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The 2022 Monkeypox Disease (MPOX) outbreak was declared a pandemic after detecting multiple human-to-human monkeypox cases in ‘non-endemic’ nations. The index case of MPOX has been reported in Nepal. Also, the disease burden in neighboring countries and international travel and tourism could increase the MPOX burden in Nepal. This study recruited 443 study participants between August 25 and September 10, 2022, using the snowball technique and using descriptive statistics to assess the awareness and knowledge of MPOX. Approximately 82% (n=361) of the study participants were young adults aged between 18-29 years and were undergoing or holders of tertiary education degrees (72.2%, n=320). Our findings showed that 76.5% (n=339/443) of the respondents were aware of the 2022 MPOX outbreak and obtained information about the disease from their local radio and television stations (20.6%, n = 70), as well as from other sources such as social media platforms (70.5%, n=239), and other internet sources (61.6%, n=209). The mean knowledge score of the respondents was 3.95±1.26, with a range of 0.5 to 7. Approximately three-quarters (72.3%, n=245) of the study participants were graded to have a good knowledge of the MPOX. Of the listed symptoms, study participants correctly identified high fever (62.2%, n=339), rashes (51.0%, n=173), swollen lymph nodes (34.5%, n=117), and sores around the mouth, vagina, and anus (26.8%, n=91). A higher number of participants were aware that vaccination could confer protection against the disease (70.8%, n=240). However, less than one third of the participants (30%, n=102) were aware that safe sex practices can be a preventive strategy against the disease. Finally, none of the sociodemographic variables were associated with increased knowledge of MPOX among the study participants. The knowledge of MPOX among the study population was above average. We advocate that public enlightenment campaigns in Nepal should address wrong perceptions of MPOX.

Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is caused by a specific strain of the 6 types of human coronaviruses (HCoV). MERS-CoV has spread unchecked since it was first discovered in Saudi Arabia in 2012. The virus most likely spreads through nosocomial and zoonotic channels. Genetic analyses suggest that bats were the initial hosts and that the disease spread to camels. Person-to-person transmission occurs with varying frequency, being most prevalent in clinical settings and the least common among the general population and among close relatives. Due to the severity of the illness, high fatality rate, potential for epidemic spread, and lack of adequate medical countermeasures, the World Health Organization (WHO) continues to list MERS-CoV as a priority pathogen. While no specific antiviral medicines exist, a combination of antivirals has shown promise in recent clinical trials. Vaccines against MERS-CoV are critically needed and are currently being developed. Early diagnosis and implementing appropriate infection control measures are keys to preventing hospital-associated outbreaks. Preventive measures include avoiding raw or undercooked meats and other animal products, ensuring proper hand hygiene in healthcare settings and around dromedaries, educating the public and healthcare personnel about the disease, and adhering to other recommended practices. Countries with a high prevalence of MERS should adhere to regulations designed to limit the transmission of the virus. The recent spread of MERS-CoV highlights the importance of public awareness regarding the significance of reporting symptoms so that appropriate control measures can be adopted. The narrative review discusses the incidence of MERS, its clinical presentation, potential transmission routes, recent reports, preventative and control measures, and current therapeutic options.

The anthocyanins (ACN) are watersoluble pigments present in the pericarp or aleurone layer of maize kernel. The authentic color landraces being grown by the farmers at a smaller scale restricted to local consumers. These color ears (cob with color kernels) which are receiving more prominence not only for their environment friendly and natural colorant properties but also to their numerous health benefits from edible food pigments. Since anthocyanin pigments have significant effects on animal health, it is also catching the attention of food processing companies as well as highend culinary markets. In this review, we have represented functional properties of anthocyanins present in maize. Earlier, studies best on in vitro tests were extrapolatory but now using cell models and animal trials are providing foolproof evidence for functional significance of corn anthocyanins. The mechanisms of action at the cellular and molecular level have been understood.

Introduction Monkeypox (mpox) is an evolving infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV). On July 23, 2022, the WHO declared the recent mpox outbreaks a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC), which terminated on May 11, 2023. As of July 11, 2023, 88,288 confirmed cases and 149 deaths have been reported from 112 countries and territories. Currently, mpox is not a PHEIC, as the outbreak and its impacts are nearly over. Nurses played significant roles during the mpox 2022 outbreak as frontline workers. Purpose In light of the impending mpox global outbreak in 2022, this brief report provides an update on the enormous difficulties faced by frontline nurses while playing a crucial role in handling the mpox outbreak and some potential solutions to these difficulties. The methodological framework employed in this narrative brief report involves conducting a comprehensive analysis and synthesis of relevant literature and hypothetical scenarios. The aim is to put forth practical strategies that can effectively tackle the difficulties encountered by frontline nurses in the context of the mpox outbreak. Additionally, the report seeks to envision a healthcare system that is more resilient in the face of future challenges. Conclusion It is important to understand the challenges the nurses face from their perspective. As frontline health care workers, the various health issues of nurses and their concerns must be taken care of appropriately by adopting optimum health service practices, adequate safety measures, recommended precautionary measures, and boosting them mentally while handling mpox patients. Counseling and the arrangement of workshops are required. Appropriate care should be taken to address the various health issues concerning nurses by adopting health service practices at optimum levels. Side by side, recommended safety and precautionary measures should be followed.

AbstractTularemia caused by Gram-negative, coccobacillus bacterium, Francisella tularensis, is a highly infectious zoonotic disease. Human cases have been reported mainly from the United States, Nordic countries like Sweden and Finland, and some European and Asian countries. Naturally, the disease occurs in several vertebrates, particularly lagomorphs. Type A (subspecies tularensis) is more virulent and causes disease mainly in North America; type B (subspecies holarctica) is widespread, while subspecies mediasiatica is present in central Asia. F. tularensis is a possible bioweapon due to its lethality, low infectious dosage, and aerosol transmission. Small mammals like rabbits, hares, and muskrats are primary sources of human infections, but true reservoir of F. tularensis is unknown. Vector-borne tularemia primarily involves ticks and mosquitoes. The bacterial subspecies involved and mode of transmission determine the clinical picture. Early signs are flu-like illnesses that may evolve into different clinical forms of tularemia that may or may not include lymphadenopathy. Ulcero-glandular and glandular forms are acquired by arthropod bite or handling of infected animals, oculo-glandular form as a result of conjunctival infection, and oro-pharyngeal form by intake of contaminated food or water. Pulmonary form appears after inhalation of bacteria. Typhoidal form may occur after infection via different routes. Human-to-human transmission has not been known. Diagnosis can be achieved by serology, bacterial culture, and molecular methods. Treatment for tularemia typically entails use of quinolones, tetracyclines, or aminoglycosides. Preventive measures are necessary to avoid infection although difficult to implement. Research is underway for the development of effective live attenuated and subunit vaccines.

