Lifestyle
How Does Physical Activity and Exercise Affect Testosterone Levels?
Testosterone, a crucial hormone for both men and women, plays a vital role in various bodily functions. One factor that significantly influences testosterone levels is exercise and mental well-being. So, it is natural to wonder how these two interact. Let's explore the intricate relationship between exercise and testosterone to understand how physical activity impacts hormonal balance.
What is Testosterone?
Testosterone, a pivotal hormone, is present in both men and women, although commonly associated with male characteristics. Produced in the testicles in men, ovaries in women, and to a lesser extent, the adrenal glands, it plays a crucial role in diverse bodily functions.
This hormone is instrumental in the development of male reproductive tissues, including the testes and prostate. Often referred to as the "male sex hormone," testosterone acts as a conductor orchestrating various bodily functions, impacting muscle growth, bone density, mood, libido, and more.
Read more: 10 Hazards at the Gym and How to Avoid Them
In women, testosterone is essential for maintaining reproductive health and influencing aspects of mood and energy.
The decrease of testosterone hormone with age is natural, but factors like stress and lifestyle can accelerate this process. Understanding how to optimise testosterone, perhaps through targeted physical exercises, can help promote overall health and well-being.
How Exercise Affects Testosterone
Relationship between Exercise and Testosterone
The correlation between exercise and testosterone levels in men has been well-established by different research initiatives. Long-term engagement in physical activity has shown a consistent increase in testosterone levels.
Interestingly, certain physical exercises can induce a temporary spike of testosterone hormone within fifteen minutes to an hour after completion of the workout. Such short term impacts are especially noticeable in younger men. This immediate boost is more pronounced when workouts are performed in the morning, aligning with the natural peak of testosterone levels during that time.
Read more: Zumba: Dance Your Way into Fitness
However, sustaining elevated testosterone levels over the long term requires regular exercise. While there is currently no conclusive evidence of increased testosterone levels in women due to exercise, the presence of testosterone during workouts aids in training and muscle recovery.
Research reveals nuanced findings show that men experience significant testosterone increases post-weightlifting, whereas women show minimal changes. Resistance training in women has a temporary testosterone boost impacting fat distribution.
For older men, regular physical activity not only raises testosterone levels but also enhances growth hormone levels and positively affects brain function. In those previously inactive, exercise led to a notable increase in dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
Read more: 10 Great Health, Fitness Career Ideas You May Consider
Interestingly, even in men with obesity, regular exercise proved more effective in boosting testosterone levels than weight loss diets alone. Maintaining healthy or heightened testosterone levels is crucial, not just for muscle building but for overall well-being and exercise progress.
Exercises that Increase Testosterone
Not all exercises can create the same impacts when it comes to elevating testosterone levels. Understanding the most effective workouts can contribute significantly to achieving the desired hormonal balance. Here is a closer look at some of the best exercises known to increase testosterone.
Dhaka Makers unveil a tapestry of talent in 2nd edition
Emerging as a unique platform for over 100 local and contemporary artists and artisans, Dhaka Makers, an independent arts and crafts festival opened its second season on Thursday at the Aloki Convention Center in the capital.
After its highly acclaimed inaugural season back in June last year, the platform which has already established itself as an urban rendezvous for creative, contemporary local artists and artisans, the second edition of Dhaka Makers aims to continue showcasing their work and foster connections within the creative community on an even greater scale.
A wide variety of events are available throughout the four-day festival, such as arts and crafts classes, a Makers' Market with over 100 entrepreneurs, an art gallery called Jadughar that showcases the works of 85 artists, and a scrumptious food pavilion curated by Sameera Wadood.
The festival celebrates Dhaka's cultural wealth with nightly performances by performers from different musical styles, including Tashfee, Labik Kamal Gourob, Imran Ahmed Trio, Joler Gaan, and others.
City Bank takes centre stage as the Title Partner for the event, with support from other partners such as EMK Center and Goethe Institute. Strategic Partners include Aloki Convention Center, Emerald Events, ICE Today, Deshar Works, and Bhai Bhai Productions. Media Partners contributing to the festival's outreach are Haal Fashion and Somoy TV.
