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Nanotechnology has gained considerable attention for its potential to develop many fields by manipulating materials at an incredibly small scale. One of the important segments of nanotechnology is combining nanoparticles with traditional materials to enhance their properties. Composite materials have an inherent ability to modify the properties of the constituents to a greater extent. The nanocomposites further enable the process. Hence, this paper provides a thorough analysis of the technology and concepts of different types of nanocomposites, including their synthesis, properties, and applications. Due to their tiny size, nanoparticles have distinct properties like high reactivity, strength, and unique thermal, electrical, and antimicrobial characteristics. Their addition to any composite contributes to the development of stronger, more efficient, and versatile materials. The application areas of nanocomposites are expanding at a rapid pace. An in‐depth understanding of the effective synthesis of nanocomposites is essential for improving their performance and finding new ways to use them. Further innovations are being looked at in different areas, such as sustainable and cost‐effective manufacturing techniques of nanocomposites. The ongoing review article hence intends to provide an overall scenario on the types and synthesis methods existing currently and explores the areas where nanocomposites are being used as a better alternative to traditional materials. Highlights Understanding the synthesis and characterization methods to optimize nanocomposite properties and expand applications. Enhancing mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties in composites, while outperforming traditional materials. High reactivity, aspect ratio, and specialized properties boost nanocomposites' functionality. Improving efficiency and performance reduces material usage, extends lifespans, and promotes sustainability. Nanocomposites offer enhanced mechanical, thermal, electrical, barrier, and optical properties due to their unique nanostructure, making them suitable for diverse industrial applications.

Background Rapid increases in hospital and cesarean deliveries threaten an already falling exclusive breastfeeding rate (EBR) in Bangladesh. There is neither a sustained Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) nor any community support for breastfeeding mothers. Our aim was to find out whether breastfeeding support after hospital delivery and subsequently by mobile phone at home is effective in improving EBR in infants under six - months of age. Methods A quasi-experimental study was carried out in 2010 at the Centre for Woman and Child Health (CWCH), Savar, Bangladesh. A total of 129 mothers delivered at CWCH were recruited in pre - intervention phase and their infants followed up between 0 and 5 months of age in the community for exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), anthropometry and illness. An intervention package was then implemented with postpartum support for first hour breastfeeding initiation, correction of position and attachment and face-to-face counseling in hospital followed by mobile phone support by two trained Research Assistants once every 15 days after discharge up to six months of age. During the intervention phase, 164 pregnant women delivered at CWCH were recruited and followed up as in the pre-intervention phase. Results In the pre-intervention phase among 114 infants, 66 (58%) were found to be exclusively breastfed. In the intervention phase among 151 infants, 118 (78%) were exclusively breastfed ( p  = 0.000). In the pre-intervention phase EBR at less than one month and five months were 85 and 42% as in the intervention phase these EBR were 89 and 71% respectively. Wasting (weight - for - height Z - score <  −  2.00), stunting (height - for - age Z - score <  −  2.00), and underweight (weight - for - age Z - score <  −  2.00) was 17 (15%), 7 (6%), and 14 (13%) respectively in the pre-intervention phase. In the intervention phase wasting, stunting, and underweight was 16 (11%), 16 (11%), and 15 (10%) respectively. Therefore, there was no statistically significant differences in nutritional status of the infants in the two phases. There was also no significant differences in child morbidity (pneumonia and diarrhea) between the two phases. Conclusion A combination of hospital support and mobile phone counseling in the community sustained higher rates of EBF in the community after hospital delivery.

