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Background Globally, dengue fever (DF) is the leading cause of arthropod-borne viral illness, which considerably contributes to an atrocious death rate. The disease is now endemic in some parts of the world, including Bangladesh. The disorder exhibits a wide range of clinical and laboratory features in children. Judicial fluid resuscitation during the critical phase and prompt referral to the appropriate health facility can be lifesaving. Objectives This research appraised clinical and laboratory features and treatment outcomes of DF in pediatric cases. Methods This prospective investigative work was conducted at Islami Bank Hospital, Dhaka, India, from July to October 2023. The study included 135 admitted pediatric cases of DF, either dengue nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) or anti-dengue antibody IgM or IgG positive. Results Among the selected cases, boys were more predominant than girls, and most patients were in the age group of 5 to 10 years (n=46, 34%), most of them belonging to lower-middle-class families (n=56, 41.5%). All of the study participants had raised body temperatures, and most had abdominal pain (n=82, 60.7%), vomiting (n=77, 57%), cough (n=43, 31.9%), headache (n=38, 28.2%), body aches (n=32, 23.7%), and diarrhea (n=23, 17%). Dengue NS1 was positive in 91.1% (n=123) of cases. Raised hematocrit was found in 36.3% (n=49) of cases, leukopenia in 47% (n=63), and thrombocytopenia in 69.6% (n=94) of cases. Most of our patients were categorized as having DF (68.1%, n=92), followed by dengue with warning signs (16.3%, n=22), and severe dengue was present in 15.6% (n=21) of patients. Most were treated with crystalloid, and some with crystalloid and colloid solution. Fortunately, most of them recovered with no death. Conclusion DF may manifest with varied clinical and laboratory features in children. Appropriate treatment of critical phases, depending on clinical and laboratory features, is crucial to reducing dengue-induced miseries and fatal clinical outcomes among the pediatric population., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent for treatment and open access publication was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. The Ethical Committee of Islami Bank Hospital, Dhaka, India issued approval IBH/MIRPUR/2024/1. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Nusrat et al.)

Cervical cancer ranked fourth most common malignancy among women worldwide despite the establishment of vaccination programmes. This systematic review evaluates the anti-cancer properties of turmeric and ginger bioactive compounds, specifically curcumin, 6/10-gingerol, and 6/10-shogaol, and their combination in cervical cancer through in-vitro and in-vivo models. A comprehensive electronic search was performed using Science Direct, PubMed, and Scopus from inception until the second week of June 2024 for studies published in English. Only studies investigating the effects of curcumin, gingerol, shogaol, and/or their combination in human cervical cancer cell lines and/or rodent animal models implanted with cervical cancer xenografts were included. Altogether, 27 studies were included in this review. The evidence gathered indicated that curcumin, 6/10-gingerol and 6-shogaol exert their anticancer action through modulation of cell signalling pathways, including AMPK, WNT, PI3K/AKT, and NF-κB pathway, and mediators including Bax/Bcl2, TNF-α, EGFR, COX-2, caspases-3, -9, p53, and pRb. However, the synergistic effect of these bioactive compounds is not known due to lack of evidence. In conclusion, curcumin, 6/10-gingerols, and 6-shogaols hold promise as therapeutic agents for cervical cancer. Yet, further research is essential to understand their combined efficacy, emphasising the need for additional studies exploring the synergistic anticancer effects of these bioactive compounds. Additional factors to explore include long-term effects and susceptibility of chemoresistant cervical cancer cells towards curcumin, shogaols, and gingerols., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright: © 2024 Abdull Rahim et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)

Background:  This cross-sectional study among the employees of the National Defense University of Malaysia (NDUM) assessed the levels of depression, anxiety, and fear related to COVID-19 and its association with psychosocial factors. It was conducted during the strict lockdown period imposed by the Malaysian government due to the COVID-19 pandemic., Methods:  A stratified sampling method was used, and 277 employees were randomly selected to participate in the study. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD-7) was used to measure anxiety symptoms. Patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9) was utilized to assess depression. The fear of COVID-19 (FOC) was calculated using the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV), while the psychosocial factors affecting psychological impact were measured using a self-generated questionnaire., Results:  The study obtained a response rate of 46.2% (n=128). Most respondents were female, married, permanent employees, and from the non-academic group. Depressive and anxiety symptoms were reported by 47% (n=55) and 32.5% (n=38) of the respondents, respectively. Statistically, a higher level of fear related to COVID-19 was found among non-academic employees (p=0.015) and those with permanent employment status (p=0.030). Anxiety was significantly correlated with depression (r=0.70, p≤0.001), while no correlations were found between these factors and fear related to COVID-19. Taking over school lessons was the most troubling factor that affected the respondents' level of distress, followed by working from home and worrying about their family member's health., Conclusions:  This study identified significant psychological effects of the pandemic on university employees, with anxiety and depression being notably correlated. While the generalizability of the findings is limited due to a low response rate, several key psychosocial distress factors were identified. These findings emphasize the necessity of addressing psychosocial factors to mitigate the mental health impact of pandemics. Further research with a higher response rate is required to confirm these findings and to design targeted interventions to support affected employees., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Institutional of Research Board, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (National Defence University of Malaysia), Malaysia issued approval SF0108-UPNM/2021/SF/SKK/2. This study has ethical approval from the Institutional of Research Board, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (National Defence University of Malaysia), with the number series SF0108- UPNM/2021/SF/SKK/2 dated July 2021. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Mahmud et al.)

The reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test to detect SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, has been regarded as the diagnostic gold standard. However, the excessive sensitivity of RT-PCR may cause false-positive outcomes from contamination. Again, its technical complexity increases the chances of false-negatives due to pre-analytical and analytical errors. This narrative review explores the elements contributing to inaccurate results during the COVID-19 pandemic and offers strategies to minimize these errors. False-positive results may occur due to specimen contamination, non-specific primer binding, residual viral RNA, and false-negatives, which may arise from improper sampling, timing, labeling, storage, low viral loads, mutations, and faulty test kits. Proposed mitigation strategies to enhance the accuracy of RT-PCR testing include comprehensive staff training in specimen collection, optimizing the timing of tests, analyzing multiple gene targets, incorporating clinical findings, workflow automation, and implementing stringent contamination control measures. Identifying and rectifying sources of error in RT-PCR diagnosis through quality control and standardized protocols is imperative for ensuring quality patient care and effective epidemic control., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Sajal et al.)

Acanthamoeba ,   a free-living amoeba (FLA) found in diverse ecosystems, poses significant health risks globally, particularly in Malaysia. It causes severe infectious diseases, e.g.,  Acanthamoeba  keratitis (AK), primarily affecting individuals who wear contact lenses, along with granulomatous amoebic encephalitis (GAE), a rare but often life-threatening condition among immunocompromised individuals. AK has become increasingly prevalent in Malaysia and is linked to widespread environmental contamination and improper contact lens hygiene. Recent studies highlight  Acanthamoeba 's capacity to serve as a "Trojan horse" for amoeba-resistant bacteria (ARBs), contributing to hospital-associated infections (HAIs). These symbiotic relationships and the resilience of  Acanthamoeba  cysts make treatment challenging. Current diagnostic methods in Malaysia rely on microscopy and culture, though molecular procedures like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are employed for more precise detection. Treatment options remain limited due to the amoeba's cyst resistance to conventional therapies. However, recent advancements in natural therapeutics, including using plant extracts such as betulinic acid from  Pericampylus glaucus  and chlorogenic acid from  Lonicera japonica , have shown promising in vitro results. Additionally, nanotechnology applications, mainly using gold and silver nanoparticles to enhance drug efficacy, are emerging as potential solutions. Further, in vivo studies and clinical trials must validate these findings. This review highlights the requirement for continuous research, public health strategies, and interdisciplinary collaboration to address the growing threat of  Acanthamoeba  infections in Malaysia while exploring the country's rich biodiversity for innovative therapeutic solutions., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Hamid et al.)

