From Gut Microbiomes to Infectious Pathogens: Neurological Disease Game Changers.

Gut microbiota and infectious diseases affect neurological disorders, brain development, and function. Compounds generated in the gastrointestinal system by gut microbiota and infectious pathogens may mediate gut-brain interactions, which may circulate throughout the body and spread to numerous organs, including the brain. Studies shown that gut bacteria and disease-causing organisms may pass molecular signals to the brain, affecting neurological function, neurodevelopment, and neurodegenerative diseases. This article discusses microorganism-producing metabolites with neuromodulator activity, signaling routes from microbial flora to the brain, and the potential direct effects of gut bacteria and infectious pathogens on brain cells. The review also considered the neurological aspects of infectious diseases. The infectious diseases affecting neurological functions and the disease modifications have been discussed thoroughly. Recent discoveries and unique insights in this perspective need further validation. Research on the complex molecular interactions between gut bacteria, infectious pathogens, and the CNS provides valuable insights into the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative, behavioral, and psychiatric illnesses. This study may provide insights into advanced drug discovery processes for neurological disorders by considering the influence of microbial communities inside the human body.

Altered serum interleukin-17A and interleukin-23A levels may be associated with the pathophysiology and development of generalized anxiety disorder.

In recent times, the pathogenesis of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and the influence of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines on it have garnered considerable interest. Cytokine research, especially Th-17 cytokine research on GAD patients, is limited. Here, we aim to assess the role of interleukin-17A (IL-17A) and interleukin-23A (IL-23A) in the pathophysiology and development of GAD. This investigation included 50 GAD patients and 38 age-sex-matched healthy controls (HCs). A psychiatrist diagnosed patients with GAD and assessed symptom severity using the DSM-5 and the GAD-7 scales. The serum concentrations of IL-17A and IL-23A were determined using commercially available ELISA kits. GAD patients exhibited elevated levels of IL-17A (77.14 ± 58.30 pg/ml) and IL-23A (644.90 ± 296.70 pg/ml) compared to HCs (43.50 ± 25.54 pg/ml and 334.40 ± 176.0 pg/ml). We observed a positive correlation between disease severity and cytokine changes (IL-23A: r = 0.359, p = 0.039; IL-17A: r = 0.397, p = 0.032). These findings indicate that IL-17A and IL-23A may be associated with the pathophysiology of GAD. ROC analysis revealed moderately higher AUC values (IL-23A: 0.824 and IL-17A: 0.710), demonstrating their potential to discriminate between patients and HCs. Also, the sensitivity values of both cytokines were relatively higher (IL-23A: 80.49% and IL-17A: 77.27%). According to the present findings, there may be an association between peripheral serum levels of IL-17A and IL-23A and the pathophysiology and development of GAD. These altered serum IL-17A and IL-23A levels may play a role in directing the early risk of developing GAD. We recommend further research to ascertain their exact role in the pathophysiology and their performance as risk assessment markers of GAD.

Exploring the role of interleukin-1ß and interleukin-6 in the pathophysiology of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

BACKGROUND: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a highly prevalent neuropsychiatric disorder. Recently, there has been a growing interest in investigating the association between pro-inflammatory cytokines and the pathogenesis of OCD. However, studies targeting interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in OCD are limited. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore the potential role of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1ß and IL-6 in the pathophysiology and development of OCD. METHODS: This study recruited 58 OCD patients and 30 age-sex-matched healthy controls (HCs). A qualified psychiatrist diagnosed OCD patients and assessed HCs based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Health Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5) criteria. We measured the severity of OCD using the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS). Serum IL-1ß and IL-6 levels were measured using ELISA kits following the appropriate methods. RESULTS: The results showed that serum IL-1ß levels were significantly elevated in OCD patients compared to HCs (23.68±1.65 pg/ml vs. 15.75±1.02 pg/ml; p = 0.002). Similarly, OCD patients exhibited significantly higher serum IL-6 levels than HCs (44.97±0.73 pg/ml vs. 37.04±0.35 pg/ml; p<0.001). We observed both cytokines were positively correlated with the Y-BOCS scores in OCD patients (IL-1ß: r = 0.380, p = 0.015; IL-6: r = 0.324, p = 0.026) which indicates their role in disease pathophysiology. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that serum IL-1ß and IL-6 levels may be associated with the pathophysiology of OCD. Also, these cytokines levels in blood samples can serve as early risk assessment tools for the development of OCD. We recommend further studies in a large and homogeneous population to support these findings.

