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Objectives: Pre-hepatic jaundice results from an imbalance between bilirubin production and clearance, often linked to hemoglobinopathies. Antioxidant vitamin C, malondialdehyde, and trace elements play roles in jaundice, yet their specific associations remain unclear. The objective is to assess and compare these biomarkers in pre-hepatic jaundice patients and healthy controls, aiming to identify potential diagnostic markers and understand distinctive characteristics related to the disease’s pathogenesis. Methods: This case–control study enrolled 50 pre-hepatic jaundice patients and 50 healthy controls, utilizing advanced techniques for biomarker quantification. We completed blood sample collection from study participants between 1 September 2023 and 31 December 2023. This study investigates the correlation between various biomarkers and pre-hepatic jaundice using serum samples with a focus on antioxidant vitamin C, malondialdehyde, and trace elements. Results: This study demonstrates elevated concentrations of malondialdehyde in patients with pre-hepatic jaundice, suggesting alterations in bilirubin metabolism and increased oxidative stress. We found that the serum levels of malondialdehyde were significantly higher in pre-hepatic jaundice patients compared to healthy controls. Our observations revealed a notable decrease in the average serum vitamin C levels in patients with pre-hepatic jaundice compared to healthy controls. The patients had lower serum Zn levels and higher serum Cu and Mn levels compared to the healthy controls. The correlation study demonstrates robust positive correlations among these biomarkers in pre-hepatic jaundice. As the levels of vitamin C rise, the levels of the other criteria often fall, and vice versa. There is an inverse relationship between higher levels of vitamin C and lower levels of malondialdehyde. The current investigation identifies possible changes in antioxidant vitamins, malondialdehyde levels, and trace elements, which provide significant insights for targeted interventions. Conclusions: The present research highlights the integrated significance of vitamin C, malondialdehyde, and trace elements in the progression of the disease.

Abstract Background Breast and cervical cancer are the two leading cancers in terms of incidence and mortality. Previous studies reported different interleukins, including interleukin-17A (IL-17A) to be responsible for the development and progression of these malignancies. Therefore, we speculated that the variants in this gene might be associated with these cancer developments in Bangladeshi population. For evaluating the hypothesis, we investigated the association of IL-17A rs3748067 polymorphism with the susceptibility of both breast and cervical cancer. Methods This case-control study was performed on 156 breast cancer patients, 156 cervical cancer patients, and 156 controls using the tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction. The statistical software package SPSS (version 25.0) was applied for analyses. The genetic association was measured by the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A statistically significant association was considered when p-value ≤ 0.05. Functional analysis was performed using GEPIA and UALCAN databases. Results From the calculation of the association of IL-17A rs3748067 with breast cancer, it is found that no genotype or allele showed a statistically significant association (p>0.05). On the other hand, the analysis of IL-17A rs3748067 with cervical cancer demonstrated that CT genotype showed a significant association (CT vs. CC: OR=1.79, p=0.021). In the overdominant model, CT genotype also revealed a statistically significant association with cervical cancer, which is found to be statistically significant (OR=1.84, p=0.015). Conclusion Our study summarizes that rs3748067 polymorphism in the IL-17A gene may be associated with cervical cancer but not breast cancer in Bangladeshi patients. However, we suggest studies in the future with a larger sample size.

Abstract Background and Aims Breast cancer is one of the deadliest diseases affecting women in Bangladesh, and its prevalence is increasing year by year. Although several IL‐6 single nucleotide polymorphisms have been implicated in BC susceptibility and prognosis in various studies, no research has been done to investigate the relationship between breast cancer and IL‐6 in Bangladeshi women. This investigation aimed to explore the linkage between the rs1800797 variant of IL‐6 and the susceptibility to breast carcinoma among women in Bangladesh. Methods The IL‐6 rs1800797 variant was genotyped in 218 subjects (110 cases and 108 controls) using the tetra‐primer ARMS‐PCR method. The statistical analysis was applied utilizing the SPSS software version 24.0. UALCAN database was used for IL‐6 mRNA analysis, and genotype‐based gene expression was retrieved from GTEx Portal. Results This study found a significant link between IL‐6 rs1800797 variants and increased chance of breast cancer across different genetic inheritance models, including additive model 1 (AG vs. GG: OR = 2.16, p = 0.035); dominant model (AG + AA vs. GG: OR = 2.26, p 0.05) and the recessive model (AA vs. GG + AG: OR = 2.52, p > 0.05). Under the analysis of the probability of false positive reports, no significant values were found in different models when the OR was 1.5, and the prior probability was 0.25. Conclusions A significant relationship was found between the IL‐6 rs1800797 genetic variant and the risk of breast cancer. However, the findings of the study should be further investigated with a larger sample size to validate the correlation.

Natural compounds hold promise in the search for cancer therapies due to their unique chemical structures and combinations that may effectively combat cancer while minimizing toxicity and side effects compared to conventional treatments. Silibinin, a natural lignan, has been found to possess strong anti-cancer activity against several types of human cancers based on emerging research. This study aims to provide an overview of the therapeutic potential of silibinin in the treatment and prevention of cancers. A comprehensive search was conducted using various internet databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect to identify relevant research papers. Silibinin has been shown to exhibit anticancer activity against several types of cancers, including liver, lungs, breast, prostate, colorectal, skin, and bladder cancers. Its multifaceted mechanisms of action contribute to its therapeutic effects. Silibinin exerts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-metastatic, and anti-angiogenic activities, making it a promising candidate for cancer therapy. One of the key mechanisms underlying the anticancer effects of silibinin is its ability to modulate multiple signaling pathways involved in cancer development and progression. It can inhibit the activation of various oncogenic pathways, including PI3K/Akt, NF-κB, Wnt/β-catenin, and MAPK pathways, thereby suppressing cancer cell proliferation, inducing cell cycle arrest, and promoting apoptosis. Silibinin possesses great potential as an effective treatment agent for cancer. The multifaceted mechanisms of action, favorable safety profile, and potential synergistic effects of silibinin with conventional therapies make it an attractive candidate for further investigation and development as a cancer treatment. However, more extensive clinical studies are necessary to fully establish the efficacy, optimal dosage, and long-term effects of silibinin in cancer treatment.

Abstract Background and Aims Breast cancer is a multifactorial malignancy with different clinicopathological and molecular characteristics. It is the most frequent cancer in women in terms of both incidence and mortality. Matrix metallopeptidase 1 or MMP1 is a zinc‐dependent endopeptidase associated with several physiological processes through the modification of the extracellular matrix and tumor microenvironment. However, previous results did not suggest any concluding remarks on the correlation between MMP1 gene polymorphisms and the risk of breast cancer. Methods A comprehensive literature search was performed in PubMed database to retrieve relevant articles and extract data from suitable ones. The literature written only in English was selected for this review. Results A total of 26 articles were included in the present narrative review. From the available studies, it is observed that MMP1 is upregulated in breast cancer tissues and found to be correlated with metastasis and invasion. The expression of MMP1 gene is mediated by numerous factors, including polymorphisms which act as a potential risk factor for the progression of breast cancer. To establish the correlation between genetic polymorphisms in MMP1 and the risk of breast cancer, several case‐control studies, as well as genetic analyses, have been carried out in different ethnicities. The association of genetic polymorphisms in MMP1 with the risk and survival of breast cancer in different populations has been reviewed in this study. Moreover, the structural domain of MMP1 and the role of MMP1 in breast cancer metastasis and invasion are also discussed which will help to understand the potential impact of MMP1 as a genetic biomarker. Conclusions This review provides an overview of the MMP1 gene polymorphisms in breast cancer. However, we recommend future studies concentrating on combined analysis of multiple SNPs, gene‐gene interactions, and analysis of epigenetics, proteomics, and posttranscriptional modifications that will provide the best outcome.

