bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Legal Frameworks Governing Reproductive Rights and Policies
Authors: Singh Hemendra
Published: November 2024

This chapter provides a comprehensive analysis of the legal frameworks governing reproductive rights and policies, covering their historical evolution, international and regional contexts and national implementations. It examines key international treaties including CEDAW, ICESCR and the Sustainable Development Goals, and their influence on global reproductive health policies. It also explores regional legal frameworks in Europe, Africa and the Americas, and their impact on national laws. A comparative analysis of national approaches highlights variations in legal traditions and effectiveness in safeguarding reproductive rights. The chapter also addresses key issues in reproductive health like contraception, maternal health, abortion laws and assisted reproductive technologies (ART), assessing legal status, barriers and successful interventions. The chapter underscores the critical role of legal frameworks in ensuring access to reproductive health services and protecting individual rights.
Navigating Human Rights and Ethical Challenges in Compensation Models of Commercial Surrogacy
Authors: Chaitra V. , Hema K.
Published: November 2024

The critics argue that commercial surrogacy would result in commodification of pregnancy, exploitation of economically vulnerable women in the lower social strata and ultimately leads to depersonalised reproduction process. However, the advocates of commercial surrogacy contend that commercial surrogacy provides financial stability to the surrogate mother and is a boon for those infertile parents who want to safeguard their privacy and are reluctant to involve their family members or relatives as surrogate mothers. This research study aims to explore and analyse compensation models in commercial surrogacy arrangements across different jurisdictions in the context of ensuring equitable treatment and protection of human rights of surrogate mothers. In meticulous detail, this study examines the ethical, legal, cultural and economic dimensions, particularly regarding the compensation offered to surrogate mothers for their labour.
Human Genome and Embryo Editing
Authors: Singh Bhupinder , Janjua Laeeq Razzak , Hammouch Hind
Published: November 2024

Genome and embryo editing technologies are transformative, carries critical implications for the reproductive justice of women. Although these developments offer great promise for health benefits, they raise major ethical, legal and social challenges. The other ethical questions involve the possibility of “designer babies” where genetic traits could be chosen according to societal prejudices, which may serve only to deepen gender inequality. There is a global divide in regulations, with some countries legally allow gene editing under specific guidelines and others the opposite. From a social perspective, the technology can create schisms especially in access to these interventions making marginalized women further behind. It is essential to set worldwide standard that will allow genome and embryo editing only in the interest of reproductive justice, women's rights, rehabilitation community equality and due care not to harm this field.
Blockchain in Cybersecurity
Authors: Mampilly Akhil John , Manda Vijaya Kittu , Perumal Chithirai Pon Selvan Muthu
Published: November 2024

Blockchain is a promising technology that can help organizations improve their cybersecurity. Blockchain has many inherent features that can help enhance data security, improve threat detection and response, strengthen authentication and authorization, and enhance cyber threat intelligence sharing. This is possible because of the innovative approach that Blockchain uses, such as immutable ledgers to store transactions, monitor assets, and build trust by providing access only to authorized participants. The chapter discusses cybersecurity best practices related to smart contracts, key management, network security, user education and awareness, incident reporting, privacy challenges, software updates, and decentralization. Key regulatory compliance aspects, such as GDPR and HIPPA, are discussed. The increasing interactions of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and the Internet of Things (IoT) with Blockchain can further provide improved cybersecurity services and hence form the discussion of the trends and potential future research section of this chapter.
To Enhance Cyber Security for IoT
Authors: Gauba Anubha , Bedi Ravneet Preet Singh
Published: November 2024

This is a fascinating and important subject that is becoming increasingly relevant in today's digital world. The rapid proliferation of IoT devices has revolutionizing several impacts of our daily lives. From smart homes and wearable systems to industrial sensors and autonomous vehicles, IoT technology has ushered in a latest era of connectivity and convenience. Moreover, with this connectivity comes an increased cyber security risk. This paper outlines a strategic approach to enhance cyber security for IoT deployments, ensuring the protection of data, devices, and networks.
GreenTech Revolution
Authors: Emon Md Mehedi Hasan , Khan Tahsina , Rahman Md. Adnan , Hamid Abu Bakar Abdul , Yaakub Noor Inayah
Published: November 2024

The GreenTech revolution is reshaping the global landscape, offering innovative solutions to the pressing environmental challenges of our time. This chapter explores the concept of Green Technology (GreenTech), tracing its historical evolution and highlighting its key sectors and applications. GreenTech encompasses a wide array of technologies and practices aimed at reducing environmental impact, conserving natural resources, and promoting sustainability across various industries, including energy, transportation, agriculture, and waste management. Despite its transformative potential, the widespread adoption of GreenTech faces significant challenges, including technological barriers, financial constraints, regulatory complexities, and societal resistance. These obstacles, however, also present opportunities for innovation, market growth, and collaboration. The chapter examines these challenges and opportunities, emphasizing the role of technological advancements, emerging markets, and strategic partnerships in driving the GreenTech revolution forward.
A Novel Framework for Smart Agriculture
Authors: Mamodiya Udit , Kishor Indra
Published: November 2024

