Background Radiographic diagnosis of odontogenic cysts and tumors requires proper diagnosis to facilitate successful treatment. Although many types of imaging modalities exist, the relative diagnostic performance of these modalities is not well established. Methods This paper sought to review the literature on the effectiveness of panoramic radiography, CBCT, and CT to detect these jaw lesions. It was a systematic review and meta-analysis according to PRISMA guidelines. After a thorough search in four databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science) that were published between 2015 and 2024, 8 eligible comparative studies were found. The information on diagnostic accuracy and significant imaging findings was retrieved. ROBINS-E was used to assess risk of bias, and meta-analyses (random-effects with subgroup) were conducted. Results It was shown that CBCT has a major advantage over panoramic radiography in terms of diagnosis, and the studies showed a substantial increase in accuracy (e.g., 70.4% to 85.2%). CBCT has always offered better visualization of such critical features as cortical perforation and root resorption. On the contrary, the efficacy of CBCT and MDCT was similar regarding the bony assessment. Subgroup analysis showed that comparison type (CBCT vs. Panoramic vs. CBCT vs. MDCT) explained more than 76% of the heterogeneity of the results observed. Mixed jaw lesions had strong evidence but inconclusive evidence of individual organizations, such as ameloblastoma. Conclusion CBCT is a better choice over panoramic radiography in the diagnosis of odontogenic lesions since it gives a better 3D detail that increases diagnostic accuracy and surgical planning. It is as efficient as MDCT and with a lesser amount of radiation in most of the bony assessments. Its functions of distinguishing between certain forms of lesions need further research. BJMS, Vol. 25 No. 02 April’26 Page: 423-435
Climate change is being recognized as a determinant of human health, yet its impact on oral health is underexplored. This scoping review aims to map the existing literature on the impact of climate change on oral health and dental practice and highlight key knowledge gaps. The literature search was conducted in the PubMed and Dimensions databases and supplemented by manual screening of the references of included studies. In total, 23 articles were included. Most of the articles published after 2019 reflect the field’s emerging nature. The evidence indicates that climate change affects oral health through multiple direct and indirect pathways, including environmental and biological mechanisms. Vulnerable groups- children, older adults, low-income populations, rural communities, and those in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are identified as being at more substantial risk. The findings suggest that the field is in an early conceptual stage, characterized by narrative and opinion-based literature and limited empirical research. The evidence also suggests a bidirectional relationship: while climate change affects oral health and dental services, dental practice itself contributes to environmental burden. Although plausible pathways are well described, causal evidence remains scarce. This review highlights the need for interdisciplinary, empirical research, greater attention to under-studied regions, and integration of oral health into climate adaptation and sustainability policies. BJMS, Vol. 25 No. 02 April’26 Page: 400-412
Background As a consequence of the One-child Policy (1979–2015), China is confronting a rapidly aging population 1. This demographic transition imposes significant pressure on the existing long-term care (LTC) system, which remains inadequate in addressing the escalating demand. Consequently, there is an urgent imperative to develop a more efficient and sustainable LTC model. This literature review examines recent practices and innovative advancements within the LTC system in urban China Design and methods This narrative literature review employed an iterative search approach to identify relevant literature and key subtopics. A total of 257 articles met the inclusion criteria, all of which were reviewed. The findings were analyzed and compared across the selected studies. Results This review analyzed 81 studies, 50 in English and 31 in Chinese. The findings highlight several critical challenges facing China, including demographic aging, shrinking family sizes, a rising elderly dependency ratio, caregiver shortages, and concerns over financial sustainability. Published literature emphases key emerging trends, including the growth of home- and communitybased care (HCBC), healthcare–LTC integration, and innovative models like smart LTC and time banks to alleviate workforce and resource pressures. Conclusions In response to profound demographic shifts, China’s LTC landscape is undergoing a transformation from traditional family-based care to publicly supported long-term care services. This transition has spurred rapid development of HCBC, positioning it as a cornerstone for aging in place model. Moving forward, establishing an LTC model that is both efficient and sustainable will be essential to meeting the diverse and growing needs of China’s aging population. BJMS, Vol. 25 No. 02 April’26 Page: 436-445
Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) affects 10–30% of adults, causing sharp pain from exposed dentin. Despite various treatments, efficacy comparisons remain unclear. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of desensitizing agents for DH. Following PRISMA guidelines, 30 RCTs were analyzed. Databases included PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane. Outcomes were pain reduction (VAS, Schiff scale) and tubule occlusion (SEM). Random-effects models calculated pooled effect sizes. Bioactive materials (e.g., bioactive glass) showed the strongest effects (40–60% pain reduction), followed by arginine (50–70%). Lasers and SDF provided rapid relief but had limitations (cost, side effects). At-home treatments (e.g., stannous fluoride) offered moderate efficacy (30–50%). Heterogeneity was low (I² = 22.43%), and publication bias was minimal. Desensitizing agents are effective for DH, with bioactive materials and combination therapies yielding optimal results. Clinicians should tailor treatments based on patient needs and agent availability. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 25. Supplementary Issue 2026, Page : S63-S77
Bone growth stimulants (BGS) are increasingly used to enhance osseointegration in dental implants, but their efficacy remains debated. This meta-analysis evaluates the impact of BGS on bone regeneration and implant success. Following PRISMA guidelines, 25 studies (2000–2024) were analyzed. Random-effects models pooled effect sizes for outcomes like bone density and implant survival. Subgroup analyses compared graft types (autografts, alloplastics, bio-enhanced grafts). BGS improved osseointegration (pooled ES: 1.22, 95% CI: 0.95– 1.50), with bio-enhanced grafts showing the highest efficacy (ES: 1.43). Bioactive coatings (ES: 1.26) outperformed strontium coatings (ES: 0.94), while bisphosphonates negatively impacted outcomes (ES: -1.96). Heterogeneity was low (I² = 9.08%), but publication bias was detected (Egger’s test: *p* = 0.025). BGS, especially combination grafts, enhance implant stability, though patient-specific factors must guide clinical use. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 25. Supplementary Issue 2026, Page : S36-S49
Background Peri-implantitis is a progressive inflammatory illness that affects implant longevity. Early detection and continuous monitoring are crucial for efficient management. Recent breakthroughs in biosensing, automation, and robotics offer exciting prospects. The purpose of this systematic review is to assess the effectiveness of automation and robotic-assisted biosensing technologies in the early detection and real-time monitoring of peri-implantitis. Methods A complete search of PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, IEEE Xplore, and Web of Science (2013- 2024) was carried out. Studies that used biosensors with automated or robotic systems to diagnose periimplantitis were considered. Methodological quality was evaluated using the PRISMA and ROBIS methods. Results 34 out of 562 articles met the requirements. Biosensing platforms (optical, electrochemical, piezoelectric) with AI integration demonstrated great sensitivity (80-95%) and specificity (85-98%) in detecting early biomarkers such as IL-1β, TNF-α, and MMPs. Robotic systems improved reproducibility and patient comfort. Conclusion While promising, more clinical validation and standardization are required for general implementation. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 25. Supplementary Issue 2026, Page : S18-S25
Introduction of dental practice with the concept of artificial intelligence (AI) is an idea that is a radical change in the conceptualization of oral healthcare delivery and experience. This editorial review discusses the changing paradigm of AI in dentistry, which includes the use of AI in diagnostic imaging interpretation, treatment planning, clinical decision support, and prosthetic design. At the same time, though the AI technologies prove to be incredibly effective in pattern recognition, detecting diseases and performing predictive analytics, their implementation into the clinical process causes significant questions concerning the professional responsibility, educational readiness, ethical implementation, and maintenance of the humanistic principles of patient care. Combination of the old clinical knowledge with clever computing enables unheard of possibilities to improve the quality of diagnosis and treatment. Nevertheless, these benefits can only be actualized with a careful adoption that makes AI an addition and not a substitution of clinical judgment. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 25. Supplementary Issue 2026, Page : S7-S10