The current pathogenicity and potential risk evaluation of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus to cause mysterious "Disease X"-An updated literature review.

Background and Aims: Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a severe and potentially lethal illness. Tick bites of the Hyalomma genus are the primary source of transmission of CCHF to humans. The virus responsible for CCHF is the CCHF virus (CCHFV). It is a single-stranded negative sensed RNA virus. The virus belongs to the Orthonairoviridae genus within the Nairoviridae family. It occurs in an extensive geographical area spanning the Middle East, western China, southern Asia, southeastern Europe, and much of Africa. The current study aimed to evaluate the pathogenicity and potential risk of CCHFV to cause a public health emergency of international concern. Methods: We searched updated relevant information from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases using Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, tick-borne virus, and Nairovirus as keywords. Results: The case fatality rate (CFR) varies by region. It can be more than 30% in some cases. Three segments in the genome of CCHFV (L, M, and S) are different in size and function. It is unknown whether the pathogenicity of CCHFV varied based on the genomic diversity. CCHFV can be transmitted through tick bites, handling of infected ticks, contact with infected humans, contaminated body fluids, and so on. A wide range of severity is associated with CCHF, ranging from a moderate fever with no apparent cause to increased vascular permeability, failure of several organs, bleeding, and shock. Hospitals with high-level isolation units should be the first choice for treating CCHF patients. Individual safety equipment is crucial in healthcare to prevent the spread of the virus. In the farm environment, using integrated pest management techniques, minimizing activity in tick-infested regions, and dressing appropriately in long sleeves and pants will help to reduce the risk of CCHFV infection via tick bites. Conclusion: There are no approved vaccinations or therapeutics for CCHF except supportive therapeutic approaches. Therefore, scientists recommend early ribavirin therapy for cases of high-risk exposures.

Association of interleukin-2 and interleukin-10 with the pathophysiology and development of generalized anxiety disorder: a case-control study.

BACKGROUND: Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a devastating mental health condition characterized by constant, uncontrolled worrying. Recent hypotheses indicate that pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines are potential contributors to the pathogenesis of GAD. Here, we aimed to assess the role of interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) in the pathophysiology and development of GAD. METHODS: This study recruited 50 GAD patients diagnosed according to the DSM-5 criteria and 38 age-sex-matched healthy controls (HCs). A qualified psychiatrist evaluated all study subjects. The socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of the study population were determined using pre-structured questionnaires or interviews, and cytokine serum levels were estimated using commercially available ELISA kits. RESULTS: We observed reduced serum IL-10 levels in GAD patients compared to HCs (33.69 ± 1.37 pg/ml vs. 44.12 ± 3.16 pg/ml). Also, we observed a significant negative correlation between altered IL-10 levels and GAD-7 scores (r=-0.315, p = 0.039). Moreover, IL-10 serum measurement exhibited good predictive value in receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis with an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.793 (p < 0.001) with 80.65% sensitivity and 62.79% specificity at a cutoff value of 33.93 pg/ml. Conversely, we noticed elevated serum IL-2 levels in GAD patients than in HCs (14.81 ± 2.88 pg/ml vs. 8.08 ± 1.1 pg/ml); however, it failed to maintain any significant association with GAD-7 scores, implying that IL-2 might not be involved in GAD pathogenesis. The lower AUC value (0.640; p > 0.05) exhibited by IL-2 serum measurement in ROC analysis further supported that IL-2 might not be associated with GAD. CONCLUSION: This study provides new insights into the complex interplay between anti-inflammatory cytokines and GAD pathogenesis. Based on the present findings, we can assume that IL-10 but not IL-2 may be associated with the pathophysiology and development of GAD. However, further research with a larger population size and longitudinal design is required to confirm the potential diagnostic efficacy of IL-10.