The deep learning (DL) and blockchain technology's integration can revolutionize the agriculture system, especially in the case of improving precision farming systems. In this paper, we propose a new conceptual framework that combines the latest developed deep learning capabilities for real time data evaluation with centralized and decentralized blockchain platforms for agro-food smart functions. IoT-orchestrated data is a driver of the new paradigm of precision farming facilitating maximization of crop production while ensuring minimum wastage of input resources and enhancing decision making. However, challenges such as data quality, secure data transfer, and system compatibility persist. The addressing of these challenges involves the application of managerial decision support systems through the use of deep learning as a model of data predictive analytics and blockchain technology for the data management systems in operation to guarantee the immutability and transparency of data.
Analysing the Impact of Exogenous Determinants on Booking Cancellations With the GNN
Authors: Kumar Abhishek , Prasad Upendra , Tiwari Rajesh kumar
Published: November 2024

The study uses Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) to analyze external factors affecting reservation cancellations. It uses a dataset of consumer profiles, booking details, and external factors. The GNN predicts cancellation likelihood, highlighting the importance of integrating extraneous variables for better booking stability and consumer satisfaction. The approach uses real-time adaptability, sophisticated feature engineering, and multidisciplinary cooperation. The research uses a Graph Neural Network (GNN) approach to analyze the influence of external factors like weather, holidays, and economic conditions on reservation cancellations, aiming to improve reservation handling. The GNN model outperforms conventional machine learning in predicting cancellations, with factors like bad weather, recessions, health advisories, local events, seasonal trends, and customer profiles influencing cancellation rates, revealing accurate predictions and potential mitigation strategies.
From the Editor…
Authors: Karunananda P. A. K.
Published: November 2024

No abstract available
Joint Probability of Cyclonic Wind Speed and Maximum Rainfall for Cyclones Affected Sri Lanka
Authors: Daranagama D. A. R. , Neluwala Panduka , Wijetunge J. J.
Published: November 2024

Tropical cyclones pose significant risks to coastal regions, with impacts including high wind speeds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges. This study aims to analyse the joint probability of cyclonic wind speed and maximum rainfall for cyclones affecting Sri Lanka using the Copula theory. Historical data from 33 cyclones that made landfall in Sri Lanka between 1900 and 2020 were analysed. Through exploratory data analysis and marginal distribution analysis, the Generalized Pareto distribution and Pearson type III distribution were identified as the best fits for cyclonic wind speed and rainfall, respectively. The study employed the Clayton copula to model the joint distribution of these variables, given its suitability for capturing moderate correlation and tail dependence. Optimisation of the copula parameters led to a synthetic dataset that validated the copula model’s accuracy. The results revealed a moderate correlation between wind speed and rainfall. The joint return periods were calculated using the copula model, providing crucial insights into the likelihood of simultaneous occurrences of specific wind speeds and rainfall intensities. This statistical relationship offers valuable insights for coastal flood modelling and risk mitigation strategies in Sri Lanka, aiding policymakers and stakeholders in preparing for and mitigating the impacts of tropical cyclones.
Unveiling Construction and Demolition Waste Dynamics: A Case Study of the Building Construction Sector in Sri Lanka
Authors: Rathnayake R. M. L. D. , Madushantha R. M. L. , Gunawardhana W. A. P. C. P. , Dissanayaka P. B. R.
Published: November 2024

Construction and demolition waste (CDW) generation is an increasing global concern. Despite the significance of the construction industry to the economy of Sri Lanka, limited studies have been conducted on this topic, and no proper guidelines have been developed. Therefore, a comprehensive study on CDW is necessary to establish the required framework for developing guidelines for effective CDW management. This study aims to address this gap by investigating CDW generation in the building construction sector in Sri Lanka. The study examines the generation patterns and current management strategies of CDW in different phases at different conditions of significant construction projects in Sri Lanka. To ensure a representative sample, construction sites in the Colombo and Kandy districts were carefully selected, representing various project types and stakeholders, including public and private owners, commercial establishments, residential projects, and office structures. Data was collected by a rigorous questionnaire survey of stakeholders from 32 construction and demolition projects, complemented by face-to-face interviews with responsible higher officials. Key findings include high average wastage percentages for asbestos (7.4%) and ceramic tiles (7.1%), varying concrete wastage rates across building types (8.2% in high-rise structures, 5.2% in low-rise buildings, and 4.0% in medium-rise buildings), and potential inefficiencies in material use procedures. Substructure components show room for improvement in material consumption, with a wastage percentage of 6.3%, while superstructure components demonstrate relatively efficient material management, with a wastage ratio of 4.8%. Analysis of demolition waste composition reveals significant proportions of brick (25%), concrete (20%), timber (8%), and steel (6%), highlighting the importance of proper handling and disposal practices. Overall, finding of this study show that comprehensive waste management strategies are required, and the types of waste generated during building construction vary depending on factors such as construction stage, building size, contractor grade, etc.
Impact of Redundant Procedures on Software Projects: A Developer’s Perspective
Authors: Abeywickrama K. G. , Jayawardane V. P. T.
Published: November 2024

