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.

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 association between online gaming addiction and academic performance among the school-going adolescents in Bangladesh: A cross-sectional study.

Background and Aims: The pervasive nature of online gaming, notably accentuated during the COVID-19 pandemic, has spurred concerns regarding gaming addiction among children. This study explores the intricate ramifications of online gaming addiction on the academic performance and social dynamics of children in Bangladesh. Our primary objective is to gauge the extent of online gaming addiction and unravel its profound effects on academic performance. Methods: Conducting a nationwide survey from January 1, 2023, to June 30, 2023, we analyzed 502 responses from participants aged 6-17 years. The survey encompassed sociodemographic details, gaming addiction assessment, and academic performance following a simple random sampling method. We analyzed participant demographics utilizing descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression. Results: Key findings revealed a majority within the 13-17 age bracket (75.50%), predominantly male (58.57%), and enrolled in secondary education (83.27%). A robust inverse relationship showed that nonaddicted students towards online gaming had higher academic performance. Therefore, it is important to implement targeted strategies to address online gaming addiction among Bangladeshi children. Conclusion: Recommending early intervention, academic initiatives, and holistic therapy, we advocate for collaboration among educational institutions, mental health professionals, parents, and policymakers. All of these initiatives are essential to navigate the evolving challenges presented by gaming addiction. Furthermore, our call for ongoing research seeks to deepen our understanding of enduring consequences on academic and social dimensions, fostering a digitally supportive environment conducive to the holistic well-being of children.

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.

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.

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.

Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies for Potential Outbreaks of Adenovirus Infection: Evidence From the Recent Incidences in West Bengal, India.

Recent outbreaks of highly virulent and pathogenic viruses such as COVID-19, monkeypox, and Nipah virus have prompted global concerns. Another threat has emerged in West Bengal, India, in the form of Human Adenovirus (HAdV), particularly affecting children and immunocompromised individuals. The DNA virus HAdV can cause respiratory, liver, renal, and neurological issues. Politically unstable areas with military and medical camps and refugee communities are at risk because they spread in densely populated areas. Due to its rapid mutation and dissemination, the virus represents a global threat. Although scientists have developed vaccines for specific serotypes of HAdV, their primary application is limited to military contexts. Antiviral and immunotherapy research is continuing, but treatment choices are limited. Public awareness programs and hygiene measures are essential to preventing a global pandemic. Governments should invest in healthcare infrastructure and diagnostics, and researchers should focus on developing vaccines and therapies. The West Bengal outbreak is a clear reminder that governments, healthcare professionals, and researchers must work together to control and prevent HAdV. To effectively comprehend and address this rising viral threat, it is imperative to engage in further research and documentation.

The WHO has declared the end of pandemic phase of COVID-19: Way to come back in the normal life.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in significant global mortality and morbidity affecting millions of lives. As healthcare authorities worldwide are still paying substantial attention to COVID-19, other diseases continue to cause more deaths than COVID-19. The decreasing number of COVID-19 cases and deaths indicates that the pandemic is close to the end. For effective pandemic management, healthcare facilities worldwide have established COVID-19 units and testing facilities, instituting infection prevention and control measures, and employing telehealth services. Healthcare professionals have identified some promising treatments for COVID-19; also, mass vaccinations have improved patient outcomes. Instead of COVID-19 as a pandemic, it is time to pay more attention to other diseases to lessen their impact on public health. Therefore, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the end of the pandemic phase of COVID-19 considering the current COVID-19 situation and our preparedness, past pandemic experience, and long pandemic impact on social and economic life on May 5, 2023. In this article, we briefly discussed the present challenges due to COVID-19, necessary precautions, and future directions to return to life as before COVID-19.

COVID-19 vaccination success in Bangladesh: Key strategies were prompt response, early drives for vaccines, and effective awareness campaigns.

Bangladesh is located in Southeast Asia that has a high population density. It is a lower-middle-income country. The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted the nation that slowed its economic growth. It halted major industries, crippling the nation's economy. The students were uncertain after the declaration of school closures. Hospitals could not treat other patients properly due to the vast health burden of COVID-19. Bangladesh put up a solid fight during COVID-19 as a lower-middle-income country. Prompt action, early vaccination drives, effective awareness campaigns, and widespread public involvement have enabled Bangladesh to bring more than 90% of its population into COVID-19 vaccination coverage. It was possible by the effective diplomatic and local health strategy implemented by the Bangladeshi government, the country's extensive prior experience, and its long history of achieving a high success rate in other vaccination campaigns. Bangladesh was able to flatten the curve sooner than other developed countries. Therefore, the cogs of everyday social life and the economy begin to turn once more. The strategy Bangladesh used to combat the COVID-19 pandemic through vaccination and diplomatic policy by calling on its prior experience has the potential to serve as a model for other low- and middle-income countries and an example for developed nations.