Prevalence and barriers to early initiation of breastfeeding among urban poor full-time readymade garments working mothers: a mixed-methods study in Bangladesh.

BACKGROUND: Early initiation of breastfeeding is the initiation of breastfeeding within one hour of birth, which plays a significant role in a born baby's growth and survival, however its prevalence and predictors among urban full-time readymade garments (RMG) working mothers are not investigated. The purpose of this study is to determine the prevalence and factors affecting early initiation of breastfeeding among urban RMG working mothers. METHODS: A sequential explanatory mixed-methods study was conducted between March 2023 and December 2023 in Dhaka, Bangladesh. A total of 452 full-time female RMG workers were included for the quantitative study. Qualitative study was carried out among 30 full-time female RMG workers, four female physicians who were employed in the RMGs, four RMG factory managers, and four local pediatricians. RESULTS: The prevalence of early initiation of breastfeeding was 40% among the women. It was significantly associated with various factors, including socio-cultural barriers, the advanced age of the mother (AOR 3.93, 95%CI 1.18, 13.04), lack of education (AOR 6.86, 95%CI 1.11, 42.49), lack of awareness, and cultural practices such as initiating goat milk and honey instead of breast milk. The absence of colostrum feeding (AOR 8.96, 95%CI 4.30, 18.70) and pre-lacteal feeding (AOR 0.06, 95%CI 0.03, 0.11) were significant baby feeding practice-related barriers to early initiation of breastfeeding. Maternal health factors, notably post-delivery sickness, cesarean delivery, and lack of breastmilk production, were revealed as a significant hindrance to the early initiation of breastfeeding explored from qualitative analysis. In addition, RMG factory-related factors that significantly affect early initiation of breastfeeding include a strong focus on production, a busy schedule, and a lack of initiative regarding the early initiation of breastfeeding. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of early initiation of breastfeeding among RMG working women is poor. This study emphasizes the need for interventions that address specific challenges of early initiation of breastfeeding faced by working mothers in RMG sectors, including improved lactation education, increased awareness to mitigate cultural barriers, RMG factory-based initiatives to empower female workers early initiation of breastfeeding, and preparing early initiation of breastfeeding -friendly post-cesarean unit at the health care facility.

A comprehensive review on phytochemicals in the treatment and prevention of pancreatic cancer: Focusing on their mechanism of action.

Background and Aims: Pancreatic cancer develops in the normal tissues of the pancreas from malignant cells. The chance of recovery is not good, and the chance of survival 5 years following diagnosis is quite low. Pancreatic cancer treatment strategies such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy had relatively low success rates. Therefore, the present study aims to explore new therapies for treating pancreatic cancer. Methods: The present study searched for information about pancreatic cancer pathophysiology, available treatment options; and their comparative benefits and challenges. Aiming to identify potential alternative therapeutics, this comprehensive review analyzed information from renowned databases such as Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Results: In recent years, there has been a rise in interest in the possibility that natural compounds could be used as treatments for cancer. Cannabinoids, curcumin, quercetin, resveratrol, and triptolide are some of the anticancer phytochemicals now used to manage pancreatic cancer. The above compounds are utilized by inhibiting or stimulating biological pathways such as apoptosis, autophagy, cell growth inhibition or reduction, oxidative stress, epithelial-mesenchymal transformation, and increased resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs in the management of pancreatic cancer. Conclusion: Right now, surgery is the only therapeutic option for patients with pancreatic cancer. However, most people who get sick have been diagnosed too late to benefit from potentially effective surgery. Alternative medications, like natural compounds and herbal medicines, are promising complementary therapies for pancreatic cancer. Therefore, we recommend large-scale standardized clinical research for the investigation of natural compounds to ensure their consistency and comparability in pancreatic cancer treatment.