The software development industry in Sri Lanka has experienced rapid growth in recent years. However, this growth has been accompanied by a concerning rise in software defects, highlighting the pressing need for improved software quality. Amidst evolving technological landscapes and shifting user demands, organizations face the challenge of delivering high-quality software within tight deadlines. Despite the adoption of Agile development methods for their flexibility, the presence of redundant procedures within projects presents significant obstacles for developers. This study investigates the impact of these redundant procedures on software projects from the perspective of developers in Sri Lanka. While previous research has underscored the adverse effects of work stress on mental health and job satisfaction, there exists a gap in understanding the specific challenges faced by developers in navigating these redundancies. Drawing on empirical evidence and theoretical insights, this research examines developers' experiences, challenges, and strategies for managing redundant procedures. The results reveal that redundant procedures significantly reduce developer productivity and negatively affect job satisfaction and mental well-being. By exploring the nuances of different software development contexts and proposing effective mitigation techniques, this study aims to enhance developer satisfaction and overall project success within the Sri Lankan software industry.
Advances in corporate governance
Authors: Grebe Lindie
Published: November 2024

No abstract available.
School-based hearing screening of first-grade students in Saudi Arabia: A pilot study
Authors: Alothman Noura I. , Alanazi Ahmad A.
Published: November 2024

Background: Hearing loss in children is a global concern. Early identification and intervention are critical for minimising the adverse effects of hearing loss. Despite the implementation of hearing screening programmes in Saudi Arabia, more research is needed on the audiological profiles of first-grade students.Objectives: This study aimed to characterize the audiological profile of first-grade students in Saudi Arabia and to raise awareness among parents, schools, and decision-makers about the need for hearing screening programs and the implementation of an effective monitoring and management system in the country.Method: This cross-sectional descriptive study assessed the audiological profile of 308 first-grade students in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, using pure-tone audiometry (PTA) and tympanometry. Additionally, two questionnaire-based assessments, one for parents and one for the home teacher, were developed to predict students who failed PTA.Results: Among the students screened, 26.3% failed PTA. Tympanometry identified abnormal middle ear function in 30.5% of the students. The discrimination capacity of both questionnaires in identifying students who failed PTA screening was poor.Conclusion: A 26.3% prevalence rate of PTA screening failure, and a 30.5% of middle ear pathologies were noted. Both parent and teacher questionnaires were ineffective tools for identifying hearing loss among first-grade children who failed PTA screening.Contribution: This pilot study recommends that primary schools incorporate hearing screening as a regular practice of their preventative healthcare system. The study emphasises the importance of establishing international standards for school-based hearing screening to enhance its efficacy and develop more effective hearing screening questionnaires.
Prevalence, incidence and risk factors for rugby-related injuries: A survey of the Safari Sevens tournament
Authors: Onyancha John M. , Benita Olivier , Matheri Joseph M. , Karuguti Wallace M.
Published: November 2024

Background: Rugby-related injuries are a leading cause of dropout from competitive sports, high insurance compensation, disability and socioeconomic marginalisation. The debilitating effect of these injuries on players may deny them the benefits associated with rugby and can lead to premature termination of a rugby career.Objectives: To determine the prevalence, incidence and risk factors for rugby-related injuries among male Safari Sevens rugby tournament players in Kenya.Method: Following ethical approval and clearance, this cross-sectional study was carried out among October 2021 teams of male players in the Safari Sevens rugby tournament. Players (n = 113) voluntarily completed Rugby International Consensus Group ‘injury report form’. Descriptive statistics and odds ratios were calculated.Results: A point prevalence of 47 (41.6%) respondents at pre-tournament was found. The tournament recorded 117.6 player-match hours with an incidence of 33 (29.2%) injuries occurring during competition. In contact phase of rugby match, ‘being tackled’ was associated with a higher number of injuries mostly in the lower limbs. Surface of the playing field was likely to expose a player to injury in pre-competition and during the tournament. Additionally, players who had recurrent previous injuries and oversize gear were more likely to be injured during the tournament.Conclusion: The study showed competition injury incidence similar to that reported in previous studies. Lower limb injuries were most prevalent, especially the ankle while ‘getting tackled’ during matches.Clinical implications: There is a need for an algorithm for injury risk assessment, knee and ankle control training protocol, and use of dynamic knee and ankle supports.
Semantic Image Synthesis from Text: Current Trends and Future Horizons in Text-to-Image Generation
Authors: Sudha Lakshmanan , Aruna Kari Balakrishnan , Sureka Vijayakumar , Niveditha Mathavan , Prema S
Published: November 2024