Introduction Contact with the dust of cement consisting of toxic components brings about inflammatory damage (often irreversible) to the body of a human being. The circulatory system exhibits sensitivity to inflammatory changes in the body, and one of the earliest changes may be observed in the blood parameters like mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). MCHC and MCH are possibly easily accessible and affordable parameters that can detect harmful changes in the body before any irreversible damage occurs. Objectives This research aimed to seek the changes in MCHC and MCH upon occupational contact with the toxic dust of cement. Methods The execution of this research was done in the Department of Physiology, Dhaka Medical College, Bangladesh, and a cement plant in Munshiganj, Bangladesh. This research was carried out between September 2017 and August 2018. Individuals (20 to 50 years old, 92 male adults) participated and were grouped into the group with occupational cement dust impact (46 subjects) and the group without occupational dust of cement impact (46 subjects). Data was collected in a pre-designed questionnaire. An independent sample t-test was conducted to analyze statistical and demographic data like body mass index and blood pressure. A multivariate regression model was applied to note the impact of cement dust on the group working in this dusty environment. Again, a multivariate regression model was employed to observe whether the duration of exposure to this dust affected MCHC and MCH. The significance level was demarcated at p < 0.05 Stata-15 (StataCorp LLC, College Station, TX, US) for statistical analysis, and GraphPad Prism v8.3.2 (Insight Venture Management, LLC, New York, NY, US) was employed to present the data graphically when required. Results There was a reduction in MCHC by 0.58 g/dL and MCH levels by 0.68 pg in the cement dust-exposed subjects when compared to controls, but not significant (95% CI: -0.93, 2.10;  p    = 0.203, respectively). However, MCHC was reduced significantly by 0.51 g/dL (p = 0.011) with the duration of exposure to the dust. Conclusion The study showed that MCHC was significantly reduced with the duration of exposure to cement dust in cement plant workers. Such alterations may hamper heme synthesis, hemolysis, and inflammatory changes in the body.p  = 0.203, respectively). However, MCHC was reduced significantly by 0.51 g/dL (p = 0.011) with the duration of exposure to the dust. Conclusion The study showed that MCHC was significantly reduced with the duration of exposure to cement dust in cement plant workers. Such alterations may hamper heme synthesis, hemolysis, and inflammatory changes in the body., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Research Review and Ethical Review Committee (Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, Bangladesh) issued approval MEUDMC/ECC/2018/06. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Ahmad et al.)

Metformin was developed from an offshoot of Guanidine. It is known to be the first-line medication for type 2 diabetes mellitus, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and weight reduction. Metformin has also been shown to have effectiveness in the management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), liver cirrhosis, and various carcinomas like hepatocellular, colorectal, prostate, breast, urinary bladder, blood, melanoma, bone, skin, lung and so on. This narrative review focuses on the effect of metformin on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The search platforms for the topic were PubMed, Scopus, and Google search engine. Critical words for searching included 'Metformin,' AND 'Indications of Metformin,' AND 'Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease,' AND 'Metformin mechanism of action,' AND 'NAFLD management,' AND 'NAFLD and inflammation,' AND 'Metformin and insulin,' AND 'Metformin and inflammation,' AND 'Liver cirrhosis,' AND 'Hepatocellular carcinoma.' Lifestyle modification and the use of hypoglycemic agents can help improve liver conditions. Metformin has several mechanisms that enhance liver health, including reducing reactive oxygen species, nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κB), liver enzymes, improving insulin sensitivity, and improving hepatic cell lipophagy. Long-term use of metformin may cause some adverse effects like lactic acidosis and gastrointestinal disturbance. Metformin long-term overdose may lead to a rise in hydrogen sulfide in liver cells, which calls for pharmacovigilance. Drug regulating authorities should provide approval for further research, and national and international guidelines need to be developed for liver diseases, perhaps with the inclusion of metformin as part of the management regime., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Ahmad et al.)

The risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) escalates in women during menopause, which is associated with increased vascular endothelial dysfunction, arterial stiffness, and vascular remodeling. Meanwhile, curcumin has been demonstrated to enhance vascular function and structure in various studies. Therefore, this study systematically reviewed the recent literature regarding the potential role of curcumin in modulating vascular function and structure during menopause. The Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science electronic databases were searched to identify relevant articles. Clinical and preclinical studies involving menopausal women and postmenopausal animal models with outcomes related to vascular function or structure were included. After thorough screening, seven articles were selected for data extraction, comprising three animal studies and four clinical trials. The findings from this review suggested that curcumin has beneficial effects on vascular function and structure during menopause by addressing endothelial function, arterial compliance, hemodynamic parameters, and the formation of atherosclerotic lesions. Therefore, curcumin has the potential to be utilized as a supplement to enhance vascular health in menopausal women. However, larger-scale clinical trials employing gold-standard techniques to evaluate vascular health in menopausal women are necessary to validate the preliminary results obtained from small-scale randomized clinical trials involving curcumin supplementation (INPLASY, INPLASY202430043).

Background: The interplay of OGG1, 8-Oxoguanine, and oxidative stress triggers the exaggerated release of cytokines during malaria, which worsens the outcome of the disease. We aimed to investigate the involvement of OGG1 in malaria and assess the effect of modulating its activity on the cytokine environment and anemia during P. berghei malaria in mice., Methods: Plasmodium berghei ANKA infection in ICR mice was used as a malaria model. OGG1 concentration and oxidative stress levels in P. berghei -infected mice and their control counterparts were assessed during malaria using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. OGG1 activity in malaria mice was modulated using treatment with TH5487 and O8-OGG1 inhibitors. The effects of modulating OGG1 activity using OGG1 inhibitors on cytokine release and anemia during P. berghei malaria infection were assessed by cytometric bead array and measurement of total normal red blood cell count respectively., Results: The plasma OGG1 level was significantly upregulated and positively correlated with parasitemia during P. berghei malaria in mice. Modulation of OGG1 ameliorated malaria severity by improving the total normal RBC count in TH5487 and O8-treated mice. Modulation of OGG1 with TH5487 caused significant reductions in serum levels of TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-6, and IL-10. Similarly, OGG1 modulation activity using an O8-OGG1 inhibitor caused a significant reduction in serum levels of TNF-α, IL-2, IL-6, and IL-10., Conclusion: The findings indicate the involvement of OGG1 in the P. berghei malaria infection. OGG1 inhibition by TH5487 and O8-OGG1 inhibitors suppressed excessive cytokine release, and this may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for ameliorating the severity of malaria infection., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest Authors declare no conflicts of interest., (© 2024 Samaila et al. Published by Tehran University of Medical Sciences.)