Motor Imagery Classification Using Effective Channel Selection of Multichannel EEG.

Electroencephalography (EEG) is effectively employed to describe cognitive patterns corresponding to different tasks of motor functions for brain-computer interface (BCI) implementation. Explicit information processing is necessary to reduce the computational complexity of practical BCI systems. This paper presents an entropy-based approach to select effective EEG channels for motor imagery (MI) classification in brain-computer interface (BCI) systems. The method identifies channels with higher entropy scores, which is an indication of greater information content. It discards redundant or noisy channels leading to reduced computational complexity and improved classification accuracy. High entropy means a more disordered pattern, whereas low entropy means a less disordered pattern with less information. The entropy of each channel for individual trials is calculated. The weight of each channel is represented by the mean entropy of the channel over all the trials. A set of channels with higher mean entropy are selected as effective channels for MI classification. A limited number of sub-band signals are created by decomposing the selected channels. To extract the spatial features, the common spatial pattern (CSP) is applied to each sub-band space of EEG signals. The CSP-based features are used to classify the right-hand and right-foot MI tasks using a support vector machine (SVM). The effectiveness of the proposed approach is validated using two publicly available EEG datasets, known as BCI competition III-IV(A) and BCI competition IV-I. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed approach surpasses cutting-edge techniques.

A perspective on the worst ever dengue outbreak 2023 in Bangladesh: What makes this old enemy so deadly, and how can we combat it?

Background and Aims: Bangladesh has been going through outbreaks of dengue fever cases every year since 2000. Yet this year's (2023) episode of dengue fever has crossed every line concerning fatality. Symptoms of the fever range from high fever, headaches, and muscle aches to deadly dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). The present review aims to assess the current pathogenicity and associated risk factors of recent dengue outbreaks in Bangladesh. Methods: To perform this review work, we extracted relevant information from published articles available in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. We used dengue virus, dengue fever, and dengue outbreaks as keywords while searching for information. Results: This Aedes mosquito-transmitted viral fever is more common in Bangladesh because of the tropical nature and immense burden of populations, resulting in convenient conditions for the reproduction of the vector. The rapid genetic transformation of this RNA virus and the resistance of its vector against insecticides have intensified the situation. The number of hospitalized patients has increased, and the case fatality rate has risen to 0.47%. Inadequate mosquito control measures, plenty of vector breeding sites, and a lack of public awareness have worsened the situation. Routine spraying of effective insecticides in high-risk zones, regular inspection of potential mosquito breeding sites, and public awareness campaigns are the keys to limiting the spread of this virus. Also, the availability of detection kits, improved hospital settings, and trained health professionals are mandatory to keep disease fatalities under control. Conclusion: Dengue fever is a preventable disease. The successful development of a competent vaccine is now a prime need for preventing any future upsurge of the disease. Also, we recommend public awareness, vector control activities, and global collaboration to prevent spread.

The pathogenicity and potential risk evaluation of Zika virus to cause mysterious "Disease X": A brief report.

Background and Aims: Disease X is included to represent an unknown pathogen that has the potential to spread globally and trigger significant epidemics. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Alliance for Vaccine and Immunization (GAVI) recommend 10 potential disease organisms responsible for disease X. Among them, the Zika virus (ZIKV) is one of the potential organisms. The present work aimed to evaluate the current pathogenicity and potential risk of the ZIKV for public health emergencies. Methods: We performed a brief review of existing literature from available sources using Zika fever, Zika virus, and Flaviviridae as keywords and extracted relevant information for this review. Results: The primary way that the ZIKV transmits to humans is by mosquito bites (Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus). Typically, Aedes mosquitoes bite during the day. As an RNA virus, the ZIKV is well-known for its rapid mutation rate. ZIKV strains or variations can arise due to genomic mutations, and they occur through various processes, including replication errors, recombination, and selection pressure. Nowadays, the ZIKV has also evolved into a global pandemic because the four-amino acid sequence fits the envelope protein's 154 glycosylation motif, which may be involved in virulence. Conclusion: There is no specific medicine or vaccine available for the prevention or treatment of ZIKV infection. Therefore, personal protective measures should be the way to prevent ZIKV disease. Therefore, avoiding exposure is the best way to prevent problems from ZIKV to mosquitoes.

