD-FFQ) against 3-day dietary recall (3DDR) and corresponding serum biomarkers. Nutrients of interest were energy, macronutrients, potassium, phosphate, iron, sodium and calcium. The BDHD-FFQ, comprising 132 food items, was developed from 606 24-h recalls and had undergone face and content validation. Comprehensive facets of relative validity were ascertained using six statistical tests (correlation coefficient, percent difference, paired t-test, cross-quartiles classification, weighted kappa, and Bland-Altman analysis). Overall, the BDHD-FFQ showed acceptable to good correlations (p < 0.05) with 3DDR for the concerned nutrients in unadjusted and energy-adjusted models, but this correlation was diminished when adjusted for other covariates (age, gender, and BMI). Phosphate and potassium intake, estimated by the BDHD-FFQ, also correlated well with the corresponding serum biomarkers (p < 0.01) when compared to 3DDR (p > 0.05). Cross-quartile classification indicated that <10% of patients were incorrectly classified. Weighted kappa statistics showed agreement with all but iron. Bland-Altman analysis showed positive mean differences were observed for all nutrients when compared to 3DDR, whilst energy, carbohydrates, fat, iron, sodium, and potassium had percentage data points within the limit of agreement (mean ± 1.96 SD), above 95%. In summary, the BDHD-FFQ demonstrated an acceptable relative validity for most of the nutrients as four out of the six statistical tests fulfilled the cut-off standard in assessing dietary intake of CKD patients in Bangladesh.

Runx2 is required for hypertrophic chondrocyte mediated degradation of cartilage matrix during endochondral ossification.

The RUNX2 transcription factor is a key regulator for the development of cartilage and bone. Global or resting chondrocyte-specific deletion of the Runx2 gene results in failure of chondrocyte hypertrophy, endochondral ossification, and perinatal lethality. The terminally mature hypertrophic chondrocyte regulates critical steps of endochondral ossification. Importantly, expression of the Runx2 gene starts in the resting chondrocyte and increases progressively, reaching the maximum level in hypertrophic chondrocytes. However, the RUNX2 role after chondrocyte hypertrophy remains unknown. To answer this question, we deleted the Runx2 gene specifically in hypertrophic chondrocytes using the Col10-Cre line. Mice lacking the Runx2 gene in hypertrophic chondrocytes (Runx2HC/HC ) survive but exhibit limb dwarfism. Interestingly, the length of the hypertrophic chondrocyte zone is doubled in the growth plate of Runx2HC/HC mice. Expression of pro-apoptotic Bax decreased significantly while anti-apoptotic Bcl2 remains unchanged leading to a four-fold increase in the Bcl2/Bax ratio in mutant mice. In line with this, a significant reduction in apoptosis of Runx2HC/HC hypertrophic chondrocyte is noted. A large amount of cartilage matrix is present in the long bones that extend toward the diaphyseal region of Runx2HC/HC mice. This is not due to enhanced synthesis of the cartilage matrix as the expression of both collagen type 2 and aggrecan were comparable among Runx2HC/HC and WT littermates. Our qPCR analysis demonstrates the increased amount of cartilage matrix is due to impaired expression of cartilage degrading enzymes such as metalloproteinase and aggrecanase as well as tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases. Moreover, a significant decrease of TRAP positive chondroclasts was noted along the cartilage islands in Runx2HC/HC mice. Consistently, qPCR data showed an 81% reduction in the Rankl/Opg ratio in Runx2HC/HC littermates, which is inhibitory for chondroclast differentiation. Finally, we assess if increase cartilage matrix in Runx2HC/HC mice serves as a template for bone and mineral deposition using micro-CT and Von Kossa. The mutant mice exhibit a significant increase in trabecular bone mass compared to littermates. In summary, our findings have uncovered a novel role of Runx2 in apoptosis of hypertrophic chondrocytes and degradation of cartilage matrix during endochondral ossification.

International Society of Nephrology Global Kidney Health Atlas: structures, organization, and services for the management of kidney failure in South Asia.

Information about disease burden and the available infrastructure and workforce to care for patients with kidney disease was collected for the second edition of the International Society of Nephrology Global Kidney Health Atlas. This paper presents findings for the 8 countries in the South Asia region. The World Bank categorizes Afghanistan and Nepal as low-income; Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Pakistan as lower-middle-income; and Sri Lanka and the Maldives as upper-middle-income countries. The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in South Asia ranged from 5.01% to 13.24%. Long-term hemodialysis and long-term peritoneal dialysis are available in all countries, but Afghanistan lacks peritoneal dialysis services. Kidney transplantation was available in all countries except Bhutan and Maldives. Hemodialysis was the dominant modality of long-term dialysis, peritoneal dialysis was more expensive than hemodialysis, and kidney transplantation overwhelmingly depended on living donors. Bhutan provided public funding for kidney replacement therapy (dialysis and transplantation); Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh had variable funding mechanisms; and Afghanistan relied solely on out-of-pocket expenditure. There were shortages of health care personnel across the entire region. Reporting was variable: Afghanistan and Sri Lanka have dialysis registries but publish no reports, whereas Bangladesh has a transplant registry. South Asia has a large, but poorly documented burden of CKD. Diabetes and hypertension are the major causes of CKD throughout the region with a higher prevalence of infectious causes in Afghanistan and a high burden of CKD of an unknown cause in Sri Lanka and parts of India. The extent and quality of care delivery is suboptimal and variable. Sustainable strategies need to be developed to address the growing burden of CKD in the region.

Characterization of Vibrio spp. in environmental water samples collected from flood prone areas of Bangladesh and their antibiotic resistance profile.