Text-to-image generation, a captivating intersection of natural language processing and computer vision, has undergone a remarkable evolution in recent years. This research paper provides a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art in text-to-image generation techniques, highlighting key advancements and emerging trends. We begin by surveying the foundational models, with a focus on Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) and their pivotal role in generating realistic and diverse images from textual descriptions. We delve into the intricacies of training data, model architectures, and evaluation metrics, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities in this field. Furthermore, this paper explores the synergistic relationship between natural language processing and computer vision, showcasing multimodal models like DALL-E and CLIP. These models not only generate images from text but also understand the contextual relationships between textual descriptions and images, opening avenues for content recommendation, search engines, and visual storytelling. The paper discusses applications spanning art, design, e-commerce, healthcare, and education, where text-to-image generation has made significant inroads. We highlight the potential of this technology in automating content creation, aiding in diagnostics, and transforming the fashion and e-commerce industries. However, the journey of text-to-image generation is not without its challenges. We address ethical considerations, emphasizing responsible AI and the mitigation of biases in generated content. We also explore interpretability and model transparency, critical for ensuring trust and accountability.
Предельная теорема для распределения времени вырождения докритических ветвящихся процессов с частицами двух полов с большой начальной популяцией
Authors: Abdyushev Marat R.
Published: November 2024

Работа посвящена докритическим ветвящимся процессам с частицами двух полов с большой начальной популяцией. Исследовано распределение времени вырождения $T$ такого рода процессов. Показано, что $T$ имеет логарифмический порядок роста по количеству начальных частиц.
Короткие проверяющие тесты размыкания для контактных схем с дополнительным полюсом
Authors: Popkov Kirill Andreevich
Published: November 2024

Рассматривается задача синтеза трехполюсных контактных схем с полюсами $A$, $B$ и $V$, реализующих заданные булевы функции между полюсами $A$ и $B$ и допускающих короткие проверяющие тесты относительно размыканий контактов. Для каждой булевой функции от $n$ переменных и каждого тестового полюсного множества, содержащего хотя бы одну из пар $\{A,V\},\{B,V\}$, найдены минимально возможные значения длин единичного и полного проверяющего тестов. В частности, доказано, что они не превосходят $3$.
Association between age at diagnosis of diabetes and ocular disease: Insights from a recent article
Authors: Liu Shi-Qi , Wang Dong , Tang Cheng-Chun
Published: November 2024

In this article, we discuss Ye et al 's recent article on the association between age at diabetes diagnosis and subsequent risk of age-related ocular diseases. The study, which utilized United Kingdom Biobank data, highlighted a strong link between early diabetes onset and major eye conditions, such as cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and vision loss, independent of glycemic control and disease duration. This finding challenges the previous belief that diabetic eye disease primarily correlates with hyperglycemia. As lifestyles evolve and the age of diabetes diagnosis decreases, understanding this relationship may reveal the complex pathogenesis underlying diabetes-related complications. This editorial summarizes potential mechanisms connecting the age of diabetes onset with four types of ocular diseases, emphasizing the significance of early diagnosis.
Application of Dorzagliatin in peritoneal dialysis patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A case report
Authors: Chen Fang , An Bo , An Wen-Cheng , Fu Gang , Huang Wei , Yan Hui-Xian
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Treating diabetes in dialysis patients remains a challenge, with many hypoglycemic drugs requiring dose adjustments or avoidance in these patients.

CASE SUMMARY

This report describes an 83-year-old female patient with a 30-year history of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) who had struggled to control her blood sugar for more than a year. She had a history of high blood pressure for 30 years, had undergone continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis for more than two years, was 163 cm tall, weighed 77 kg, and had a body mass index of 28.98 kg/m2. Despite intensive insulin therapy at a daily dose of 150 units, adding Dorzagliatin at a dosage of 75 mg orally twice daily led to immediate blood sugar improvement and a gradual reduction in insulin dosage. After one month of follow-up, the fasting plasma glucose was 6-8 mmol/L, and the 2-hour postprandial glucose was 8-12 mmol/L.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this report is the first to use Dorzagliatin to treat type 2 diabetes peritoneal dialysis patients with challenging glucose control. Dorzagliatin, a novel glucokinase activator primarily metabolized by the liver, exhibits no pharmacokinetic differences among patients with varying degrees of chronic kidney disease. It has a high plasma protein binding rate and may not be cleared by peritoneal dialysis, potentially offering a new glycemic control option for Type 2 diabetic patients on peritoneal dialysis.
Current perspectives and the future of disease-modifying therapies in type 1 diabetes
Authors: Mondal Sunetra , Pappachan Joseph M
Published: November 2024

Use of immunomodulating agents to prevent the progression of autoimmune β-cell damage leading to type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an interesting area for research. These include non-specific anti-inflammatory agents, immunologic vaccination and anti-inflammatory agents targeting specific immune cells or cytokines. Teplizumab is an anti-CD3-molecule that binds to and leads to the disappearance of the CD3/TCR complex and rendering the T cell anergic to its target antigen. Preclinical and clinical trials have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing the decline in serum C-peptide levels and the need for insulin therapy if used early in the disease process of T1DM. The benefits have been apparent as early as six months to as long as seven years after therapy. It has recently been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to delay the onset of clinical (stage 3) type 1 diabetes in children above 8 years of age. In their recent meta-analysis published in the World Journal of Diabetes , Ma et al found that those in the teplizumab treatment group have a greater likelihood of reduction in insulin use, change in C-peptide response, and better glycemic control compared to the control group with a good safety profile. However, all the included randomized control trials have been conducted in high-income countries. High cost of therapy and unknown utility of the molecule in stage 3 disease limit its widespread use.
Revolutionizing the understanding of liver disease: Metabolism, function and future
Authors: Morales-Galicia Arnulfo E , Ramírez-Mejía Mariana M , Ponciano-Rodriguez Guadalupe , Méndez-Sánchez Nahum
Published: November 2024