PM unveils new graphic novel on Bangabandhu’s travel to China
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina unveiled a new graphic novel based on Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's book "Amar Dekha Noya Chin" (The New China as I Saw) on Thursday, February 1, following the inauguration of the Ekushey Book Fair. The unveiling took place at the Centre for Research and Information (CRI) stall located in the Bangla Academy premises, where she also purchased a copy of the book.
The Prime Minister entered the fair at 4:40 pm and, after visiting several stalls and viewing the exhibits on display, she made her way to the CRI stall.
Read: ‘Amar Dekha Noya Chin’: Illuminating Bangabandhu’s travel account
Nasrul Hamid, a trustee of CRI, introduced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to those present at the stall before she unveiled a major attraction of this year's book fair, the graphic novel "Amar Dekha Noya Chin". The Prime Minister also participated in a photo session with the book. Following this, she visited several other stalls before departing from the fair premises.
Like every year, the CRI stall is set up in the Bangla Academy premises, with the newly published graphic novel "Amar Dekha Noya Chin" being the highlight of their display. CRI’s first foray into this genre was the graphic novel "Mujib", aimed at introducing Bangabandhu to children and young adults. Following the success of "Mujib", they planned to adapt another popular book written by the Father of the Nation into a graphic novel format.
The graphic novel's publisher is CRI trustee Radwan Mujib Siddiq, with illustrations by Sabyasachi Mistry. Siddiq Ahmed contributed to the narrative and dialogue, while the project's curation and editing were managed by Shibu Kumar Shill.
Measles: Causes, Symptoms and Prevention
Measles, a highly contagious viral infection, has been a persistent health concern worldwide. Understanding the symptoms and causes of measles is crucial for individuals and communities to combat its spread effectively. In the wake of a recent measles outbreak in Europe, understanding the symptoms and causes of this highly contagious viral infection is more crucial than ever.
What is Measles? How Does It Affect People?
Measles is characterised by fever, cough, and a distinctive rash. The virus responsible for measles is a paramyxovirus (known as rubeola), and its high contagiousness often leads to outbreaks, especially in areas with low vaccination rates. This contagious viral disease easily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes.
While capable of affecting anyone, it predominantly targets children. Measles initiates in the respiratory tract and then disseminates throughout the body. As a highly contagious disease, it underscores the importance of preventive measures, with vaccination being the most effective way to shield against severe illness, complications, and potential fatalities.
Read more: Foods that Help Relieve Nausea and Vomiting
What are the Symptoms of Measles?
The symptoms of measles typically manifest 10–14 days after exposure to the virus, with a prominent rash being the most evident sign. Early symptoms persist for 4–7 days and include
- A high fever- Runny nose - Cough - Red and watery eyes - Tiredness- White spots inside the cheeks, known as Koplik's spots
The characteristic rash emerges approximately 7–18 days post-exposure, starting on the face and upper neck, and gradually spreading to the hands and feet over about 3 days. This rash persists for 5–6 days before fading. Other measles symptoms may include
- A sore throat- White spots in your mouth- Muscle pain- Sensitivity to light.
Read more: Which Vitamins are Essential for Women?
What are the Causes of Measles?
The measles virus, belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family, is renowned for its highly contagious nature. Spread primarily through respiratory droplets, it easily transmits from person to person. Measles is exceptionally contagious, with individuals at risk of contracting the virus even after an infected person has left the vicinity.
The virus can endure on surfaces and in the air for hours, posing a continual threat. Originating in the nose and throat, measles is transmitted when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, releasing infectious droplets into the air. These droplets, both airborne and on surfaces, remain contagious for several hours, facilitating the virus's easy transmission.
Measles Health Risks
The primary cause of death resulting from measles is often complications associated with the disease. These complications encompass various serious issues
- Blindness- Encephalitis, an infection leading to brain swelling and potential brain damage- Severe diarrhea, accompanied by dehydration- Ear infections- Severe respiratory problems, including pneumonia.- In the case of a pregnant woman contracting measles, it poses a significant risk, endangering both the mother and potentially resulting in premature birth with a low birth weight for the baby.
