Background and Aims Respiratory diseases contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality rates in Bangladesh, especially in urban areas. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and identify the key risk factors associated with respiratory problems among adults in a community in Kaliakair, Gazipur, Bangladesh. Methods This cross‐sectional study was conducted from January 10, 2019, to December 9, 2019, in Kaliakair, Gazipur, Bangladesh. A convenient sampling technique was employed to select the households. From each selected household, one adult meeting the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria was selected using a lottery method. Data on demographic variables (age, sex, marital status, and educational status), environmental factors (indoor tobacco smoke exposure), smoking status, and the presence of respiratory symptoms were collected via face‐to‐face interviews using a structured questionnaire. Statistical associations between respiratory symptoms and studied variables were analyzed using the chi‐square test and independent t ‐tests. Results The overall prevalence of respiratory symptoms among the study population was 22.4%. Symptomatic adults were significantly older than asymptomatic individuals (48.67 ± 15.47 vs. 39.66 ± 15.86 years; p < 0.001). The prevalence of respiratory symptoms was significantly higher in males than in females (67.9% vs. 32.1%; p < 0.001). Smoking was strongly associated with respiratory symptoms, with 37.9% of symptomatic participants identifying as current smokers ( p < 0.001). Regarding domestic exposures, 87.5% of symptomatic individuals did not utilize modern cooking methods. Wood and rice bran constituted the primary fuel types used by the symptomatic individuals (67.0%), followed by dung (13.4%). The most predominant respiratory symptoms reported were dry cough (74.1%), cold and dust allergies (61.2%), and productive cough (54.0%). Conclusions The study underscores a substantial prevalence of respiratory symptoms among adults in Kaliakair, Bangladesh. Advanced age, active cigarette smoking, and the use of traditional polluting cooking methods were identified as significant risk factors exacerbating respiratory morbidity. Given these findings, targeted public health interventions are urgently required. Implementing robust smoking cessation programs and facilitating a transition toward cleaner, modern cooking technologies are critical steps to mitigate the regional burden of respiratory diseases and improve overall population health.

Abstract Background Bronchiectasis in adults often goes undiagnosed following the routine assessment. Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is usually diagnosed during childhood, but some cases are identified in adulthood when disease is mild. High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of chest may offer structural information that can indicate CF as an underlying etiology. Objective To compare the HRCT features of adult patients with CF and non-CF bronchiectasis and to determine the radiologic features that may be suggestive of CF. Methods This retrospective, analytical, cross-sectional study was carried out in Bangladesh Medical University after IRB clearance. Total 130 adults (12 with CF and 118 with non-CF bronchiectasis) of both sexes, whose bronchiectasis was confirmed by chest HRCT were included. Imaging findings were assessed based on Reid morphological classification, anatomical distribution and extent of spread within the lungs, and their association was tested using chi-square test with statistical significance of p<0.05. Results Cystic bronchiectasis was more common in CF than non-CF patients (83.3% vs 29.7; p<0.001). Mixed central-peripheral extension had been found a considerable associated with CF (66.7% vs. 42.4; p=0.034). There was no statistically significant difference in right lung lobar distribution (p=0.540) but combined upper and lower lobe involvement on the left side was more common in CF patients (54.5%) than non-CF patients (21.3) (p=0.054). Conclusion Adult CF had unique chest HRCT imaging characteristics when compared to non-CF bronchiectasis, especially cystic morphology and mixed extension. Identification of such features could help physician in the early diagnosis and selection of treatment strategy.