This study investigates the potential of spent coffee ground biochar (SCGB) as a sustainable and cost-effective adsorbent for the removal of methylene blue (MB), a hazardous dye commonly used in the textile and printing industries. A response surface methodology (RSM) approach with central composite design (CCD) was employed to systematically investigate the effects of key process parameters, including adsorbent dosage, solution pH, contact time and temperature, on MB removal efficiency. The analysis revealed that adsorbent dosage and temperature as critical factors influencing MB removal, with a linear model providing a strong correlation. Optimal conditions for MB removal were determined to be 0.99 g of SCGB, 30 min of contact time, 30 °C temperature, and a solution pH of 7. Under these conditions, MB removal reached 99.99%, with a desirability of 1.000. The experimental results closely matched the predicted values, differing by only 0.02%, thus validating the accuracy of the model. Kinetic studies indicated a rapid adsorption process, well-described by both pseudo-first and pseudo-second order models. Isotherm analysis confirmed the applicability of the Freundlich model, suggesting favorable adsorption with increasing MB concentration. The high adsorption capacity of SCGB is attributed to its carbonaceous and porous structure, highlighting its potential as an effective adsorbent for dye removal in wastewater treatment applications., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Introduction Salinity intrusion is the most common global concern along coastlines, but it can happen inland also. The lack of freshwater is the primary issue affecting the coastal areas. Many health problems are prevalent among the inhabitants due to their frequent use of salted water. The health of women living along the coastline is getting progressively compromised due to salinity intrusion. Objectives The study aims to determine menstrual health practices and other health problems faced by women in the coastal region of Bangladesh. Methods The study was conducted using a survey research design from May 2023 to October 2023 on rural women aged 18 to 45 years, who lived in the Bangladeshi village of Koyra Upazila in the Khulna district. The sample size of the study was 101. Open- and closed-ended questions from a planned interview schedule were used to gather primary data. Additional information from appropriate sources, e.g., newspapers, publications, and books, was utilized to enhance the comprehensiveness of statistical analysis and support rationality. A p-value of 0.05 was considered significant. Statistical analysis was performed using STATA version 15 (StataCorp LLC, College Station, TX). Results Menstrual hygiene practices showed a higher prevalence of using fabric rags and reusing them after rinsing them in salt water (72.3%) than sanitary pads (25.7%). It was observed that the risk of diarrhea among tubewell water and rainwater users was significantly lowered by 0.25 times (95% CI = 0.06, 0.99; p = 0.049) and 0.06 times (95% CI = 0.01, 0.43; p = 0.005), respectively, compared to pond water users. Conclusion Salinity has a significant impact on the livelihoods and health of coastal women. The village women are unaware of the health risks of excessive saline water use. Establishing an adequate supply of freshwater reservoirs for the entire community throughout the year is an alternative for women to use as a source of water for hygiene necessities., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Institutional Review Board of the National Institute of Cancer Research & Hospital (NICRH), Dhaka, Bangladesh issued approval NICRH/IRB/2023/18; Dated: 15/03/2023. In addition, the participants received a thorough explanation from the researchers regarding their future publication plans and study objectives. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Sinha et al.)

This scoping review aims to comprehensively explore the landscape of taboos and their impact on sexual and reproductive health. Titled "Forbidden Conversations," it delves into the intricate web of societal, cultural, and religious norms that have contributed to the elusive and often stigmatized nature of sexual and reproductive health topics. The review navigates through the multifaceted dimensions of these taboos, shedding light on their impact on individuals, communities, and public health while advocating for a paradigm shift toward open, inclusive, and informed dialogue. The analysis within this review spans a decade, capturing the most recent and relevant literature to map the landscape of taboos in sexual and reproductive health. It explores the persistent societal apprehensions and subsequent stigmatization surrounding topics such as menstruation, contraception, fertility, sexual orientation, and gender identity. The review contextualizes the multifaceted challenges presented by these prevailing norms by tracing historically rooted taboos and their evolution across different cultures and contexts. The scoping review identifies the profound implications of these taboos on public health, highlighting how they contribute to disparities in access to healthcare, perpetuate misinformation, and infringe upon the fundamental rights of individuals. It addresses the challenges in sexual education, emphasizing how these taboos impede comprehensive understanding and enforcement of sexual and reproductive health rights among adolescents and young adults. The intersectional approach taken in this review situates these taboos within broader systems of inequality, emphasizing the compounded impact they have on marginalized populations. Through this comprehensive exploration, the review aims to provide actionable insights and identify existing research, policy, and practice gaps. It seeks to lay the foundation for future initiatives that advocate for destigmatization, empowerment, and equity in sexual and reproductive health. Ultimately, "Forbidden Conversations" aims to steer the conversation toward openness and inclusivity while advocating for unbiased, comprehensive sexual and reproductive healthcare with dignity for all individuals., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Mohd. Tohit et al.)

Cardiometabolic syndrome (CMS), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and cardiovascular diseases are among the major altruists to the international liability of disease. The lifestyle and dietary changes attributable to economic growth have resulted in an epidemiological transition towards non-communicable diseases (NCDs) as the leading causes of death. Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) bear a more substantial disease burden due to limited healthcare sector capacities to address the rapidly growing number of chronic disease patients. The purpose of this narrative review paper was to explore the interrelationships between CMS, T2DM, and cardiovascular impairments in the context of NCDs, as well as major preventative and control interventions. The role of insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia in the pathogenesis of T2DM and the development of severe cardiovascular impairments was highlighted. This paper elaborated on the pivotal role of lifestyle modifications, such as healthy diets and physical activity, as cornerstones of addressing the epidemics of metabolic diseases. Foods high in calories, refined sugar, red meat, and processed and ready-to-eat meals were associated with an amplified risk of CMS and T2DM. In contrast, diets based on fruits, legumes, vegetables, and whole grain, home-cooked foods demonstrated protective effects against metabolic diseases. Additionally, the role of a psychological and behavioral approach in addressing metabolic diseases was highlighted, especially regarding its impact on patient empowerment and the patient-centered approach to preventative and therapeutic interventions., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Chowdhury et al.)

This scoping review synthesizes the intersection of comprehensive sexual education (CSE) for children and adolescents with sustainable development goals (SDGs) to assess the potential for empowering future generations. Considering the global challenges in addressing sexual health, this review explores the potential role of CSE in contributing to the achievement of the SDGs, particularly in the context of empowering youth and ensuring their well-being. The review begins by providing a comprehensive overview of CSE, emphasizing its role in promoting informed decision-making, gender equality, and preventing sexual and reproductive health issues among young individuals. It then delves into the overarching framework of the SDGs, mainly focusing on goals related to health, education, gender equality, and sustainable development. The synthesis examines the alignment and potential synergies between CSE and various SDGs, highlighting how CSE can contribute to outcomes such as improved health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, and reduced inequalities. Furthermore, the review brings attention to potential challenges and barriers in implementing CSE programs in different cultural and socio-economic contexts. Ultimately, this scoping review provides a critical analysis of the intersection between CSE and the SDGs, offering insights into how the comprehensive education of children and adolescents in sexual and reproductive health can play a significant role in advancing sustainable development and empowering future generations worldwide., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Mohammed Tohit et al.)

Mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders, are often difficult to diagnose and monitor using traditional methods. Salivary biomarkers offer a promising alternative due to their non-invasive nature, ease of collection, and the potential to reflect real-time physiological changes associated with mental health. This bibliometric analysis examines 95 clinical trials on stress biomarkers for mental health, published between 2003 and 2024. The field is characterized by extensive collaboration and global participation, involving 593 authors and publications across 73 journals. Despite a consistent annual publication rate, notable increases in 2011, 2014, and 2018 indicate growing research interest. The United States leads in research output, followed by Australia, Germany, and Japan, with Psychoneuroendocrinology being the most prominent journal. Co-occurrence analysis identified nine research clusters, suggesting diverse directions such as the impact of stress-related hormones, circadian rhythms, mindfulness, various therapies, aging, psychological adaptation mechanisms, exercise therapy, anxiety disorders, and the autonomic nervous system on salivary biomarkers. Key terms such as "biomarkers/metabolism," AND "hydrocortisone/metabolism," AND "saliva/metabolism" were central, with significant activity from 2012 to 2018. This analysis highlights a growing focus on the metabolic processes and therapeutic applications of salivary biomarkers in mental health. This bibliometric analysis calls attention to the promising potential of salivary biomarkers to revolutionize mental health diagnostics and treatment through non-invasive methods, fostering interdisciplinary research, technological advancements, and global health improvements., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Dagli et al.)