Numerous studies conducted over many years have provided us with knowledge on a variety of biomaterials used as dental implants. A biomaterial is a substance that has been created to take on a structure that may be employed, either alone or as a component of a complex system, to regulate interactions with elements of living systems and therefore to control the course of any therapeutic or diagnostic operation. The need for biomaterials that are not only mechanically or chemically appropriate but also biocompatible with the oral environment has been driven by the growing awareness of dental implants as a restoration method for lost teeth. This article provides insight into the many traditional biomaterials, including titanium implants, which have only recently been introduced and are becoming more and more common. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 25. Supplementary Issue 2026, Page : S11-S17
Rhino-cerebral mucormycosis is a rare and rapidly progressing angio-invasive infection affecting immunocompromised individuals, with an extensive surgical resection of the affected bone resulting in a huge defect. Rehabilitation of such surgical defects requires bone augmentation and extended rehabilitation time, with donor site morbidity and inconsistent graft resorption rates. Patient-specific eposteal implants (PSEI) are an alternative approach that can circumvent the shortcomings mentioned above with accuracy and reduced operating time. Quad-zygoma implantssupported prosthesis and removable obturators with cast-partial framework are the other rehabilitation methods in the literature. PSEIs shall be the choice where inadequate zygomatic bone restricts the endosteal zygomatic implant placements. The presented patient suffered from speech disarticulation, dysphagia, food and fluid reflux, and hypernasal twang. The present case report describes the prosthetic rehabilitation of a post-rhino-cerebral mucormycotic surgical defect with a PSEI-supported removable hollow bulb obturator with a 12-month post-prosthetic follow-up. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 25. Supplementary Issue 2026, Page : S184-S187
BACKGROUND Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) has been postulated as a condition of multifactorial aetiology, usually resulting from muscle hyperfunction or parafunction, traumatic sources, hormonal impact, and alterations in the structure of the joint. Treatment modalities for management are numerous and include the invasive and non-invasive modalities. Photo biomodulation therapy is a non-pharmacologic and non-invasive treatment which has been found to have positive impacts in the treatment while intra articular injections with or without arthrocentesis is a minimally invasive procedure but is very potent in alleviating pain and inflammatory signs. METHODS The current review was carried out in the context of PRISMA guidelines. A systematic search in PubMed, Google Scholar, Wiley library, Cochrane library databases, Scopus and grey literature was done for the published studies between 1st January 2003 and 1st October 2023. For randomized controlled trials, quality assessment was done with the help of Cochrane risk of bias tool (ROB-2) using Review Manager 5.4.1 RESULTS Through search strategy 76 articles were yielded. After screening through titles and abstracts, 55 articles were excluded and finally 21 articles were included in this review. CONCLUSION In conclusion Photo biomodulation is found to be effective in reducing pain, mean mouth opening in the treatment of temporomandibular disorder when compared to hyaluronic acid, however this systematic review acts as a scoping review to conduct more comparative studies to obtain an evidence-based analysis. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 25. Supplementary Issue 2026, Page : S26-S35
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) represents a critical public health challenge globally, yet research within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region, particularly Malaysia, remains limited and fragmented. Understanding the current landscape of ASD research from a public health perspective is essential to inform evidence-based policy development and improve service delivery for affected individuals and families. This scoping review aimed to systematically map existing research on autism spectrum disorder in ASEAN countries and Malaysia, examining key domains—epidemiology, screening and diagnosis, intervention approaches, and family experiences—through a public health lens. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, for publications between 2000 and 2024. Studies were included if they addressed ASD from a public health perspective within the ASEAN region. Data extraction captured study characteristics, methodologies, key findings, and public health implications, with thematic synthesis employed to categorize results. This scoping review uncovered several pertinent publications, including a significant portion that specifically addresses Malaysia. Four key research areas were identified: studies on disease prevalence, practices related to screening and diagnosis, various intervention strategies, and the experiences of families. The reported prevalence rates of a particular developmental disorder among children were notably lower than global averages, suggesting considerable underdetection. Delays in obtaining diagnoses ranged widely, exceeding the recommended timeframes. Ongoing challenges included ineffective surveillance systems, insufficient training for healthcare professionals, limited access to proven interventions, cultural stigma, and financial constraints faced by families. Substantial gaps persist in ASD research, policy, and practice within ASEAN and Malaysia. Urgent priorities include establishing robust surveillance systems, implementing universal screening programs, expanding diagnostic and intervention services, developing culturally appropriate support models, and prioritizing autism as a public health imperative requiring comprehensive, coordinated responses across healthcare, education, and social welfare sectors. BJMS, Vol. 25 No. 01 January’26 Page : 28-37
Background Banafshah, a powerful Unani medicine, needs to be standardized in order to maintain and evaluate its quality and safety and achieve the intended therapeutic effect. As a result, the perfect monograph that establishes its authenticity, quality, safety, and reproducibility will be prepared. This study investigates the phytochemical, physicochemical and pharmacognostic characteristics of Banfashah as well as their Total phenolic content. Aim The goal of the project is to compile the perfect Banafshah monograph. Methodology The WHO’s criteria were followed in the physical-chemical and preliminary phytochemical investigations. Result The powdered Banafshah was gritty, Yellowish brown in color, Slightly aromatic, Slightly pungent and bitter, and pleasant. The results showed that the total ash, acid insoluble ash, water soluble ash, weight loss after drying, and pH (1% and 10% solution) were, in order, 11.196±0.113, 3.126±0.017, 2.336±0.121, 12.366± 0.154,7.12±0.062, and6.01±0.060respectively. The hydroalcoholic extract had a lower TPC value of 12.894±0.513, indicating that the aqueous extract contains a higher concentration of phenolic compounds. The total phenolic content of the aqueous extract was found to be 23.063±0.646. The results of the phytochemical screening showed the presence of volatile oil, alkaloids, proteins, carbohydrates, phenols, terpenes, and glycosides, including cardiac glycosides. TLC spots in different solvent systems have been noted in day light and UV light, based on TLC examinations of diverse drug extracts obtained in different solvent systems. Conclusion Pharmacopoeial standards could be established based on the results mentioned above. There are no comparable data sets in this regard, thus our conclusions can be used as standard for upcoming references. BJMS, Vol. 25 No. 01 January’26 Page : 62-67
Background Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a developmental malformation characterized by incomplete diaphragm formation and is associated with significant neonatal morbidity and mortality. Auxiliary imaging modalities, such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging, as well as molecular studies, have improved both treatment and prognosis. However, atypical presentations may delay diagnosis and hinder perinatal care planning. Case Presentation We report the case of a term neonate who was prenatally suspected to have duodenal atresia and presented at birth with severe respiratory distress requiring immediate medical intervention. Initial stabilization included positive pressure ventilation, which led to progressive clinical deterioration. A chest radiograph performed shortly after birth revealed findings consistent with a left-sided Bochdalek hernia. The patient underwent prompt endotracheal intubation and surgical repair in a tertiary care center. Despite the extensive diaphragmatic defect, the clinical course was favorable, and the patient was discharged without complications 24 days later. Discussion: This case highlights the diagnostic challenges in prenatal imaging of CDH, particularly when other gastrointestinal anomalies are suspected. It underscores the importance of maintaining a broad differential diagnosis in cases of prenatal abdominal findings and supports the need for postnatal reevaluation when initial diagnoses are inconclusive. The favorable outcome in this patient was largely attributable to the availability of a multidisciplinary team and timely surgical intervention. Current literature supports that early referral to specialized centers and adherence to standardized ventilatory and surgical protocols are critical for improving survival in CDH. Conclusion This report reinforces the importance of high-resolution prenatal imaging, multidisciplinary perinatal planning, and early postnatal intervention in the management of CDH. Even in the absence of a definitive prenatal diagnosis, coordinated care in a specialized setting can significantly enhance outcomes. The findings contribute to clinical strategies for handling atypical CDH presentations and optimizing neonatal care pathways. BJMS, Vol. 25 No. 01 January’26 Page : 368-374