Introduction: This study assesses groundwater suitability for drinking and irrigation in central-west Bangladesh’s granary region. Using the entropy water quality index (EWQI) and conventional irrigation indices, it evaluates water quality essential for public health and sustainable agriculture. Materials and methods: Groundwater samples from multiple sites were analyzed for major physicochemical parameters. Drinking suitability was assessed using EWQI, while irrigation suitability was evaluated through USSL, Wilcox, and Doneen indices. Hydrochemical facies and geochemical processes were interpreted using Piper, Gibbs, and bivariate analyses. Results and discussion: Groundwater in the study area is neutral to alkaline in nature and is dominated by calcium (Ca2+) and bicarbonate (HCO3-), characterizing a Ca-Mg-HCO3 water type. This composition reflects calcite dissolution and ion-exchange processes. Gibbs plots and bivariate relationships indicate that rock weathering, particularly of calcite, dolomite, and silicate minerals, largely governs the groundwater chemistry. The EWQI and WQI results reveal that 96.67 % of the samples are unsuitable for drinking, with 76.67 % classified as poor quality. PCA results indicate that the dissolved constituents are primarily of geogenic origin, with minor anthropogenic influence. For irrigation purposes, the USSL diagram suggests low to medium alkali hazards, Wilcox ratings range from permissible to excellent, and Doneen’s classification places the samples in Class I, indicating high permeability. Conclusion: Groundwater is generally unsuitable for drinking but remains acceptable for irrigation. Regular monitoring and effective management are essential to prevent further degradation and ensure long-term water sustainability.

Background: While rheumatoid arthritis is the most commonly seen form of inflammatory arthritis world-wide, it is accompanied by chronic inflammation of the synovium, resulting in structural damage and disability. Methotrexate remains the primary first-line conventional synthetic csDMARD used for rheumatoid arthritis, also being advocated as a first-line treatment option for treat-to-target approaches owing to its established efficacy, especially in controlling the disease activity and halting structural development. Nonetheless, the achievement of remission or sustained LDA as a solo therapy, especially using methotrexate, is possible only for a limited proportion of patients, as evidenced by real-world data, where a wide variability is seen, especially according to baseline disease activity. Objectives: The aims of the present study were to find the rate of remission or LDA state after methotrexate monotherapy and to find the predictive factors of this rate in patients suffering from RA. Methodology: This uncontrolled open-labeled clinical trial was carried out in the Department of Rheumatology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh, from January to December 2019. The patients satisfying the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria of RA published in 2010, who were unexposed to MTX, were started on subcutaneous injections of MTX, with a fixed weekly dose of up to 25 mg. Of a total of 105 patients, 91 patients completed the follow-up period of 6 months. The principal outcome measure was achievement of LDA or remission, based on Disease Activity Score-28 with C-reactive protein (DAS28-CRP). Secondary outcomes were Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) response rates and achievement based on American College of Rheumatology 50% improvement criteria (ACR50). Results: 20.9% of patients met LDA and 18.7% met remission at 6 months of MTX monotherapy based on DAS28-CRP. In total, around 40% of patients met treat-to-target criteria for LDA or remission. Baseline activity level was significantly associated with achieving DAS28-CRP response (OR 0.09; 95% CI 0.02–0.46). There was also an association between HLA-DR4 SNP rs6457617 and CDAI response (p = 0.05). Conclusions: In this patient population, 40% of the patients attained LDA/remission state on methotrexate monotherapy. Baseline disease activity emerged as an important predictor of response, while genetic predictors such as HLA-DR4 SNPs could also affect response trajectory.

Introduction: COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has affected millions worldwide, leading to significant acute and long-term health challenges. Post-COVID syndrome often includes persistent respiratory symptoms and reduced lung function, with limited data from Bangladesh on these sequelae. Aim: This study aimed to assess socio-demographic, clinical, vaccination status, and lung function parameters in patients following COVID-19 infection and assess the effects of these parameters on post-COVID symptoms. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2022 to July 2023 on 1,000 RT-PCR-confirmed COVID-19 recovered patients aged e”18 years in Gazipur, Bangladesh. Data on demographics, comorbidities, vaccination status, and clinical symptoms were collected through structured interviews. Lung function was assessed using spirometry (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC), and the six-minute walk test (6MWD). Data analysis was performed using SPSS with descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The cohort was predominantly male (56.1%) and married (77.1%), with most patients aged >50 years. Underweight prevalence was high (38.1%), and 30.6% were current smokers. Hypertension (17.7%) and diabetes (10.2%) were the most common comorbidities. Common symptoms included fever (92.7%), cough (88.3%), breathlessness (53.6%), and fatigue (49.7%). Only 22.9% were fully vaccinated. Spirometry showed reduced lung volumes (mean FEV1: 1.78 L, FVC: 2.49 L) with a mean FEV1/FVC ratio of 77.26%. The 6MWD averaged 325.46 m, indicating impaired exercise capacity. Conclusion: Fever, cough, breathlessness, and fatigue were the most common symptoms of COVID-19 infection. Mean spirometric parameters and six-minute walk distance were reduced in patients with COVID-19 infection even 4 weeks after recovery. The majority of respondents (72.8%) had received at least one dose of vaccination against COVID-19. Chest Heart J. 2024; 48(2) : 83-89

