An updated and comprehensive review on the ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological activity and toxicological profile of Tinospora crispa (L.) Hook. f. & Thomson.

Tinospora crispa (L.) Hook. f. & Thomson (Menispermaceae) is a plant indigenous to Africa and South-East Asia. It is widely used in ethnomedicine to alleviate various diseases including hypertension, diabetes, rheumatism, jaundice, inflammation, fever, fractures, scabies, and urinary disorders. A total of 167 phytoconstituents, belonging to 12 different chemical categories, including alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds have thus far been isolated from various parts of T. crispa. Numerous in vitro and in vivo investigations have already established the antidiabetic, anticancer, antiparasitic, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective, analgesic, antipyretic, antihyperuricemic, and pesticidal activity of this plant, as well as its effects on the cardiac and the central nervous system. Most pharmacological investigations to date have been carried out on plant extracts and fractions. The exact identity of the phytoconstituents responsible for the observed biological effects and their mode of action at the molecular level are yet to be ascertained. Toxicological studies have demonstrated that T. crispa is relatively safe, although dose-dependent hepatotoxicity is a concern at high doses. This review presents a comprehensive update and analysis on studies related to the ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological activity and toxicological profile of T. crispa. It provides some critical insights into the current scientific knowledge on this plant and its future potential in pharmaceutical research.

Allium vegetables: Traditional uses, phytoconstituents, and beneficial effects in inflammation and cancer.

The genus Allium comprises of at least 918 species; the majority grown for dietary and medicinal purposes. This review describes the traditional uses, phytoconstituents, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity, and safety profile of six main species, namely Allium sativum L. (garlic), Allium cepa L. (onions), Allium ampeloprasum L. (leek), Allium fistulosum L. (scallion), Allium schoenoprasum L. (chives) and Allium tuberosum Rottler (garlic chives). These species contain at least 260 phytoconstituents; mainly volatile compounds-including 63 organosulfur molecules-, saponins, flavonoids, anthocyanins, phenolic compounds, amino acids, organic acids, fatty acids, steroids, vitamins and nucleosides. They have prominent in vitro anti-inflammatory activity, and in vivo replications of such results have been achieved for all except for A. schoenoprasum. They also exert cytotoxicity against different cancer cell lines. Several anticancer phytoconstituents have been characterized from all except for A. fistulosum. Organosulfur constituents, saponins and flavonoid glycosides have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity. Extensive work has been conducted mainly on the anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity of A. sativum and A. cepa. The presence of anti-inflammatory and anticancer constituents in these two species suggests that similar bioactive constituents could be found in other species. This provides future avenues for identifying new Allium-derived anti-inflammatory and anticancer agents.

An insight into the anti-ulcerogenic potentials of medicinal herbs and their bioactive metabolites.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) ranks top among the most prominent gastrointestinal problems prevalent around the world. Long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, pathogenic infection by Helicobacter pylori, imbalances between gastrointestinal regulatory factors and pathological hyperacidity are major contributors towards the development of peptic ulcers. Although synthetic drugs of multiple pharmacological classes are abundantly available, inadequacy of such agents in ensuring complete recovery in not uncommon. Therefore, pharmacological explorations of herbal products including plant extracts and their respective isolated phytoconstituents, for potential gastroprotective and antiulcer properties, are regular practice among the scientific community. Moreover, the historical preferences of a significant share of world population towards herbal-based medication over modern synthetic drugs also contribute significantly to such endeavors. AIM OF THE REVIEW: This review has endeavored to present ethnomedicinal and pharmacological prospects of a significant number of authenticated plant species in terms of their capacity to exert gastroprotection and antiulcer activities both in vitro and in vivo. The information delineated along the way was further subjected to critical analysis to ascertain the possible future prospects of such findings into designing plant-derived products in future for the treatment of peptic ulcer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Electronic version of prominent bibliographic databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Wiley Online Library, SpringerLink, Web of Science, and MEDLINE were explored extensively for the identification and compilation of relevant information. The plant names and respective family names were verified through the Plant List (version 1.1) and World Flora Online 2021. All relevant chemical structures were verified through PubChem and SciFinder databases and illustrated with ChemDraw Ultra 12.0. RESULTS: A colossal number of 97 plant species categorized under 58 diverse plant families have been discussed in the review for their gastroprotective and antiulcer properties. In vivo illustrations of the pharmacological properties were achieved for almost all the species under consideration. 29 individual phytoconstituents from these sources were also characterized with similar pharmacological potentials. Majority of the plant extracts as well as their constituents were found to exert their gastroprotective effects through antioxidative pathway featuring both enzymatic and nonenzymatic mechanism. Moreover, active inhibition of acid secretion, upregulation of gastroprotective mediators and downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, were also associated with a prominent number of plants or products thereof. CONCLUSIONS: Comparative evaluations of the plant sources for their antiulcer activities, both as individual and as combination formulations, are necessary to be conducted in human subjects under properly regulated clinical conditions. Moreover, the efficacy and safety of such products should also be evaluated against those of the currently available treatment options. This will further facilitate in ascertaining their suitability and superiority, if any, in the treatment of peptic ulcer diseases. Implementation of these endeavors may eventually lead to development of more efficient treatment options in the future.

Ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities and toxicological profile of Glycosmis pentaphylla (Retz.) DC.: A review.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Glycosmis pentaphylla (Retz.) DC. is a perennial shrub indigenous to the tropical and subtropical regions of India, China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippine, Java, Sumatra, Borneo and Australia. The plant is used extensively within these regions as a traditional medicine for the treatment of a variety of ailments including cough, fever, chest pain, anemia, jaundice, liver disorders, inflammation, bronchitis, rheumatism, urinary tract infections, pain, bone fractures, toothache, gonorrhea, diabetes, cancer and other chronic diseases. AIM OF THE REVIEW: This review aims to present up-to-date information regarding the taxonomy, botany, distribution, ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicological profile of G. pentaphylla. The presented information was analyzed critically to understand current work undertaken on this species and explore possible future prospects for this plant in pharmaceutical research. MATERIALS & METHODS: Bibliographic databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Wiley Online Library, Semantic Scholar, Europe PMC, Scopus, and MEDLINE, were explored thoroughly for the collection of relevant information. The structures of phytoconstituents were confirmed with PubChem and SciFinder databases. Taxonomical information on the plant was presented in accordance with The Plant List (version 1.1). RESULTS: Extensive phytochemical investigations into different parts of G. pentaphylla have revealed the presence of at least 354 secondary metabolites belonging to structurally diverse classes including alkaloids, amides, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, glycosides, aromatic compounds, steroids, terpenoids, and fatty derivatives. A large number of in vitro and in vivo experiments have demonstrated that G. pentaphylla had anticancer, antimutagenic, antibacterial, antifungal, anthelmintic, mosquitocidal, antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, anti-arsenicosis, and wound healing properties. Toxicological studies have established the absence of any significant adverse reactions and showed that the plant had a moderate safety profile. CONCLUSIONS: G. pentaphylla can be suggested as a source of inspiration for the development of novel drugs, especially anticancer, antimicrobial, anthelmintic, and mosquitocidal agents. Moreover, bioassay-guided investigations into its diverse classes of secondary metabolites, especially the large pool of nitrogen-containing alkaloids and amides, promises the development of novel drug candidates. Future pharmacological studies into this species are also warranted as many of its traditional uses are yet to be validated scientifically.

COVID-19 and child marriage in Bangladesh: emergency call to action.

The social burden of Bangladesh's already prevalent child marriage problem has further flared up amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. We aim to briefly report on the current scenario of underage marriage in Bangladesh from available sources and highlight concerns. The prevalence of child marriage has increased by at least 13% due to pandemic-enforced long-term school closure throughout the country, while many cases remain unreported. Exacerbated financial crisis, the prolonged shutdown of educational institutions and social insecurities are the principal triggering factors for such a high pace of child marriages. We urge the government and local administrations to address the current situation through concerted and integrated efforts to combat the early marriage crisis in Bangladesh.

Ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, and biological activities of plants of the genus Gynura.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: The genus Gynura (Compositae) includes around 46 species and is native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, Africa and Australia. Many species within this genus are used in ethnomedicine to treat various disorders including skin diseases, injuries, ulcers, wounds, burns, sores, scalds, as well as for the management of diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, constipation, rheumatism, bronchitis and inflammation. AIM OF THE REVIEW: This review is an attempt to provide scientific information regarding the ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacological and toxicological profiles of Gynura species along with the nomenclature, distribution, taxonomy and botanical features of the genus. A critical analysis has been undertaken to understand the current and future pharmaceutical prospects of the genus. MATERIALS & METHODS: Several electronic databases, including Google scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Semantic Scholar, MEDLINE and CNKI Scholar, were explored as information sources. The Plant List Index was used for taxonomical authentications. SciFinder and PubChem assisted in the verification of chemical structures. RESULTS: A large number of phytochemical analyses on Gynura have revealed the presence of around 342 phytoconstituents including pyrrolizidine alkaloids, phenolic compounds, chromanones, phenylpropanoid glycosides, flavonoids, flavonoid glycosides, steroids, steroidal glycosides, cerebrosides, carotenoids, triterpenes, mono- and sesquiterpenes, norisoprenoids, oligosaccharides, polysaccharides and proteins. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated the pharmacological potential of Gynura species, including antidiabetic, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antihypertensive and anticancer activities. Although the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids within a few species has been associated with possible hepatotoxicity, most of the common species have a good safety profile. CONCLUSIONS: The importance of the genus Gynura both as a prominent contributor in ethnomedicinal systems as well as a source of promising bioactive molecules is evident. Only about one fourth of Gynura species have been studied so far. This review aims to provide some scientific basis for future endeavors, including in-depth biological and chemical investigations into already studied species as well as other lesser known species of Gynura.