The global demographic landscape is experiencing a monumental shift as populations age, driven by advances in healthcare and declining birth rates. This transition underscores the need to prepare the younger generation to navigate and contribute effectively to an aging society. This manuscript comprehensively reviews strategies to equip younger generations with the requisite knowledge, skills, and empathy to support an aging population. This study identifies critical challenges and opportunities in fostering intergenerational solidarity and understanding through an extensive analysis of existing literature and innovative educational programs. The review highlights the importance of early education, community engagement, and policy interventions in bridging the generational divide. Additionally, it explores the role of technology and digital media in facilitating awareness and empathy among young people. Key findings suggest that incorporating aging-related content into educational curricula, promoting volunteerism, and implementing supportive policies can significantly enhance the younger generation's readiness to support an aging society. The manuscript concludes with recommendations for future research and practical steps for educators, policymakers, and community leaders to foster a more inclusive and age-friendly environment. By preparing the younger generation today, we can build a more cohesive and supportive society for tomorrow., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Mohd. Tohit et al.)

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and periodontitis share common risk factors such as obesity, insulin resistance (IR), and dyslipidemia, which contribute to systemic inflammation. It has been suggested that a bidirectional relationship exists between NAFLD and periodontitis, indicating that one condition may exacerbate the other. NAFLD is characterized by excessive fat deposition in the liver and is associated with low-grade chronic inflammation. There are several risk factors for the development of NAFLD, including gender, geriatric community, race, ethnicity, poor sleep quality and sleep deprivation, physical activity, nutritional status, dysbiosis gut microbiota, increased oxidative stress, overweight, obesity, higher body mass index (BMI), IR, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), metabolic syndrome (MetS), dyslipidemia (hypercholesterolemia), and sarcopenia (decreased skeletal muscle mass). This systemic inflammation can contribute to the progression of periodontitis by impairing immune responses and exacerbating the inflammatory processes in the periodontal tissues. Furthermore, individuals with NAFLD often exhibit altered lipid metabolism, which may affect oral microbiota composition, leading to dysbiosis and increased susceptibility to periodontal disease. Conversely, periodontitis has been linked to the progression of NAFLD through mechanisms involving systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. Chronic periodontal inflammation can release pro-inflammatory cytokines and bacterial toxins into the bloodstream, contributing to liver inflammation and exacerbating hepatic steatosis. Moreover, periodontitis-induced oxidative stress may promote hepatic lipid accumulation and IR, further aggravating NAFLD. The interplay between NAFLD and periodontitis underscores the importance of comprehensive management strategies targeting both conditions. Lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and proper oral hygiene practices are crucial for preventing and managing these interconnected diseases. Additionally, interdisciplinary collaboration between hepatologists and periodontists is essential for optimizing patient care and improving outcomes in individuals with NAFLD and periodontitis., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Vegda et al.)

This narrative review comprehensively examines the intricate relationship between period poverty and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), positioning it as a critical public health challenge with far-reaching implications. Through an in-depth analysis of the multifaceted impact of period poverty on public health, including its effects on reproductive health, mental well-being, and economic participation, the paper underscores the urgent need to address this issue within the framework of the SDGs. An overview of existing literature on period poverty, its impact on health and well-being, and its relation to the SDGs was carried out. Different perspectives, interventions, and policy approaches to addressing period poverty were also explored. By illuminating the interplay between period poverty and various SDGs, particularly those related to gender equality, health, education, and economic empowerment, the study emphasizes the imperative of integrating menstrual health and hygiene into global development efforts. Advocating for targeted policies, funding, and advocacy, the manuscript calls for a holistic and inclusive approach to breaking the cycle of period poverty, ultimately contributing to advancing the SDGs and fostering a more equitable and healthier global society. Efforts to eradicate period poverty - providing affordable menstrual products, improving sanitation infrastructure, enhancing education, and implementing supportive policies - lead to significant progress in public health and gender equity. By prioritizing menstrual health management in public health policies, educational programs, and economic strategies, we can ensure that everyone who menstruates can do so with dignity and without limits on their potential., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Mohd. Tohit et al.)

The scientific literature dealing with alcohol and alcoholic beverages revealed that these drinks possess an adverse impact on periodontal tissues. Additionally, other principal risk factors include tobacco, smoking, poor oral hygiene, etc. It has been observed that among chronic alcoholics, there are further issues, such as mental, social, and physical effects, that promote alcoholism. These people may have weak immunity for defense against pathogenic organisms and bacteria. Thus, chances of gingival bleeding, swollen gums, bad breath, and increased bone loss are there. Different alcoholic beverages in the market cause less salivation; these beverages contain sugars that promote acid production in the oral cavity by pathogens that demineralize the enamel and damage gum and teeth. This chronic alcohol consumption can progress into different types of oral disorders, including cancer, halitosis, and caries, and is also associated with tobacco and smoking. Chronic alcohol consumption can cause alteration of the oral microbiome and increase oral pathogens, which lead to periodontal disease and an environment of inflammation created in the body due to malnutrition, diminished immunity, altered liver condition, brain damage, and gut microbiota alteration. Heavily colored alcoholic beverages produce staining on teeth and, due to less saliva, may cause other toxic effects on the periodontium. Over-dependency on alcohol leads to necrotizing lesions such as necrotizing gingivitis, necrotizing periodontitis, and necrotizing stomatitis. These pathological impairments instigate severe damage to oral structures. Therefore, proper counseling by the attending dental surgeon and related health professionals is urgently required for the patient on the basis that the individual case needs to go away from the regular heavy consumption of alcohol., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Gandhi et al.)

This study presents the adsorption of methylene blue (MB) dye using latex char derived from pyrolysis of latex gloves. The adsorption process was investigated systematically using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with a Central Composite Design (CCD). The effects of four key variables, namely pH, time, temperature, and adsorbent dosage, were studied using a factorial design enriched with center points and axial points. Experimental data were analyzed using a second-order polynomial regression model to construct a response surface model, which elucidated the relationship between the variables and MB removal efficiency. The study found that the char obtained at 800 °C exhibited the highest adsorption capacity due to its increased carbonization, expanded surface area, and diverse pore structure. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) confirmed the significance of the quadratic model, with remarkable agreement between predicted and experimental outcomes. Diagnostic plots validated the model's reliability, while 3D contour graphs illustrated the combined effects of variables on MB removal efficiency. Optimization using DoE software identified optimal conditions resulting in a 99% removal efficiency, which closely matched experimental results. Additionally, adsorption isotherms revealed that the Freundlich model best described the adsorption behavior, indicating heterogeneous surface adsorption with multilayer adsorption. This comprehensive study provides valuable insights into the adsorption process of MB dye using latex char, with implications for wastewater treatment and environmental remediation., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Introduction Cement dust emitted during cement manufacture consists of toxic components. Occupational cement dust exposure may cause inflammation in the human body, which may be detected early by observing changes in blood parameters such as red blood cell distribution width (RDW) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV). Objectives The study aims to observe the effect of occupational cement dust exposure on RDW and MCV. Methods This study was performed in the Department of Physiology of Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, Bangladesh, and a factory in Munshiganj, Bangladesh, from September 2017 to August 2018. Ninety-two participants between 20 and 50 years were included (46 subjects were occupationally exposed to cement dust, and 46 were not exposed to cement dust). A pre-designed questionnaire was used for data collection. An independent sample t-test was used to analyze basic information, such as blood pressure and BMI. The multivariate regression model was used to analyze the effect of cement dust exposure on the study group. The impact of cement dust exposure duration was analyzed using the multivariate regression model. The level of significance was p < 0.05. The statistical analysis was performed using STATA-15 (StataCorp, College Station, TX), and the graphical presentation used GraphPad Prism v8.3.2. Results The cement dust-exposed participants had a significantly higher value of MCV by 1.19 fi (95% CI = 0.02, 4.84; p = 0.049) and a 5.92% increase in RDW (95% CI = 5.29, 6.55; p < 0.001) than that of the control group. Conclusion The study reveals that exposure to cement dust causes significant changes in RDW and MCV. These changes may indicate hemolysis due to inflammation., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Ahmad et al.)