ABSTRACT Background and Aims The world has been devastated by the pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) from 2019 to 2023 which necessitated stratifying patients into mild, moderate, severe, and critical categories based on clinical presentation, oxygen saturation, radiological findings, and systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). This study aimed to quantify lung involvement using high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and correlate it with clinical severity and laboratory parameters. Methods This observational cross‐sectional study was conducted at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh, from July to September 2020. A total of 90 RT‐PCR‐confirmed COVID‐19 patients were enrolled from outpatient and inpatient departments on the basis of clinical and laboratory parameters in accordance with Interim Guidance, 27th May, 2020 on the Management of COVID‐19 from WHO. The major CT findings and CT severity score were described by using internationally standard nomenclature defined by the Fleischner Society glossary and peer‐reviewed literature on viral pneumonia. CT severity scores were calculated and statistically correlated with clinical severity and laboratory markers including SpO2, neutrophil and lymphocyte percentages, CRP, and D‐dimer. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to determine a cutoff CT severity score for identifying severe cases. Results The mean CT severity score was 11.66, with severe cases showing significantly higher scores than non‐severe cases (13 vs. 8.87). HRCT scores had a moderate negative correlation with SpO2 and lymphocyte percentage, and a moderate positive correlation with neutrophil percentage, CRP, and D‐dimer. A CT severity score ≥ 8.5 was identified as the threshold for severe disease on ROC analysis. Conclusion Age, sex, smoking status, and comorbidities had no relation with the severity of COVID‐19. HRCT severity score had moderate negative correlation with disease severity of COVID‐19. HRCT severity score is also found to have moderate positive correlation with total neutrophil percentage, CRP, and D‐dimer; and moderate negative correlation with total lymphocyte percentage. No correlation was also found between increasing CT severity score with the presence of comorbidities. HRCT severity scoring showed a moderate correlation with clinical severity and laboratory markers in COVID‐19, supporting its utility in triage and prognostication. Integrating HRCT scoring into clinical evaluations may enhance decision‐making and patient management strategies.

Introduction Anaemia during pregnancy is a significant public health problem, disproportionately affecting women in low-and middle-income countries. In Bangladesh, anaemia affects 38.6% of pregnant women. Although much is known about the prevention of anaemia in pregnancy, it is unknown how women are tested and treated. This study therefore aimed to describe how pregnant women in Bangladesh are tested for anaemia, including variations by social and equity dimensions. We also aimed to explore how women are treated for anaemia and use of intravenous iron in pregnancy.Methods An interviewer-administered cross-sectional survey was conducted in Narayanganj district, Bangladesh, with analysis limited to women who had previously been pregnant (n=1000). Outcomes of interest were anaemia testing, anaemia treatment, and intravenous iron use. We undertook descriptive analyses and derived estimates and 95% confidence intervals of the percentage of pregnant women tested for anaemia stratified by education, wealth, and person making decisions around women's healthcare.Results Approximately half of women were tested for anaemia in their previous pregnancy (505/963, 52.4%), with lower testing in women with no education (15.8%, 95% CI: 6.0 to 31.3), whose husband had no education (25.6%, 95% CI: 18.2 to 34.2), or in the poorest wealth quintile (34.0%, 95% CI: 27.4 to 41.2). Pregnant women were most commonly tested for anaemia at a private health facility (393/505, 77.8%), by a medical technologist (350/505, 69.3%), using venous full blood count (484/505, 95.8%). Most women diagnosed with anaemia in their previous pregnancy received treatment (135/142, 95.1%). In any prior pregnancies, a small number of women received intravenous iron (33/985, 3.4%).Conclusion Our study reveals the need for substantial investments to ensure all women in Bangladesh are tested for anaemia in pregnancy. This could be achieved through increasing point-of-care testing in antenatal care. However, health facilities and health workers may need to be prepared for an increase in women diagnosed with anaemia.