The intersection between metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is an emerging area of research with significant implications for public health and clinical practice. Wang et al ’s study highlights the complexities of managing patients with concurrent MASLD and HBV. The findings revealed that patients with concurrent MASLD-HBV exhibited more severe liver inflammation and fibrosis, whereas those with HBV alone presented a better lipid profile. The growing recognition of metabolic dysfunction in liver disease, reflected in the shift from nonalcoholic liver disease to MASLD, demands updates to clinical guidelines, particularly for patients with dual etiologies. Understanding the biological interactions between MASLD and HBV could lead to novel therapeutic approaches, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment strategies. The coexistence of MASLD and HBV presents therapeutic challenges, particularly in managing advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis, which are more likely in these patients. The aim of this editorial is to analyze the interaction between MASLD and HBV, highlight the pathophysiological mechanisms that exacerbate liver disease when both conditions coexist, and discuss the clinical implications of the findings of Wang et al .
Efficacy of isolates of an entomopathogenic fungus on coffee berry borer
Authors: Ohoueu E.J.B. , Aby N. , Diabate D. , Yao K.F. , Gba K.M.K. , Sery D.J-M. , Bouet A. , Wandan E.N.
Published: November 2024

The coffee berry borer (Hypothenemus hampei F.; Coleoptera: Scolytidae) is an important pest of coffee in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), which causes enormous damage to the crop and yet is difficult to control. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Beauveria bassiana, an entomopathogenic fungi, on H. hampei F. pest under laboratory conditions. Isolates of B. bassiana were isolated using the suspension-dilution method on Beauveria Selective Medium (MSB), from Daloa (Cote d’Ivoire) soil sample. Five isolates of B. bassiana, namely TE3.211, TE3.222, TE7.311, G.233 and G.232, were tested on coffee berry borer, through two inoculation methods (active and passive). The isolation results showed that 65.51% mortality rates caused by B. bassiana varied from 48.48 to 99.66%. Isolate TE7.311 caused a mortality rate of 96.66% for active inoculation of bark beetles and 70% for passive inoculation of cherries. Isolate TE3.211 by active inoculation of bark beetles and isolate G232 by active inoculation of cherries generated mortality rates of 98.33 and 99.66%, respectively. The pathogenicity tests carried out on the bark beetle presented LT50s, which varied from day 2 to day 9 for the passive method. In contrast, as for the active method, TL50 were observed from day 1 to day 2. The results of this study confirm the efficacy of B. bassiana as biological control agents against coffee berry borer.
Synthesis, characterization, and biological evaluation of zinc(II) complexes with benzohydrazide derivative and phosphine ligands
Authors: M. Aziz Nazk , A. Irzoqi Ahmad
Published: November 2024

New zinc(II) complexes of the mixed ligands were synthesized using a benzohydrazide derivative (L), yielded from reaction of benzohydrazide and isatin, in combination with (Phen) and various phosphine co-ligands, including 1,10-phenanthroline (Phen), 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane(dppe), 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino) propane (dppp), and triphenylphosphine (PPh3).  Characterization methods included molar conductivity, atomic absorption, FTIR, and 1H, 13C{1H},31P{1H}-NMR spectroscopy, confirming tetrahedral geometry around zinc(II) with the ligand N'-(2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) benzohydrazide (L) acting as a bidentate chelating ligand. The thermogravimetric (TG) analysis of the papered complexes [Zn(L)(Phen)]Cl2, [Zn(L)(PPh3)]Cl2, and [Zn(L)(dppp)]Cl2 showed that each of them has been decomposed in three stages. The in vitro biological activities were evaluated against four types of bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli, along with cancer human liver (Hep-G2) cell lines, revealing that the complexes exhibited significant cytotoxicity. Notably, the [Zn(L)(Phen)]Cl2 complex showed the strongest inhibitory effect on human liver (Hep-G2) cells, with an IC50 of 31.12 ± 1.57 μM. Antibacterial tests indicated that [Zn(L)(Phen)]Cl2 and [Zn(L)(dppp)]Cl2 complexes effectively inhibited Streptococcus faecalis, and [Zn(L)(Phen)]Cl2 also had limited efficacy against Gram-negative bacteria. Structure-activity relationship studies highlighted that the choice of phosphine ligand significantly influences the biological properties of these zinc(II) complexes.
KEY WORDS: Antibacterial, Anticancer, Benzohydrazide derivative, Mixed ligands complexes, Phosphines, Spectroscopy
Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2025, 39(2), 313-326.                                                              
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v39i2.10
GC-MS profiling and in silico pharmacokinetic properties of essential oils hydrodistilled from leaves of Capparis tomentosa and Cadaba rotundifolia
Authors: Degfie Teshome , Endale Milkyas , Begna Tekalign , Jung Chuleui , Dekebo Aman
Published: November 2024