Introduction: The prevalence of visual impairment and ocular diseases changes over time. This measure can help general practitioners in anticipating common eye disorders that may require ophthalmological referrals to government hospitals. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of visual impairment and ocular diseases in an outpatient ophthalmology clinic in a public hospital and the types of investigations frequently conducted to diagnose these diseases., Methods: A cross-sectional prospective study was conducted over three weeks in the eye clinic of the University of Malaya Medical Centre. The electronic medical records of all patients who attended the outpatient clinic were assessed to collect data on sex, age, type of visit, visual acuity, ocular presentation, investigations conducted and diagnosis of eye diseases. Visual impairment and blindness were categorised as per the World Health Organization criteria., Results: Among 1002 patients, 327 had visual impairments (32.63%), and nine had blindness (0.9%). Cataracts were the most common ocular disease diagnosed (n=294, 29.74%), followed by glaucoma (n=123, 12.28%) and diabetic retinopathy (n=84, 8.38%). Optical coherence tomography was the most common investigation performed (n=272, 64.9%), followed by Humphrey visual field testing (n=53,12.6%)., Conclusion: Untreated refractive error is the leading cause of visual impairment in children, while cataract, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy are the main contributors to visual impairment and blindness in elderly individuals. Our study highlights the urgent need for general practitioners to recognise avoidable visual impairment in all age groups to help prevent blindness., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest., (© Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia.)

In recent years, the quest for healthier alternatives to sugar has led to the widespread use of sugar alcohol in various food and beverage products. Sugar alcohols, such as xylitol, sorbitol, and erythritol, are popular substitutes due to their sweet taste and lower calorie content than sucrose. Beyond their role in calorie reduction, sugar alcohols have garnered attention for their potential impact on oral health. The bibliometric analysis of clinical trials on sugar alcohol and oral health in PubMed reveals a dynamic and multifaceted research landscape shaped by various factors. Fluctuations in publication rates over time suggest influences such as shifts in research interests, technological advancements, regulatory changes, and evolving consumer behaviors. Key authors like Makinen KK, Makinen PL, and Soderling E emerge as prolific contributors with collaborative solid networks within the research community. The University of Turku in Finland has been identified as the highest contributing university, while Caries Research is the most contributing journal based on the number of clinical trials published. The country-wise analysis highlights Italy and the United States as substantial contributors, with diverse trajectories of research activity observed across nations. The subject-specific words with the highest cooccurrence are xylitol, dental caries, chewing gum, Streptococcus mutans , and saliva. Thematic analysis dives deep into how sugar alcohols relate to oral health, using different methods to study their effectiveness, safety, and how they affect the oral microbiome. The analysis of topic trends indicates ongoing exploration of sorbitol and xylitol, with an increasing emphasis on the potential advantages of xylitol. Additionally, there is notable attention on cariostatic agents, strategies for dental caries prevention, and the emergence of novel research domains like probiotics and erythritol, showcasing the dynamic evolution of oral health research focuses and developments. Overall, this analysis provides valuable insights into the distribution and trends of clinical trial publications, contributing to a nuanced understanding of the research landscape in sugar alcohol and oral health., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Dagli et al.)

The complex connection between oral health and dietary habits is fundamental to holistic well-being. Oral health is closely linked to dietary choices, both as a reflection and a factor in overall health. This bibliometric analysis investigates clinical trials published in the PubMed database spanning six decades to understand the landscape of research on the impact of diet on oral health. The analysis reveals a fluctuating yet generally increasing trend over the decades, with significant growth periods interspersed with occasional declines, culminating in a recent slight decrease in research output. With strong collaborative networks, Devizio and Proskin emerge as primary contributors. The University of Sydney has published the maximum number of clinical trials. Thematic clusters highlight diverse research facets, including physiological measurements, socio-economic influences, and biochemical aspects. The evolution in research priorities from experimental studies to longitudinal evaluations underscores the interdisciplinary nature of the field. The analysis of country-wise research output revealed that the United States, Germany, and Australia lead in scientific research output, with notable contributions to the global landscape. While larger countries like China and India are represented, their frequencies are relatively lower, suggesting potential areas for further exploration. Collaboration patterns vary between countries, influencing the global impact of their scientific output. Despite the limitations inherent in database selection, this study integrates bibliometric and thematic analyses to offer comprehensive insights into research trends and priorities., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Dagli et al.)

This bibliometric analysis investigates the research landscape concerning the impact of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) on oral health through a comprehensive literature review. The study includes all English-language articles retrieved from the PubMed database, focusing on the relationship between RA and various aspects of oral health without any filter. The analysis of 261 publications revealed fluctuations in publication patterns from 1987 to 2024, with notable surges and declines in research activity. Collaborative networks among authors and institutions were identified, highlighting key contributors and prolific institutions such as Karolinska Institutet. The themes prevalent in the research included demographics, oral microbiota, biomarkers, treatment outcomes, and molecular mechanisms. Trend topic and thematic evolution analyses elucidated shifts in research focus from traditional concerns to emerging areas such as oral microbiology and immunological mechanisms. Key findings underscored the need for more clinical trials to comprehend the impact of RA on oral health, enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration, exploration of emerging areas, and longitudinal studies. This analysis provides valuable insights into the evolving research landscape, informing future investigations and interventions to improve oral health outcomes in individuals with RA., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Dagli et al.)

Introduction Leprosy remains a significant cause of preventable disability worldwide. Early diagnosis and treatment of leprosy are critical not only to stop its spread but also to prevent physical and social complications and reduce the disease burden. Objectives The study aims to evaluate the factors that lead to a delayed leprosy diagnosis. Methods This study was conducted in the outpatient departments of Leprosy Control Institute and Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh, and at Medical College for Women and Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from March 2023 to June 2023. A total number of 252 male (148) and female (104) patients were selected with any sign of leprosy, including disability, age ranging from 15 to 74 years. Data was collected in a pre-designed structured questionnaire by the researchers. To assess the risk of independent exposures of Grade 2 leprosy disabilities, we used a logistic regression model. A chi-square test showed the association between significant effects and leprosy disabilities. A p-value of 0.05 was considered as significant. For statistical analysis, STATA version 15 (StataCorp LLC, College Station, Texas, USA) was used. Results The study participants exhibited a higher percentage of disability, with a rate of 25.8% for Grade 2 disabilities. In addition to this, males represented a more considerable proportion, 58.7%, than females among leprosy and disability patients across all levels of disability. In our study, lack of money and painless symptoms showed a significant association (p<0.001) with Grade 2 disability. Conclusion The study reveals that Grade 2 disabilities are more common in males and are particularly prevalent in lower socioeconomic groups., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Sinha et al.)