Background: COVID-19 has led to lasting health impacts, including post-COVID syndrome, persistent symptoms beyond three months. SARS-CoV-2 affects various metabolic pathways, contributing to chronic sequelae.This study examines metabolic parameters among post-COVID patients in Bangladesh, focusing on clinical and laboratory findings. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 236 patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome was conducted at the Respiratory Medicine Department of Bangladesh Medical University, from August 2021 to July 2022. Clinical symptoms and physical measurements (height, weight, BMI) were recorded. Parameters assessed included WBC count, platelet count, serum ferritin, blood glucose, HbA1c, serum creatinine, serum electrolytes, and fasting serum lipid profile. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26 version, with t-tests, Chi-square, and Fisher’s exact tests. Results: The study revealed significant alterations in metabolic parameters post-COVID. Mean WBC count was 9,000 cells/mm (SD=2,500), while mean platelet count was 200,000 (SD=30,000). Mean serum ferritin levels were elevated to 550 ng/mL (SD=200). A significant increase in blood glucose was noted, with a mean of 140 mg/dL (p<0.05), while HbA1c reached 6.8% (p=0.03). Serum creatinine levels increased by 15% (p<0.01), indicating renal stress.A higher prevalence of dyslipidemia was observed, with 55% of patients showing elevated fasting serum LDL levels. Conclusion: The study identified significant metabolic abnormalities in post-COVID patients, including elevated blood glucose, HbA1c, serum ferritin, serum creatinine, and fasting serum LDL levels. These findings suggest increased risks of diabetes, systemic inflammation, renal dysfunction, and dyslipidemia. Routine metabolic screening and long-term follow-up are recommended to detect and manage post- COVID complications effectively. J MEDICINE 2025; 26(2): 124-130

Areas like Bangladesh's Lakshmipur District, which have limited surface water resources, rely heavily on groundwater to meet household, industrial, and agricultural needs. To determine their physical and chemical properties, forty groundwater samples from five distinct upazilas were examined, revealing that the water quality of the area is not suitable for either drinking or agricultural purposes. Statistical methods and laboratory tests were used to interpret the seasonal and regional variations in water quality. The analysis revealed that arsenic, iron, potassium, turbidity, and TDS exceeded the permissible limits of both WHO and DoE standards in the entire samples. The biggest risks to agriculture and human health were presented by the pH, EC, and salinity problems found in 60% of the samples. In the region, groundwater often contains somewhat too much arsenic (As >0.05 mg/L); in some locations, there was excessive salinity (up to 1 ppt), turbidity (up to 271 NTU), and total dissolved solids (TDS >1000 mg/L), considering it unsuitable to drink untreated. Many samples, according to hydrogeochemical facies analysis, fall into the Na⁺-K⁺-Cl⁻-SO₄²⁻ zone (Piper), the Na⁺-K⁺ and Cl⁻ zones (Durov), and the "Rock Dominance" field (Gibbs), which indicates saline impact and rock-water interaction typical of coastal aquifers. Only a small number of sites with high water quality were shown on the WQI map created using GIS-based FO analysis; the majority were poor to inappropriate. Risks to crops and soil were highlighted by irrigation indices (SAR, RSC, MH, and Kelly's Ratio), underscoring the necessity of sustainable groundwater management.