In Ethiopian traditional medicine Capparis tomentosa treats tuberculosis, diarrhea, epilepsy, and malaria, while Cadaba rotundifolia for arthritis, tonsillitis and snake bites. Essential oils from the plant leaves were hydro-distilled using Clevenger apparatus and analyzed by GC-MS. SwissADME and ProTox-II assessed drug-likeness and ADMET of major compounds. Leaf extracts were tested against three bacterial strains using agar disc-diffusion method. GC-MS identified 25 compounds (89.7%) in C. tomentosa and 23 (95.47%) in C. rotundifolia. Major compounds (1-15) followed Lipinski's and Veber's rules, with compounds 2, 7, 9, and 12 in the Boiled-Egg's yellow region. Compounds 3, 4, 7, 11, and 12 had LD50 >5000 mg/kg, indicating lower toxicity than chloramphenicol (LD50 = 1500 mg/kg). At 5 μg/mL, C. tomentosa oil showed stronger inhibition against E. coli (10±0.0 mm) and P. aeruginosa (9.0±0.25 mm), its methanol and n-hexane extracts against E. coli (9.85±0.14 mm) and P. aeruginosa (8.1±0.19 mm), respectively. C. rotundifolia oil was more effective against P. aeruginosa (8±0.5 mm) than chloramphenicol (6.9±0.51 mm), while its n-hexane and methanol extracts inhibited P. aeruginosa (8.1±0.17 mm) and E. coli (8.0±0.31 mm), respectively. These findings support traditional medicinal use of the studied plants, and highlight their potential as sources of bioactive compounds.
KEY WORDS: Capparis tomentosa, Cadaba rotundifolia, Essential oils, GC-MS, In silico pharmacokinetic
Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2025, 39(2), 351-366.                                                             
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v39i2.13
Gestion des conflits de routes dans les carrefours
Authors: Menayame Diyalomba Paul , Mantantu Ndongala Fabrice , Masunda Yakankazi Reagan
Published: November 2024

Deux voies routières (Elengesa et Kikwit) ont été nouvellement construites pour désenclaver la grande population des communes côtières, Mont-Ngafula, Makala, Bumbu, Lemba, Limete, Ngaba et Ngiri-Ngiri. Elles offrent ainsi deux raccourcis : primo, Mont-Ngafula vers le centre-ville par l’avenue Elengesa, sans passer par le rond-point Ngaba ; secundo, celui de Tshangu par Lemba (Fikin) pour rejoindre la commune de Ngiri-Ngiri via les avenues Kikwit et Elengesa. Il a été constaté qu’au croisement de ces deux routes naissaient des conflits routiers à l’origine de désagréments tels que des embouteillages, des accidents, des pillages et des vols de biens (kuluna1). Les résultats de ces analyses ont permis de dégager quelques pistes de solution pouvant résoudre les conflits routiers en présence et ainsi garantir la sécurité des usagers, la paix durable des citoyens de la zone, ainsi que le développement intégral du quartier en particulier et de la ville en général.
Abstract
Two roads (Elengesa and Kikwit) were newly constructed to improve access for the large populations of the coastal communes: Mont Ngafula, Makala, Bumbu, Lemba, Limeté, Ngaba, and Ngiri-Ngiri. This created two shortcuts: the first, from Mont Ngafula to the city center via Elengesa Avenue, bypassing the Ngaba roundabout; and the second, from Tshangu via Lemba (FIKIN) to reach the commune of Ngiri-Ngiri via Kikwit and Elengesa Avenues. However, at the intersection of these two roads, road conflicts have emerged, leading to issues such as traffic congestion, accidents, looting, and theft (kuluna). The results of these analyses have led to several potential solutions that could resolve the existing road conflicts, ensuring the safety of road users, lasting peace for the residents, and fostering the integral development of the district in particular and the city in general.
L'initiative Transaqua à la lumière du constructivisme
Authors: Kamanda Londo Patience , Mimbale Molanga Joseph
Published: November 2024