Abstract Background and Aims Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), caused by the SARS‐CoV‐2 novel coronavirus, is a highly communicable disease that gave rise to the ongoing pandemic. Despite prompt action across many laboratories in many countries, effective management of this disease is still out of reach. The focus of this review is to describe various vaccination approaches and nanomedicine‐based delivery systems against COVID‐19. Methods The articles included in this study were searched and added from different electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, Embase, and preprint databases. Results Mass immunization with vaccines is currently at the forefront of COVID‐19 infection control. Such vaccines are live attenuated vaccines, inactivated vaccines, nucleic acid‐based vaccines, protein subunit vaccines, viral‐vector vaccines, and virus‐like particle platforms. However, many promising avenues are currently being explored in laboratory and clinical settings, including treatment options, prevention, diagnosis, and management of the disease. Soft nanoparticles like lipid nanoparticles (solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNPs), liposomes, nanostructured lipid carriers, nanoemulsions, and protein nanoparticles play an essential role in nanomedicine. Because of their unique and excellent properties, nanomedicines have potential applications in treating COVID‐19 disease. Conclusions This review work provides an overview of the therapeutic aspects of COVID‐19, including vaccination and the role of nanomedicines in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of COVID‐19.

Abstract Background Disease prevention and healthcare policy choices cannot be made without epidemiology data. Since it is a growing country with rapidly increasing illness rates, this information is in great demand in Bangladesh. This is because there is a shortage of reliable and sufficient data, leading to inadequate preventive and treatment methods. Discussion Poor health concerns and economic conditions mean that not all families can afford to provide the nutrition their members need, leading to an increase in the prevalence of many diseases. The outcome is an ever‐increasing threat of cardiovascular disease (CVD) issues, the leading cause of death in Bangladesh, even though the underlying causes remain unknown. There is a strong demand for accurate information on CVD patients in Bangladesh, however, there is no effective framework for managing epidemiological data. This prevents an in‐depth analysis of the nation's socioeconomic status, dietary practices, and way of life, as well as the implementation of sound healthcare policy. Conclusion In this article, we present arguments on this important issue using the healthcare systems of the developed world and Bangladesh as examples.

Background: Cervical cancer (CC) is the second most common type of female malignancy in Bangladesh. Polymorphisms in the CYP1A1 gene have been reported to be associated with CC in different populations. This case-control study with meta-analysis was undertaken to assess the relation of CYP1A1 rs4646903 and rs1048943 polymorphisms with the susceptibility of CC. Methods: A total of 185 CC patients and 220 controls were recruited, and the PCR-RFLP (Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism) technique was applied for genotyping. Again, 42 eligible studies (24 with rs4646903 and 18 with rs1048943) were included for meta-analysis, and RevMan 5.3 and the MetaGenyo web-based tool were used. Results: The rs4646903 polymorphism was significantly linked with CC in all association models, namely, additive 1, additive 2, dominant, recessive, overdominant, and allele models (OR = 2.41, 4.75, 2.67, 3.61, 2.13, and 2.44 with corresponding 95% CI = 1.55–3.76, 1.81–12.45, 1.75–4.07, 1.39–9.35, 1.38–3.30, and 1.71–3.48, respectively). On the contrary, rs1048943 showed no association (p > 0.05) with CC. Haplotype analysis revealed AT and AC haplotypes significantly decreased (OR = 0.45) and increased (OR = 4.86) CC risk, respectively, and SNPs are in strong linkage disequilibrium (D’ = 0.912, r2 = 0.448). Again, rs4646903 carriers with a contraception history and >5 years of taking contraceptives showed an enhanced risk of CC (OR = 2.39, OR = 3.05). Besides, rs1048943 carriers aged >40 years (OR = 0.44), conceived first child aged ≤18 years (OR = 3.45), and history of contraceptives (OR = 2.18) were significantly linked with CC. Our meta-analysis found that for CYP1A1 rs4646903 codominant 1 (COD 1), codominant 2 (COD 2), codominant 3 (COD 3), dominant model (DM), recessive model (RM), and allele model (AM) in Caucasians and overdominant model (OD) in the overall population are associated with an elevated risk of CC, whereas rs1048943 is also associated with CC in overall, Caucasians and Asians in some genetic models. Conclusion: Our case-control study and meta-analysis summarize that CYP1A1 rs4646903 and rs1048943 polymorphisms may be correlated with cervical cancer.

Abstract Background and Aims The dengue virus is widespread throughout Bangladesh and significantly contributes to morbidity and mortality. One effective method for preventing further dengue epidemics is to reduce mosquito breeding at the most opportune period each year. This study aims to determine dengue prevalence in 2022 by comparing previous years' data and estimating the period of this disease's most significant incidence. Methods From the beginning of 2008–December 15, 2022, we looked at the monthly reports of cases made to the Bangladesh Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control, and Research. Results According to our findings, there were 61089 confirmed dengue cases in 2022, with 269 fatalities ‐ the highest annual death toll for this disease since 2000. Almost one‐third (32.14%) of all dengue deaths in Bangladesh occurred in 2022 (1 January–15 December), highlighting the severity of the threat posed by this disease in the coming year. Furthermore, we observe that the months in the second half of any year in Bangladesh are the most at risk for dengue transmission. In 2022, Dhaka city and Chittagong are hit the hardest (incidence: 63.07% vs. 14.42%; morality: 63.34% vs. 24.16%), showing the relevance of population density in spreading this fatal disease. Conclusion Statistics show an increase in dengue cases every day, and the year 2022 will be marked as the peak of the disease's death prevalence. Both the individuals and the government of Bangladesh need to take action to reduce the dissemination of this epidemic. If not, the country will soon be in great peril.

Introduction: Lablab purpureus, under the family of Fabaceae, is a plant with various pharmacological activities. The present study was aimed to investigate the phytoconstituents, membrane stabilizing activity, central nervous system (CNS) depressant potential, and gastrointestinal (GI) motility of the methanol extract of L. purpureus seeds (MELPS).Methods: The methanol plant extract was screened for different phytochemical groups. Mice were classified into four groups for in vivo activities. Group-I was designated as negative control and received distilled water (10 mL/kg body weight); group-II served as positive control and received diazepam (1 mg/kg body weight). Group-III and group-IV both were experimental groups and received plant extract at 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight, respectively.Results: Alkaloids, carbohydrates, saponins, glycosides, tannins, phenols, flavonoids, and proteins were found after phytochemical analysis. On hypotonic solution-induced hemolysis of erythrocyte membrane, MELPS9 (9 mg/mL) resulted in the highest percentage of inhibition (60.51 ± 0.889), and on heat-induced hemolysis, MELPS9 (9 mg/mL) resulted in the highest percentage of inhibition (33.97 ± 0.21). In the case of the CNS depressant potential experiment, mice that received a sample at a dose of 400 mg/kg body weight showed the highest result (54.40 ± 4.51) compared with the positive control (14.2 ± 3.70) (P < 0.001). Similarly, 400 mg/kg dose sample exhibited the highest percentage of inhibition (60.51 ± 0.889) of hemolysis and GI motility (22.26%).Conclusion: It can be concluded that the MELPS has potential membrane stability, CNS depressant, and antimotility effects.

Abstract Background Evidence suggests that circulating resistin levels are altered in colorectal cancer (CRC) and breast cancer (BC). Again, polymorphisms in resistin-encoding gene RETN have been evaluated in CRC and BC. However, there is a scarcity of data establishing the relationship of resistin and RETN polymorphisms (rs1862513 and rs3745367) with these cancers. This study aimed to analyze the relationship of resistin levels and RETN polymorphisms with CRC and BC in a combined meta-analytic approach. Main body of the abstract After a comprehensive online literature search, screening and eligibility check, 41 articles (31 with resistin level and 10 with RETN polymorphisms) were retrieved for meta-analyses. The mean difference (MD) of resistin was calculated and pooled to investigate the effect sizes with a 95% confidence interval (CI), and the connection of genetic polymorphisms was analyzed with an odds ratio (OR) and 95% CI. The analysis showed that resistin level is significantly higher in CRC (MD = 3.39) and BC (MD = 3.91) patients. Subgroup analysis in CRC showed significantly higher resistin in serum (MD = 4.61) and plasma (MD = 0.34), and in BC, a significantly elevated resistin level was reported in premenopausal (MD = 7.82) and postmenopausal (MD = 0.37) patients. Again, RETN rs1862513 showed a significantly strong association with CRC (codominant 1—OR 1.24, codominant 2—OR 1.31, dominant model—OR 1.25, and allele model—OR 1.16) and with BC (codominant 2—OR 1.51, codominant 3—OR 1.51, recessive model—OR 1.51, and allele model—OR 1.21). RETN rs3745367 did not show any association with these cancers. Short conclusion Overall, our analysis indicates that higher circulating resistin levels are associated with an elevated risk of CRC and premenopausal and postmenopausal BC. Besides, rs1862513 in RETN gene is significantly connected with both CRC and BC.