Prediction of potential public health risk of the recent multicountry monkeypox outbreak: An update after the end declaration of global public health emergency.

Background and Aims: A double-stranded DNA virus called monkeypox virus (MPV) belonging to the Poxviridae family and Orthopoxvirus genus causes monkeypox (mpox) infection. This virus used to infect only Central, East, and West Africa. However, it has spread to an extent outside Africa recently. The range of MPV outbreaks was so high that on July 23, 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). About a year later, the WHO notified the end of a global public health emergency for mpox on May 11, 2023. Here, we aimed to assess the current pathogenicity and potential risk of MPV causing public health emergencies. Methods: We searched information from published articles available in PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect. We used monkeypox, mpox, monkeypox outbreak, and monkeypox virus as keywords during the literature search. Results: Many new variants of MPV have emerged throughout the world that created PHEIC for mpox. Considering the low lethality and transmission rate, mpox is no longer a global public health threat. In addition, the availability of therapeutic and preventive measures helped the healthcare authorities fight the mpox infection in an efficient manner. In this review, we have portrayed the history and evolution of mpox from past to present and an idea of its future outcomes. Also, we have discussed the symptoms related to mpox and approved antiviral treatment strategies to fight off the infection in this piece. This review also emphasized the preventive guidelines set by the WHO for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers to control the outbreak of mpox infection. Conclusion: We believe this article would give an idea about the potential public health threats of the recent multi-country monkeypox outbreak to the healthcare authorities for taking measures accordingly.

Beyond polio: Exploring non-polio enteroviruses, global health preparedness, and the "Disease X" paradigm.

Background and Aims: Disease X represents the possibility that an unidentified infection may spread globally and start a pandemic. This study explored various aspects of emerging non-polio enteroviruses (NPEVs) as a possible source of "Disease X," an enigmatic agent declared by the World Health Organization, and discussed the potential impact of NPEVs on global public health. Methods: In this perspective article, we collected information from publicly available sources such as Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus. We used NPEVs, viral diseases, pandemics, and zoonotic diseases as keywords. We extracted information from the most relevant articles. Results: Notable outbreaks caused by NPEVs include enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) and enterovirus A71 (EV-A71), among many others. With a focus on therapeutic and preventative components, alternate modes of therapy, and the development of broad-spectrum antivirals, this analysis looks at the origin, epidemiology, genetic alterations, transmission dynamics, and disease pathophysiology of NPEVs. The information presented in the review indicates the current risk assessment of NPEVs, taking into account the following factors: the need for research and therapeutic interventions, the diversity of clinical manifestations, the impact of genetic variability on virulence, the persistence of emergence despite vaccination efforts, recurrent outbreaks, and the global impact of these viruses. Conclusion: There is a possibility that NPEVs could trigger global pandemics based on their zoonotic origins and urges for complete readiness, continuous research, cooperation, and a comprehensive strategy to combat emerging infectious diseases in a constantly changing global environment. It is peak time to acknowledge how important it is to abide by safety and health laws to prevent these illnesses.

The Impact of Chronic Diseases on Mental Health: An Overview and Recommendations for Care Programs.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The current achievement of medical advancement is noteworthy; however, the occurrence of chronic diseases is increasing day by day, with a significant percentage of affected people are suffering from a mental health crisis. This article aims to present a thorough yet brief review of methods that can be employed to build the emotional wellness of chronic patients. RECENT FINDINGS: The mental health care strategies include resilience-building, coping skills training, professional counseling, and lifestyle adaptations. Additionally, the article highlights the efficacy of several modern interventions, such as mindfulness-based therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization, and recovery from stress therapy. The global burden of chronic illness emphasizes the pressing need to mitigate mental health problems among chronic patients. By providing actionable insights, our study clears the path for targeted interventions and holistic approaches for chronic disease patients. Moreover, the article suggests to policymakers and clinicians the need for collaboration and multifaceted interventions.