Abstract Introduction Workers in the healthcare industry form the backbone of health systems everywhere. In the face of global health crises like the current monkeypox (mpox) outbreak, healthcare workers like doctors, dentists, pharmacists, nurses, midwives, paramedics, administrators, support staff, laboratory technicians, and community health workers all play crucial roles in providing care and containing the spread of the disease. Aim Therefore, in the wake of concerns about mpox recurrence, we seek to shed light on the occupational transmission of mpox infection and the possible risk to healthcare personnel. Results Contamination of the environment of the household of cases of mpox and environment of the patient care units with the viral DNA has been reported besides asymptomatic cases and detection of viral DNA in air samples; therefore, more research on non-lesion-based testing for human mpox infection for screening asymptomatic people, particularly among populations at high risk of infection, in the event of asymptomatic transmission and potential transmission via aerosols is necessary. Monitoring efforts can be aided by incorporating mpox testing into locations where people are more likely to contract illnesses and seek medical attention. We must take a precautionary infection control approach to control the spread of the virus while completing urgent research to understand better the human-to-human mpox transmission process. Conclusions In this minireview, we discuss the potential routes of mpox transmission to healthcare and preventative strategies and measures that should be taken and considered. Graphical Abstract

The provision and planning for healthcare delivery in conflict is a pressing imperative. Healthcare within these environments is naturally complex, given the entanglement of affected populations, militaries and oft-deteriorating public services. The field of digital health, placed at the intersection of healthcare and technology, has the power to revolutionize healthcare delivery and improve health outcomes worldwide. Its impact is particularly significant in conflict zones, where it can address the unique challenges faced by these regions. Violence, damaged infrastructure, restricted mobility, forced migration, and overstretched healthcare facilities are all hallmarks of conflict zones that demand novel approaches to addressing them. Health care delivery is being revolutionized by the introduction of digital health technology in conflict zones, which are improving access, emergency response capacities, health information management, and mental health assistance. Doctors and aid organizations can more easily overcome challenges and reach out to underserved populations in these regions because to digital technological improvements. Recent decades have seen a shift in the nature of conflict, and with it, a corresponding shift in the range of digital health solutions available to address geographical, epidemiological, and clinical gaps. The purpose of this letter is to inquire into the application of digital health in conflict zones and its potential to lessen the pressing healthcare needs of affected communities.

The surge in severe neonatal sepsis cases caused by a novel variant of Echovirus 11 (E-11) in France and several European countries has sparked concern. The affected infants, mostly premature and twins, displayed rapid clinical decline within days after birth, presenting symptoms akin to septic shock with hepatic impairment and multi-organ failure. Laboratory findings revealed profound coagulopathy, low platelet counts, and acute renal failure, indicating severe disease progression. Genetic analysis identified a distinct recombinant E-11 lineage, previously unseen in France before July 2022. Despite its novelty, the exact pathogenicity remains uncertain. Although the World Health Organization downplaying immediate public health risks, the absence of a robust global surveillance program hinders accurate prevalence assessment. To mitigate the impact of this novel E-11 variant, establishing robust surveillance, refining diagnostic capabilities, and exploring therapeutic interventions such as intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) and pocapavir are imperative for effective management and prevention strategies.

Chrysanthemum is a flowering plant belonging to a genus of the dicotyledonous herbaceous annual flowering plant of the Asteraceae (Compositae) family. It is a perpetual flowering plant, mostly cultivated for medicinal purposes; generally, used in popular drinks due to its aroma and flavor. It is primarily cultivated in China, Japan, Europe, and United States. These flowers were extensively used in various healthcare systems and for treating various diseases. Chrysanthemum flowers are rich in phenolic compounds and exhibit strong properties including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-allergic, anti-obesity, immune regulation, hepatoprotective, and nephroprotective activities. The main aim of the present review was to investigate the nutritional profile, phytochemistry, and biological activities of flowers of different Chrysanthemum species. Also, a critical discussion of the diverse metabolites or bioactive constituents of the Chrysanthemum flowers is highlighted in the present review. Moreover, the flower extracts of Chrysanthemum have been assessed to possess a rich phytochemical profile, including compounds such as cyanidin-3-O-(6″-O-malonyl) glucoside, delphinidin 3-O-(6'' -O-malonyl) glucoside-3′, rutin, quercetin, isorhamnetin, rutinoside, and others. These profiles exhibit potential health benefits, leading to their utilization in the production of supplementary food products and pharmaceutical drugs within the industry. However, more comprehensive research studies/investigations are still needed to further discover the potential benefits for human and animal utilization.

Concerns about an increase in cases during the COVID-19 pandemic have been heightened by the emergence of a new Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 that joined the previously reported BF.7 as a source of public health concern. COVID-19 cases have been on the rise intermittently throughout the ongoing pandemic, likely because of the continuous introduction of SARS-CoV-2 subtypes. The present study analyzed the Indian citizen’s perceptions of the latest covid variants XBB.1.5 and BF.7 using the natural language processing technique, especially topic modeling and sentiment analysis. The tweets posted by Indian citizens regarding this issue were analyzed and used for this study. Government authorities, policymakers, and healthcare officials will be better able to implement the necessary policy effectively to tackle the XBB 1.5 and BF.7 crises if they are aware of the people’s sentiments and concerns about the crisis. A total of 8,54,312 tweets have been used for this study. Our sentiment analysis study has revealed that out of those 8,54,312 tweets, the highest number of tweets (n = 3,19,512 tweets (37.3%)) about COVID variants XBB.1.5 and BF.7 had neutral sentiments, 3,16,951 tweets (37.1%) showed positive sentiments and 2,17,849 tweets (25.4%) had negative sentiments. Fear of the future and concerns about the immunity of the vaccines are of prime concerns to tackle the ongoing pandemic.

SARS-CoV-2 is continually evolving with the emergence of new variants with increased viral pathogenicity. The emergence of heavily mutated Omicron (B.1.1.529) with spike protein mutations are known to mediate its higher transmissibility and immune escape that has brought newer challenges for global public health to contain SARS-CoV-2 infection. One has to come up with a therapeutic strategy against the virus so as to effectively contain the infection and spread. Natural phytochemicals are being considered a significant source of bioactive compounds possessing an antiviral therapeutic potential. Being a promising anticancer and chemo-preventive agent, Silybin holds a significant potential to be used as a therapeutic. In the present study, molecular docking of Silybin with Omicron spike protein (7QNW) was carried out. Molecular docking results showed greater stability of Silybin in the active site of the Omicron spike protein with suitable binding mode of interactions. The study reveals that Silybin has the potential to block the host ACE2 receptor-viral spike protein binding; thereby inhibiting the viral entry to human cells. Therefore, Silybin may be further developed as a medication with the ability to effectively combat SARS-CoV-2 Omicron.