Recognizing the complex interaction between diabetes and oral health is crucial, considering the increasing worldwide prevalence of these conditions. This bibliometric analysis delves into the extensive body of literature concerning the impact of diabetes on oral health, utilizing data retrieved from PubMed. The publishing trends indicate a growing research interest in the field over time, with notable peaks and declines. Coauthorship analyses of authors and institutions illuminated collaborative networks within the research community. Two departments at Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences in Iran, namely the Department of Periodontology within the School of Dentistry and the Diabetes Research Center within the Health Research Institute, demonstrated the highest total link strength. The co-occurrence analysis of keywords also unveiled thematic clusters, reflecting research focus areas and evolving trends. The analysis of topic trends highlighted persistent research interests in topics, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, glycated hemoglobin, periodontitis, and therapy for chronic periodontitis, with shifts in therapeutic modalities investigated. The thematic map suggests that dental implants and tumor necrosis factor-alpha are emerging terms in the field that have gained more traction recently. Furthermore, the analysis of scientific production by country indicated varied contributions, with Brazil leading in publication output. Analysis of collaboration among corresponding authors' countries identified Italy exhibiting substantial international collaboration, while most of the countries primarily produced single-country publications. This comprehensive analysis provides insights into the multifaceted landscape of research on diabetes and oral health, emphasizing ongoing efforts to understand and address the complex interplay between these conditions., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Dagli et al.)

Stress is ubiquitous in modern life, influencing various facets of human health and well-being. While the impact of stress on mental and physical health is well-documented, its effects on oral health have garnered increasing attention in recent years. This bibliometric analysis explores the literature on the impact of stress on oral health. The study utilizes data from the PubMed database, focusing on publication trends, influential contributors and the temporal analysis of their publications, coauthorship analysis of authors and institutions, key thematic clusters, thematic evolution, and collaboration between various countries. Examining clinical trials investigating the impact of stress on oral health unveils significant trends and insights. Over time, there has been a steady rise in publication frequency, although with occasional fluctuations, indicating an increasing interest in the subject. The University of California has been identified as a leading institution, while Psychoneuroendocrinology emerges as a pivotal journal for disseminating research findings in the field. Keyword analysis reveals diverse thematic clusters, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the impact of stress on oral health. The analysis of topic trends showcases significant shifts over different periods, from basic correlations between mental health conditions and physiological indicators to a broader exploration of psychological interventions and social contexts in recent years. Thematic evolution analysis further elucidates this progression, categorizing themes into motor, basic, niche, and emerging or declining categories. Additionally, the analysis of corresponding authors' countries uncovers patterns of collaborative efforts, with the United States leading in collaboration levels. In summary, these analyses collectively highlight an evolving comprehension of the impact of stress on oral health, providing valuable insights for clinical practice and guiding future research endeavors., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Dagli et al.)

Studies focusing on the safety and common side effects of vaccines play a crucial role in enhancing public acceptance of vaccination. Research is scarce regarding the usage of COVID-19 vaccines and the side effects experienced by health professions students in India and other countries. This study aimed to document self-reported side effects associated with COVID-19 vaccination among medical and dental students of six medical and dental colleges and teaching hospitals in four states (Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and West Bengal) of India. A cross-sectional survey using purposive sampling of medical and dental students was conducted from 26 April to 26 May 2021. Data was collected using a Google Forms questionnaire capturing information regarding receiving COVID-19 vaccines, side effects and symptoms, onset and duration of symptoms, use of treatment to alleviate symptoms, awareness of haematologic risks associated with vaccination, and side effects from previous (non-COVID-19) vaccinations. The majority (94.5%) of participants received both doses of the Covishield/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. Among participants ( n  = 492), 45.3% ( n  = 223) reported one or more side effects. The most frequently reported side effects were soreness of the injected arm (80.3%), tiredness (78.5%), fever (71.3%), headache (64.1%), and hypersomnia (58.7%). The two most common severe symptoms were fever (14.8%) and headache (13%). Most side effects appeared on the day of vaccination: soreness of the injection site (57%), fever (43.1%), and tiredness (42.6%). Most reported symptoms persisted for one to three days-soreness of the injection site (53%), fever (47.1%), and headache (42.6%). Logistic regression showed that women were almost 85% less likely to report side effects. The study's findings corroborate the safety of the Covishield/AstraZeneca vaccine's first dose, evidenced by the relatively minor and transient nature of the side effects. However, the study underscores the necessity for ongoing research to assess the long-term impacts of COVID-19 vaccines, especially in the context of booster doses, thereby contributing to the global understanding of vaccine safety and efficacy., Competing Interests: Russell Kabir is an Academic Editor for PeerJ. The other authors declare that they have no competing interests., (©2024 Majumder et al.)

Essential oils, aromatic compounds extracted from various parts of plants, have garnered significant attention in recent years due to their diverse therapeutic properties and potential applications in healthcare. This analysis delves into the publication trends, productivity patterns, most relevant contributors, coauthorship networks, most frequently used keywords, and their co-occurrence, topic trends, thematic evolution, and collaboration between various countries in clinical trials exploring the therapeutic potential of essential oils. Six hundred sixty-one clinical trials were selected from the PubMed database for analysis, authored by 2959 authors, and published across 359 sources. The analysis identified Horrobin DF as the most contributing author based on the number of published clinical trials, followed by Kasper S, McGuire JA, and Schlafke S. Lotka's law underscores the distribution of authors' productivity, revealing a small number of highly productive authors. Coauthorship analysis identifies significant collaborations among authors and institutions, with prominent contributors like Siegfried Kasper and institutions like Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. Furthermore, the analysis highlights leading journals like Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice and the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine . Using keyword clustering, connections between various subjects and their chronological presence are uncovered, offering insights into the changing research landscape. The thematic examination exposes changes in research emphasis over time, progressing from fundamental studies on essential oil components to broader utilization and focused inquiries into oils and therapeutic domains. Analysis of the countries of corresponding authors revealed that Iran has the highest number of multiple-country publications. Moreover, international collaboration trends have been unveiled. Together, these analyses furnish holistic understandings of keyword relationships, thematic shifts, and global partnerships in essential oil research, presenting valuable perspectives on trends and focal points within this domain., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Dagli et al.)

The accuracy of diagnostic results in clinical laboratory testing is paramount for informed healthcare decisions and effective patient care. While the focus has traditionally been on the analytical phase, attention has shifted towards optimizing the preanalytical phase due to its significant contribution to total laboratory errors. This review highlights preanalytical errors, their sources, and control measures to improve the quality of laboratory testing. Blood sample quality is a critical concern, with factors such as hemolysis, lipemia, and icterus leading to erroneous results. Sources of preanalytical errors encompass inappropriate test requests, patient preparation lapses, and errors during sample collection, handling, and transportation. Mitigating these errors includes harmonization efforts, education and training programs, automated methods for sample quality assessment, and quality monitoring. Collaboration between laboratory personnel and healthcare professionals is crucial for implementing and sustaining these measures to enhance the accuracy and reliability of diagnostic results, ultimately improving patient care., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Nordin et al.)