Abstract Background and Aims Pre‐eclampsia is a particular type of pregnancy condition. Although the primary etiology of pre‐eclampsia is unclear, it hypothesizes that the alteration of trace elements and macro‐minerals may play a crucial function in the pathogenesis of Pre‐eclampsia. Therefore, our research sought to ascertain the serum level of trace elements (zinc, iron) and macro‐minerals (sodium, calcium, potassium) and their possible association with pre‐eclampsia. Methods The present study was conducted with 74 pre‐eclampsia pregnant women (case) and 118 pregnant women having normal blood pressure (controls). Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy determined the serum level of trace components and electrolytes. Results The researchers discovered notable differences in maternal age, gestational period, body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, hemoglobin, and creatinine level. Results of serum analysis revealed that calcium (52.06 ± 3.71 mg/L vs. 65.93 ± 2.57 mg/L, p

Background and objectives: Obesity has become a global health issue, more precisely, a pandemic throughout the present world due to its high prevalence in the recent era. Increased risk of morbidity and mortality in obese patients can be attributed to its association with the development of different life-threatening conditions. Plants are considered one of the most important sources of bioactive molecules which are used against a wide range of health disorders. This systematic review explores the efficacy as well as the safety profile of commonly used medicinal plants in the management of obesity that may help people to maintain a healthy weight. Methods: This review is based on comprehensive literature searches from PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases using the keywords- “plants in obesity”, “plants used in weight reduction” or keywords that are similar to those. Medicinal plants which have been clinically proven for their anti-obesity effect have only been selected for this study and attempts to investigate beneficial effects and adverse effects along with their mechanism of action have also been taken in this review. Results: A significant reduction of weight in both human and other animals are exhibited by the extracts of Phaseolus vulgaris, green coffee, Yerba Mate, green tea, Gynostemma pentaphyllum, and the combination of Cissus quadrangularis/Irvingia gabonensis. All of those plant extracts seemed to work on different physiological pathways and none of those extracts showed any notable adverse effects in human or animal models. Conclusion: Our review suggests that the discussed medicinal plants are effective in reducing the weight of obese patients without causing notable adverse reactions. Although further study is necessary to confirm their exact molecular mechanism and safety in human use.

Abstract Background Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus, a double‐stranded DNA‐enveloped virus that can be transmitted from animal to human or human to human. Consequently, it emerged as the most important orthopoxvirus for public health. Based on available online literature, this study reviewed the majority of the data representing the outbreak, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of monkeypox. Methods The literature search was conducted between July 5 and September 15, 2022. In addition to reviewing the databases of World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Africa CDC, and United Kingdom Health Security Agency monkey pox advice, 43 papers were studied in depth. Results and Discussion Human monkeypox was first identified in 1970 in a child in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Until May 6, 2022, it was endemic in West and Central African countries and infrequently occurred outside of Africa. However, many cases have been identified in several nonendemic countries since May 13, 2022, with no prior human or animal travel from endemic areas; that was the first time to document the cases and long‐term transmission in countries with no epidemiological ties to endemic African countries. Seven travel‐related human monkeypox cases were recorded outside of Africa from September 2018 to November 2021: one in Israel, one in Singapore, and two in the US Youth are most affected. Monkeypox's unanticipated development in places with no known epidemiological linkages raises concerns about the virus's evolution, which permits undetected transmission for a long period. Conclusion Monkeypox is no longer a rare, self‐limiting disease limited to endemic countries. Its ever‐changing epidemiology and transmission dynamics have increased the possibility of its evolving into a much deadlier pathogen. Therefore, improved surveillance and detailed case and contact investigation are required to comprehend the ever‐changing epidemiology of monkeypox.

Abstract Background Accumulating studies have evaluated the association between MAP3K1 polymorphisms and cancer prognosis. However, the results of these studies are conflicting. Given the potential impact of MAP3K1 rs889312 SNP on the prognosis of various cancers, this meta‐analysis was performed to obtain solid and credible evidence. Methods and Materials This study was performed according to the PRISMA 2020 statement. A comprehensive article search was conducted to find and select articles from multiple databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library, published up to 15th September 2022. The data analysis was performed with Review Manager v5.2. Pooled HR with its 95% CI and p‐value was calculated where HR >1 suggests worse/poor survival and HR .05). Conclusions The present study concludes that MAP3K1 gene rs889312 polymorphism plays a prognostic role in the survival of cancer patients. However, future research is recommended that will analyze more MAP3K SNPs along with rs889312, which may reveal more credible outcomes in terms of cancer prognosis.

Abstract Background The outbreak of coronavirus infectious disease-2019 (COVID-19) is globally deemed a significant threat to human life. Researchers are searching for prevention strategies, mitigation interventions, and potential therapeutics that may reduce the infection’s severity. One such means that is highly being talked in online and in social media is vitamin C. Main text Vitamin C is a robust antioxidant that boosts the immune system of the human body. It helps in normal neutrophil function, scavenging of oxidative species, regeneration of vitamin E, modulation of signaling pathways, activation of pro-inflammatory transcription factors, activation of the signaling cascade, regulation of inflammatory mediators, and phagocytosis and increases neutrophil motility to the site of infection. All of these immunological functions are required for the prevention of COVID-19 infection. Conclusion Considering the role of vitamin C, it would be imperative to administrate vitamin C for the management of severe COVID-19. However, there is no specific clinical data available to confirm the use of vitamin C in the current pandemic.

Introduction: Nephrotic syndrome is a common pediatric kidney disease. Investigations on several genetic polymorphisms revealed an inconsistent influence on the resistance of patients to steroids. Objectives: This study aimed to identify the association of ABCB1 (1236C > T, 2677G > T, 3435C > T), NR3C1 (rs10482634, rs6877893), and CYP3A5 (CYP3A5*3) gene polymorphism as well as sociodemographic and clinicopathological parameters with the risk of developing prednisolone resistance in pediatric patients with nephrotic syndrome. Methods: A case-control analysis was performed on 180 nephrotic syndrome patients. Among them, 30 patients were classified as prednisolone resistant group, and 150 were classified as prednisolone sensitive group. Genotyping was performed by the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. Results: No significant association of 1236C > T polymorphism with the risk of prednisolone resistance (p > 0.05) was found. The GT heterozygous of 2677G > T was found to be significantly associated with the development of prednisolone resistance (OR = 3.9, p = 0.034). In the case of 3435C > T, a statistically significant association was observed in TC heterozygous and TT mutant homozygous genotypes (OR = 0.38, p = 0.047; OR = 3.06, p = 0.038, respectively) with prednisolone resistance. For rs10482634 polymorphism, the AG heterozygous and AG+GG genotypes were significantly linked with prednisolone resistance (OR = 2.40, p = 0.033; OR = 2.36, p = 0.034, respectively). We found no association with the risk of prednisolone resistance with rs6877893 and CYP3A5*3 polymorphism (p > 0.05). CTC and TGT haplotypes of ABCB1 and GA haplotype of NR3C1 were also associated with the increased risk of pediatric prednisolone resistance (OR = 4.47, p = 0.0003; OR = 2.71, p = 0.03; and OR = 4.22, p = 0.022, consecutively). We also observed the correlation of different sociodemographic and clinicopathological factors with prednisolone resistance in pediatric nephrotic syndrome. Conclusion: Our findings showed a significant association of ABCB1 and NR3C1 gene polymorphisms with prednisolone resistant pediatric nephrotic syndrome.

Objective Interleukin-17A ( IL-17A ) genetic polymorphisms are associated with multiple cancer types, including colorectal cancer (CRC). However, no previous study was performed in the Bangladeshi population to evaluate the association. Our study aimed to find the association between two IL-17A variants (rs10484879 C/A and rs3748067 G/A) and susceptibility of CRC. Methods and Materials This retrospective case-control study comprised 292 CRC patients and 288 age, sex, and BMI matched healthy volunteers. Genotyping of both variants was done by the tetra-primer ARMS-PCR method, and the results were analyzed by the SPSS software package (version-25.0). Results Logistic regression analysis indicated that in case of IL-17A rs10484879 polymorphism, AC and AA genotype carriers showed 2.44- and 3.27-times significantly increased risk for CRC development (OR = 2.44, P = .0008 and OR = 3.27, P = .0133, individually). A significant association was also observed for AC + AA genotype (OR = 2.58, P = .0001). Again, over-dominant and allelic model revealed statistically significant link to CRC risk (OR = 2.13, P = .0035 and OR = 2.22, P = .001). For rs3748067 polymorphism, AG and AA genotype carriers showed 2.30- and 2.45-times enhanced risk for CRC (OR = 2.30, P = .005 and OR = 2.45, P = .031). A statistically significant association was also observed for AG + AA genotype (OR = 2.35, P = .001), over-dominant model (OR = 2.05, P = .014), and allelic model (OR = 2.11, P = .0004). Conclusion This study highlights that IL-17A rs10484879 and rs3748067 polymorphisms may be associated with CRC development. However, further functional research with larger samples may reveal more statistically significant outcomes.