Psychological stress has been increasingly recognized as an important factor influencing quality of life (QoL), treatment response, and overall outcomes in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC). This bibliometric study provides a comprehensive overview of literature exploring the relationship between psychological stress and HNC from 1987 to 2025. The data were retrieved from the Dimensions database, analyzed using the Biblioshiny application of the R package, and reported according to the GLOBAL guidelines for bibliometric reporting. A total of 206 articles met the inclusion criteria. Results showed a steady increase in publications over time, with an annual growth rate of 7.39% and an average of 23.53 citations per document. The USA led in publication output and citation impact. The most relevant journals were Supportive Care in Cancer and Head & Neck, indicating an integration of psychosocial aspects within oncology research. The thematic analysis based on keywords demonstrates an integration of clinical oncology with psychosocial, suggesting a transition toward holistic, patientcentered cancer care. Highly cited articles were focused on psychological distress, the psychosocial impact of treatment, and the importance of supportive interventions for both patients and caregivers. Although research exploring the link between psychological stress and HNC has been ongoing for many years, the overall volume of published studies remains low. The findings underscore the need for research in low- and middleincome countries and stronger cross-disciplinary partnerships in the psycho-oncology, medical, and psychological domains for the holistic care of cancer patients. This study contributes to the understanding of psychosocial research in HNC patients and offers directions for future efforts to integrate psychological care into comprehensive cancer management. BJMS, Vol. 25 No. 01 January’26 Page : 14-27
Background Individuals with cancer experience substantial distress, including anxiety and depression, due to disease burden and impending death. Aim Psycho-spiritual interventions such as logotherapy could enhance the mental health of these patients. This systematic review and meta-analysis study aimed to investigate the impacts of logotherapy on depression and anxiety in patients with cancer. Materials and methods PubMed, Proquest, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched. Cochrane Collaboration’s tool was utilized for the risk of bias assessment. A random-effect model was applied to estimate the pooled effect sizes. Statistical analyses were performed using STATA software version 17. Results Twenty-five clinical trial studies were included in the systematic review. Twenty-three studies investigated the impact of logotherapy on depression and twenty studies were included to assess the effects of logotherapy on anxiety in cancer patients. The meta-analysis results showed a significant effect of logotherapy compared with routine care for anxiety (SMD: -9.38 [-17.50, -1.26], I2: 99.93%) and depression (SMD: -4.67 [-5.90, -3.44], I2: 96.29%). Other findings revealed no significant differences among the subgroups on group formation, cancer stage, and cancer type. Egger’s and Begg’s test showed potential risk of bias in studies. Conclusion This study demonstrated that logotherapy led to a significant improvement in anxiety and depression of patients with cancer. It seems that finding meaning in life could help cancer patients to deal with cancer adversities. BJMS, Vol. 25 No. 01 January’26 Page : 38-51
Background As dental disease remains a significant concern in many developing countries, the durability and quality of these restorations are of utmost importance. Their longevity and clinical success depend primarily on the properties of dental materials and on the proper selection of these materials for restorations. Although the past few decades have revolutionised restorative dentistry through advanced materials, nanotechnology, and digital techniques, unpredictability between laboratory results and clinical outcomes persists in some cases. This narrative review will synthesize current evidence to demonstrate how the physical, chemical, and biological properties of materials influence their durability and the patient’s comfort. Methods A structured narrative literature review was conducted. Peer-reviewed articles were identified through PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, covering January 2019 to October 