Read more: How to Protect Babies and Children from Dengue Fever
Complications, often leading to fatalities, are more prevalent in children under 5 and adults over 30, especially those malnourished or with weakened immune systems, as measles itself can compromise the body's ability to defend against infections, rendering children exceptionally vulnerable.
CRI stall ready to welcome visitors at Ekushey Book Fair
At the Ekushey Book Fair 2024, the Centre for Research and Information (CRI) stall is all set to welcome bookworms. Located at the Bangla Academy premises as usual, this year’s stall introduces a new attraction — a graphic novel based on another book by Bangabandhu, titled “Amar Dekha Noya Chin” (The New China as I Saw). Alongside this novel, the stall will also feature the previously published graphic novel “Mujib” and other books by CRI.
Nasrul Hamid, a trustee of CRI, was present on Thursday to oversee the final preparations of the stall, including arranging the books and ensuring everything was in order before the unveiling of the graphic novel. He shared on his verified Facebook page, “The CRI stall (No. 878-879, Bangla Academy premises) is ready for visitors at the Ekushey Book Fair. Honorable Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will soon unveil the graphic novel ‘Amar Dekha Noya Chin’.”
CRI shared that “Mujib” was their first venture into graphic novels, aimed primarily at graphic novel enthusiasts and to present Bangabandhu in a way that children and teenagers could easily understand. Following the great reception of “Mujib”, CRI planned to adapt another popular book by the Father of the Nation into a graphic novel for readers.
The graphic novel’s publisher is CRI trustee Radwan Mujib Siddiq, with illustration by Sabyasachi Mistry. Siddiq Ahmed worked on the narrative and dialogue, while Shibu Kumar Shill was responsible for project curation and editing.
The cover of the book shows a young Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in a suit and his iconic glasses, with images of significant Chinese landmarks in the background. This book recounts Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s journey to China in 1952 to attend a peace conference — a trip he couldn’t fully document at the time but wrote about in detail while in prison in 1954. Nearly 65 years later, in 2019, this travelogue was published as a book with the assistance of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, daughter of Bangabandhu.
Baklai Waterfall in Bandarban: How to Get to One of the Tallest Waterfalls in Bangladesh
While trekking through hilly paths, the most inaccessible trails offer the most beautiful scenery. When the natural sounds of the wild springs mingle with the hum from the hidden abyss, it soothes the ears of outdoor enthusiasts. And, if the trekking leads to the heart-pounding heights of one of the highest waterfalls in Bangladesh, the journey will surely be memorable. Let's delve into the travel route details to reach the Baklai Falls in Bandarban.
Significance and Geographical Location of Baklai Falls
With approximately 380 feet, Baklai falls stands as the focal point of Baklai village located at Nighting mouza under Thanchi upazila of Bandarban district.
The Baklai village is situated between Keokradong and Tazing Dong, the two significant hills of the country. The majestic Baklai waterfall is visible from a distance of 110 km from Ruma and 45 km from Thanchi.
Locally, the falls is also referred to as Baktalai Jharna. Due to extremely treacherous hilly roads and a lack of sufficient initiative, only a handful of tourists can reach the foot of this waterfall.
Read more: Trekking to Ham Ham Waterfall, Moulvibazar: On the Way to Pass the Impassable
The height of Baklai falls is close to Liluk or Langlok falls, which is also located in Thanchi. While doubts persist about the title of the country's highest waterfall, Baklai stands ahead in terms of sheer beauty.
How to Visit Baklai Waterfall in Bandarban from Dhaka
To reach Baklai Falls, Bandarban Sadar can be directly accessed from Dhaka through a bus route. Various buses depart for Bandarban from different points of Dhaka city including Gabtali, Kalyanpur, Kalabagan, Jatrabari, Mohakhali, or Fakirapool at fares ranging from Tk 850 to Tk 1,800 per person.
If traveling by train, travelers need to reach Chattogram first and then take a bus to reach Bandarban. Chattogram-bound trains departing from Kamalapur or Biman Bandar railway stations charge BDT 285 to BDT 788 per person, depending on the class levels.