Association of granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor and interleukin-17 levels with obsessive-compulsive disorder: a case-control study findings.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental condition that affects many people and is characterized by recurring obsessions and compulsions. It significantly impacts individuals' ability to function ordinarily daily, affecting people of all ages. This study aimed to investigate whether or not the cytokines granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and interleukin-17 (IL-17) are involved in the pathophysiology of OCD. A case-control study with 50 OCD patients and 38 healthy volunteers served as the controls for this investigation. The levels of GM-CSF and IL-17 in the serum of both groups were measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. In addition, the sociodemographic characteristics of the population under study were studied. Based on the findings of this study, OCD patients had significantly elevated levels of IL-17 than the controls, it appears that there may be a function for IL-17 in the pathophysiology of OCD. It was also discovered that the severity of OCD and IL-17 levels had a significant positive correlation. On the other hand, when comparing the levels of GM-CSF, there was no significant difference between the patients and the controls. This study provides evidence supporting the involvement of cytokine IL-17 in the pathophysiology of OCD. This study suggests IL-17 as a diagnostic biomarker for OCD and adds to our knowledge of the function that the immune system plays in this condition.

Altered serum TNF-α and MCP-4 levels are associated with the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder: A case-control study results.

BACKGROUND: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a debilitating mental health condition with complex etiology, and recent research has focused on pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines as potential contributors to its pathogenesis. However, studies investigating the roles of TNF-α and MCP-4 in MDD within the Bangladeshi population are scarce. This study aimed to assess the association between serum TNF-α and MCP-4 levels and the severity of MDD, exploring their potential as risk indicators for MDD development. METHODS: This case-control study enrolled 58 MDD patients from Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh, alongside 30 age, sex, and BMI-matched healthy controls. MDD diagnosis followed DSM-5 criteria and disease severity using the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (Ham-D). We measured serum TNF-α and MCP-4 levels using ELISA assays according to the supplied protocols. RESULTS: The study revealed significantly elevated serum TNF-α levels in MDD patients (47±6.6 pg/ml, mean±SEM) compared to controls (28.06±1.07 pg/ml). These increased TNF-α levels positively correlated with Ham-D scores (Pearson's r = 0.300, p = 0.038), suggesting a potential association between peripheral TNF-α levels and MDD pathology. Additionally, MDD patients exhibited significantly higher serum MCP-4 levels (70.49±6.45 pg/ml) than controls (40.21±4.08 pg/ml). However, serum MCP-4 levels showed a significant negative correlation (r = -0.270, P = 0.048) with Ham-D scores in MDD patients, indicating a more complex role for MCP-4 in MDD pathogenesis. CONCLUSION: This study highlights that Bangladeshi MDD patients exhibit heightened inflammatory and immune responses compared to controls, supporting the cytokine hypothesis in MDD pathogenesis. Serum TNF-α, but not MCP-4, shows promise as a potential biomarker for assessing the risk of MDD development, which could aid in early detection. Future investigations involving larger populations and longitudinal studies are essential to confirm the utility of these cytokines as biomarkers for MDD.

Side Effects Following Administration of the First Dose of Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield Vaccine in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study.

In response to the raging COVID-19 pandemic, Bangladesh started its vaccine administration in early 2021; however, due to the rapid development and launch of the vaccines in the market, many people had concerns regarding the safety of these vaccines. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the side effects that were experienced by the Bangladeshi residents after receiving the first dose of the Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield vaccine (ChAdOx1nCoV-19). The study was conducted using both online and printed questionnaires and the data were analysed using SPSS. The results included the responses of 474 vaccine recipients from March-April 2021. Pain at the site of injection, fever, myalgia, fatigue and headache were the most commonly reported symptoms, and the overall side effects were found to be significantly more prevalent in the younger population (p ≤ 0.05). These findings were consistent with the results indicated by the clinical trial of ChAdOx1nCoV-19. Logistic regression analysis further revealed that compared to people aged 70 years or above, the incidence of reported side effects was significantly higher in people aged 18-30 years (odds ratio (OR) = 8.56), 31-40 years, (OR = 5.05), 41-50 years (OR = 4.08), 51-60 years (OR = 3.77) and 61-70 years (OR = 3.67). In addition, a significantly higher percentage of female participants suffered from post-vaccination side effects compared to males (OR = 1.51). It was concluded that the Covishield vaccine was well-tolerated among people of different age groups. Nevertheless, further long-term follow-up study with a larger sample size is warranted to establish the long-term safety of the COVID-19 vaccine.