Cet article propose d'expliquer pourquoi il est essentiel d’analyser l'initiative Transaqua à travers le prisme de l'approche constructiviste des Relations Internationales. En effet, depuis plusieurs décennies, la question du sauvetage du lac Tchad grâce aux eaux du Congo suscite un grand intérêt aussi bien dans l’univers régional africain que dans la scène internationale. Ce sujet fait également l’objet de nombreuses publications scientifiques couvrant des domaines variés.
En Relations Internationales, cette problématique a été principalement explorée à travers les approches théoriques classiques. Cependant, très peu de recherches ont tenté d'analyser cette initiative en suivant les logiques des approches théoriques critiques, telles que le constructivisme. Pourtant, cette approche est pertinente en raison de sa capacité à expliquer de manière multicausale les phénomènes sociaux, de l’importance qu’elle accorde au contexte social, aux arrangements intersubjectifs, à la construction sociale des intérêts nationaux ainsi qu’à la nature constitutive des initiatives et des acteurs.
Abstract
This article aims to explain why it is essential to consider the Transaqua initiative through the lens of the constructivist approach in International Relations. Indeed, for several decades, the issue of rescuing Lake Chad with waters from the Congo has garnered significant interest both within the African regional sphere and in international discourse. This topic also forms the basis of numerous scientific publications spanning various fields.
In International Relations, this issue has primarily been explored through classical theoretical approaches. However, very few studies have attempted to analyze this initiative using the frameworks of critical theoretical approaches, such as constructivism. This approach is relevant due to its multicausal explanation of social phenomena, its emphasis on social context, intersubjective arrangements, the social construction of national interests, and the constitutive nature of initiatives and actors.
La place de l’hypothèse dans une recherche scientifique
Authors: Mfuamba Katende Mazarin Pierre
Published: November 2024

Une recherche débute généralement par une explication provisoire qui anticipe sur les résultats d’une exploration commandée par un problème posé au point de départ. Cette explication peut être appelée hypothèse. Elle peut être énoncée a priori ou a posteriori et peut avoir un sens large ou un sens rigoureux. Comment se présente une hypothèse au sens large ? Comment se présente une hypothèse au sens rigoureux ? Telles sont les deux principales questions auxquelles cet article tente de répondre.
Stratégies de campagnes électorales à Kinshasa
Authors: Bisambu Mpang’de Gérard , Tshama Kanumbi Bertin , Matangila Zengamambu Roger
Published: November 2024

En démocratie représentative, l’accès au pouvoir passe par l’élection, qui est constituée d’opérations préparatoires, en l’occurrence la mise en place des normes de conduite par l’organe de gestion électorale (OGE), la fixation d’un calendrier, la constitution du fichier électoral, l’enregistrement et la validation des candidatures, la campagne électorale avant les scrutins proprement dits. Il s’observe ainsi sur le terrain politique un flux de stratégies développées par les différents candidats pour persuader les électeurs, formés exclusivement de la population à l’âge majeur, soit 18 ans en RD Congo. Par une lecture d’anthropologie politique, il sied de remarquer que toutes les stratégies semblent se focaliser sur le social, la parenté, le psycho-affectif des candidats à la course au pouvoir, en revêtant, par ailleurs, un caractère carentiel d’idéologie politique. Ceci retient l’attention particulière de la présente réflexion, principalement la manière dont se déroule la campagne. Dès lors, peut-on espérer un avenir politique, étant donné que ces stratégies concourent à l’élection des candidats qui reçoivent le mandat de la représentation institutionnelle de la population ? Pour tenter une réponse à ce questionnement crucial pour la vitalité et la survie de la démocratie, nous avons observé et consulté la population dans quelques communes de la ville-province de Kinshasa à savoir : Ngaba, Selembao, Makala, Kisenso et Gombe.
Isolated compounds from Alternanthera dentate (Moench) stuchlik leaf extracts and their antimicrobial effects
Authors: Olorungbeja B.O. , Akinkunmi E.O. , Adigun R.A. , Aderogba M.A.
Published: November 2024

Alternanthera dentata leaf extracts are used to treat infectious diseases such as skin diseases in folk medicine. This study isolated and evaluated activities of its bioactive compounds. A. dentata crude leaf extract obtained from 80% methanol was partitioned with n-hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and n-butanol respectively. The four fractions obtained were assayed for their antimicrobial activities against reference and clinical bacteria and fungi strains using agar dilution and micro-well dilution methods. Activity directed fractionation of the ethyl acetate fraction afforded two compounds and their structures elucidated using NMR (1D and 2D) spectroscopic data. The results of the antimicrobial assays showed that the ethyl acetate fraction had the best activities. This fraction afforded two compounds identified as 7-O-flavone glycosides: chrysoeriol-7-O-ॆ-glucoside (1) and apigenin-7-O-ॆ-glucoside (2) from the spectroscopic data. The compounds are reported from A. dentata extracts for the first time. Compound 1 showed moderate to weak antimicrobial activities against some of the selected organisms though better than compound 2. It had MIC of 0.63 mg/mL against Bacillus subtilis (ATCC 1263), Escherichia coli (ATCC 700727) and clinical strain of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and 2.50 mg/mL against Candida pseudotropicalis. Structure Activity Relationship Studies (SARS) of the antimicrobial properties of compounds 1 and 2 indicated that the relative potency of compound 1 when compared with compound 2 is due mainly to the presence of 3' methoxylation of its ring B. This study concluded that, of the two compounds isolated, chrysoeriol-7-O-ॆ-glucoside (1) contributes more to the antimicrobial activities of the plant.
In vitro anti-ulcer activity and isolation of 5 – hydroxymethyl furan – 2 – carbaldehyde and palmatine from Curculigo pilosa (schumach. & thonn.) Engl.
Authors: Akinwumi Idayat Adeola , Sonibare Mubo Adeola , Khan Majid
Published: November 2024