Read more: Waterfalls in Bangladesh: Everlast Destination for Fountain Lovers
Flying from Dhaka to Chattogram takes around 1 hour and can cost between BDT 3,000 to BDT 11,175 per person. However, booking seats in advance, at least 1 month ahead, may offer a chance to get a discount on the ticket price.
Upon reaching Chattogram, the tourists can catch a Bandarban bus from BRTC or Dampara bus stand, with costs ranging from BDT 220 to BDT 300 per person.
‘Amar Dekha Noya Chin’: Illuminating Bangabandhu’s travel account
Center for Research and Information (CRI) is poised to make another significant contribution to Bangladesh’s literary landscape with the release of a new graphic novel titled “Amar Dekha Noya China” (New China in My Eyes). This graphic novel artistically portrays the profound insights and experiences of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Father of the Nation, during his pivotal 1952 visit to China.
In a year marked by upheaval, Mujib’s journey to China exposed him to diverse developmental concepts. Despite his subsequent imprisonment by the Pakistan Army, Bangabandhu meticulously documented his observations and reflections two years later while in captivity.
Read: All set for Ekushey Boi Mela 2024
This graphic novel is not just a historical recount; it represents a transformative approach to narrating history. “Amar Dekha Noya China” comes after an earlier landmark initiative of CRI that saw a series of ten episodes on Mujib’s life – the first graphic novel in the country based on the autobiography of the Father of the Nation. “Mujib”, the graphic novel series, earned high praises from top cartoonists, writers, as well as young readers.
Through these initiatives, CRI’s objective is to kindle patriotism in young minds through the engaging medium of graphic novels.
Read: Winners of Bangla Academy Literary Award 2023 announced
These graphic novels provide a rare glimpse into the mind of a leader who, starting as an ordinary boy from a remote village, ignited a movement for independence.
The launch of “Amar Dekha Noya China” is eagerly anticipated at the Ekushey Book Fair, starting tomorrow (February 1, 2024). The book will be available at the CRI stall (878-879), offering readers a unique window into the early life of a leader whose vision shaped a nation’s destiny.
Published by Radwan Mujib Siddiq, a trustee of CRI, this graphic novel was sketched by Sabbasachi Mistri and the project director is Shibu Kumar Shill.
JN.1: Symptoms, Prevention of and Precautions for the New COVID-19 Variant
The past two years have been a rollercoaster ride of uncertainty, and just when the world thought the situation of Coronavirus pandemic was under control, a new variant, JN.1, has surfaced. This article aims to dissect the symptoms, causes, and implications of JN.1, the new strain of COVID-19.
What is JN.1? How Does it Affect People?
JN.1, an Omicron subvariant, surfaced in September last year amid declining temperatures, showing heightened transmission rates. Stemming from BA.2.86 (also known as Pirola), JN.1 possesses an additional spike protein mutation crucial for SARS-CoV-2 cell interaction.
The World Health Organization (WHO) categorises JN.1 as a Variant of Interest (VOI), distinct from its precursor BA.2.86, due to its rapid spread. Recently identified in the United States, close monitoring is essential to comprehend and address the dynamics of this evolving COVID-19 variant.
The rise in JN.1 cases aligns with a general surge in COVID-19 infections. Symptoms of JN.1 infection closely resemble those of earlier Omicron variants, with no apparent increase in severity. While there are hints of potential increased diarrhoea cases, concrete data supporting this observation is currently lacking. Continuous monitoring is essential to better understand the characteristics of this variant.
Read more: Bangladesh reports 53 more Covid-19 cases in 24hrs
Is JN.1 More Transmissible?
JN.1, a descendant in the Omicron lineage, appears to be more transmissible than its precursor, BA.2.86. The observed surge in case numbers indicates increased transmissibility. Several newer variants, including JN.1, exhibit mutations affecting the spike protein's binding strength to respiratory cells, potentially enhancing replication and immune evasion.
While it remains early to precisely gauge JN.1's transmissibility and immune escape compared to other Omicron variants, experts assert its notable virulence. Dr. Joseph Khabbaza from the Cleveland Clinic notes that the current strain seems to deliver a more potent impact than its predecessors.
Who is at High Risk of Infection?