Last cholera epidemic has been recorded in Bangladesh between 1992-1993, while few sporadic localized outbreaks have been reported as recent as 2005. Serotype O1 of Vibrio cholera is considered as the principal causative agent which transmits through contaminated drinking water resulting that epidemic. Therefore, the objective of this research was to isolate V. cholera in 3 different water sources; River, pond and tube-well, in 5 different locations of Gazipur, Bangladesh, and to analyze their antibiogram study. A total of 45 water samples were randomly collected for the isolation and identification of Vibrio spp. Samples are then serially diluted in alkaline peptone water and streak on Thiosulfate Citrate Bile Salt Sucrose-TCBS agar for quantification of V. spp. For V. cholera isolation water samples were first enriched in nutrient broth at 37 °C for 16 hours followed by cultivation in selective media; TCBS agar at 37 °C for 24 hours. Yellow colonies on TCBS agar were screed as V. cholera and was confirmed by analyzing their biochemical characteristics like Catalase, Oxidase, MR, VP, Indole, Sugar fermentation. Following isolation antibiotic sensitivity test was performed on each V. cholera isolates to determine their antibiotic sensitivity profile. The results showed, out of 45 samples 12 contained V. cholera. Tube-well water has significantly lower concentration (log CFU/mL) of V. spp. than river and pond water (P < 0.05). Bacterial concentration doesn't deviate (P > 0.05) significantly in 5 different location the sample was collected from. All the 12 isolates were sensitive to Gentamicin and ciprofloxacin (100%), while Chloramphenicol (91.67%), Sulfamethoxazole (91.67%), Azithromycin (66.67%) showed high sensitivity. Isolates showed marginal sensitivity towards Tetracycline (33.33%), and Cephalexin (16.67%) and 100% resistance against antibiotics like Vancomycin, Penicillin, Erythromycin, and Nalidixic Acid. Based on these data we recommend using tube-well water instead of river and pond water for drinking purposes. Furthermore, we suggest selective use of sensitive antimicrobials listed here for therapeutics of cholera outbreak.

Vibrio and Bacterial Communities Across a Pollution Gradient in the Bay of Bengal: Unraveling Their Biogeochemical Drivers.

The highly populated coasts of the Bay of Bengal are particularly vulnerable to water-borne diseases, pollution and climatic extremes. The environmental factors behind bacterial community composition and Vibrio distribution were investigated in an estuarine system of a cholera-endemic region in the coastline of Bangladesh. Higher temperatures and sewage pollution were important drivers of the abundance of toxigenic Vibrio cholerae. A closer relation between non-culturable Vibrio and particulate organic matter (POM) was inferred during the post-monsoon. The distribution of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) of Vibrio genus was likely driven by salinity and temperature. The resuspension of sediments increased Vibrio abundance and organic nutrient concentrations. The δ13C dynamic in POM followed an increasing gradient from freshwater to marine stations; nevertheless, it was not a marker of sewage pollution. Bacteroidales and culturable coliforms were reliable indicators of untreated wastewater during pre and post-monsoon seasons. The presumptive incorporation of depleted-ammonium derived from ammonification processes under the hypoxic conditions, by some microorganisms such as Cloacibacterium and particularly by Arcobacter nearby the sewage discharge, contributed to the drastic 15N depletion in the POM. The likely capacity of extracellular polymeric substances production of these taxa may facilitate the colonization of POM from anthropogenic origin and may signify important properties for wastewater bioremediation. Genera of potential pathogens other than Vibrio associated with sewage pollution were Acinetobacter, Aeromonas, Arcobacter, and Bergeyella. The changing environmental conditions of the estuary favored the abundance of early colonizers and the island biogeography theory explained the distribution of some bacterial groups. This multidisciplinary study evidenced clearly the eutrophic conditions of the Karnaphuli estuary and assessed comprehensively its current bacterial baseline and potential risks. The prevailing conditions together with human overpopulation and frequent natural disasters, transform the region in one of the most vulnerable to climate change. Adaptive management strategies are urgently needed to enhance ecosystem health.

Disruption of the preB Cell Receptor Complex Leads to Decreased Bone Mass.

In the bone marrow, preB cells are found adjacent to the bone endosteum where bone synthesizing osteoblast and bone resorbing osteoclasts reside. Although there is evidence of interactions between preB and bone cells, the factors that contribute to such interactions are poorly understood. A critical checkpoint for preB cell development assesses the integrity of the nascent immunoglobulin µ heavy chain (HC) by testing whether it can participate in the formation of a preB cell receptor (preBCR), composed of the µ HC and surrogate light chain (LC). In this work, we tested whether loss of preBCR components can affect bone synthesis. A panel of gene targeted mice with sequential blocks in preBCR formation or function [surrogate light chain component lambda 5 deleted (λ5-/-), transmembrane domain of µHC deleted (IgM-mem-/-), and CD19 preBCR co-receptor deleted (CD19-/-)] were evaluated for effects on postnatal bone synthesis. Postnatal bone mass was analyzed in 6 month old mice using µ-CT, histomorphometry and double calcein labeling. Both cortical and trabecular bone mass were significantly decreased in the femurs of the λ5 and IgM-mem deficient mice. Histomorphometric analysis showed a decrease in the numbers of osteoblasts and osteoclasts in all three mutant strains. Double calcein labeling revealed a significant decrease in dynamic synthesis and mineralization of bone in λ5-/- mice. Our data strongly suggest that interference with preBCR formation or function affects bone homeostasis independent of the presence or absence of mature B cells, and that components of the preBCR play important, and potentially distinct, roles in regulating adult bone mass.