Correction: Prevalence and associated risk factors for mental health problems among patients with polycystic ovary syndrome in Bangladesh: A nationwide cross-sectional study.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270102.].

Dietary zinc requirement of juvenile stinging catfish Heteropneustes fossilis based on growth performance, haematology, and tissue mineral composition.

This investigation was done to determine how much zinc (Zn) the stinging catfish, Heteropneustes fossilis, needs in its diet. Five isonitrogenous (34.5% protein) and isolipidic (6.0% lipid) diets were prepared to contain graded levels of Zn (0, 10, 20, 30, and 40 mg kg-1), supplied as zinc sulfate (ZnSO4·7H2O), and referred to as Zn0, Zn10, Zn20, Zn30, and Zn40, respectively. A total of 600 fish (initial body weight: 1.41 ± 0.02 g) were stocked in 15 glass aquaria (40 fish/aquarium), each with 180 L water capacity. For ten weeks, each diet was hand fed to three groups of fish twice daily until they appeared satisfied. The highest weight gain and specific growth rate, and lowest feed conversion ratio were recorded in fish fed with a 30 mg Zn kg-1 diet. Zn contents in bone and muscle linearly increased up to 30 mg kg-1 Zn and then remained stable, while iron (Fe) and copper (Cu) contents in bone and muscle had an inverse pattern with the inclusion level of dietary Zn. Increasing dietary Zn levels up to 30 mg kg-1 was found to improve values of hematological parameters such as red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell (WBC), haemoglobin (Hb), and haematocrit (HCT). These values, however, decreased when the dietary Zn level was further increased. The serum alkaline phosphatase level was the highest in fish fed a diet containing 30 mg kg-1 of Zn. Regression analyses based on weight gain, specific growth rate, and bone and muscle Zn concentrations indicated that the optimum dietary Zn requirement for stinging catfish was in a range of 27.4-36.5 mg kg-1.

Upsurge of dengue outbreaks in several WHO regions: Public awareness, vector control activities, and international collaborations are key to prevent spread.

Background: Dengue, the world's fastest-growing vector-borne disease, has skyrocketed in the 21st century. Dengue has harmed human health since its first known cases among Spanish soldiers in the Philippines to its 21st-century outbreaks in Southeast Asia, the Pacific, and the Americas. In light of the current circumstances, it is imperative to investigate its origin and prevalence, enabling the implementation of effective interventions to curb the upsurge. Methods: Our study examines the history of dengue outbreaks, and evolving impact on public health, aiming to offer valuable insights for a more resilient public health response worldwide. In this comprehensive review, we incorporated data from renowned databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus to provide a thorough analysis of dengue outbreaks. Results: Recent dengue outbreaks are associated with rapid urbanization, international travel, climatic change, and socioeconomic factors. Rapid urbanization and poor urban design and sanitation have created mosquito breeding places for dengue vectors. Also, international travel and trade have spread the pathogen. Climate change in the past two decades has favored mosquito habitats and outbreaks. Socioeconomic differences have also amplified the impact of dengue outbreaks on vulnerable communities. Dengue mitigation requires vector control, community engagement, healthcare strengthening, and international cooperation. Conclusion: Climate change adaptation and urban planning are crucial. Although problems remain, a comprehensive vector control and community involvement plan may reduce dengue epidemics and improve public health in our interconnected world.

Sustained release delivery of favipiravir through statistically optimized, chemically cross-linked, pH-sensitive, swellable hydrogel.

