bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emotional Abuse, Personality Types and Academic Performance of Primary School Pupils in Akwa Ibom State
Authors: Dan Ifiok E. , Idiong Sylvanus P. , Uranta Lawrencia R.
Published: February 2024

This study investigated Emotional Abuse, Personality Types and Academic Performance of Primary School Pupils in AKwa Ibom State. Three research questions and three corresponding hypotheses were used to guide the study. The study adopted correlational research design. The sample of 500 primary school pupils (Basic 5) were drawn from the population through simple random sampling techniques are used for the study. Three instruments titled “Emotional Abuse Scale (EAS)”, “Personality Types Scale” (PTS) and “Academic Performance Test” (APT) were used for data collection. Face and content validity of the instruments was ascertained by experts in test and measurement and Guidance and Counseling. The reliability co-efficient of the instruments was also determined through Cronbach method and coefficients for EAS was 0.83 PTS was 0.77 and APT 0.84 respectively. The instruments were personally administered by the researchers through the help of research assistant (teachers). The analysis of the data was done using Pearson product correlation to answer the research questions while their corresponding hypotheses were tested at 0.05 alpha level of significance, research question three were tested with multiple regressions while its corresponding hypothesis was tested with ANOVA associated with regression at 0.05 alpha level of significance. The summary of the findings showed that; there was significant relationship between emotional abuse, personality types and academic performance of primary school pupils in Akwa Ibom State independently taken. There was significant relationship between personality types (type A and type B) jointly taken and academic performance of primary school pupils in AkwaIbom State. Based on the findings of the study, recommendations and conclusion were made.
Islam and Terrorism: Supporting or Opposing Each Other?
Authors: Mashema Bashir Liman , Garba Nura , Ado Mohammed Danjuma
Published: February 2024

Terrorism is a problem that affects countries across the globe and attracts more attention from researchers, media, policy makers, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and general citizenry. For centuries, various acts of terrorism have been carried out in different parts of the world by different groups. Meanwhile, there is no single factor that could be used to justify terrorist activities. This is because there are countless reasons behind terrorism, most of which are political and economic in nature. Nonetheless, some terrorist groups often claim that they are fighting for Islam and Muslims. But, this is just an attempt to cover their destructive rational acts aimed at achieving personal interests. It uses secondary data from academic books, journal articles and other publications. The study advocate that all stake holders must put hands on deck to ensure that terrorism pose no more threat to the national security and it must to be tackle with all determinations.
The Significance and Possible Shortcomings of African Philosophy: A Look at Ekwuru, Emeka George Afrizealotism
Authors: Christopher Oko, Agha , Abubakar Yahaya
Published: February 2024

African philosophy’s and its attendant development in the twentieth century is relatively recent, traceable to some seminal texts, and ancient, drawing on cultural forms that stretch back in time and space. Since its inception in the mid-20th century, African Philosophy has become a full-fledged academic discipline. Many readers and anthologies, introductions, and other pedagogical publications have been published, along with a great number of texts striving to give an overview of the field, often in comparison with Western philosophy or with philosophies from other regions of the world. However, the discipline and pursuit is bedevilled with issue around relevance as many school of thought and scholars have not question its existence but also what its stand to achieve. Hence, in this paper, we will be examining the significance of African philosophy, and highlighting its possible shortcomings. The paper will also recommend possible solutions to the decline of African philosophy.
Appraisal of the Challenges Associated with Community Participation in the Management of Public Post-Basic Educational Institutions in Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Mukhtar Nura Ibrahim , Sulaiman D, Sanusi
Published: February 2024

The study is intended to make an appraisal of the challenges associated with community participation in the management of Public Post-Basic Educational Institutions (PPBEIS) in Kano State, Nigeria. The study specifically intended to achieve the following research objective: to identify the challenges associated with community participation in the management of Public Post- Basic Educational Institutions in Kano State. The population of the study comprised the teaching staff, non-teaching staff, officials of Parent- Teachers Association (PTA) and officials of School- Based Management Committee (SBMC) in public secondary schools in Kano State, Nigeria. The officials of the SBMC and PTA included: Chairman/ Chairperson, Vice Chairman, Secretary, Public Relations Officer (PRO) and Treasurer. The population of the study specifically is 20,106. This number 20,106 was obtained from the existing 945 public secondary schools in Kano State as provided by Kano State Secondary Schools Management Board (KSSMB, 2018).The sample size for the study was determined using Research Advisors (2006) Sample Size Table, where 378 respondents were selected. The survey design was used and the instruments for data collection were a questionnaire and an interview schedule. The findings of the study indicated among others that the challenges associated with community participation in the management of Public Post- Basic Educational institutions in Kano State include: staff misconception about community participation, communication gap between community groups and staff, lack of mutual trust, lack of support from government and community local politics as an inhibition. It is therefore, recommended among others, that proper measures like eliminating communication gap between
Information and Communication Technology as a Determinant of Organizational Performance: A Study of Banks in Delta/Edo States
Authors: Odiri Vincent I. O. , ODOZI Barbara Nneka
Published: February 2024