Aim: To determine the common causes and visual outcome after treatment among uveitis and scleritis patients., Methods: This is a retrospective cohort observational study. All consecutive clinical records of patients with newly diagnosed uveitis and scleritis over a 4-year period, from Jan. 1, 2017 to Dec. 31, 2020, were analysed. Data was collected at the presentation and included a follow-up period of one year., Results: A total of 288 patients were recruited during the study period. Anterior uveitis was the most common anatomical diagnosis (50.0%) followed by panuveitis (25.0%), scleritis (13.5%), posterior uveitis (6.9%), and intermediate uveitis (4.5%). Viral Herpes was the most common cause of infectious cases, while Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) disease and human leucocyte antigen (HLA) B27 spondyloarthropathy were the leading causes of identifiable non-infectious cases. Majority of patients presented with unilateral, non-granulomatous uveitis with an absence of hypopyon. Anatomical locations like posterior uveitis and panuveitis, and visual acuity worse than 3/60 at presentation were the factors associated with poor visual outcomes ( P <0.05). About 60% of patients had an identifiable cause for the uveitis and scleritis, with nearly equal distribution of infectious ( n =85, 29.5%) and non-infectious causes ( n =84, 29.2%). About 14.5% of patients were clinically blind at 1y of follow-up. The most common complication in our uveitis patients was glaucoma (47.5%), followed by cystoid macula oedema (18.9%) and cataract (13.9%)., Conclusion: Uveitis and scleritis are important causes of ocular morbidity. They are potentially blinding diseases which can have a good outcome if diagnosed and treated early., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest: Seow ST, None; Tajunisah I, None; Lee FY, None; Lott PW, None; Reddy SC, None., (International Journal of Ophthalmology Press.)

In recent years, the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has posed a severe threat to global public health, necessitating innovative and alternative approaches to combat this escalating crisis. Bacteriophages, viruses that infect and replicate within bacteria, have emerged as promising candidates for therapeutic intervention against antibiotic-resistant pathogens. This study delves into the intricate landscape of bacteriophage research, unraveling the trends and impact of research in the field. The analysis considers the chronological evolution of research, identifying key contributors, collaborative networks, and thematic trends that have shaped the trajectory of this rapidly growing field. Out of 101717 search results in the PubMed database, 163 clinical trials were identified, revealing a dynamic landscape of research activity between 1965 and 2024. The annual scientific publication analysis unveiled fluctuations in the number of publications, indicating an overall increasing trend. Notably, 2011 emerged as a peak year, signifying heightened activity in bacteriophage research. Employing Lotka's law, the authors' productivity analysis illustrated an inherent imbalance in author contributions, with a majority contributing to a single clinical trial. Co-authorship analysis highlighted leading collaborators. Co-occurrence analysis of keywords unveiled thematic clusters, providing insights into the diverse aspects of bacteriophage research. A word cloud emphasized significant terms, while a thematic map categorized themes into various developmental stages. Antimicrobial Agents, Chemotherapy, and Poultry Science were the most relevant journals based on the number of publications. The analysis of countries' contributions revealed the United States as a leading contributor, with Switzerland and China following suit. Collaboration patterns suggested predominantly independent research, with potential for increased international partnerships in certain regions. Additionally, temporal analysis of authors, institutions, sources, and countries revealed productivity patterns, historical context, and research shifts. By scrutinizing a vast array of scientific literature, this investigation aims to provide a panoramic view of how the scientific community has explored the potential of bacteriophages in the context of antibiotic resistance., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Dagli et al.)

Background Helicobacter pylori infection has been identified to cause constantly recurring inflammation, leading to gastrointestinal tract disorders, including carcinoma. The standard triple therapy (STT), used to eradicate H. pylori, exhibits antimicrobial resistance. These regimens, including probiotics, have been shown to lower adverse drug reactions (ADR), improve drug adherence, exert bacteriostatic effect, and reduce inflammation. Objective This study intended to explore probiotic intervention for improving eradication rates and mitigating adverse effects while administrating STT.  Methods This prospective study was conducted from May to December, 2021, in the Department of Gastroenterology of Ship International Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh, to observe the effects of probiotics inclusion along with STT on H. pylori eradication. A total of 100 patients aged ≥18 years who tested positive for H. were included. The experimental group (n=50) was given STT and probiotics, and the control group (n=50) was given only STT without probiotics for 14 days. Necessary follow-up was done six weeks after treatment. An independent sample t-test, chi-square test, and multiple regression analysis were used for statistical analysis. Result The odds of getting rapid urease test (RUT) negative results from positive were 2.06 times higher (95%CI= 0.95, 3.22, p=0.054) in the experimental group. ADRs were crucially towering in the control group (p=0.045) compared to the probiotics group. The probiotics group had a lower risk of having adverse effects by 0.54 times (95%CI=0.19, 0.84, p=0.032) than the control group. Conclusion Using probiotics and STT together to eradicate pylori eradication. A total of 100 patients aged ≥18 years who tested positive for H. pylori were included. The experimental group (n=50) was given STT and probiotics, and the control group (n=50) was given only STT without probiotics for 14 days. Necessary follow-up was done six weeks after treatment. An independent sample t-test, chi-square test, and multiple regression analysis were used for statistical analysis. Result The odds of getting rapid urease test (RUT) negative results from positive were 2.06 times higher (95%CI= 0.95, 3.22, p=0.054) in the experimental group. ADRs were crucially towering in the control group (p=0.045) compared to the probiotics group. The probiotics group had a lower risk of having adverse effects by 0.54 times (95%CI=0.19, 0.84, p=0.032) than the control group. Conclusion Using probiotics and STT together to eradicate H. pylori may lower ADR and improve treatment adherence. It may also help terminate H. pylori infection more effectively. More research is required as H. pylori is very contagious and can ultimately cause life-threatening gastric cancer., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Zaman et al.)

Aerobic exercise is a widely adopted practice, not solely for enhancing fitness and reducing the risk of various diseases but also for its ability to uplift mood and aid in addressing depression and anxiety disorders. Within the scope of this narrative review, we seek to consolidate current insights into the endocannabinoid-mediated regulation of stress and the brain's reward mechanism resulting from engaging in aerobic exercise. A comprehensive search was conducted across Medline, SPORTDiscus, Pubmed, and Scopus, encompassing data available until November 30, 2023. This review indicates that a bout of aerobic exercise, particularly of moderate intensity, markedly augments circulating levels of endocannabinoids - N-arachidonoyl-ethanolamine (AEA) and 2-acylglycerol (2-AG), that significantly contributes to mood elevation and reducing stress in healthy individuals.  The current understanding of how aerobic exercise impacts mental health and mood improvement is still unclear. Moderate and high-intensity aerobic exercise modulates stress through a negative feedback mechanism targeting both the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system, thereby facilitating stress regulation crucial role in endocannabinoid synthesis, ultimately culminating in the orchestration of negative feedback across multiple tiers of the HPA axis, coupled with its influence over cortical and subcortical brain structures. The endocannabinoid has been observed to govern the release of neurotransmitters from diverse neuronal populations, implying a universal mechanism that fine-tunes neuronal activity and consequently modulates both emotional and stress-related responses. Endocannabinoids further assume a pivotal function within brain reward mechanisms, primarily mediated by CB 1 receptors distributed across diverse cerebral centers. Notably, these endocannabinoids partake in natural reward processes, as exemplified in aerobic exercise, by synergizing with the dopaminergic reward system. The genesis of this reward pathway can be traced to the ventral tegmental area, with dopamine neurons predominantly projecting to the nucleus accumbens, thereby inciting dopamine release in response to rewarding stimuli., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Gupta et al.)

This extensive study provides a comprehensive overview of the contemporary research landscape about academic stress, emphasizing on identifying the most relevant contributors and understanding prevalent trends. The analysis included 5,375 results from the PubMed database and revealed a consistent upward trajectory with fluctuations in research paper publications over the years. Network analysis and visualization were performed using the Biblioshiny app and VOSviewer software. The analysis identified that the University of Oslo has published the highest number of research papers related to academic stress. In contrast, the Netherlands, the USA, and Australia demonstrated the highest frequency of collaboration. Analysis of keywords and their co-occurrence provides an overview of the research focus and the areas associated with psychological stress due to academics. Thematic evaluation and topic trend analysis provided insights into the evolving nature of research in academic stress. The thematic map depicts two categories of themes - motor themes, including psychological stress, its epidemiology, the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the mental health of university students, particularly those in medical programs; and emerging themes, including oxidative stress and risk factors, indicated evolving areas of interest. A notable observation was the scarcity of research on primary school students, signaling a gap in the existing academic stress literature. Citation analysis identified the most cited authors, countries, universities, and sources. This multifaceted examination provides a nuanced understanding of academic stress research's current state and dynamics, offering valuable insights into trends, collaborations, and thematic shifts that will guide future research in this critical field., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Dagli et al.)