Objective Although the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is increasing, appropriate diagnosis and prevention strategies are still lacking. This case–control study was designed to explore the association between ASD and the rs1867503 and rs9951150 polymorphisms of the TF and TCF4 genes, respectively. Methods Ninety-six children with ASD and 118 healthy children were recruited and polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism technique was applied for genotyping. Results The frequencies of the mutant allele G were 48% and 44% for the rs1867503 and rs9951150 polymorphisms, respectively. In our analysis, both TF and TCF4 polymorphisms were associated with an increased risk of developing ASD. AG heterozygotes (OR = 3.18), GG mutant homozygotes (OR = 2.62), AG + GG combined genotypes (OR = 2.98), and G mutant alleles of TF rs1867503 (OR = 1.94) were associated with a significantly elevated risk of ASD. Likewise, AG heterozygotes (OR = 2.92), GG mutant homozygotes (OR = 2.36), AG + GG combined genotypes (OR = 2.72), and G minor alleles of TCF4 rs9951150 (OR = 1.92) were associated with a significantly elevated risk of ASD. Conclusions Our results indicate that TF rs1867503 and TCF4 rs9951150 polymorphisms may be strongly associated with the development of ASD in Bangladeshi children.

Abstract Background ACE1 I/D rs1799752 and ACE2 rs2285666 genetic polymorphisms could play a critical role in altering the clinical outcomes of SARS‐CoV‐2. The findings of previous studies remained inconclusive. This meta‐analysis was performed to evaluate the association and provide a more reliable outcome. Methods This study was completed following the updated recommendations of PRISMA using RevMan 5.4.1 statistical software. Results A total of 11 studies with 950 severe cases and 1573 non‐severe cases with COVID‐19 infection were included. Pooled analysis showed that ACE1 I/D polymorphism was correlated with the severity of SARS‐CoV‐2 in the DD genotype and D allele for the fixed‐effects model (OR:1.27 and OR:1.17). Besides, codominant 3, recessive, and allele models were associated with the severity of the fixed‐effects model (OR:1.35, OR:1.37, and OR:1.20) in Caucasian ethnicity. ACE2 rs2285666 was linked with the severity in codominant 3 (OR:2.63, for both random‐ and fixed effects‐models), overdominant (OR:1.97, for random‐effects model and OR:1.97, for fixed effects‐model), and recessive model (OR:0.41 for fixed‐ and random‐effects model). Allele model of rs2285666 showed a significant association in the fixed‐effects model (OR:1.61). Conclusion Our present meta‐analysis suggests that ACE1 I/D rs1799752 and ACE2 rs2285666 variants may enhance the severity in SARS‐CoV‐2 infected patients. Future studies are warranted to verify our findings.

Objective The TP73 G4C14-A4T14 variant has been associated with elevated cancer risk, but the evidence is inconclusive. We performed a meta-analysis to clarify the role of this variant in cancer development. Methods Eligible literature was selected by searching PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and Embase. The meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4. Results A meta-analysis of 55 case–control studies showed that the G4C14-A4T14 variant was significantly associated with overall cancer development in five genetic models, including the allele model (AM), codominant model 1 (COD1), COD2, dominant model (DM), and over-dominant model (OD). Sub-group analysis based on ethnicity showed significantly higher risks in Africans in COD2 and RM and in Whites in AM, COD2, DM, and recessive model (RM). Cancer-specific subgroup analysis identified significant risks of gynecological (ovarian, cervical, and endometrial cancer), colorectal, oral, head and neck, and other cancers. Moreover, hospital-based controls revealed significant cancer risks in the AM, COD1, COD2, DM, and RM genetic models. Our findings were confirmed by trial sequential analysis. Conclusion This meta-analysis confirmed that TP73 G4C14-A4T14 significantly elevates the overall cancer risk, especially in White, African, and hospital-based populations, and specifically predisposes individuals to gynecological, colorectal, oral, and head and neck cancers. This meta-analysis was registered at INPLASY (registration number: INPLASY202210070).

Objectives: The TNFAIP8 gene family and TNFAIP2 gene are inextricably linked to an elevated risk of cancer development. This systemic review and meta-analysis seeks to establish the relationship between TNFAIP8 (rs11064, rs1045241, rs1045242, and rs3813308), TNFAIP8L1 (rs1060555), and TNFAIP2 (rs710100 and rs8126) polymorphisms with the risk of cancer. Methods and Materials: A systematic search of multiple databases from January 2022 to April 2022 was used to identify relevant studies. Odds ratios (ORs) with corresponding 95% CI and p -value were calculated to assess the association. Bonferroni correction was performed to correct p -values. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) and in-silico messenger RNA expression were also performed. Review Manager 5.4 software was used for performing this meta-analysis. Results: This study comprised 6909 cancer patients and 7087 healthy participants from 14 studies. Four genetic models of rs11064 (codominant 2 [COD2]: OR = 2.30, p = 7.83 × 10 −5 ; codominant 3 [COD3]: OR = 2.10, p = .0006; recessive model [RM]: OR = 2.24, p = .0001; AC: OR = 1.47, p = .037), two genetic models of rs1045241 (codominant 1 [COD1]: OR = 1.27, p = .009; overdominant model [ODM]: OR = 1.24, p = .018), four genetic models of rs1045242 (COD1: OR = 1.52, p = .005; dominant model (DM): OR = 1.56, p = .002; OD: OR = 1.48, p = .008; AC: OR = 1.48, p = .002), and three genetic models of rs8126 (COD2: OR = 1.41, p = .0005; COD3: OR = 1.44, p = .0002; RM: OR = 1.43, p = .0001) were statistically linked to cancer risk. Only one genetic model of rs1060555 polymorphism showed a significant protective association with cancer (COD2: OR = 0.80, p = .048). The outcomes of TSA also validated the findings of the meta-analysis. Conclusion: This study summarizes that rs11064, rs1045241, and rs1045242 polymorphisms of TNFAIP8 gene and rs8126 polymorphism of TNFAIP2 gene are significantly linked with the risk of cancer development. This meta-analysis was registered at INPLASY (registration number: INPLASY202270073).

Abstract Background and Aims Vitamin C has been predicted to be effective as an antioxidant in treating various ailments, including viral infections such as pervasive coronavirus disease (COVID‐19). With this meta‐analysis, we looked to ascertain the relationship between high‐dose vitamin C administration and mortality, severity, and length of hospitalization of COVID‐19 patients. Methods We collected articles from PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, SAGE, and Cochrane databases between January 1, 2020, and May 30, 2022. Odds ratio (ORs) with corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) and p value were calculated to assess the connection of high‐dose vitamin C in COVID‐19 patients' mortality and severity. The length of hospitalization was calculated and pooled with the mean difference (MD), 95% CI, and p value. Review manager 5.3 was used to carry out this meta‐analysis. Results This meta‐analysis included 15 complete studies involving 2125 COVID‐19 patients. Our study demonstrated a significant correlation between vitamin C consumption and death. Vitamin C consumption significantly reduces mortality risk with COVID‐19 patients (OR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.42–0.69, p

Abstract COVID‐19 is not only limited to a defined array but also has expanded with several secondary infections. Two uncommon opportunistic fungal infections, COVID‐19 associated mucormycosis (CAM) and aspergillosis (CAA), have recently been highly acquainted by many worldwide cases. Two immune response deteriorating factors are considered to be responsible for immunosuppression: comorbidities and medication. Due to unlike infection sites and patterns, CAM and CAA‐associated factors deflect a few degrees of proximity, and the present study is for its assessment. The study evaluated 351 CAM cases and 191 CAA cases retrieved from 65 and 53 articles based on inclusion criteria, respectively. Most of the CAM reported from India and CAA were from four South‐European and West‐European neighbor countries. The mean ages of CAM and CAA were 52.72 ± 13.74 and 64.81 ± 11.14, correspondingly. Mortality of CAA (56.28%) was two times greater than CAM (26.02%). Nevertheless, the count of diabetes cases was very high in CAM compared to CAA. The main comorbidities of CAM were diabetes (nearly 80%) and hypertension (more than 38%). All noticeable complications were higher in CAA except diabetes, and these were diabetes (34.55%), hypertension (45.03%), and obesity (18.32%). Moreover, pre‐existing respiratory complications like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are visible in CAA. The uses of steroids in CAM and CAA were nearly 70% and 66%, respectively. Almost one‐fourth of CAA cases were reported using immunosuppressant monoclonal antibodies, whereas only 7.69% were for CAM. The overall finding highlights diabetes, hypertension, and steroids as the risk factors for CAM, whereas obesity, chronic pulmonary disease, and immunosuppressants for CAA.