This study aimed to identify SNPs in the intron, exon, and UTR regions of the FASN, DGAT1, and PPARGC1A genes and to investigate their possible association with milk yield and composition traits in the riverine buffalo of Bangladesh. A total of 150 DNA samples from riverine buffalo were used for PCR amplification with five pairs of primers, followed by association studies using a generalized linear model in R. SNP genotyping was performed by direct sequencing of the respective amplicon. Traits analyzed included DMY, fat%, protein%, and SNF%. This study identified 8 SNPs in FASN (g.7163G>A and g.7271C>T), DGAT1 (g.7809C>T and g.8525C>T) and PPARGC1A (g.387642C>T, g.387758A>G, g.409354A>G, and g.409452G>A). Genotypic and allelic frequencies differed significantly for each SNP genotype and did not follow the Hardy–Weinberg principle (p < 0.01 or p < 0.001) in most cases. The g.7163G>A and g.7271C>T SNP genotypes of the FASN gene were significantly associated with milk fat%, with the latter also significantly associated with SNF%. The g.8525C>T polymorphism of the DGAT1 gene significantly affected protein% (p < 0.01). Additionally, PPARGC1A gene polymorphisms showed significant associations: g.387642C>T with fat% (p < 0.05); g.387758A>G and g.409354A>G with protein% (p < 0.001) and SNF% (p < 0.01); and g.409452G>A with DMY (p < 0.001), fat% (p < 0.05), and protein% (p < 0.01). Reconstructed haplotypes of the PPARGC1A gene were significantly associated (p < 0.01) with all traits except SNF%. These findings suggest that polymorphisms in these three candidate genes have the potential as molecular markers for improving milk yield and composition traits in the riverine buffalo of Bangladesh.

Objective: The aim of this study was to estimate genetic parameters, breeding value, and ranking of Holstein Friesian × Local (HF × L) crossbred sires based on multi-trait selection index information. Methods: A total of 51 HF × L crossbred breeding bulls of three different genetic groups (50%HF × 50%L, 62.5%HF × 37.5%L, and 75%HF × 25%L) managed at Central Cattle Breeding and Dairy Farm (CCBDF) were evaluated based on 4,319 half-sib progeny performance data. The descriptive statistical analysis was performed using the R package. Genetic parameters were estimated using BLUPF90 by a single-trait animal model. A selection index was constructed using adjusted breeding values multiplied by variable economic weightage for each trait. Results: Genotype had significant effects on the investigated semen quality attributes (p < 0.05), where 75%HF × 25%L and 62.5%HF × 37.5%L crossbred genotypes both differed significantly from 50%HF × 50%L crossbreds (p < 0.05). In general, better productive and reproductive performances were found with the progression of HF inheritance. Daughters of 75%HF × 25%L crossbred bulls showed the highest average performance in birth weight (27.20 ± 0.09 kg), daily milk yield (8.55 ± 0.06 l), peak milk yield (10.44 ± 0.07 l), and lactation length (233.53 ± 0.85 days). The study investigated variance components of eight productive and reproductive traits such as the birth weight of calf, age at first conception, service per conception, daily milk yield, peak milk yield, lactation length, and calving interval where estimated heritability ranged from 0.09 to 0.32. Genetic correlations among the considered traits were found to be mostly weak. Among the top 20%, breeding bulls belonged to 75%HF × 25%L and 62.5%HF × 37.5%L crossbred groups. Conclusion: This study provides insightful information on the genetic evaluation of different graded bulls that could be the basis for the proven crossbred breeding bulls’ selection process at CCBDF.

Background: E-learning is making education globally and conveniently attainable with the deliverance of advanced technology. However, this mode of academia is still not commonly practiced locally. Thus, the study aimed to investigate technological availability, usability, and association to university students' perceived stress due to e-learning curriculum. Methods: A cross-sectional study commenced among Bangladeshi university students enrolled in the e-learning curriculum. A total of 1162 university students were included. The main explanatory variables were related to the availability of technology and the use of technology. The outcome variable was perceived e-learning stress. In statistical analysis, p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant with a 95% confidence interval. Results: In this study, lack of technological availability and usability were associated with higher level of perceived e-learning stress. Being female, living in rural areas, and outside of Dhaka division were found the associated factors in the lack of technological availability and usability. Conclusions: A significant association between the availability and usability of technology with perceived e-learning stress was observed. Thus, measures should be taken to initialize e-learning adaptivity by increasing technological growth across the nation, considering educational preparedness for future catastrophes.