A 7.8-magnitude earthquake in Turkey and Syria, followed by a 7.6-magnitude earthquake, caused over 50 000 deaths and over 100 000 injuries. The immediate physical injuries were severe, but the health repercussions, including the strain on healthcare services and the possibility of disease outbreaks, were equally concerning. Infections due to multidrug resistant microbes were also a matter of concern. Earthquake has caused not only loss of property and physical damage but also has a great negative impact on the mental health of the people. It is associated with serious psychological trauma. Moreover, the risk of malnutrition also became evident. Food aid and nutritional supplements can reduce the risk of malnutrition, but they are not a long-term solution. Establishment of sustainable food systems and restoration of agricultural productions are essential. Other demanding issues like derth of access to essential services related to health care, chances of child birth related complications following earthquake also need to be addressed. Emerging crises and disasters (conflicts, pandemics, epidemics), in addition to pre-existing conditions (collapsed health facilities, cold winter conditions, destruction of lifeline infrastructures, overcrowding in emergency shelters, poor sanitation, and unfavorable socio-economic conditions), may further exacerbate the already precarious public health situation and significantly delay the recovery process. The early warning and protection against the development of infectious diseases in earthquake-affected areas depend on good disease surveillance at the local and regional levels, which has been proposed as one of several techniques for prevention and management of infectious diseases in these areas. Our article outlines high-level approaches to reduce the risk of health issues among victims of Turkey and Syria.

S-allyl-L-cysteine (SAC) is a sulfur-containing substance found in aged garlic extract (AGE), which has been observed to have numerous biological activities, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Compared to intact garlic, SAC has fewer odors and decreased toxicity, making it a more appealing option for individuals looking to gain the health benefits of garlic without experiencing unpleasant side effects such as indigestion and bad breath. SAC has been found to have potent antioxidant effects, protecting the body against oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. This may be particularly beneficial for those with chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer, where oxidative stress plays a key role in disease progression. Additionally, SAC has anti-inflammatory effects, which may help prevent or manage conditions associated with chronic inflammation, such as arthritis, asthma, and Alzheimer's disease. SAC is a chemically and physiologically fascinating substance with multiple pharmacological qualities, and as research continues into its potential health benefits, it may become an increasingly popular dietary supplement. The main aim of this work is to provide a comprehensive overview on physicochemical nature, mechanism, pharmacokinetics, and physiological functions of SAC.

In many third world countries, where rabies is endemic in dog populations, humans continue to be at risk of contracting the disease. Vaccination is the most effective form of prophylaxis for people, yet it often fails to adequately protect dogs. The most major implications are the costs of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) after an exposure occurs and the loss of human life and productivity due to early mortality from rabies (about 60,000 deaths annually). The largest rabies death tolls can be found in the world’s poorest regions, where rabies vaccinations for domestic dogs are uncommon and PEP is scarce. Mass vaccination of dogs, neutering programs, patient PEP, strengthening laboratory and human resources, education and awareness, and animal and human rabies surveillance are all common methods used to prevent, control, and ultimately eradicate dog-mediated human rabies. Current rabies control initiatives, however, pay little attention to the role that ecological and socioeconomic variables play in the disease’s occurrence and spread. To help better inform rabies control strategies, we address in this work the ways in which ecological and socioeconomic factors affect the occurrence and spread of rabies.

Recent cases of monkeypox (MPX), a zoonotic illness caused by monkeypox virus (MPXV), outside of Africa have prompted international public health concerns. The emergence, re-emergence, and global dispersion of zoonoses are profoundly impacted by a wide variety of causes, including but not limited to climate change, urbanization, animal migration, quick means of travel and tourism, vector biology, anthropogenic influences, and natural factors. Human MPX was first identified in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in 1970, and since then it has spread throughout Africa, particularly to West and Central Africa, with some instances even emerging outside of Africa. Since the 1970s, there has been an increasing trend in the occurrence of human MPX, with the DRC seeing the largest increase. The median age at first presentation has increased from 4 years in the 1970s to 21 years in the current time. The total fatality rate was 8.7%, although there was a significant variation between clades: Central African (10.6%) and West African (3.6%). Since 2003, sporadic outbreaks have occurred outside of Africa due to imports and travel-related dissemination. Risky practices that could lead to contracting MPX include having contact with infected animals or people. There is still much to learn about MPXV, such as the reason for the sudden increase in cases while travel links from endemic countries have not yet been established profoundly, identity the natural reservoir animal(s), make advances in diagnostics, increase surveillance and monitoring, carry out in-depth epidemiological investigations, genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, explore the reasons for the changing epidemiology and evolving nature of the virus, its ecological niche, and the discovery of effective treatment and management of MPX. This l mini-review aims to reveal an increase in the number of reported cases of MPX worldwide, with the highest concentration in the DRC, as well as its spread to other countries and a shift in the median age of patients from infants to teenagers and young adults highlighting from older years to current 2022 MPX outbreaks. Some cross-protection against MPX was provided by smallpox vaccination, suggesting that its discontinuation may have contributed to an increase in human-to-human transmission. The disease’s worldwide significance is underscored by the fact that it has spread beyond Africa. As the epidemiology of this resurging disease is constantly shifting, surveillance and detection programs are crucial to keeping up with it.

The development and evolution of viruses that cause disease have presented a formidable challenge to contemporary medicine and the global economy, not to mention a catastrophic risk to human health. Almost all of these viruses are zoonotic, meaning they were first identified in animals and then spread to humans. An emerging virus may cause only a few isolated instances, resulting in a limited outbreak, or it may cause widespread infection and spread to other parts of the world, triggering a full-blown epidemic. These kinds of emerging occurrences have occurred frequently and in many different forms during the past few decades. Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the orthopox family that also includes variola, cowpox, and vaccinia. Both animals and humans can get infected by this virus. Similar to smallpox this disease shows less severe rashes and lower mortality rate. The outbreak of monkeypox was declared a global public health emergency by the World Health Organization in July 2022. Unknown mutations and variations are linked to the recent epidemic. Presently, FDA approved tecovirimat, cidofovir and brincidofovir are there in market to treat monkeypox virus. But there are some side effects of these drugs as they are synthetic. So, scientists are working on natural remedies that can be used as alternative to these drugs. In the present study virtual screening of phytochemicals (N-(2-Allylcarbamoyl-4-chloro-phenyl)-3,4-dimethoxy-benzamide, 6-Dimethylaminonaphthene-1-sulfonicacid amide, Oleic Acid and dipentyl ester) from Allophylus serratus were employed against core viral cysteine proteases from monkeypox virus was done. The docking study revealed that selected ligands bind with target viral protein with binding affinity in the range of -5.0 to -6.7 kcal/mol. N-(2-Allylcarbamoyl-4-chloro-phenyl)-3,4-dimethoxy-benzamide showed the highest binding affinity of -6.7 kcal/mol which can be investigated in the future to design potential drugs against monkeypox virus. Thus, this study foresees the possibility of bioactive phytochemicals functioning as template molecules for further experimental evaluation of their efficiency against monkeypox virus.