Abstract Background and Aims Abnormalities in hematological and biochemical markers are assumed to be associated with the progression of COVID‐19 disease. This meta‐analysis was performed to assess the consequences of abnormalities of biomarkers (D‐dimers, C‐reactive protein [CRP], serum ferritin, lactate dehydrogenase [LDH], random blood sugar [RBS], absolute neutrophil count [ANC], neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), serum creatinine, and hemoglobin) in the Bangladeshi COVID‐19 patients. Methods The data of biomarker levels in Bangladeshi COVID‐19 patients were gathered from five databases: PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Google Scholar and Bangladesh Journals Online between January 2020 to March 2022. Review Manager 5.4 was used for the meta‐analysis, and Egger's test and Begg‐Mazumdar's rank correlation were used to investigate publication bias. Results This study included 1542 patients with 567 severe and 975 nonsevere statuses. Based on the accumulated data synthesis, there is a strong correlation between disease severity and different biomarkers, including D‐dimer, CRP, ferritin, LDH, RBS, NLR, and serum creatinine (MD = 1.16, p = 0.0004; MD = 22.97, p = 0.003; MD = 419.26, p

Background: MiR-196a2 rs11614913 polymorphism has been studied in a wide range of cancers throughout the years. Despite a large number of epidemiological studies performed in almost all ethnic populations, the contribution of this polymorphism to cancer risk is still inconclusive. Therefore, this updated meta-analysis was performed to estimate a meticulous correlation between miR-196a2 rs11614913 variant and cancer susceptibility. Methods: A systematic study search was carried out using PubMed, ScienceDirect, CNKI, EMBASE, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases following PRISMA guidelines to find necessary literature up to December 15, 2021. Pooled odds ratios with corresponding 95% confidence intervals were estimated using RevMan 5.4 based on ethnicities, cancer types, control sources, and genotyping methods. Results: A total of 152 studies, including 120 135 subjects (53 818 patients and 66 317 controls; 140 studies, after removing studies that deviated from HWE: 51 459 cases and 62 588 controls), were included in this meta-analysis. Quantitative synthesis suggests that the miR-196a2 rs11614913 genetic variant is significantly correlated with the reduced risk of overall cancer in CDM2, CDM3, RM, and AM (odds ratio

Objectives: Disruption in the natural immune reaction due to SARS-CoV-2 infection can initiate a potent cytokine storm among COVID-19 patients. An elevated level of IL-6 and IL-10 during a hyperinflammatory state plays a vital role in increasing the risk of severity and mortality. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the potential of circulating IL-6 and IL-10 levels as biomarkers for detecting the severity and mortality of COVID-19. Methods: This study was conducted according to the Cochrane Handbook and PRISMA guidelines. Authorized databases were searched to extract suitable studies using specific search terms. RevMan 5.4 was applied for performing the meta-analysis. Mean differences in IL-6 and IL-10 levels were calculated among COVID-19 patients via a random-effects model. NOS scoring, publication bias and sensitivity analyses were checked to ensure study quality. Results: A total of 147 studies were selected, with 31 909 COVID-19 patients under investigation. In the severity analysis, the mean concentration of IL-6 was significantly higher in the severe COVID-19 cases than in the non-severe cases (MD: 19.98; P

Abstract Objective Cervical cancer is a gynecological health problem, affecting nearly 500,000 women each year worldwide. Genome‐wide association studies have revealed multiple susceptible genes and their polymorphisms for cervical carcinoma risk. We have carried out this case‐control study to investigate the association of INSIG2 rs6726538 (A; T), HLA‐DRB1 rs9272143 (T; C), and GCNT1P5 rs7780883 (G; A) with cervical cancer. Methods The present study recruited 234 cervical cancer patients as cases and 212 healthy females as controls. We have applied the tetra‐primer amplification refractory mutation system polymerase chain reaction (T‐ARMS‐PCR) method for genotyping. Results The SNP rs6726538 was significantly associated with increased risk of cervical cancer in all genetic models (AT vs. AA: OR = 3.30, 95% CI = 2.19–4.97, p

This paper examines relationship of unemployment rates with other macroeconomic aggregates in Bangladesh over 1991-2019 using robust econometric analyses. It sheds a light on the fact that GDP growth rate, inflation, and foreign direct investment flows have statistically significant impacts on unemployment rate both in short-run and long-run. More specifically, the paper documents that unemployment rate, GDP growth rate, inflation rate and foreign direct investment flows are co-integrated in long-run at 5% significance level. Using Vector Error Correction analysis, the paper finds that co-integrated series converge it their long-run equilbruim at a speed of 17.24% per annum at 1% significance level. In case short-run, the study finds that a unit increase in GDP growth rate decreases unemployment by approximately 0.0159 units in short-run at 1% statistically significance level. Likewise, a unit increase in inflation rate will lead approximately 0.004 units drop in unemployment rate at 10% significance level. Plus, it also observes that a unit in Foreign Direct Investment flows causes 0.005 units decrease in unemployment rate in short-run at 5% significance level.

Background: Nowadays, myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the major causes of death in developing countries including Bangladesh. Trace elements and macro-minerals play an important role in the pathogenesis of MI. This study aimed to determine the trace elements and macro-minerals in Bangladeshi patients with MI. Methods: This case control study included 74 MI patients and 74 healthy individuals as control group. Flame atomic absorption spectroscopy and graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy were used to measure serum hint factors (Zn, Fe, and Se) and macro minerals (Ca, K, and Na). Statistical evaluation was done using an independent sample t- test and Pearson's correlation test. Results: Mean serum concentrations of Zn, Fe, Se, Ca, K, and Na in patients with MI were 0.26 ± 0.01(Zn), 0.61 ± 0.05(Fe), 0.01 ± 0.0004(Se), 33.75 ± 1.39(Ca), 67.63 ± 5.25(K), and 3189.30 ± 47.63(Na)mg/L, whereas in control group those were 0.82 ± 0.04(Zn), 0.15 ± 0.01(Fe), 0.06 ± 0.004(Se), 87.39 ± 4.17(Ca), 166.90 ± 3.71(K), and 3000 ± 137.20(Na) mg/L, respectively. Serum concentrations of Zn, Se, Ca, and K became remarkably (P

Abstract Background Brassica nigra is a plant of Brassicaceae family, which possesses numerous medicinal values. Our present study is intended to assess the potential in vitro thrombolytic, anthelminthic, cytotoxic and in vivo anxiolytic properties of MCE of B. nigra flowers. MCE was fractioned for separating the compound on the basis of polarity by using chloroform, n-hexane and ethyl acetate solvent. Thrombolytic and anthelminthic activities were explained by collecting human erythrocytes and earthworms as test models, respectively. Anxiolytic activity was evaluated by elevated plus maze and hole board models while cytotoxic test was conducted through brine shrimp lethality bioassay. Results MCE revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannin, diterpenes, glycosides, carbohydrates, phenols, fixed oils and fat. In case of thrombolytic test, the MCE, CSF, ASF and n-HSF had produced maximum clot lysis activity at 5 and 10 mg/ml dose conditions. Two different concentrations (10 and 20 mg/ml) of MCE and its fractions showed significant (p < 0.05) anthelminthic activities in a dose-dependent manner. Significant anxiolytic activity was observed for all fractions which was comparable to the standard drug diazepam (p < 0.05). Again, the cytotoxic screening also presented good potentials for all fractions. Conclusion From the findings of present study, we can conclude that MCE of B. nigra flowers and its fraction possess significant anxiolytic, anthelmintic, anticancer and thrombolytic properties which may be a good candidate for treating these diseases through the determination of bio-active lead compounds.

Abstract Background The alterations of biological markers are thought to be effective tools to understand the pathophysiology and management of major depressive disorder (MDD). A lot of researches has implied many markers for depression, but any of them fully discovered the association between the markers and depression. The present study investigated the serum levels of amino acids and non-enzymatic antioxidants in major depression, and also explained their association with depression. Methods This study examined 247 MDD patients and 248 healthy controls (HCs) matched by age and sex. The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (Ham-D) was used to all the participants to measure the severity of depression. Quantification of serum amino acids, vitamin A and E were carried out using the HPLC system whereas vitamin C levels were measured by UV-spectrophotometer. All the statistical analysis was performed by SPSS statistical software (version 23.0). The independent sample t-test, the Mann-Whitney U test, and the Fisher’s exact test were applied to detect the group differences where a Bonferroni correction applied to the p value. Results It was observed that serum levels of four amino acids (methionine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, and tyrosine) along with three non-enzymatic antioxidants (vitamin A, E, and C) were significantly dropped in MDD patients compared to HCs (Cohen’s d (d): − 0.45, − 0.50, − 0.68, − 0.21, − 0.27, − 0.65, and − 0.24, respectively). Furthermore, Ham-D scores of cases were negatively correlated with serum levels of methionine (r = − 0.155, p = 0.015) and tyrosine (r = − 0.172, p = 0.007). Conclusion The present study suggests that lowered serum methionine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, tyrosine, and non-enzymatic antioxidants are associated with depression. The reduction of these parameters in MDD patients may be the consequence, and not the cause, of major depression.

Objective Oxidative stress caused by the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-1β has been widely investigated for cancer risk. In this study, we focused on the role of IL-1β rs1143634 polymorphism to reveal its impact on cancer development. Methods Related studies with fixed inclusion criteria were selected from electronic databases to May 2021. This meta-analysis was performed with odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Heterogeneity, publication bias and sensitivity analyses were also conducted. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) and in - silico gene expression analysis were performed. Results Forty-four case–control studies involving 18,645 patients with cancer and 22,882 controls were included. We observed a significant association of this single nucleotide polymorphism with overall cancer risk in the codominant model 3 (1.13-fold), recessive model (1.14-fold) and allelic model (1.08-fold). Subgroup analysis revealed that rs1143634 elevated the risk of gastric cancer, breast cancer and multiple myeloma. In addition, Asian and mixed populations and hospital-based controls had a significantly higher risk of cancer development. TSA confirmed our findings. Conclusion Our meta-analysis revealed that the presence of IL-1β rs1143634 polymorphism increases the risk of cancer development. Among polymorphism carriers, the Asian population has a higher risk than other ethnic populations. This meta-analysis was registered retrospectively at INPLASY ( https://inplasy.com/ , INPLASY2021100044).

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) are two deadly diseases caused by the complex interaction of multiple genetic loci, lifestyle and environmental factors. Genome-wide association studies described hundreds of susceptibility loci for T2DM and T2DM-related CVD, but it remains uncertain due to geographic and ethnic variations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the associations of KCNJ11 rs5219, SLC30A8 rs13266634 and HHEX rs1111875 polymorphisms with T2DM and related CVD. Methods: Genotyping of all three polymorphisms was performed using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method on 250 T2DM cases and 246 healthy controls. Both descriptive and inferential statistical methods were applied using MedCalc and IBM SPSS software programs for statistical analyses. Results: A significantly increased association of KCNJ11 rs5219 (p

Abstract Introduction End‐stage renal disease (ESRD) is an abnormality where the kidneys are not usually working. This case‐control study was planned to determine the extent of serum lipid peroxidation, non‐enzymatic antioxidant (vitamin c), and trace elements in 50 patients with ESRD as cases and 50 normal healthy individuals as controls. Methods Determination of lipid peroxidation was carried out by ascertaining concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) and vitamin C in serum using UV spectrophotometry whereas atomic absorption spectroscopy was used for trace elements estimation. The statistical analysis was conducted via the independent t‐test samples and Pearson correlation test. Results The blood serum study has shown substantially higher MDA values than the control level and lowers vitamin C levels in the patient population (P

Introduction: Antithrombotic agents are the basic therapeutic option for patients with arterial thrombosis who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). In Bangladesh, aspirin and clopidogrel are frequently prescribed as antithrombotics or platelet inhibitors. Studies reported the genetic polymorphisms of CYP2C19*2, CYP2C19*17, and ITGB3 cause an alteration of the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profile of aspirin and clopidogrel. Therefore, we aimed to assess the prevalence of CYP2C19*2, CYP2C19*17, and ITGB3 polymorphisms among Bangladeshi patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) who underwent PCI. Methods: Here we assessed a total of 1,000 CVD patients (male 782 and female 218) who underwent PCI and were treated with clopidogrel and/or aspirin. We performed genotyping of patients treated with clopidogrel and aspirin by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system PCR (T-ARMS-PCR) methods. The PCR products of clopidogrel-treated patients were screened with agarose gel electrophoresis and then digested with SmaI and NsiI-HF for CYP2C19*2 and CYP2C19*17, respectively. We genotyped aspirin-treated patients with T-ARMS-PCR for missense rs5918 (PlA1/A1) polymorphism of the ITGB3 gene. Then we ran the digested PCR products on 2% agarose gel electrophoresis to detect the mentioned polymorphisms. Results: Among the clopidogrel-treated patients, we observed 64.1% polymorphism (hetero + mutant) of CYP2C19*2 (loss-of-function allele) and 22.7% (hetero + mutant) of CYP2C19*17 (gain-of-function allele). On the other hand, among the aspirin-treated patients, polymorphisms of ITGB3 were 84.1% homozygous (PlA1/A1), 15.6% heterozygous (PlA1/A2), and 0.3% mutant homozygous. Conclusion: In the present study, we observed a high prevalence of genetic polymorphisms of CYP2C19 and ITGB3 genes. Therefore, we recommend genotyping of CVD patients before prescribing clopidogrel or aspirin to prevent coagulation. Based on the genotyping study, the adjustment of doses or alternative generics might require to avoid therapeutic failure or toxicity in some cases.

Abstract Background Schizophrenia (SCZ) is an incurable neuropsychiatric disorder generally described by impaired social behavior and altered recognition of reality. For the first time, this study explored serum levels of antioxidants (vitamin A, E, and C), malondialdehyde (MDA), macro‐minerals (calcium, potassium, and sodium), and trace elements (zinc, iron, and selenium) in Bangladeshi patients with SCZ and thereby, discovering any pathophysiological correlation. Methods This case‐controlled study evaluated 63 patients with SCZ as cases and 63 healthy individuals as controls. Vitamin A and E levels were defined by RP‐HPLC. MDA and vitamin C levels were measured by using UV spectrophotometry, and macro and trace elements by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Results This study found significantly (P ≤ 0.05) elevated MDA levels and decreased levels of antioxidants—vitamin A, C, and E and significantly (P ≤ 0.05) diminished levels of macro and trace elements in cases in contrast to the controls. Serum levels of zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), iron (Fe), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and sodium (Na) were determined to be 0.33 ± 0.008, 0.0252 ± 0.00060, 0.24 ± 0.01, 64.18 ± 2.72, 36.88 ± 2.56, and 2657.5 ± 53.32 mg/L, respectively, in cases, whereas 0.79 ± 0.03, 0.0650 ± 0.00355,0.78 ± 0.03, 168.01 ± 2.85, 86.43 ± 2.55, and 3200.8 ± 29.96 mg/L, respectively, were determined in controls. Pearson's correlation analysis revealed a negative correlation between Zn and Na, Zn and K, Zn and Ca, Zn and Fe, Zn and Se, Fe and Na, and Fe and Se in patients. Conclusions The findings connect that the pathogenesis of SCZ may have a correlation with altered levels of antioxidants, MDA, macro‐minerals, and trace elements.

