Abstract Since the COVID-19 outbreak started in 2019 in China, several types of research have been done on this disease But the outcome was not always satisfactory. As frequent changes occur in one’s genome, signs and symptoms of this disease vary in different variants. Many investigations have been employed for the detection of COVID-19 infection. Of these, D-dimer and CRP are used to evaluate the presence of systemic response against coronavirus insult. To evaluate whether CRP and D-d-imer levels are significantly higher in COVID-19 patients with respiratory manifestations compared to those with non-respiratory symptoms. 80 male patients were selected randomly, and divided into 2 groups; 40 patients presented with severe respiratory distress symptoms, and 40 presented with symptoms other than respiratory features (mostly gastric symptoms with high fever). CRP and D-dimer tests were done and data were used for subsequent statistical analysis. There was a significant difference in the level of both CRP and D-dimer between patients with dyspnea and those with no respiratory manifestation of COVID-19. In conclusion, a high level of both CRP and D-dimer is a highly suggestive respiratory insult and future complication of COVID-19.

Abstract Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia and insulin resistance, leading to long-term complications. Alterations in iron metabolism, electrolyte balance, and lipid profile may contribute to metabolic dysregulation and cardiovascular risk; however, integrated evaluation of these parameters remains limited in South Asian populations. Objective: To evaluate serum ferritin, iron status, electrolyte balance, and lipid profile among patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and to assess their association with glycemic control and related metabolic parameters. Methods: This study included 220 adult patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Data were collected from hospital laboratory and medical record databases. Glycemic parameters (fasting blood glucose and HbA1c), iron status indices (serum ferritin, serum iron, total iron-binding capacity, and transferrin saturation), electrolyte levels (sodium, potassium, and chloride), and lipid profile parameters were analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, and associations were assessed using correlation and regression analyses. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.       Results: Most participants were middle-aged adults, with 58.2% belonging to the 40–59-year age group. Glycemic control was comparable between males and females, with mean HbA1c levels of 8.5 ± 1.8% and 8.2 ± 1.6%, respectively. Serum ferritin levels were significantly higher among male patients compared to females (318.6 ± 138.2 ng/mL vs. 246.4 ± 112.7 ng/mL, p < 0.001). Patients with poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥ 7%) exhibited markedly elevated serum ferritin levels compared to those with better glycemic control in both males (352.6 ± 142.8 ng/mL vs. 238.2 ± 106.5 ng/mL, p = 0.002) and females (284.3 ± 128.6 ng/mL vs. 196.4 ± 92.1 ng/mL, p = 0.031). Serum ferritin showed significant positive correlations with HbA1c (r = 0.44, p < 0.001), triglycerides (r = 0.38, p < 0.001), and LDL-cholesterol (r = 0.31, p = 0.001), while a weak but significant negative correlation was observed with serum sodium levels (r = −0.21, p = 0.009). In multivariable regression analysis, HbA1c (β = 0.35, p < 0.001), triglycerides (β = 0.27, p = 0.001), LDL-cholesterol (β = 0.21, p = 0.007), male gender (β = 0.18, p = 0.015), and age (β = 0.13, p = 0.038) emerged as independent predictors of elevated serum ferritin levels. Conclusion: Serum ferritin is closely associated with poor glycemic control and dyslipidemia in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Assessment of ferritin and iron status, alongside routine metabolic parameters, may provide additional insight into disease severity and cardiometabolic risk.

Abstract Abstract Background:  Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a harmful cultural practice affecting millions of women and girls worldwide, particularly in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Although often associated with cultural beliefs related to purity and marriageability, FGM has no medical benefits and is linked to serious physical and long-term psychological consequences. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, psychological impact, challenges, and coping strategies of FGM among female workers in Somalia. Methods:  A mixed-methods approach was employed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue. The quantitative component involved a cross-sectional survey of 384 female workers to determine the prevalence and associated factors of FGM. The qualitative component included in-depth interviews with 15 participants to explore personal experiences, psychological impacts, and coping mechanisms. Results:  The findings revealed that a large proportion of participants had undergone FGM, most commonly during early childhood, with Type II being the predominant form. Parents were identified as the primary decision-makers, and strong community influence played a significant role in sustaining the practice. A substantial number of participants reported experiencing emotional distress, and many sought psychological or emotional support. Qualitative findings highlighted that FGM is deeply rooted in cultural traditions and reinforced by social pressure. Participants described enduring physical complications, psychological trauma, and social challenges. Coping strategies included reliance on social support, religious beliefs, and personal resilience. Participants also emphasized the importance of community education and awareness in preventing the practice. Conclusion:  FGM remains highly prevalent among female workers in Somalia and continues to impose significant physical, psychological, and social burdens. Addressing this issue requires comprehensive interventions, including community education, mental health support, and active involvement of families, community leaders, and healthcare professionals to prevent FGM and support affected women.

Abstract Background: Diabetes mellitus is a multifactorial metabolic disorder associated with widespread biochemical alterations beyond hyperglycemia. Understanding the relationship between glycemic control and other metabolic parameters is essential for comprehensive disease management. Objective:  This study aimed to evaluate the association of glycemic control with metabolic, electrolyte, thyroid, iron, renal, and lipid profiles among Bangladeshi adults. Methods:  This hospital-based cross-sectional analytical study was conducted from June to December 2025 in a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh. A total of 500 adult participants were included, comprising 250 diabetic and 250 non-diabetic individuals. Data were collected from laboratory reports and clinical records. Biochemical parameters, including glycemic indices (FBS, RBS, HbA1c), electrolytes, thyroid hormones, ferritin, creatinine, and lipid profile, were analyzed. Statistical analysis included independent t-tests, Spearman’s correlation, and multiple linear regression. Results:  Diabetic participants exhibited significantly higher levels of FBS (9.52 vs. 4.94 mmol/L), RBS (13.34 vs. 6.56 mmol/L), and HbA1c (9.04% vs. 5.19%) (p < 0.001). Significant electrolyte alterations included lower sodium and calcium and slightly higher potassium and chloride levels (p < 0.001). TSH levels were significantly elevated, while Free T4 showed no difference. Ferritin and creatinine levels were markedly higher in diabetics, indicating increased inflammation and renal involvement. Lipid profile showed elevated LDL, triglycerides, and total cholesterol, with reduced HDL (p < 0.001). HbA1c demonstrated strong positive correlations with creatinine (r = 0.52), LDL (r = 0.42), ferritin (r = 0.35), and TSH (r = 0.30), and negative correlations with HDL (r = -0.28), sodium (r = -0.21), and calcium (r = -0.14). Regression analysis identified FBS, RBS, triglycerides, creatinine, and total cholesterol as independent predictors of HbA1c (Adjusted R² = 0.54). Conclusion:  Poor glycemic control is significantly associated with disturbances in electrolyte balance, thyroid function, iron metabolism, renal function, and lipid profile. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive biochemical monitoring in diabetic patients to improve clinical outcomes.