Monkeypox is a zoonotic viral infection caused by monkeypox virus which belongs to the Poxviridae family of genus Orthopoxvirus. Usually, the virus transmission happens when the individual comes in contact with the infected person through body fluids, animal lesions, respiratory droplets or through virus contaminated materials. Clinical presentation of the monkeypox has shown significant resemblance to that of smallpox and chickenpox, belonging to the same orthopoxvirus genus but were eradicated during 1980s globally. Monkeypox may lead to a range of medical complications including clinical symptoms like fever, rashes, headaches, back pain, myodynia and swollen lymph nodes. As far as the treatment modalities are concerned, the antiviral therapeutic agents developed for the smallpox treatment, were also permitted to be used for the monkeypox treatment. However, there is no proven treatment for human monkeypox. In the current study, we have focused on designing of a best probable ligand against the target MPXVgp158 (Monkeypox virus protein). Since Tecovirimat is an FDA approved compound known as an antipoxviral drug, the study aimed to develop a Monkeypox virus protein MPXVgp158 inhibitor which is bioavailable and biocompatible as well through drug designing using computational tools. Molecular docking (MD) analysis displayed Tecovirimat with lesser binding energy, higher non-bonded interaction capability, and more stability against MPXVgp158, with efficient binding mode of interactions. Hence, Tecovirimat was adjudged to be the potential candidate against MPXVgp158 inhibition.

Monkeypox virus is an orthopoxvirus sharing the common genus with variola and vaccinia virus. Most of the monkeypox (MPX) cases had been reported from the central and west African region (the main endemic areas) prior to 2022 but there was a sudden outbreak in May, 2022 disseminating the infections to thousands of people even in non-endemic countries, posing a global public health emergency. MPX was considered a rae and neglected disease, however the 2022 MPX outbreaks in multiple countries attracted attention of worldwide researchers to pace up for carrying out researches on various aspects of MPXV including attempts to design and develop diagnostics, vaccines, drugs and therapeutics counteract MPX. Apart from being a zoonotic disease, the current outbreaks highlighted rapid human-to-human transmission of MPXV, besides the reverse zoonosis has also been documented with recent first report of human-to-dog transmission, urging a call for the importance of one health approach. Atypical and unusual disease manifestations as well asymptomatic MPXV infections have also been observed during 2022 MPX outbreak. The affected patients typically develop a rash resulting in a mild disease followed by recovery with some supportive care and use of antivirals such as tecovirimat, cidofovir and brincidofovir in severe disease cases. Modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vaccine with an excellent safety profile has been recommended to patients with higher risk exposure and immunocompromised individuals. Moreover, another vaccine the replication-competent vaccine (ACAM2000) could be a suitable alternative to MVA’s non-availability to some selective immunocompetent individuals. Current review highlights the salient aspects of management and treatment of monkeypox along with underlying promises in terms of therapeutics and a variety of challenges posed due to current global public health emergency situation to counteract MPX.

Monkeypox (MPX) is a zoonotic disease that is endemic to the western and central regions of Africa and it is caused by monkeypox virus (MPXV), which is classified as a member of the Poxviridae family, specifically the Chordopoxvirinae subfamily, and the Orthopoxvirus genus. The current multiregional outbreak of MPX, which started in May of 2022, has since swiftly spread across the globe and thus has been declared a global public health emergency by the World Health Organization (WHO). Protective immunity against MPXV can be achieved by administering a smallpox vaccination, as the two viruses share antigenic properties. Although smallpox was declared eradicated in 1980, the vaccine campaign was halted the following year, leaving the population with significantly less immunity than it had before. The potential for human-to-human transmission of MPXV has grown as a result. Due to the lack of a particular treatment for MPX infection, anti-viral medications initially designed for the smallpox virus are being employed. However, the prognosis for MPX may vary depending on factors like immunization history, pre-existing illnesses, and comorbidities, even though the majority of persons who develop MPX have a mild, self-limiting illness. Vaccines and antiviral drugs are being researched as potential responses to the latest 2022 MPX epidemic. The first-generation smallpox vaccinations maintained in national stockpiles of several countries are not recommended due to not meeting the current safety and manufacturing criteria, as stated by the WHO. Newer, safer (second- and third-generation) smallpox vaccines, such as JYNNEOSTM, which has been licensed for the prevention of MPX, are indicated as potentially useful in the interim guideline. Studies on vaccines and antiviral drugs are still being investigated as possible remedies to the recent MPX outbreak. This mini-review article serves as a retrospective look at the evolution of smallpox vaccines from their inception in the 1700s to the current trends up to the end of year 2022, specifically for developing monkeypox vaccines.

The 2022 Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup will take place in Qatar and will be a one-of-a-kind mega-crowd gathering. This is the first time in history that people from all over the world would gather in such a concentrated place. There is a higher chance of spreading zoonotic illnesses from one community to another among those who travel internationally, therefore tourists should be aware of the dangers they may face and take precautions. The public health system of the country hosting the event must be equipped to avoid the spread of zoonotic diseases considering the current global climate. The potential for an increase in cases of COVID-19 and monkeypox is notably heightened by this event. Possible exotic diseases such as the Marburg virus disease could also be spread. Due to Qatar’s inexperience in hosting such major events, it is crucial to invest heavily in training for the early identification of infectious illnesses and the prevention of their spread among event attendees. Visitors to Qatar 2022 should acquire the most up-to-date information available and be aware of the usual precautions that should be followed. Your immunization record must be up to date. Hospitals and other medical facilities in Qatar would be wise to increase their readiness for mass casualty occurrences given that this small location is hosting such an event for the first time. To better meet the health needs of its population, the government of Qatar should promote health advice materials in different languages and keep an adequate supply on hand. The potential for the emergence of zoonotic diseases is briefly reviewed here considering the upcoming FIFA World Cup in 2022.

Abstract Background A biennial or perennial plant of the Apiaceae family, Eryngium caeruleum M. Bieb. is traditionally used in medicine as an antitoxic, diuretic, digestive, anti-inflammatory and analgesic drug. This plant is widely distributed in temperate regions around the world. Young leaves of the plant are used in cooking as aromatic cooked vegetables in various local products in Iran. Purpose The current review aimed to highlight complete and updated information about the Eryngium caeruleum species, regarding botanical, ethnopharmacological, phytochemical data, pharmacological mechanisms as well as some nutritional properties. All this scientific evidence supports the use of this species in complementary medicine, thus opening new therapeutic perspectives for the treatment of some diseases. Methods The information provided in this updated review is collected from several scientific databases such as PubMed/Medline, ScienceDirect, Mendeley, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Ethnopharmacology books and various professional websites were also researched. Results The phytochemical composition of the aerial parts and roots of E. caeruleum is represented by the components of essential oil (EO), phenolic compounds, saponins, protein, amino acids, fiber, carbohydrates, and mineral elements. The antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, antihypoxic, and anti-inflammatory properties of E. caeruleum have been confirmed by pharmacological experiments with extracts using in vitro and in vivo methods. The syrup E. caeruleum relieved dysmenorrhea as effectively as Ibuprofen in the blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study. Conclusion Current evidence from experimental pharmacological studies has shown that the different bioactive compounds present in the species E. caeruleum have multiple beneficial effects on human health, being potentially active in the treatment of many diseases. Thus, the traditional uses of this species are supported based on evidence. In future, translational and human clinical studies are necessary to establish effective therapeutic doses in humans.