Background: Multiple studies around the world revealed that genetic polymorphism in different genes of the DNA repair system might affect the DNA repair capabilities and accelerate the chances of cervical cancer (CC) development. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the association of DNA repair gene- ECCR1 rs11615, ERCC4 rs2276466, XPC rs2228000 and rs2228001 polymorphisms and CC susceptibility in the Bangladeshi population. Methods: A case-control genetic association study was conducted among 210 patients with diagnostically confirmed CC and 200 healthy volunteers. The p-value and OR (odds ratios) with 95% CI (confidence interval) were evaluated to get the level of association. Results: After the individual analysis of all SNPs, we noticed that ECCR1 rs11615 possessed a significantly lower risk, whereas ERCC4 rs2276466 possessed a significantly elevated risk of CC in all genetic models (p < 0.05). XPC rs2228000 showed a significantly lower risk of CC in TC, TC + CC genotypes and allele model (OR = 0.61, p = 0.025; OR = 0.61, p = 0.019 and OR = 0.67, p = 0.027, respectively), whereas XPC rs2228001 possessed a significantly elevated risk of CC in CA, CA + AA genotypes and allele model (OR = 1.67, p = 0.012; OR = 1.69, p = 0.009 and OR = 1.42, p = 0.022). Besides, ERCC4 rs2276466 (Grade III vs. I + II: OR = 4.01, p = 0.003) and XPC rs2228001 (Grade III vs. I + II: OR = 3.38, p = 0.003) were connected with high tumor aggressiveness and ERCC4 rs2276466 was also showed a lower risk of CC development in the younger population (

Purpose: Severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) cases are overgrowing globally and now become a pandemic. A meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the impact of age, sex, comorbidities, and clinical characteristics on the severity of COVID-19 to help diagnose and evaluate the current outbreak in clinical decision-making. Methods: PubMed, ScienceDirect, and BMC were searched to collect data about demographic, clinical characteristics, and comorbidities of COVID-19 patients. Meta-analysis was conducted with Review Manager 5.3. Publication bias was assessed using Egger's test and Begg-Mazumdar's rank correlation. Results: Fifty-five studies were included in this meta-analysis, including 10014 patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Male cases and cases with an age of ≥50 years (OR = 2.41, p < 0.00001; RR = 3.36, p = 0.0002, respectively) were severely affected by SARS-CoV-2. Patients having age≥65 years are not associated (p = 0.110) with the severity of COVID-19. Presence of at least one comorbidity or hypertension, diabetes, cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory disease, malignancy, chronic kidney disease and chronic liver diseases individually increased the severity of COVID-19 cases significantly (OR = 3.13, p < 0.00001; OR = 2.35, p < 0.00001; OR = 2.42, p < 0.00001; OR = 3.78, p < 0.00001; OR = 3.33, p < 0.00001; OR = 2.58, p < 0.00001; OR = 2.32, p < 0.00001; OR = 2.27, p = 0.0007; OR = 1.70, p = 0.003, respectively). Clinical manifestation such as fever, cough, fatigue, anorexia, dyspnea, chest tightness, hemoptysis, diarrhea and abdominal pain (OR = 1.68, p = 0.0001; OR = 1.41, p = 0.004; OR = 1.26, p = 0.03; OR = 2.38, p < 0.0001; OR = 4.30, p < 0.00001; OR = 2.11, p = 0.002; OR = 4.93, p < 0.0001; OR = 1.35, p = 0.03; OR = 2.38, p = 0.008, respectively) were significantly associated with the severity of cases. No association of severity was found with myalgia, pharyngalgia, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness and sore throat (p > 0.05). No publication bias was found in case of age (≥50 years, age≥65 years), comorbidities and clinical manifestations. Conclusions: Males patients and elderly or older patients (age ≥50 years) are at higher risk of developing severity, whereas comorbidities and clinical manifestations could significantly affect the prognosis and severity of COVID-19.

Purpose: DRD2 gene is considered one of the most important candidate genes for the schizophrenia (SCZ) development due to its role in dopamine signaling and no genetic association study has been conducted yet on the Bangladeshi SCZ patients. The objective of the present study was to investigate the association of DRD2 genetic polymorphisms (rs4648317, rs4936270, and rs7131056) with SCZ in the Bangladeshi population. Patients and methods: This case-control study consisted of 101 SCZ patients and 101 controls. Genotyping was performed by the polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) method. Results: The average ages were 22.15 and 22.09 years in patients and controls, respectively (p > 0.05). CT genotype of rs4936270 showed a significantly higher risk for the development of SCZ compared to CC genotype (OR = 2.0, p = 0.023), whereas no association was found for TT genotype. For the dominant model and T allele, rs4936270 showed a higher risk for the development of SCZ (OR = 2.01, p = 0.020; OR = 1.76, p = 0.021, respectively), while the recessive model had no association with SCZ. A statistically significant (OR = 2.70, p = 0.036) higher risk was found for the AA genotype, but no association was found for GA genotype of rs4648317 SNP compared to GG genotype. In case of dominant and recessive models, rs4648317 showed no association with SCZ. ‘A’ allele of rs4648317 SNP was found to be significantly associated with the elevated risk of SCZ (OR = 1.50, p = 0.044). No association with SCZ of rs7131056 SNP was found for AC, CC genotypes, dominant, recessive, and allele models. Furthermore, from the haplotyping analysis, we found that CAA and TAA haplotypes of rs4936270, rs7131056 and rs4648317 SNPs are associated with SCZ (χ2 = 8.26, p = 0.004; χ2 = 5.31, p = 0.021, respectively). After Bonferroni correction, the association of SCZ did not withstand with any genotype, allele and haplotype (p < 0.017) except CAA haplotype. Conclusion: Our results suggest that DRD2 gene polymorphisms may be associated with the susceptibility of SCZ in the young Bangladeshi population.

Background: Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is a major cause of death globally. Countries vary in their rates, and changes have occurred over time. Nowadays, developing countries pose new public health challenges. Objectives: The objective of the present study was to appraise the alterations in the levels of serum Zn, Cu, Fe, and Mn that occur in patients with ischemic heart disease and to depict the correlations of the effects of these changes that lead to the pathogenesis of IHD. Methods: Zn, Cu, Fe, and Mn in the IHD patients were determined by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). Results: This study evaluated 52 patients with IHD, and 61 healthy volunteers served as controls. The primary outcomes of interest were explored regarding the correlations of the serum levels of these trace elements in patients with IHD. The secondary outcomes were explored in terms of inter-element relations to connect them with the pathogenesis of IHD. Our study found significantly reduced levels of Zn and Cu (2.50 ± 0.19 mg/L and 2.52 ± 0.17 mg/L, respectively) and an elevated level of Fe (148.97 ± 17.25 mg/L) in the patient group with IHD. The level of Mn (7.32 ± 1.23 mg/L) was elevated in the sera of the patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD) compared to healthy control subjects. Conclusion: Our results indicate strong associations of the pathogenesis of IHD with depleted serum levels of Zn and Cu and elevated Fe and Mn levels, which may provide a prognostic tool for the treatment of this concerning the disease.

Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common type of malignancy worldwide that may develop due to the accumulation of several genetic variations. Different single nucleotide polymorphisms of SMAD1 gene are assumed to be linked with increased colorectal cancer risk. The current case-control study was conducted to verify the association of genetic polymorphisms of SMAD1 (rs11100883 and rs7661162) with colorectal cancer in the Bangladeshi population. This study was performed on 275 colorectal cancer patients and 300 healthy volunteers using polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism method. The odds ratios were adjusted for age and sex with logistic regression analysis. In case of SMAD1 rs11100883 polymorphism, GA heterozygous genotype, GA + AA (dominant model), and minor allele “A” were significantly associated with colorectal cancer (adjusted odds ratio = 1.55, 95% confidence interval = 1.09–2.20, p = 0.014; adjusted odds ratio = 1.59, 95% confidence interval = 1.13–2.23, p = 0.008; and odds ratio = 1.35, 95% confidence interval = 1.06–1.73, p = 0.015, respectively) and the significance exists after the Bonferroni correction. Again, single nucleotide polymorphism rs7661162 showed significant association with an elevated colorectal cancer risk for AG heterozygous genotype, AG + GG (dominant model), AG versus AA + GG (overdominant model), and minor allele “G” (adjusted odds ratio = 1.78, 95% confidence interval = 1.24–2.56, p = 0.002; adjusted odds ratio = 1.68, 95% confidence interval = 1.18–2.39, p = 0.004; adjusted odds ratio = 1.76, 95% confidence interval = 1.23–2.53, p = 0.002; and odds ratio = 1.47, 95% confidence interval = 1.08–2.00, p = 0.014, respectively) and significance withstands after the Bonferroni correction. No significant age and gender differences between cases and controls were observed. In silico, gene expression analysis showed that the SMAD1 mRNA level was downregulated in the colon and rectal cancer tissues compared to healthy tissues. In conclusion, our findings indicate that SMAD1 rs11100883 and rs7661162 polymorphisms are responsible for increasing the susceptibility of colorectal cancer development in the Bangladeshi population.