Curculigo pilosa (Schumach. & Thonn.) Engl. (Hypoxidaceae) is commonly used in traditional medicine in the management of several ailments. The rhizome is traditionally used for treating gastrointestinal diseases. The present study focuses on the in vitro anti-ulcer activity of Curculigo pilosa and isolation of compounds. Powdered rhizomes of the plant were extracted with methanol. The extract was successively partitioned into n-hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate (EtOAc), n-butanol and aqueous fractions. Fractions were screened for antacid and urease inhibitory activities using titrimetric method and urease inhibitory assay with sodium bicarbonate and acetohydroxamic acid used as standards. Compounds were isolated from active fractions of the plant using chromatographic techniques. Structures of isolated compounds were elucidated using spectroscopic techniques. Only compound 1 was evaluated for urease inhibitory and antacid. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Dunnet multiple comparison test at P ॆ 0.05. The n hexane and aqueous fractions were active in comparison with standard drug acetohydroxamic acid for urease inhibitory assay, while the ethyl acetate and n butanol fractions gave good antacid activities which were comparable to the activity exhibited by sodium bicarbonate. 5-Hydroxymethyl-2-furancarbaldehyde (1) and Palmatine (2) were isolated for the first time in Curculigo pilosa and new to family Hypoxidaceae. 5-Hydroxymethyl-2-furancarbaldehyde (1) displayed excellent antacid activity. Few compounds have been isolated from this plant despite the numerous reported biological activities. The antacid and the urease inhibitory activities are reported for the first time.
Isolation and characterisation of a novel xanthone with board-spectrum antibacterial activity from the roots of Allanblackia floribunda oliver (guttiferae)
Authors: Idowu P. A. , Idowu D. O. , Aladedunye O. O. , Okorie D.O.
Published: November 2024

The increasing antimicrobial resistance of pathogens to existing therapeutic agents is currently a global health challenge, which ledus to a bioassay-guided investigation of Allanblackia floribunda Oliver (Guttiferae) roots for new antimicrobial constituents. The roots were extracted successively in Soxhlet with hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol. Isolation from the ethyl acetate extract was done using an open Column Chromatography, and Preparative Thin Layer Chromatography for purification. Structural elucidation was done using extensive 1-D and 2-D NMR, IR, MS data and physico-chemical properties. Antimicrobial activity and Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) were determined using agar-well diffusion and broth dilution methods, respectively. The root extracts, pooled fractions and isolated compound were tested on bacteria including Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633 and clinical isolates of Salmonella typhi. The root extracts and pooled fractions (Al , Al A, F , A and A ) were active on the test bacteria with zones of 1 2 19 18 100 inhibition ranging from 12 to 20 mm. Fraction Al A showed highest consistent activity comparable to gentamycin standard and 2 yielded compound Al , a novel xanthone: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8-hexahydroxy-9H-xanthen-9-one. The MICs in mg/mL of Al on the test 2 2 organisms are: S. aureus (0.75), E. coli (1.25), P. aeruginosa (1.13), B. subtilis (0.15) and S. typhi (0.08). These results justify the ethnomedicinal use of the root bark of Allanblackia floribunda in the treatment of diseases and the isolated xanthone has a high potential to become a chemotherapeutic agent for bacterial infections.
Pharmacognostic evaluation and development of HPLC fingerprint for standardisation of Waltheria indica l. (Malvaceae)
Authors: Oyetunde Y.M. , Sonibare M.A. , Oludipe E.O. , Anang D.M.
Published: November 2024

Studies have supported ethnobotanical claims on Waltheria indica L. Malvaceae. However, its standardisation parameters are yet to be defined. This study conducted pharmacognostic evaluation and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) to develop standards for Waltheria indica. The plant was collected, identified, and authenticated. The morphological and anatomical characters were studied by organoleptic evaluation and microscopy, respectively. Physicochemical constants and phytochemical contents were determined. Chromatographic fingerprints of the leaf, stem, and root powders were obtained, and peaks were identified and quantified based on phenolic standards. Physical characters of Waltheria indica were described. Photomicrographs showed abundant stellate trichomes in leaves and stem of the plant. The vascular bundles were arranged in amphicribral form with endarch xylems. The adaxial surface of the leaf has straight epidermal cells with anisocytic and diacytic stomata, while the abaxial surface has wavy epidermal cells with only anisocytic stomata. The alcohol and water extractives values of leaf, stem, and root are (22.2%, 11.8%, and 14.44%) and (15.47%, 7.6% and 7.33%) respectively. Moisture content (6.62%, 2.78%, and 3.63%) and ash values (7.77%, 2.73%, and 2.33%) were within pharmacopoeia limits. Steroids, terpenoids, saponins, tannins, phenols, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides,  anthraquinone, and alkaloids were present in all plant parts. Chromatographic fingerprints of plant parts showed unique peaks for phenolic standards. All plant parts had 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, epigallocatechin gallate, and epicatechin, with epicatechin most abundant in the leaf (1,371,061 ng/g). The standardisation parameters developed would be helpful in monograph preparation for Waltheria indica.