Currently, the incidence of metabolic disorders is increasing, setting a challenge to global health. With major advancement in the diagnostic tools and clinical procedures, much has been known in the etiology of metabolic disorders and their corresponding pathophysiologies. In addition, the use of in vitro and in vivo experimental models prior to clinical studies has promoted numerous biomedical breakthroughs, including in the discovery and development of drug candidates to treat metabolic disorders. Indeed, chemicals isolated from natural products have been extensively studied as prospective drug candidates to manage diabetes, obesity, heart-related diseases, and cancer, partly due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Continuous efforts have been made in parallel to improve their bioactivity and bioavailability using selected drug delivery approaches. Here, we provide insights on recent progress in the role of inflammatory-mediated responses on the initiation of metabolic disorders, with particular reference to diabetes mellitus, obesity, heart-related diseases, and cancer. In addition, we discussed the prospective role of natural products in the management of diabetes, obesity, heart-related diseases, and cancers and provide lists of potential biological targets for high throughput screening in drug discovery and development. Lastly, we discussed findings observed in the preclinical and clinical studies prior to identifying suitable approaches on the phytochemical drug delivery systems that are potential to be used in the treatment of metabolic disorders.

Abstract Across the world, traffic accidents cause major health problems and are of concern to health institutions; nearly 1.35 million people are killed or disabled in traffic accidents every year. In 2019, 93% of road traffic injury‐related mortality occurred in low‐ and middle‐income countries with an estimated burden of 1.3 million deaths. This issue is growing; by 2030, road traffic injuries will be the seventh leading cause of death globally. The present report highlights an overview of road traffic accidents, accidental injuries, and deaths, associated risk factors, important precautions, safety rules, and counteracting management strategies. In modern cultures, road accidents are a major source of death and serious injuries. Road traffic injuries are a substantial yet underserved public health issue around the world that requires immediate attention. To prevent accidents in the long term, it is essential to adopt conservative preventive measures that can minimize collisions and promote a safe road environment.

The World Health Organization (WHO) proclaimed a public health emergency in July 2022 due to the emergence of Mpox (formerly monkeypox) while the globe was still dealing with the COVID-19 epidemic. The characteristics of mpox in immunocompetent individuals are well-characterized, despite difficulties in diagnostics, immunization, and access to treatment that persist in low-income countries. Patients with weakened immune systems are more likely to spread an illness and die from it than healthy people because they cannot mount a protective immune response against it, such as a neutralizing IgG and poxvirus-specific Th1 response. A health warning on severe mpox in people who are immunocompromised due to Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other illnesses was released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on September 29, 2022. The advice does not specifically include primary immunodeficiency, but it does define other immunocompromising disorders as “having autoimmune disease with immunodeficiency as a clinical component”. Both those with healthy immune systems and those with weakened immune systems, such as those who are immunosuppressed, older people, children, etc., have encountered serious health issues, but the latter group is more likely to do so. According to the advisory, “of the people with severe mpox manifestations for whom CDC has been consulted, the majority have had HIV with CD4 counts 200 cells/ml, indicating substantial immunosuppression”. However, new cases are still expected to be discovered, especially in low-income countries with limited access to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, and where a large percentage of the mpox-infected population also has advanced HIV infection. Thus, further research is always needed to determine the best way to treat mpox in immunocompromised people. In this context, we discussed /reviewed the mpox clinical presentation, available treatment options and current preventive guidelines in immunocompromised patients.

Subclinical mastitis (SCM), the asymptomatic inflammation of breast tissue, is the most common form of mastitis in livestock. SCM prevalence and risk factors in dairy animals in Western Chitwan, Bagmati Province, Nepal, were the primary objectives of this study. Out of 243 dairy animals, 104 representing 42.8% were positive for SCM in the California mastitis test (CMT) in the study area. At the quarter level, out of 972 active quarters tested for SCM, 188 (19.3%) were positive to CMT test. The prevalence of Staphylococcal SCM was 39.92% (97/243) and 18.21% (177/972) at animal level and quarter level, respectively. Coagulase Negative Staphylococcus (CNS) (46.33%) was the most prevalent Staphylococcus to cause SCM at quarter level. While at animal level, SCM due to occurrence of both S. aureus and CNS (36.08%) in an individual was more common. High susceptibility towards Amikacin, Ceftriaxone and Gentamicin was seen against both isolates. Low resistance against Amikacin and Ceftriaxone was seen against both isolates. Ciprofloxacin (41.2% vs 27.4%) and Gentamicin (37.8% vs 23.2%) were more resistance towards CNS whereas Enrofloxacin (41.1% vs 25.2%) and Tetracycline (36.8% vs 15.1%) were more resistant towards S. aureus. Older aged, multiparous and late lactating animals had the highest prevalence of staphylococcal SCM i.e., 58.1%, 56% and 52.6%, respectively. The study concludes that there is a high prevalence of Staphylococcal SCM in Western Chitwan, Nepal. CNS is the most common mastitis pathogen. Increased antimicrobial resistance to S. aureus and CNS could be the result of the indiscriminate use of antibiotic drugs without an antibiotic susceptibility test (AST). This study emphasizes the importance of ongoing antibiotic surveillance, excellent farm and animal hygiene, and suitable housing and feeding management.

As calorie-consciousness becomes a worldwide phenomenon, demand for low-calorie sweeteners is increasing. Compared to other sugars, the reduced calorific value of mannitol (1.6 kilocalories per gram) finds its application as a sweetener in low-calorie foods. The present study was conducted to develop low-calorie yoghurt by adding lactic acid bacteria (LAB) having significant mannitol production potential. Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides IMAU:11666 was incorporated to standard yoghurt culture as adjunct culture. As mannitol is a food-grade sweetener with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) endorsement, the newly identified LAB strain can be used to develop low-calorie dairy products with beneficial effects. Side effects of other artificial sweeteners can also be reduced. Significantly high (p≤0.05) mannitol content was observed in functional yoghurt samples T1 (12.27 ± 0.18 g/l) and T2 (14.13 ± 0.30 g/l) with Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides when compared to control samples. The calorific value obtained for yoghurt samples viz., C1, C2, T1, and T2 (86, 95, 98, and 92 kcal/100g, respectively) was less than control yoghurt C (99 kcal/100 gm). Microbial and chemical quality parameters of the functional yoghurt were in the safe and acceptable zone. On sensory evaluation of yoghurt samples, significantly higher overall and flavor scores were observed for sample T2 with Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides.