Biomaterials have been developed as a transformative tool in various applications of the modern world. Biomaterials have advanced with time and applications, from structural implants to replacing biological functions in the human body, and so on. This review article provides a detailed examination of the diverse categories of biomaterials, including natural, synthetic, and composite materials. Recent unique properties, advantages, and challenges have been described in the article. Natural biomaterials are known for their excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, and versatility in healthcare applications. Those are used in different applications such as wound healing, drug delivery, and tissue scaffolding. Synthetic biomaterials are critical for load-bearing applications. Composite biomaterials combine the strengths of individual materials to offer superior mechanical performance and biological functionality. The field of biomaterials is fast-growing sector to meet the demand for personalized medical treatment. Future research will focus on the development of multifunctional biomaterials that integrate healthcare solutions and daily life needs. This review highlights recent advancements, emerging trends, and future directions in biomaterial research that will help in shaping the next generation of biomedical innovations. Graphical Abstract Highlights Comprehensive overview of biomaterials: This review discusses natural, synthetic, and composite biomaterials, detailing their structures, properties, and biomedical applications. Emphasis on biocompatibility and biodegradability: Highlights the critical importance of these properties in the successful integration and functionality of biomaterials within biological systems. Recent advancements in fabrication and surface modification: Explores how techniques such as additive manufacturing and nanoscale surface modifications enhance the performance of biomaterials. Applications across diverse sectors: Describes how biomaterials are used in wound healing, drug delivery, implants, tissue engineering, packaging, pollution control, and more. Challenges in mechanical strength and scalability: Addresses limitations including low mechanical properties, high production costs, and short biological half-life, with proposed solutions. Emergence of smart and multifunctional biomaterials: Discusses the future direction toward bioinspired materials for real-time health monitoring and regenerative medicine. Focus on sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives: Considers the potential of biomaterials to replace synthetic plastics and reduce environmental impact.

Objective: The aim of this study was to estimate genetic parameters, breeding value, and ranking of Holstein Friesian x Local (HF x L) crossbred sires based on multi-trait selection index information. Methods: A total of 51 HF x L crossbred breeding bulls of three different genetic groups (50%HF x 50%L, 62.5%HF x 37.5%L, and 75%HF x 25%L) managed at Central Cattle Breeding and Dairy Farm (CCBDF) were evaluated based on 4,319 half-sib progeny performance data. The descriptive statistical analysis was performed using the R package. Genetic parameters were estimated using BLUPF90 by a single-trait animal model. A selection index was constructed using adjusted breeding values multiplied by variable economic weightage for each trait. Results: Genotype had significant effects on the investigated semen quality attributes (p < 0.05), where 75%HF x 25%L and 62.5%HF x 37.5%L crossbred genotypes both differed significantly from 50%HF x 50%L crossbreds (p < 0.05). In general, better productive and reproductive performances were found with the progression of HF inheritance. Daughters of 75%HF x 25%L crossbred bulls showed the highest average performance in birth weight (27.20 + 0.09 kg), daily milk yield (8.55 + 0.06 1), peak milk yield (10.44 + 0.07 |), and lactation length (233.53 + 0.85 days). The study investigated variance components of eight productive and reproductive traits such as the birth weight of calf, age at first conception, service per conception, daily milk yield, peak milk yield, lactation length, and calving interval where estimated heritability ranged from 0.09 to 0.32. Genetic correlations among the considered traits were found to be mostly weak. Among the top 20%, breeding bulls belonged to 75%HF x 25%L and 62.5%HF x 37.5%L crossbred groups. Conclusion: This study provides insightful information on the genetic evaluation of different graded bulls that could be the basis for the proven crossbred breeding bulls' selection process at CCBDF.