2025. Search terms included combinations of “dental restorative materials,” “mechanical properties,” “clinical performance,” “testing,” and “biocompatibility.” Only English-language studies focusing on restorative materials’ properties, testing–performance correlation, and selection criteria were included. Studies unrelated to restorative applications, grey literature, and non-peer-reviewed reports were excluded. Results: ninetynine recent studies met the inclusion criteria. Recent composites, ceramics, and hybrid materials showed significant improvements in flexural strength, wear resistance, and esthetic performance; however, chemical stability and hydrolytic degradation remain limiting factors. Bioactive and “smart” materials with ion release, antibacterial agents, and pH responsiveness demonstrated enhanced remineralization potential but lack standardized long-term validation. Digital workflows (CAD/CAM and 3D printing) increased customisation and precision, but need further optimisation of post-curing and fatigue performance. Overall, differences between in-vitro testing and in-vivo longevity still exist due to variations in test design and oral simulation parameters. Conclusions: Selection of materials in restorative dentistry must be based on a comprehensive understanding of mechanical, chemical, and biological behaviours under oral conditions. Future research should emphasise standardised testing, long-term clinical trials, and the integration of bioactive materials and AI-assisted design approaches to improve material predictability and the longevity of restorations. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 25. Supplementary Issue 2026, Page : S78-S88
Dental caries affects billions globally, with early non-cavitated lesions being reversible through fluoride remineralization. Despite extensive research, optimal fluoride protocols remain debated. This analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of fluoride treatments in remineralizing early caries and compare delivery methods, concentrations, and frequencies. This PRISMAcompliant systematic review included 12 RCTs and controlled trials (n=11,701 observations) from seven databases. Studies were assessed using ROB2/ROBINS-E tools, with metaanalyses conducted via random-effects models. Subgroup analyses explored fluoride types, concentrations, and follow-up durations. Highconcentration fluoride varnishes (≥5,000 ppm) showed the largest effects (ES=1.12, 95%CI: 0.88–1.36), while daily toothpastes (1,000–4,999 ppm) had more modest but consistent results (ES=0.93, 95%CI: 0.72–1.14). Network metaanalysis revealed a non-linear dose-response, with diminishing returns above 10,000 ppm. Professional applications every 3–6 months, combined with daily home care, emerged as the optimal regimen. Heterogeneity was substantial (I²=74.09%) but explained by concentration differences (27.12% variance). Fluoride effectively remineralizes early caries, with highconcentration professional treatments yielding superior outcomes. A combined approach of periodic in-office varnishes and daily toothpaste is recommended for comprehensive caries management. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 25. Supplementary Issue 2026, Page : S50-S62
Introduction After suffering a stroke, patients may experience limb paralysis, leading to a negative impact on their life and requiring longterm care both in the hospital and at home by the family. This integrative review identified scientific literature regarding family knowledge, roles, and support in caring patients with stroke. Methods This study was conducted as an integrative review. Article searches were conducted using ProQuest, Scopus, PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Ebsco, and Garuda for publications from 2015 to 2024, with full text available in English or in Indonesian. This review was referred on the Whittemore and Knafl framework, and for quality control, we utilized the Clinical Appraisal Prospective Study (CAPS) instrument. Results Nine qualitative articles were thoroughly checked and carefully extracted to reach a conclusion regarding family experiences in caring for patients with stroke, emphasizing knowledge, support, and family roles. The need for tailored educational and support programs for families caring for patients with stroke emphasizes the importance of enhancing family knowledge and skills, involving them in care decisions, and providing comprehensive support from healthcare professionals. Conclusions The role of the family is crucial in caring for family members with stroke at home. However, this review high light several limitations and challenges in caring for patients with stroke, including a lack of knowledge, skills, and significant economic psychosocial burden. Therefore, families need different types of information support and interventions from health providers in order to carry out their responsibilities optimally. BJMS, Vol. 25 No. 01 January’26 Page : 52-61