Honey bee products comprise various compounds, including honey, propolis, royal jelly, bee pollen, bee wax and bee venom, which have long been recognized for their pharmacological and health-promoting benefits. Scientists have discovered that periodontal disorders stem from dental biofilm, an inflammatory response to bacterial overgrowth produced by dysbiosis in the oral microbiome. The bee products have been investigated for their role in prevention of oral diseases, which are attributed to a myriad of biologically active compounds including flavonoids (pinocembrin, catechin, caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) and galangin), phenolic acids (hydroxybenzoic acid, hydroxycinnamic acid, p-coumaric, ellagic, caffeic and ferulic acids) and terpenoids. This review aims to update the current understanding of role of selected bee products, namely, honey, propolis and royal jelly, in preventing oral diseases as well as their potential biological activities and mechanism of action in relation to oral health have been discussed. Furthermore, the safety of incorporation of bee products is also critically discussed. To summarize, bee products could potentially serve as a therapy option for people suffering from a variety of oral disorders.

A group of bioactive, isoprenoid pigments known as carotenoids is mostly present in fruits and vegetables. Carotenoids are essential for the prevention of physiological issues, which makes maintaining excellent health easier. They are effective functional ingredients with potent health-promoting properties that are widely present in our food and linked to a decrease in the prevalence of chronic diseases, including respiratory diseases. Respiratory infections are the primary cause of death and life-threatening conditions globally, wreaking havoc on the global health system. People rely on dietary sources of carotenoids to reduce a plethora of respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, asthma, and so on. Carotenoids have received a lot of interest recently in several parts of the world due to their therapeutic potential in altering the pathogenic pathways underlying inflammatory respiratory diseases, which may improve disease control and have beneficial health benefits. This review aimed to provide a thorough understanding of the therapeutic potential of dietary carotenoids in the treatment of respiratory diseases and to identify possible candidates for novel therapeutic development.

Fucoxanthin (FX) is a special carotenoid having an allenic bond in its structure. FX is extracted from a variety of algae and edible seaweeds. It has been proved to contain numerous health benefits and preventive effects against diseases like diabetes, obesity, liver cirrhosis, malignant cancer, etc. Thus, FX can be used as a potent source of both pharmacological and nutritional ingredient to prevent infectious diseases. In this review, we gathered the information regarding the current findings on antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, skin protective, anti-obesity, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and other properties of FX including its bioavailability and stability characteristics. This review aims to assist further biochemical studies in order to develop further pharmaceutical assets and nutritional products in combination with FX and its various metabolites.

Cancer is a life-threatening disease caused by the uncontrolled division of cells, which culminates in a solid mass of cells known as a tumor or liquid cancer. It is the leading cause of mortality worldwide, and the number of cancer patients has been increasing at an alarming rate, with an estimated 20 million cases expected by 2030. Thus, the use of complementary or alternative therapeutic techniques that can help prevent cancer has been the subject of increased attention. Garlic, the most widely used plant medicinal product, exhibits a wide spectrum of biological activities, including antibacterial, hypo-lipidemic, antithrombotic, and anticancer effects. Diallyl disulfide (DADS) is a major organosulfur compound contained within garlic. Recently, several experimental studies have demonstrated that DADS exhibits anti-tumor activity against many types of tumor cells, including gynecological cancers (cervical cancer, ovarian cancer), hematological cancers (leukemia, lymphoma), lung cancer, neural cancer, skin cancer, prostate cancer, gastrointestinal tract and associated cancers (esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, colorectal cancer), hepatocellular cancer cell line, etc. The mechanisms behind the anticancer action of DADS include epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, and migration. This article aims to review the available information regarding the anti-cancer potential of DADS, as well as summarize its mechanisms of action, bioavailability, and pharmacokinetics from published clinical and toxicity studies.

In the past few years, phytochemicals from natural products have gotten the boundless praise in treating cancer. The promising role of cruciferous vegetables and active components contained in these vegetables, such as isothiocyanates, indole-3-carbinol, and isothiocyanates, has been widely researched in experimental in vitro and in vivo carcinogenesis models. The chemopreventive agents produced from the cruciferous vegetables were recurrently proven to affect carcinogenesis throughout the onset and developmental phases of cancer formation. Likewise, findings from clinical investigations and epidemiological research supported this statement. The anticancer activities of these functional foods bioactive compounds are closely related to their ability to upregulate p53 and its related target genes, e.g., p21. As the “guardian of the genome,” the p53 family (p53, p63, and p73) plays a pivotal role in preventing the cancer progression associated with DNA damage. This review discusses the functional foods bioactive compounds derived from several cruciferous vegetables and their use in altering the tumor-suppressive effect of p53 proteins. The association between the mutation of p53 and the incidence of gastrointestinal malignancies (gastric, small intestine, colon, liver, and pancreatic cancers) is also discussed. This review contains crucial information about the use of cruciferous vegetables in the treatment of gastrointestinal tract malignancies.

Metals serve important roles in the human body, including the maintenance of cell structure and the regulation of gene expression, the antioxidant response, and neurotransmission. High metal uptake in the nervous system is harmful because it can cause oxidative stress, disrupt mitochondrial function, and impair the activity of various enzymes. Metal accumulation can cause lifelong deterioration, including severe neurological problems. There is a strong association between accidental metal exposure and various neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common form of dementia that causes degeneration in the aged. Chronic exposure to various metals is a well-known environmental risk factor that has become more widespread due to the rapid pace at which human activities are releasing large amounts of metals into the environment. Consequently, humans are exposed to both biometals and heavy metals, affecting metal homeostasis at molecular and biological levels. This review highlights how these metals affect brain physiology and immunity and their roles in creating harmful proteins such as β-amyloid and tau in AD. In addition, we address findings that confirm the disruption of immune-related pathways as a significant toxicity mechanism through which metals may contribute to AD.

A study was undertaken to find out the morbidity and mortality pattern in the goat population of Kerala. Factors such as cause, age, sex, breed, season and year were included in the study. Data were collected from 3925 goats maintained at The Goat and Sheep Farm, KVASU, Mannuthy for six years from 2011 to 2017 to assess the effect of different factors. Data pertaining to 2649 goats from 2013 to 2017 were analysed to find out the morbidity pattern among goats. The overall mortality rate was 11.76 per cent. Among the various causes of mortality, the results of this study indicated that mortality due to enteritis was the highest (40.60 %) followed by that due to pneumonia (22.88%) and acidosis (10.40%). The effect of age, season, sex and year on goat mortality were significant (p

The rapid spread of monkeypox (mpox) has been declared as a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). The present study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and worry levels of the general population in the Kurdistan region of Iraq regarding the ongoing mpox multi-country outbreak. An online cross-sectional survey was conducted between 27–30 July 2022, using a convenience sampling method. The questionnaire was adapted from previous studies addressing the same topic. The independent Student’s t-test, one-way ANOVA, and logistic regression were used to assess possible factors associated with knowledge, attitude, and worry toward mpox. A total of 510 respondents were included in the final analysis. The participants showed a moderate level of mpox knowledge, a neutral attitude towards mpox, and a relatively moderate worry level. The logistic regression analysis showed that age, gender, marital status, religion, level of education, and place of residence were associated with mpox knowledge; however, the significant variables in the multivariate regression analysis were gender, religion, level of education, and residential area. Gender and residential area were associated with attitudes toward mpox; however, the significant variables in the multivariate regression analysis were gender and residential areas. The worry toward mpox was influenced by gender, marital status, religion, and place of residence, yet the significant variables in the multivariate regression analysis were gender, religion, educational level, and residential area. In conclusion, the Kurdish population had moderate knowledge, a neutral attitude, and a moderate level of worry about mpox. Considering the continuous rapid rise in mpox cases in several countries, and its possible risk as pandemic amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, proactive control measures, adequate disease prevention strategies, and preparedness plans need to be formulated and immediately implemented to tackle the appearance of fears among people, and to safeguard the mental health of the public.