Background Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich syndrome is a rare congenital anomaly characterized by uterus didelphys, obstructed hemivagina, and ipsilateral renal agenesis. The most common presentation is abdominal pain, dysmenorrhea, and abdominal mass secondary to hematocolpos. We present the first case report on Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich syndrome from Bangladesh. Case presentation A 15-year-old Asian girl presented with lower abdominal pain of 3 months’ duration. She had had menarche 3 months earlier and had a regular menstrual cycle with cyclical abdominal pain. Abdominal examination found a tender mass on the right iliac fossa. Further evaluation with ultrasound revealed distended endometrial cavity filled with complex fluid and nonvisualization of the right kidney. Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging showed absent right kidney and two separate endometrial stripes surrounded by endometrium and a muscular layer. The right endometrial cavity and cervix were distended with blood. This magnetic resonance imaging finding is consistent with Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich syndrome with uterine didelphyis, right-sided hematometra resulting from obstructed hemivagina, and ipsilateral agenesis of the right kidney. The vaginal septum was resected for vaginoplasty. She was discharged 5 days after surgery and came for follow-up after 7 days. Vaginal examination revealed a healthy wound with no adhesion of the vaginal wall. She also informed us that she had started regular menstruation without any pain 30 days after the operation. Conclusion An unusual presentation of regular menstruation and nonspecific abdominal pain delays the diagnosis, which can lead to complications such as endometriosis and infertility. Awareness is required; otherwise, misdiagnosis clearly can occur.

Leptospirosis is considered to be the most widespread, yet neglected, re-emerging zoonotic disease caused by infection with a pathogenic species of the genus Leptospira. Although this disease is prevalent in Bangladesh, the recent epidemiological status has not yet been well documented. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of leptospirosis among febrile patients using different diagnostic methods and to characterize the epidemiological features and species of Leptospira in Mymensingh, north–central Bangladesh. Among the blood samples of 186 patients with suspected leptospirosis who met the inclusion criteria, including having a fever for more than 5 days (November 2021–June 2022), 88 samples (47%) were Leptospira-positive according to IgM LAT, IgM ELISA, or nested PCR (positivity rates: 38%, 37%, and 42%, respectively). Nested PCR showed a significantly higher positivity rate (54%) in patients with a short fever (5–10 day) than the other methods did, with lower rates among those with a longer fever. Leptospirosis cases were more common in males (68%), those 16–45 years of age (70%), residents of rural areas (81%), and farmers (41%). In addition to a fever, myalgia and jaundice were found in more than 70% of the patients, while variable symptoms were observed. The 16S rRNA sequencing analysis revealed that the Leptospira species in all the 22 samples tested were L. wolffii, belonging to the pathogenic subclade P2. This study showed the recent epidemiological features of leptospirosis in Bangladesh, indicating the presumptive predominance of L. wolffii since 2019.

The poly(brilliant cresyl blue) (PBCB)-modified activated glassy carbon electrode (AGCE) shows the catalytic activity toward the oxidation of hydroquinone (HQ) and catechol (CT). The modified electrode can also separate the oxidation peaks of HQ and CT in their mixture, which is not possible with bare GCE. These properties of the modified electrode can be utilized to fabricate an electrochemical sensor for sensitive and simultaneous detection of HQ and CT. In this study, an attempt is made to control the sensitivity of the modified electrodes. This can be accomplished by simply changing the activation condition of the GCE during electropolymerization. GCE can be activated via one-step (applying only oxidation potential) and two-step (applying both oxidation and reduction potential) processes. When we change the activation condition from onestep to twosteps, a clear enhancement inpeak currents of HQ and CT is observed. This helps us to fabricate a highly sensitive electrochemical sensor for the simultaneous detection of HQ and CT. The molecular dynamics (MD) simulation is carried out to explain the experimental data. The MD simulations provide the insight adsorption phenomena to clarify the reasons for higher signals of CT over HQ due to having meta-position –OH group in its structure.