Knowledge, Perception, and Willingness towards Immunization among Bangladeshi Population during COVID-19 Vaccine Rolling Period.

Vaccine willingness among the mass populace, as well as their proper knowledge and perception regarding vaccines and the vaccination process, may contribute extensively towards attaining their anticipated vaccination rates. The current study endeavored to ascertain the Bangladeshi population's knowledge, perception, and willingness towards COVID-19 vaccination. Relevant information was collected from 1201 adults aged 18 years or older by employing an online-based survey from 1 to 30 July 2021. Descriptive statistics, the chi-square (χ2) test, and a binary logistic regression analysis were applied in order to compare the extent of knowledge and perception prevalent among different demographic groups and correlate such prevalence with respective vaccine willingness. The participants expressed mean (± standard deviation) knowledge and perception scores of 6.48 ± 1.13 out of 8 and 5.37 ± 1.22 out of 7, respectively. A multivariate analysis confirmed the significant association (p < 0.05) of gender, age, and family income with the knowledge score, whereas age and knowledge level significantly influenced perception. Current living area, family income, and age were considerable contributors to COVID-19 vaccine willingness. Overall vaccine willingness was found to be significantly curtailed by inadequate knowledge (AOR 0.514, CI 95% 0.401-0.658, p < 0.001) and perception (AOR 0.710, CI 95% 0.548-0.920, p = 0.010) among the participants. All of the concerned authorities' efforts are warranted in order to improve public understanding, perception, and inclination towards vaccination.

Factors Associated With Underprivileged E-Learning, Session Jam Phobia, and the Subsequent Mental Distress Among Students Following the Extended University Closure in Bangladesh.

Severe session jam phobia (SJP), the extent of underprivileged online education, and subsequent mental health disorders among students have emerged as distinguished global problems due to the overwhelming effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The purpose of this research was to evaluate the impact of extended COVID-19 lockdown and its mediating factors on current e-Learning activities, the prevalence of severe SJP and psychological distress among university students in Bangladesh. A web-based cross-sectional study was conducted to assemble responses through Google Form by applying a simple snowball sampling technique among university students aged 18 years or above in Bangladesh. All ethical considerations were maintained, and univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were employed to analyze the acquired data set. Among the total analyzed data (n = 1,122), the male and female ratio was almost 1:1, and a remarkable segment (63.7%) was aged between 21-24 years. Alarmingly, around 50-60% of the students were suffering from severe SJP, prevailing underprivileged education in the e-Learning platform, and severe mental distress. Logistic regression analyses demonstrated that the students from public universities, lower- and mid-income families, lower-aged, and junior years education groups were significantly (p < 0.05) more underprivileged than their counter groups. Besides, the monthly family income and university type significantly influenced the extent of severe SJP. Finally, the students who were female, rustic, come from low-income families (below 25,000 BDT), who had academic uncertainty, job insecurity, online exam phobia, and dissatisfaction with e-Learning education, were significantly suffering from moderate to severe mental distress. The current evidence demonstrates that a substantial number of Bangladeshi university students are struggling with extreme session jam phobia, underprivileged e-Learning education, and subsequent psychological distress, which need to be immediately addressed through concerted efforts by the government, parents, and university authorities.

Allium sativum L. Improves Visual Memory and Attention in Healthy Human Volunteers.

Studies have shown that Allium sativum L. (AS) protects amyloid-beta peptide-induced apoptosis, prevents oxidative insults to neurons and synapses, and thus prevent Alzheimer's disease progression in experimental animals. However, there is no experimental evidence in human regarding its putative role in memory and cognition. We have studied the effect of AS consumption by healthy human volunteers on visual memory, verbal memory, attention, and executive function in comparison to control subjects taking placebo. The study was conducted over five weeks and twenty volunteers of both genders were recruited and divided randomly into two groups: A (AS) and B (placebo). Both groups participated in the 6 computerized neuropsychological tests of the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) twice: at the beginning and after five weeks of the study. We found statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in several parameters of visual memory and attention due to AS ingestion. We also found statistically nonsignificant (p > 0.05) beneficial effects on verbal memory and executive function within a short period of time among the volunteers. Study for a longer period of time with patients suffering from neurodegenerative diseases might yield more relevant results regarding the potential therapeutic role of AS.