Huge quantities of byproducts/wastes generated in onion processing are usually discarded, but they are excellent sources of bioactive compounds and phytochemicals. However, with growing interest in the sustainable use of resources and the circular economy to reduce adverse impacts on the environment, food processing wastes such as onion peel/skin can be extracted and employed as inputs in developing or reformulating nutrient supplements, and pharmacological drugs. This review highlights major bioactive components, especially total phenolics, total flavonoid, quercetin and its derivatives present in onion peel/skin and their therapeutic applications as cardioprotective, neuroprotective, antiobesity, antidiabetic, anticancer and antimicrobial agents. The present review emphasized that onion peel is one of the important agricultural by-products which is rich in bioactive compounds and can be utilized as health promoting ingredient especially in pharmacological and biomedical fields. Thus, with increasing burden of life style disorders/non-communicable diseases, finding suitable natural alternative for their treatment is one major concern of the researchers and onion peel and its extract can be exploited as a prime ingredient.

Ksheerabala residue is a by-product obtained during the preparation of ksheerabala oil which is made by incorporating bala (Sida cordifolia), cow milk and gingelly oil (Sesamum indicum). This residue is available in considerable quantity and many farmers use this byproduct for feeding livestock. But the level of incorporation and the effect of Ksheerabala residue on growth in rats are not yet well studied. Hence, the present study was planned to evaluate the effect of dietary incorporation of Ksheerabala residue as a feed resource in the diet of Wistar rats on their performance. Twenty-four male Wistar albino rats weighing 80 ± 5g were used as experimental animals and were allotted randomly to two treatments of six replicates each. Group 1 was fed basal diet as per BIS specification (control-T1 ) and other group was fed a diet containing 5 per cent Ksheerabala residue (T2). The average body weight, body weight gain, dry matter intake, haematological and biochemical parameters were found to be similar in both the groups (P >0.05). The results of the present study indicate that Ksheerabala residue can be included in the rat ration up to five per cent level without any adverse effect on their growth performance.

Lactoferrin, a minor whey protein present mainly in milk as well as in small quantities in most of the secretions of the body, has a wide range of biological activities to its credit including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer and immunomodulatory properties. A low molecular weight peptideisolated from the pepsin hydrolysate of lactoferrin called aslactoferricin B, has been found to be more functionally active than its parent compound. The present work focussed on the isolationbof lactoferrin from the colostrumof Malabari goats by cation exchange chromatography, followed by the assessment of its molecular weight by SDS-PAGE andits characterization by dot blot assay and western blotting. The concentration of lactoferrin as estimated by Lowry’s method was found tob be 15.103 mg/L of colostrum. Lactoferrin was hydrolysed by treatment with three per cent porcine pepsin under acidic conditions to form lactoferrin pepsin hydrolysate. The results of this study pointnto a single one step method to obtain pure lactoferrin from goats and further preparation of its pepsin hydrolysate.

With the advent of pandemics and infectious diseases, numerous research activities on natural products have been carried out to combat them. Researchers are investigating natural products for the treatment and/or management of various infectious diseases and/or disorders. Acacia catechu (L.f.) Willd. belongs to the family Fabaceae (subfamily Mimosoideae) known as Khair or Cutch tree, possesses diverse pharmacological actions, and has been widely used in Asia and different parts of the world. The purpose of the present study is to highlight the phytochemical profile of different parts of A. catechu, the different biological activities of A. catechu extract, and the utilization of A. catechu as food and beverage. The present work constitutes a review of A. catechu; we performed searches (books, Google, Google Scholar, and Scopus publications) to compile the work/investigations made on A. catechu to the present. From our survey, it was concluded that the main phytochemicals compounds in A. catechu are protocatechuic acid, taxifolin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin, catechin, epicatechin gallate, procyanidin, phloroglucin, aldobiuronic acid, gallic acid, D-galactose, afzelchin gum, L-arabinose, D-rhamnose, and quercetin. The whole plant of A. catechu possesses a comprehensive variety of medicinal potentials such as antimicrobial, antidiarrheal, antinociceptive, antihyperlipidemic, antiulcer, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antiproliferative, haemolytic, and anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of bioactive compounds like flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins. However, even though the plant’s metabolites were reported to have many different pharmacological uses, there is limited information about their toxicity or clinical trials. Further research on diverse metabolites of A. catechu should be carried out to ensure the safety or utilization of this plant in the pharma or food industries and in the development of potent plant-based drugs.

Pectin is an acidic heteropolysaccharide found in the cell walls and the primary and middle lamella of land plants. To be authorized as a food additive, industrial pectins must meet strict guidelines set forth by the Food and Agricultural Organization and must contain at least 65% polygalacturonic acid to achieve the E440 level. Fruit pectin derived from oranges or apples is commonly used in the food industry to gel or thicken foods and to stabilize acid-based milk beverages. It is a naturally occurring component and can be ingested by dietary consumption of fruit and vegetables. Preventing long-term chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease is an important role of dietary carbohydrates. Colon and breast cancer are among the diseases for which data suggest that modified pectin (MP), specifically modified citrus pectin (MCP), has beneficial effects on the development and spread of malignancies, in addition to its benefits as a soluble dietary fiber. Cellular and animal studies and human clinical trials have provided corroborating data. Although pectin has many diverse functional qualities, this review focuses on various modifications used to develop MP and its benefits for cancer prevention, bioavailability, clinical trials, and toxicity studies. This review concludes that pectin has anti-cancer characteristics that have been found to inhibit tumor development and proliferation in a wide variety of cancer cells. Nevertheless, further clinical and basic research is required to confirm the chemopreventive or therapeutic role of specific dietary carbohydrate molecules.