In the current work, favipiravir (an antiviral drug) loaded pH-responsive polymeric hydrogels were developed by the free redical polymerization technique. Box-Behnken design method via Design Expert version 11 was employed to furnish the composition of all hydrogel formulations. Here, polyethylene glycol (PEG) has been utilized as a polymer, acrylic acid (AA) as a monomer, and potassium persulfate (KPS) and methylene-bisacrylamide (MBA) as initiator and cross-linker, respectively. All networks were evaluated for in-vitro drug release (%), sol-gel fraction (%), swelling studies (%), porosity (%), percentage entrapment efficiency, and chemical compatibilities. According to findings, the swelling was pH sensitive and was shown to be greatest at a pH of 6.8 (2500%). The optimum gel fraction offered was 97.8%. A sufficient porosity allows the hydrogel to load a substantial amount of favipiravir despite its hydrophobic behavior. Hydrogels exhibited maximum entrapment efficiency of favipiravir upto 98%. The in-vitro release studies of drug-formulated hydrogel revealed that the drug release from hydrogel was between 85 to 110% within 24 h. Drug-release kinetic results showed that the Korsmeyer Peppas model was followed by most of the developed formulations based on the R2 value. In conclusion, the hydrogel-based technology proved to be an excellent option for creating the sustained-release dosage form of the antiviral drug favipiravir.

Diabetes mellitus, the fastest growing global public health concern: Early detection should be focused.

Background and Aims: Diabetes is recognized as a significant factor in both mortality and morbidity worldwide, affecting various demographics regardless of geographic location, age group, or gender. This correspondence aims to express concern and draw the attention of leaders and policymakers worldwide to this critical public health issue. Methods: A thorough literature search was conducted utilizing various databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) website, to collect the required data. Keywords were strategically applied to enhance search results, with preference given to English-language articles containing pertinent information. Results: According to the 2021 report by the IDF, approximately 537 million individuals globally were affected with diabetes, constituting roughly 10.5% of the world's populace. This condition incurred healthcare expenditures totaling $966 billion. Projections indicate a surge in diabetes cases to 783 million by 2045, with associated healthcare costs estimated to surpass $1054 billion. However, almost half of all people with diabetes are unaware of their medical condition, with the highest prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes Mellitus (DM) found in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) of the regions of Africa, the Western Pacific, and Southeast Asia. Conclusion: Collaborating with the World Health Organization (WHO), LMIC governments should improve healthcare accessibility, including more frequent diabetes screenings for individuals aged ≥ 45 years and younger individuals at elevated risk of having a family history.

The Current Pathogenicity and Potential Risk Evaluation of Marburg Virus to Cause Mysterious "Disease X"-An Update on Recent Evidences.

The World Health Organization (WHO) defined Disease X as an upcoming disease with the potential to cause a pandemic. Pathogen X is responsible for Disease X. Marburg virus disease (MVD) is one of the diseases from the priority disease list published by WHO. Marburg virus is a filamentous, negative-sense RNA virus that belongs to the same filovirus family as the lethal Ebola virus. Since the first discovery of this virus in 1967, 17 outbreaks occurred sporadically till 2023. Rousettus aegyptiacus acts as the natural reservoir of the virus. With an average incubation period of 5 to 10 days, its first target is the mononuclear phagocytic system cells. It is highly contagious and can be easily transmitted from animal to human and human to human via direct contact with blood or body fluid, feces, and semen of the infected host. Although Marburg disease has a high case fatality rate of close to 90%, unfortunately, there is no approved vaccines or treatments are available. The most recent outbreak of Marburg virus in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania in 2023 caused an alert for global health. However, based on the last global pandemic of COVID-19 and the sudden re-emerging of monkeypox around the world, we can assume that the Marburg virus has the potential to cause a global pandemic. Our modern world depends on globalization, which helps the virus transmission among countries. The Marburg virus can easily be transmitted to humans by fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family. This virus causes severe hemorrhagic disease, and there are no specific vaccines and treatments available to combat it. Therefore, community engagement and early supportive care for patients are keys to successfully controlling MVD.