Abstract Background Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a mixed disorder with the highly irregular course, inconsistent response to treatment and has no well-known mechanism for the pathophysiology. Major causes of depression are genetic, neurobiological, and environmental. However, over the past few years, altered serum levels of macro-minerals (MM) and trace elements (TE) have been recognized as major causative factors to the pathogenesis of many mental disorders. The purpose of this study was to determine the serum levels of MM (calcium and magnesium) and TE (copper, iron, manganese, selenium, and zinc) in MDD patients and find out their associations with depression risk. Methods This prospective case-control study recruited 247 patients and 248 healthy volunteers matched by age and sex. The serum levels of MM and TE were analyzed by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Statistical analysis was performed with independent sample t-tests and Pearson’s correlation test. Results We found significantly decreased concentrations of calcium and magnesium, iron, manganese, selenium, and zinc in MDD patients compared with control subjects (p

Objectives: Major depressive disorder is diagnosed on the basis of patient’s self-reported experiences, behavior reported by relatives, and a mental status examination, and yet we do not have any reliable biomarker for this. Mood-regulating pathways are affected by oxidative injury to lipids and cortisol is released into the blood due to stimulation of corticotrophin receptors in the adrenal cortex. Here, we aimed to determine serum levels of malondialdehyde and cortisol in major depressive disorder patients and controls. Methods: We collected blood samples from 247 major depressive disorder patients and 248 controls. Serum levels of malondialdehyde and cortisol were measured by ultraviolet spectrophotometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit, respectively. Results: We found malondialdehyde levels were significantly higher in patients than controls, with mean ± standard deviation at 4.49 ± 1.37 and 2.87 ± 0.82 µmol/L, respectively, p

Objective: To verify possible associations between polymorphisms of glutathione S-transferase Mu (GSTM1), glutathione S-transferase θ (GSTT1) and glutathione S-transferase Pi (GSTP1) genes and susceptibility to lung cancer. Methods: A total of 106 lung cancer patients and 116 controls were enrolled in a case-control study. The GSTM1 and GSTT1 were analyzed using PCR while GSTP1 was analyzed using PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Risk of lung cancer was estimated as odds ratio at 95% confidence interval using unconditional logistic regression models adjusting for age, sex, and tobacco use. Results: GSTM1 null and GSTT1 null genotypes did not show a significant risk for developing lung cancer. A significantly elevated lung cancer risk was associated with GSTP1 heterozygous, mutant and combined heterozygous+mutant variants of rs1695. When classified by tobacco consumption status, no association with risk of lung cancer was found in case of tobacco smokers and nonsmokers carrying null and present genotypes of GSTM1 and GSTT1. There is a three-fold (approximately) increase in the risk of lung cancer in case of both heterozygous (AG) and heterozygous+mutant homozygous (AG+GG) genotypes whereas there is an eight-fold increase in risk of lung cancer in cases of GG with respect to AA genotype in smokers. Conclusions: Carrying the GSTM1 and GSTT1 null genotype is not a risk factor for lung cancer and GSTP1Ile105Val is associated with elevated risk of lung cancer.

Lung cancer is one of the most frequently occurring cancers throughout the world as well as in Bangladesh. This study aimed to correlate the prognostic and/or predictive value of functional polymorphisms in SULT1A1 (rs9282861) and XRCC1 (rs25487) genes and lung cancer risk in Bangladeshi population. A case-control study was conducted which comprises 202 lung cancer patients and 242 healthy volunteers taking into account the age, sex, and smoking status. After isolation of genomic DNA, genotyping was done by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism method and the lung cancer risk was evaluated as odds ratio that was adjusted for age, sex, and smoking status. A significant association was found between SULT1A1 rs9282861 and XRCC1 rs25487 polymorphisms and lung cancer risk. In case of rs9282861 polymorphism, Arg/His (adjusted odds ratio = 5.06, 95% confidence interval = 3.05–8.41, p

Objective: The present study was an attempt to study total phenolic content and antioxidant property of the crude ethanolic extract of the roots of Azadirachta indica (A. indica). Materials and Methods: To evaluate the antioxidant properties of the crude extract, some complementary test systems, namely DPPH free radical scavenging assay, reducing power assay, and ferrous ion chelating ability and determination of total phenolic content were conducted. Results: In DPPH free radical scavenging test, IC50 value of the crude extract was found to be fairly significant (13.81±0.06 μg/ml) while compared with that of the reference standards, ascorbic acid and BHA (2.12±0.02 and 4.87±0.05 μg/ml, respectively). In reducing power assay, the maximum absorbance for the extract was found to be 1.523 ±0.026 at 100 μg/ml compared with standard ascorbic acid and BHA (2.811±0.013 μg/ml and 2.031±0.019 μg/ml, respectively). The IC50 value of the extract as percentage of Fe++ ion chelating ability was determined as 19.01±0.024 μg/ml where EDTA showed 8.87±0.035 μg/ml. The total phenolic amount was also calculated quite high in the extract (238.81±0.98 mg/g of gallic acid equivalent). Conclusion: The assays showed the presence of significant antioxidant properties of the crude sample, which would justify its traditional use. However, it would be very interesting to investigate the possible causes and their mechanisms responsible for the antioxidant property of the plant A. indica.

BACKGROUND: The study was conducted to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial activity, cytotoxic, and membrane stabilization activities, and in vivo antiemetic and antipyretic potentials of ethanolic extract, n-hexane and ethyl acetate soluble fractions of Spilanthes paniculata leaves for the first time widely used in the traditional treatments in Bangladesh. RESULTS: In antipyretic activity assay, a significant reduction (P < 0.05) was observed in the temperature in the mice tested. At dose 400 mg/kg-body weight, the n-hexane soluble fraction showed the effect (36.7 ± 0.63°C ) as like as the standard (dose 150 mg/kg-body weight) after 5 h of administration. Extracts showed significant (P < 0.001) potential when tested for the antiemetic activity compared to the standard, metoclopramide. At dose 50 mg/kg-body weight, the standard showed 67.23% inhibition, whereas n-hexane and ethyl acetate soluble fractions showed 37.53% and 24.93% inhibition of emesis respectively at dose 400 mg/kg-body weight. In antimicrobial activity assay, the n-hexane soluble fraction (400 µg/disc) showed salient activity against the tested organisms. It exerts highest activity against Salmonella typhi (16.9 mm zone of inhibition); besides, crude, and ethyl acetate extracts showed resistance to Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtilis, and Vibrio cholera respectively. All the extracts were tested for lysis of the erythrocytes. At the concentration of 1mg/ml, ethanol extract, and n-hexane and ethyl acetate soluble fractions significantly inhibited hypotonic solution induced lysis of the human red blood cell (HRBC) (27.406 ± 3.57, 46.034 ± 3.251, and 30.72 ± 5.679% respectively); where standard drug acetylsalicylic acid (concentration 0.1 mg/ml) showed 77.276 ± 0.321% inhibition. In case of heat induced HRBC hemolysis, the plant extracts also showed significant activity (34.21 ± 4.72, 21.81 ± 3.08, and 27.62 ± 8.79% inhibition respectively). In the brine shrimp lethality bioassay, the n-hexane fraction showed potent (LC50 value 48.978 µg/ml) activity, whereas ethyl acetate fraction showed mild (LC50 value 216.77 µg/ml) cytotoxic activity. CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed that the n-hexane extract has better effects than the other in all trials. In the context, it can be said that the leaves of S. paniculata possess remarkable pharmacological effects, and justify its folkloric use as antimicrobial, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and antiemetic agent. Therefore, further research may be suggested to find possible mode of action of the plant part.