Stem cells are a well-known autologous pluripotent cell source, having excellent potential to develop into specialized cells, such as brain, skin, and bone marrow cells. The oral cavity is reported to be a rich source of multiple types of oral stem cells, including the dental pulp, mucosal soft tissues, periodontal ligament, and apical papilla. Oral stem cells were useful for both the regeneration of soft tissue components in the dental pulp and mineralized structure regeneration, such as bone or dentin, and can be a viable substitute for traditionally used bone marrow stem cells. In recent years, several studies have reported that plant extracts or compounds promoted the proliferation, differentiation, and survival of different oral stem cells. This review is carried out by following the PRISMA guidelines and focusing mainly on the effects of bioactive compounds on oral stem cell-mediated dental, bone, and neural regeneration. It is observed that in recent years studies were mainly focused on the utilization of oral stem cell-mediated regeneration of bone or dental mesenchymal cells, however, the utility of bioactive compounds on oral stem cell-mediated regeneration requires additional assessment beyond in vitro and in vivo studies, and requires more randomized clinical trials and case studies.

Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa (Bael) fruit, a member of the Rutaceae family, is a major cultivated fruit plant in tropical and subtropical regions in countries of southeast Asia. Bael fruit has been a major topic for studies in recent years mainly due to its high nutritional (carbohydrates, proteins, minerals, and vitamins) value and presence of various phytochemicals, which attributed to its high medicinal value. These phytochemicals include various compounds, e.g., alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids (protocatechuic acid, gallic, and ellagic acid). The fruit extract of bael has been also an important study area for its pharmacological activities, including antidiarrheal, antioxidant, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, radioprotective, anticancer, antiulcer properties. The current review mainly highlighted the nutritional and pharmacological activities of bael fruit. The nutritional profile and phytochemical profile were discussed in the review, along with their concentration in the fruit. Moreover, the experiments carried out in vivo and in vitro of bael fruit extracts with respect to their pharmacological activities were also discussed in the article. The recent literature based on nutritional and pharmacological values of bael fruit showed its high potential as a food and pharmaceutical product. Despite having high nutritional and pharmacological value, research related to molecular mechanisms of bael fruit is still limited, and clinical trials are needed to ensure its safety as a product in the food and pharma industries.

Melissa officinalis L. is a plant of the Lamiaceae family known in numerous countries for its medicinal activities. This plant has been used since ancient times to treat different disorders, including gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neurological, psychological conditions. M. officinalis contains several phytochemicals such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and many others at the basis of its pharmacological activities. Indeed, the plant can have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, nephroprotective, antinociceptive effects. Given its consolidated use, M. officinalis has also been experimented with clinical settings, demonstrating interesting properties against different human diseases, such as anxiety, sleeping difficulties, palpitation, hypertension, depression, dementia, infantile colic, bruxism, metabolic problems, Alzheimer’s disease, and sexual disorders. As for any natural compound, drug, or plant extract, also M. officinalis can have adverse effects, even though the reported events are very rare and the plant can be considered substantially safe. This review has been prepared with a specific research strategy, interrogating different databases with the keyword M. officinalis. Moreover, this work analyzes the properties of this plant updating currently available literature, with a special emphasis on human studies.

Periodontal diseases are caused mainly by inflammation of the gums and bones surrounding the teeth or by dysbiosis of the oral microbiome, and the Global Burden of Disease study (2019) reported that periodontal disease affects 20–50% of the global population. In recent years, more preference has been given to natural therapies compared to synthetic drugs in the treatment of periodontal disease, and several oral care products, such as toothpaste, mouthwash, and dentifrices, have been developed comprising honeybee products, such as propolis, honey, royal jelly, and purified bee venom. In this study, we systematically reviewed the literature on the treatment of periodontitis using honeybee products. A literature search was performed using various databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Scopus, clinicaltrials.gov, and Google Scholar. A total of 31 studies were reviewed using eligibility criteria published between January 2016 and December 2021. In vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies (randomized clinical trials) were included. Based on the results of these studies, honeybee products, such as propolis and purified bee venom, were concluded to be effective and safe for use in the treatment of periodontitis mainly due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. However, to obtain reliable results from randomized clinical trials assessing the effectiveness of honeybee products in periodontal treatment with long-term follow-up, a broader sample size and assessment of various clinical parameters are needed.

The Withania genus comes from the Solanaceae family and includes around 23 species, spread over some areas of the Mediterranean, Asia, and East Africa. Widely used in traditional medicine for thousands of years, these plants are rich in secondary metabolites, with special emphasis on steroidal lactones, named withanolides which are used as ingredients in numerous formulations for a plethora of diseases, such as asthma, diabetes, arthritis, impotence, amnesia, hypertension, anxiety, stress, cancer, neurodegenerative, and cardiovascular diseases, and many others. Among them, Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal is the most widely addressed species from a pharmacological and agroindustrial point of view. In this sense, this review provides an overview of the folk uses, phytochemical composition, and biological activity, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic activity of W. somnifera, although more recently other species have also been increasingly investigated. In addition, their health-promoting effects, i.e., antistress, anxiolytic, adaptogenic, antirheumatoid arthritis, chemoprotective, and cardiorespiratory-enhancing abilities, along with safety and adverse effects are also discussed.

The tomato is a member of the Solanaceae family and is a crop that is widely cultivated around the world due to its sweet, sour, salty, juicy, and nutritious berries. The processing of tomatoes generates a significant amount of waste in the form of tomato pomace, which includes seeds and skin. Tomato seeds are reservoirs of various nutrients, such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, minerals, and vitamins. These components make tomato seeds an important ingredient for application in food matrices. This review discusses the functional food properties of tomato seeds and their scope of utilization as major ingredients in the functional food industry. In addition, this review describes the development of tomato seeds as a potential nutritional and nutraceutical ingredient, along with recent updates on research conducted worldwide. This is the first review that demonstrates the nutritional profile of tomato seeds along with its diverse functional food properties and application as a functional food ingredient.

Guava (Psidium guajava L.) fruit is also known as the apple of tropics, belongs to the family of genus Psidium, and is widely cultivated in tropical zones of the world. Recently, the importance of guava fruit has increased due to its inherent nutritional content, pleasant aroma, excellent flavor, and delicious taste. It is considered an excellent source of nutrients and phytochemicals. Guava is a climacteric fruit that continues to mature or ripen even after harvest, showing an increase in the rate of respiration and metabolic activities within a short period, leading to rapid senescence or spoilage of fruit. It has limitations in terms of commercialization due to short storage life after harvest and sensitivity to diseases and chilling injury during the storage period. Many postharvest technologies such as edible packaging, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), composite packaging, controlled atmosphere packaging (CAP), antimicrobial/antifungal packaging, and nano packaging have been used to retard the chilling injury and enhance the keeping quality of guava fruits during the storage period to control respiration rate, reduce weight loss, minimize lipid oxidation, and maintain organoleptic properties. However, these packaging technologies have varied effects on the internal and external quality attributes of guava fruits. This review, therefore, discusses the physiology, mechanism of ripening, oxidation, and ethylene production of guava fruits. The review also discusses the packaging technologies and their effect on the postharvest characteristics of guava fruits during the storage period.