Certain groups face a higher risk of contracting the easily transmissible virus. These include:
- People aged 65 and above- Diabetic people- People with neurological disorders- People who have pre-existing health conditions like COPD, heart diseases, chronic kidney diseases, cystic fibrosis, and individuals suffering from liver ailments- Pregnant women- Smokers- People with a compromised or weak immune system- Healthcare workers- People who are not vaccinated or have not taken booster shots.
Read more: COVID-19: Bangladesh reports 35 more cases in 24hrs
What are the Symptoms and Causes of the JN.1 COVID-19 Variant?
JN.1's increasing prevalence implies heightened contagiousness or improved evasion of immune defences, as per the CDC. Currently, there is no evidence indicating it induces more severe disease than other strains, despite potential transmission spikes. Symptoms associated with JN.1 seem comparable to those induced by other strains, encompassing a range such as
- Sore throat- Congestion- Runny nose- Cough- Fatigue- Headache- Muscle aches- Fever or chills- Loss of sense of taste or smell- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing- Nausea or vomiting- Diarrhoea
The nature and intensity of symptoms typically rely more on an individual's overall health and immune condition rather than the specific variant causing the infection.
Read more: COVID-19: Bangladesh reports 28 more cases in 24hrs
All set for Ekushey Boi Mela 2024
The month-long Amar Ekushey Boi Mela 2024 is scheduled to take place from February 1 to February 29.
The fair will be held on the Bangla Academy premises and the adjacent venue at the Suhrawardy Udyan in the capital, according to a press conference held on Tuesday at the academy's AKSB auditorium.
Books worth Tk47 crore sold in Amar Ekushey Book Fair in 27 days
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the fair on Thursday, February 1.
She will also distribute the Bangla Academy Literary Award 2023 among the recipients at the inaugural ceremony and unveil the covers of several new books, including "Collected Works of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman: Volume-2," published by Bangla Academy.
Curtain falls on Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2023
Bangla Academy Director General and Amar Ekushey Book Fair Directory Committee President poet Nurul Huda, Bangla Academy Secretary Dr Md Hasan Kabir, Director of Public Relations-IT and Training Department Sameer Kumar Sarkar, Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2024 associate BKash Limited’s Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) Mir Nawbut Ali and Secretary of Amar Ekushey Book Fair Committee Dr KM Mujahidul Islam briefed the details of this year's Ekushey Book Fair at the press conference, conducted by the academy’s Public Relations Officer poet Pias Majid, on Tuesday.
Kid’s zone of Ekushey Book Fair abuzz with little book lovers
Bangla Academy President and novelist Selina Hossain will chair the innaugural ceremony of the book fair, while Cultural Affairs Secretary Khalil Ahmed will be present as a special guest.
Bangla Academy Director General, poet Nurul Huda, will deliver the welcome remarks.
The territory of this year’s book fair will cover a total area of 11,50,000 square feet, like the previous editions. A total of 937 units have been allocated to 635 organisations this year.
Out of this, 173 units have been allocated to 120 organisations on the academy premises and 764 units to 515 organisations at the Suhrawardy Udyan section, compared to 901 units to 601 organisations last year.
The fair will also have 37 pavilions (one on the Academy premises and 36 in the Suhrawardy Udyan section).
At the press conference, it was announced that the Bangla Academy is solely organising the fair this year without any event management associates for the first time since 2006 and has brought some changes in setting up book stalls and other facilities, including food courts.
"This year, the outer path of the fair has been relocated closer to the Kali Mandir gate due to the metro rail station's placement. There will also be eight entry and exit ways in the TSC, Doyel Chattar, MRT Basing Plant, and Engineering Institution areas," Dr Mujahidul Islam said at the press conference.
The food stalls are located within the Engineers' Institution's boundaries and have been structured in a way so that they won’t create any disturbance to the readers attending the book fair. The fairgoers will also have access to the prayer area, restrooms, and other facilities," he added.
The traditional "Shishu Prohor" segment will take place for the child fairgoers every Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 1 pm The dedicated "Shishu Chattar" will remain in its previous place, adjacent to the temple area, like last year.
There will be seminars on the main stage of the fair venue at 4:00 pm every day, followed by cultural events. The Little Magazine premises have been shifted near the open stage of Suhrawardy Udyan, which will cater to around 170 LittleMags stalls.