This study investigates groundwater level fluctuations and their industrial implications in Shahzadpur Upazila, Sirajganj, over a ten-year period (2015–2024). Secondary data were obtained from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) and Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) and analyzed using standard hydrogeological methods. The study area lies within the Jamuna–Karatoya floodplain, under a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon seasons. The average annual rainfall is approximately 1610 mm, while the population of Shahzadpur stands at 601,633 (BBS). Climatic analysis shows average maximum and minimum temperatures of 30.1°C and 19.5°C, respectively. Relative humidity peaks during July–August and reaches its minimum from November to February. Groundwater depth varies seasonally, ranging from 5.90 m in the pre-monsoon to 2.40 m in the post-monsoon period. These fluctuations are driven primarily by recharge–discharge processes, with high evaporation intensifying water table decline during March–April. Despite seasonal variability, the groundwater system generally maintains a state of dynamic equilibrium. Integration of well data, hydrographs, and climatic variables reveals distinct patterns of groundwater fluctuation. These patterns are closely associated with industrial water abstraction, irrigation demand, seasonal rainfall distribution, and urban expansion. Findings indicate an increasing strain on groundwater resources, driven by industrial intensification and compounded by climate variability and urban growth. Such pressures present risks to the long-term sustainability of groundwater reserves. The results underscore the vulnerability of industrial operations to groundwater depletion and variability. Disruptions in supply may lead to operational inefficiencies, economic losses, and environmental degradation. The study highlights the urgent need for sustainable groundwater management strategies to balance industrial development with environmental resilience in the Shahzadpur region.

The present research aimed to assess the livelihood status of native chicken farmers in Bangladesh, their rate of profitability, constraints, and their suggestions for addressing these issues. Primary data were collected from a random sample of 260 native chicken-rearing farmers across six divisions in Bangladesh. The majority of farms (36.9%) fell into the small category (1–10 chickens), followed by medium (11–15 chickens) and large (>15 chickens) farms (31.9%). Common deshi hens were present in nearly 95% of the farms. In 2023, the market prices for different categories of chicken were as follows: roasters at 329.68 ± 7.20 BDT, hens at 302.22 ± 2.66 BDT, and chicks at 68.23 ± 2.28 BDT. The market prices for duck eggs, native chicken eggs, brown-shelled eggs, and white-shelled eggs ranged from 63.91 ± 0.52 to 61.07 ± 0.58 BDT per hali. The Patuakhali district had the highest benefit-cost ratio of 2.61, while Rangpur had the lowest at 1.57. Native chicken farming contributed 7.79% to household income. A multiple regression analysis revealed that almost all variables were influenced by income from native chicken farming, except for rearing costs. The major constraints reported were disease outbreaks and predatory animal attacks, mentioned by 80.4% of the farmers. In conclusion, native chicken farming in Bangladesh is profitable despite some challenges that need to be addressed.

Poverty continues to be a barrier to progress in Bangladesh as 20.5 % of the population still resides below the poverty line. While there have been advancements in many development spheres over the last decade, regional gaps, socioeconomic disparities, and structural hurdles remain prevalent. This study utilizes institutional theory to investigate the influence of factors, governance frameworks, and specific interventions on poverty levels in the country. The study reveals poverty alleviation programs, like poverty reduction initiatives, microfinance projects, and cash transfer schemes by analysing information, from government reports and academic sources as well as survey data sources. From 2010 to 2019 in Bangladesh, there was a decline in poverty rates from 31.5% to 20.5%. This improvement is credited to growth and effective government projects such as the Vulnerable Group Development (VGD) program, investments in rural infrastructure, and other initiatives. However, challenges remain in addressing the demands of marginalized communities especially, in rural regions. Effects of climate change, lack of healthcare access, and educational inequalities still impede advancements. This study highlights the significance of institutional inclusivity, participatory governance, and equitable resource distribution in achieving sustainable poverty reduction. It suggests that poverty is a problem that needs changes in systems, strong social safety net policies, and community-led initiatives. By connecting theories with real-world experiences this study aims to contribute to the global conversation on reducing poverty. In addition, this study provides pivotal recommendations for policymakers to establish structures that tackle underlying disparities and empower communities, with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Bangladesh.

ObjectivesCoronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) has spread throughout the world and the current COVID-19 vaccines have shown to be the most effective means of combating the COVID-19. This study focused to examine the status of serum biomarkers in individuals infected and non-infected with SARS-CoV-2, both before and after COVID-19 pandemic and vaccination.MethodsThis study comprised 133 adults aged 35 and older including both academic and non-academic personnel associated with Shahjalal University of Science and Technology in Sylhet, Bangladesh. Participants were evaluated before and after COVID-19 pandemic, as well as following two doses of vaccination. Blood samples were collected to measure different serum biomarkers, including fasting blood sugar (FBS), serum creatinine, serum alanine transaminase (ALT), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), Low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), and High density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software.ResultIn all participants, serum creatinine, FBS and TC levels significantly increased after two doses of vaccination (p = 0.022, 0.006, 0.05) compared to pre-vaccination levels. Notably, all serum biomarkers showed a significant elevation (p ≤ 0.05) in the self-reported SARS-CoV-2 infected group (n = 44). Additionally, 31% of participants were newly diagnosed with hyperglycemia after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.ConclusionThe findings indicate that both self-reported SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination could influence different serum biomarker levels. However, further comprehensive research is necessary to discern the precise factors contributing to the alterations observed in the serum biomarker levels for future health management strategy.

HIV-1 envelope glycoproteins (Envs) mediate viral entry and are sole target of neutralizing antibodies. Thus, HIV-1 Envs must maintain a delicate balance between evading neutralizing antibodies while still preserving viral compatibility to mediate entry into target cells. Here, we studied the viral entry effeciency, fitness, and replication of an incompletely closed, transmitted/founder HIV-1 Envs (CH040), which are highly resistant to most bnAbs. CH040 Envs mediated HIV-1 entry to target cells as efficient as other primary Envs, suggesting that antibody resistance and efficient viral entry can develop independently. Expression of CH040 Envs was comparable to other Envs and most CH040 variants that were rationally engineered to increase bnAb resistance showed no significant decrease in their ability to mediate HIV-1 entry. We detected robust in vitro spread of SHIV CH040 in pig-tailed macaque lymphocytes that was comparable to efficient spread of other SHIVs. Our study provides insights into the relationship between bnAb resistance and efficient HIV-1 entry.

Background: The frequency of HLA-B and HLA-C alleles differs among psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and undifferentiated spondyloarthritis, showing unique genetic risks. These genetic links demonstrate how MHC class I alleles affect immune issues, influencing clinical classification and research for specific treatments. Objective: To determine the frequency of HLA-B and HLA-C alleles in patients with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and psoriatic phenotype of undifferentiated spondyloarthritis (uSpA), with clinical features suggestive of psoriatic arthritis but do not fulfill the CASPAR criteria. Methods: The cross-sectional study involved 29 patients with PsA, 23 with uSpA, 33 with psoriasis, and 30 healthy controls. Symptoms in uSpA patients suggest PsA, including dactylitis, enthesitis, back pain, DIP involvement, and FADES-like skin changes. HLA-B and HLA-C alleles were detected. Results: In PsA patients HLA-B*27 allele was detected in 9 (31.03%, p=0.67); HLA-B*15 in 9 (31.03%, p=0.49), HLA-B*38 in 2 (4.5%, p=0.20) and HLA-C*8 in 10 (34.5%, p=0.02). In uSpAfrequency of HLA-B*38 (N=15, 65.21%, p=0.07) and HLA-C*4 alleles (N=8, 34.8%, p=0.20) were more frequent than the healthy controls. Among uSpA patients with DIP involvement, the frequency of HLA-B*38 (N=7, 43.8%, p=0.01) was increased and those who had FADES like skin lesions, HLA-B*38 (N=5, 45.5%, p=0.999) was also increased. Increased frequency of HLA-B*57 was found in psoriatic patients (N=13, 39.4%, p=0.52). Conclusion: The prevalence of HLA-B*27 and HLA-C*8 is notably elevated in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA), whereas HLA-B*38 is found at a lower frequency. In the case of undifferentiated spondyloarthritis (uSpA), individuals exhibiting distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint involvement and presenting with FADES-like skin lesions may show a higher occurrence of HLA-B*38. This observation implies that some patients currently classified as uSpA according to existing criteria might have psoriatic arthritis. J Rang Med Col. March 2025; Vol.10, No.1: 3-9