This study provides a comprehensive overview of the current landscape in drug-resistant tuberculosis research. An extensive electronic search was conducted on PubMed and Scopus databases to identify clinical trials related to drug-resistant tuberculosis. Network analysis and visualization were performed on the data using the Biblioshiny App and VOSviewer software. This bibliometric study focuses on revealing publication trends, leading contributors, key institutions, thematic focuses, and citation patterns. The analysis of research paper publications reveals a consistent upward trajectory over the years, characterized by periodic declines and subsequent surges. Noteworthy peaks in 2013 and 2010 are observed in Scopus and PubMed, respectively, followed by marked declines, particularly notable between 2021 and 2023. PubMed and Scopus data indicate that the United States and South Africa are the leading contributors. According to the PubMed and Scopus databases, the University of Cape Town and Stellenbosch University are the institutions that contribute the most. Keyword and thematic analyses underscore the primary research focuses on drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB), including drug combination therapy, microbiological analysis of sputum, therapeutic uses of antitubercular agents, drug resistance (DR), multidrug resistance (MDR), and  Mycobacterium tuberculosis . The trend-topic analysis reveals dynamic shifts in research focus over time, transitioning from single-drug therapy to addressing drug resistance and highlighting the emerging need for effective drug therapy in cases of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. Notably, most research papers on drug-resistant tuberculosis are single-country publications. Citation analysis in the Scopus database indicates that the average citation per year and mean total citation per year peaked during 2005-2006. This suggests a period of heightened impact and recognition within the research community during that timeframe. The study's findings may inform strategic planning for combating drug-resistant tuberculosis, ultimately contributing to future enhanced prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Dagli et al.)

Introduction The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is driven by the selection pressure of frequent uses of antimicrobial agents in healthcare, the food chain, agriculture, fishery, and the food animal industry, which poses a serious health risk for transmission-linked humans and the surrounding environment. Livestock, particularly cattle, play an essential role in the food sector in Bangladesh. The food-animal chains can be the potential routes of exposure to AMR-microorganisms for every domain of one health. Antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) can impart a reservoir of AMR within the food supply chain, even without pathogenic microorganisms. This study investigated the history of infection for the last six-month period of antimicrobials utilized in cattle farms and the distribution of selected carbapenemase resistance genes, namely, bla-KPC , bla-IMP , bla-VIM , bla-NDM-1 , bla-SIM , bla-GIM , bla-SPM , and  bla-SME , in cattle feces in Bangladesh. Methods A cross-sectional study was designed to analyze ARGs in fresh cow dung samples collected from commercial farms and individual houses in four Bangladesh districts, namely, Dhaka, Gazipur, Manikganj, and Tangail. Types of cattle breeds, their existing diseases, recent antimicrobial uses, and vaccine uses were recorded. DNA was extracted from each cow dung sample using commercial kits (Qiagen GmbH, Germany). Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was employed to assess the eight carbapenem resistance genes in the extracted DNA. The eight carbapenem resistance genes in the extracted DNA were assessed by RT-qPCR using the qTOWER3 thermal cycler (Analytik Jena GmbH, Konrad-Zuse-Straße 1, 07745 Jena, Germany). Results Group A carbapenemase, bla-KPC , was detected in 66.7% of the samples. However, no bla -SME was identified in all of the test samples. Group B metallo carbapenemase, bla-IMP , bla-NDM-1 , bla-VIM , bla-SIM , bla-GIM , and  bla-SPM , were in 66.7% (80/120), 49.2% (59/120), 48.3% (58/120), 68.3% (82/120), 58.3% (70/120), and 12.5% (15/120), respectively. Only 8.3% of the tested samples contained no MBL gene; 10% carried a single-type carbapenemase gene; and the remaining 81.7% carried two or more carbapenemase genes concurrently. Co-carriage of four or more genes was found in over 59% of samples. As many as seven genes were found together in 6.7% of samples. ARG detection in commercial cattle samples and household feces is not statistically significant. Conclusions Substantial carbapenem-resistance ARGs were detected in commercially farmed cow dung and household cattle samples. Frequent use of antibiotics for cattle for treatment and prophylactic purposes may influence the high acquisition of ARGs. Bangladeshi cattle farms are reservoirs and routes of AMR, posing a significant threat to the country's public health., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Al Asad et al.)

This research aims to postulate an exhaustive sketch of the current research background on the oral microbiome to emphasize prevailing research trends. On November 25, 2023, a digital exploration was conducted on the PubMed platform. The search strategy employed was- '(Microbiome, Microbiota, Microorganisms, Bacteria, Virus, Fungi) AND (Oral, Dental, Saliva, Plaque, Gingival Crevicular Fluid)'. Inclusive criteria comprised review articles, clinical trials, and meta-analyses. The Biblioshiny app and VOSviewer software were used to create and visualize bibliometric maps for network, thematic, and factorial analyses. The PubMed database search unveiled 215,068 published research studies on the oral microbiome, indicating a fluctuating publication pattern with an all-embracing mounting trajectory. Notably, there was a substantial increase in publications in 2020 and 2021, succeeded by a marked decline in 2022 and 2023. Sichuan University and the International Journal of Molecular Sciences emerged as the most prolific contributors among organizations and relevant sources. Keyword analysis revealed a research emphasis on the COVID-19 pandemic and the SARS-CoV-2 virus since 2019. Thematic mapping categorized key terms into motor, primary, niche, and emerging themes. The emerging terms identified are viral immunogenicity, antibodies, and vaccines, which support the revelation that COVID-19 and related terms will be the most pertinent subjects in oral microbiome studies in the future. Factorial analysis delineated the relationships between topics and subtopics in this domain., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Dagli et al.)

Conducted on randomized clinical trials (RCTs) addressing antibiotic resistance in the PubMed database, this bibliometric analysis explores relevant sources, keyword co-occurrence, institutional co-authorship, global collaboration patterns, and evolving research trends. Utilizing an electronic search on January 13, 2024, employing the term "antibiotic resistance," 252,657 results were retrieved, of which 2,962 RCTs were analyzed. The dissemination of RCTs exhibited a variable distribution from 1965 to 2023, with a peak in 2014, noteworthy peaks in 1993-1994 and 2002-2003, contrasting declines in 1990-1991 and 2007-2008, and a consistent decrease post 2018. The University of California emerged as a predominant institution, and the journal "Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy" substantially contributed. The annual growth rate stood at 1.2%, with 97 single-authored documents, an average of 8.76 co-authors per document, and 8.89% international co-authorships. Co-occurrence analysis highlighted prevalent themes, including double-blind clinical trials and significant keywords like human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections, Helicobacter infections, metronidazole, and amoxicillin. Trend analysis revealed a chronological shift from penicillin to HIV and Helicobacter drug therapies, culminating in combination antibacterial therapy for multiple bacterial strains. The prevailing trend in antibiotic resistance publications involved single-country endeavors, with the United States leading in collaboration frequency. The findings indicate a need to foster international collaboration, promote interdisciplinary research, support emerging trends, encourage open-access publication, and address declines in research activity, particularly RCTs., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Dagli et al.)