The fair venue was first extended to Suhrawardy Udyan in 2013 to accommodate more spaces for the fair, besides its fixed venue at the Bangla Academy.
There will be strict security arrangements in and around the venue by the Bangladesh Police, RAB, BGB, and other security enforcement agencies to prevent any unpleasant incidents. The entire fair zone will be closely monitored with more than 300 CCTV cameras.
The "Chittaranjan Saha Memorial Award" will be distributed to the best publishers. At the same time, the "Munir Chowdhury Memorial Award" will be conferred upon three organisations for publishing the best books during the 2023 fair.
In addition to that, the "Rokanuzzaman Khan Dadabhai Memorial Award" will be awarded to the best children's book, and the "Artist Qayyum Chowdhury Memorial Award" will be awarded to the best-designed stall at the fair.
The month-long book fair is arranged every year in February to commemorate the sacrifices of people who gave their lives on February 21, 1952, for establishing Bangla as the mother tongue.
The traditional Amar Ekushey Book Fair began informally in 1972 on Bangla Academy premises; however, the academy officially took the responsibility to arrange the fair regularly, every year since 1978.
It was then named "Amar Ekushey Grantha Mela," and a guideline was laid out in this regard in 1984.
The fairgoers can visit the fair from 3 pm to 9 pm on regular days and from 11 am to 9 pm on holidays. However, all entrance points will be closed after 8.30 pm.
On February 21, International Mother Language Day, fairgoers can enter the fair at 8 am.
Nipah Virus: Don’t Consume This If You Want to Be Safe
Md. Babul Hossain, 38, a resident of Manikganj, succumbed to the Nipah virus recently. Just days prior, 27-year-old Lutfar Rahman from the same district died under similar circumstances. Although there was no official confirmation of Nipah virus in Lutfar's case, according to the Upazila Health and Family Planning Center, the situation has sparked panic.
Not only for Manikganj, but it is a matter of concern for Bangladesh, given the vulnerability to this virus in recent years. It is imperative to acquire accurate knowledge about Nipah virus infection and take appropriate action to prevent its spread. To prevent infection, let's understand how the Nipah virus spreads and identify its sources.
What is the Nipah Virus?
Nipah virus, in short NiV, is one of many types of zoonotic viruses. A zoonotic virus refers to a virus that can be transmitted between vertebrates and humans.
While the potential carriers of NiV are numerous, its presence has been observed primarily in pigs and bats. Specifically, the carrier of NiV is fruit bats of the genus Pteropus, commonly known as the flying foxes.
Pteropus is among the largest species of bats globally. They are commonly found in Southeast Asia, India, South Asia, Australia, East Africa, and the Pacific Islands.
Read more: After father-in-law, woman dies of ‘Nipah virus’ in Naogaon
How is the Nipah Virus Spread?
The essential genetic material in an animal's body is RNA or ribonucleic acid. NiV primarily infects the entire animal by targeting this RNA. Subsequently, when another animal comes into contact with the infected one, the viral RNA spreads to the healthy animal. The contact can be made through various mediums, such as
- Direct contact with infected animals, such as bat blood, saliva, vomit, or feces, poses a risk.
- Location of palm trees near yards, water wells, agricultural fields, or domestic animal shelters, can enhance the risks of contamination.
- Consumption of food or water contaminated with body fluids of NiV infected animals, such as palm sap and water from wells contaminated by bats, or partially eaten fruits by bats, can also facilitate the transmission of Nipah virus.
- Contact with an NiV infected person, involving exposure to blood, spit, sneezes, vomit, feces, or even respiratory droplets, is another route of Nipah virus transmission. Several incidents in Bangladesh and India proved that NiV is airborne and moderately contagious.
Read more: Suspected Nipah virus patient dies in Barishal
Most Vulnerable Communities to Nipah Virus Outbreaks
While human-to-human transmission was not initially reported, this phenomenon is being increasingly observed, especially in Bangladesh and neighboring countries like India.
Hospital workers caring for patients infected with Nipah virus, family members of patients, and individuals involved in palm juice harvesting are now at the highest risk.