ABSTRACT Objectives While some reports exist on the relationship between serum uric acid (SUA) and dyslipidemia in adults, there is limited information available regarding young adults. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between SUA and dyslipidemia, as well as its components, among young adults in Bangladesh. Methods This study consisted of 458 participants (281 male and 177 female) aged between 18 and 30 years. The levels of SUA, fasting blood glucose and lipid profile (TG, TC, HDL‐C and LDL‐C) were measured using standard colorimetric methods. Bivariate logistic regression modelling was used to examine the relationship between SUA and dyslipidemia and its components. Results The overall prevalence of hyperuricemia was 24% with 27.6% in males and 18.6% in females. Males had a higher mean SUA level (6.6 ± 1.5 mg/dL) than females (5.3 ± 1.2 mg/dL) (p < 0.001). The prevalence of dyslipidemia was 74.2% with 83.2% in male and 59.8% in female subjects. The prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, high LDL‐C and low HDL‐C was 30.1%, 26.2%, 28.8% and 64.8%, respectively. There was an increasing trend in the level and prevalence of elevated lipid profile markers across the SUA quartiles (p < 0.001). SUA level showed a positive correlation with TG, TC and LDL‐C and a negative correlation with HDL (p < 0.001). In regression analysis, a significant association was found between SUA and dyslipidemia in all participants as well as in the male–female groups separately (at least p < 0.05). Furthermore, a significant association (p < 0.001) was found between SUA and individual lipid components in the regression models. Conclusion Dyslipidemia and its components were more prevalent in individuals with hyperuricemia than in those without. This study identified a significant association between SUA and dyslipidemia in young adults in Bangladesh. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms behind this association.

Background: The development of an effective HIV-1 vaccine remains a major challenge due to HIV-1’s extraordinary diversity, high mutation rate, and the rarity of broadly neutralizing antibody (bnAb) precursors. To address these challenges, we have previously immunized rabbits with mRNA-LNPs encoding for HIV-1 envelope glycoproteins (Envs), together with mRNA-LNPs encoding for HIV-1 Gag, which likely mediated the generation of virus-like particles presenting HIV-1 Envs to the immune system in vivo. Methods: Here, we investigated whether an escalating dose (ED) immunization using mRNA-LNP priming, followed by boosts with synthetic, protein-based, virus-like particles (synVLPs) displaying HIV-1 SOSIP trimers via SpyTag/SpyCatcher conjugation (group 1), could improve the quality and durability of the antibody responses compared to conventional bolus immunization (group 2). Previous studies have shown that, in contrast to single bolus immunization, the ED priming strategy could enhance B cell activation and prolong affinity maturation, resulting in higher-quality antibody responses. Results: Upon vaccination, rabbits from both groups developed strong homologous anti-Env antibody responses, with an increasing ability of sera from immunized rabbits to bind Envs following subsequent boosts. Antibodies in rabbit sera bound heterologous Envs, but there was no statistically significant difference in binding between the two groups. Overall, antibody responses were comparable across all animals and declined similarly over time in both groups, indicating that neither the adjuvants nor the ED priming led to any marked differences within this small sample size. Neutralization activity against homologous tier-2 HIV-1AD8 (mRNA prime) and tier-2 HIV-11059 (protein boost) was generally low across both groups; however, a higher neutralization titer was observed for the ED group against HIV-1AD8 following the final boost. One of the rabbits from the bolus group exhibited exceptionally high neutralization titers that correlated with elevated Env-specific binding against HIV-11059. Conclusions: These results highlight the challenges in eliciting broad and potent neutralizing antibody (nAb) responses. Our findings underscore the need for the continued development and refinement of immunogen design and delivery strategies to guide the elicitation of nAb.