This study investigated information and communication technology (ICT) as determinant of organizational performance of selected commercial banks in Delta and Edo States, Nigeria. Cross-sectional survey design was used and one hundred and eighteen (118) questionnaires were administered to employees of four (4) commercial banks in Delta and Edo States. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive, diagnostic and inferential statistical tools. The regression results indicated positive and significant relationship between information and communication technology usage and improvements in organizational performance in areas of enhanced quality of service delivery, productivity, and customers’ base. On the basis of the findings, it was recommended that commercial banks should expand the usage of information communication technology tools in their business processes in order to become more competitive and improve service delivery to customers, enhanced productivity and customers’ base. More importantly, commercial banks should strengthen their policies and procedures on information and communication technology targeted at retaining IT staff. Also, commercial banks should ensure an up-to-date training of IT staff to keep them abreast of current trends in the ICT environment.
Assessment of Business Educators' Perception of the Adequacy of Business Education Curriculum Content in Universities in Cross River State
Authors: Idike I. M , Ochui Moses Orim , Atah Cletus Akpo
Published: February 2024

The study sought to assess business educators' perceptions of the adequacy of business education curriculum content in universities in Cross River State. To achieve this purpose, three research questions and three hypotheses were raised. The study adopted a survey research design with a census and purposive sampling technique in selecting an area sample. The sample is made up of 39 lecturers at two major universities in the area where business education is offered. The study adopted a questionnaire titled "Business Educators' Perception of Business Education Curriculum Content Adequacy Scale (BEPBECCAS)." The instrument was divided into two sections. Section A was designed to elicit responses on the demographics of the respondents, such as gender, age, professional area, and academic rank, while Section B was designed to elicit information on the perception of the adequacy of business education curriculum content. Section B was made up of 20 items. The instrument was validated by two experts in measurement and evaluation, and the reliability of the scale was established using the Cronbach alpha technique. The coefficient of the subscale was 0.82, which showed that the instrument is reliable. Data were collected by the researchers, and the data were analyzed using population t-tests, independent t-tests, and one-way analyses of variance. The results presented showed that the extent of business educators' perception of the adequacy of business education curriculum content is significantly high, that male business educators do not differ significantly from female business educators in terms of their perception of the adequacy of business education curriculum content, and that there is a significant influence of professional area on business educators' perception of the adequacy of business education curriculum content.
The Impact of the Fight Against Corruption on Nigeria's Economy: A Case Study of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission
Authors: Adamaagashi Izuchukwu, P.
Published: February 2024

Corruption in Nigeria has long hindered economic development and raised concerns about resource misallocation, reduced foreign direct investment, and eroded public confidence in institutions. Established in 2003, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was tasked with combating economic and financial offenses, including corruption. This study aimed to assess the impact of anti-corruption efforts, particularly the role of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on Nigeria's economy. A survey research design was employed, with data collected through 109 structured questionnaires administered to personnel from various units of the EFCC at the Enugu state branch. Out of the questionnaires distributed, 100 were properly filled out and returned for analysis. Respondents were selected using a simple random sampling technique. The collected data were processed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 20.0. Descriptive statistical tools, such as simple percentages presented in tables and charts, were used to analyze and interpret the questionnaire data. The study revealed several key findings. Firstly, it emphasized the importance of the fight against corruption in Nigeria. Secondly, it highlighted the positive impact of anti-corruption efforts on the country's economy. Thirdly, it found that the EFCC has been making progress in combating corruption. Lastly, it confirmed that corruption hinders Nigeria's economic development. In conclusion, this study casts a glaring spotlight on the corrosive impact of corruption on Nigeria's economy, translating to staggering losses exceeding $100 billion in GDP. Consequently, the research emphasized the necessity of intensifying anti-corruption efforts. It proposed recommendations to address this issue, including the strengthening of anti-corruption agencies, the improvement of legal frameworks, and the promotion of economic growth as crucial steps towards achieving sustainable
Causes of Poverty among Genders in Micro and Small Scale Enterprises in Jalingo, Nigeria
Authors: Yakubu Magaji Ibrahim , Baajon Mamman Andekujwo , Wanujeh Zechariah
Published: February 2024

Ending poverty is a key issue of discussion in the world and the first goal of the seventeen sustainable development goals. Nigeria is richly endowed with natural resources, yet her people are severely improvised, trapped in vicious cycle of poverty. High levels of poverty among genders have been found to be detrimental to people’s well-being and economic growth. Previous studies on microcredit were mostly in relation to economic growth with little attention on poverty and genders. This study fills this gap by investigating the relationship between micro-credit and Poverty among genders of micro and small-scale entrepreneurs. The simple unifying neoclassical scarcity-driven poverty theoretical framework and cross-sectional survey research design were adopted. Data analysis was based on the questionnaires retrieved from 186 and 726 small and micro entrepreneurs, a total of 912 obtained from the 229 and 794 samples determined by the Cochran’s simple random sampling formula. The Probit and regression models were estimated using the Maximum Likelihood and Ordinary Least Square techniques respectively. Descriptive analysis was conducted to examine the demographic features of the respondents. The heteroskedasticity robust standard analysis was done and statistical significance at p? 0.05. The mean age of the respondents was 40 years and 63% were with formal education. The FGT poverty rate, depth and severity are 61.95%, 24.67% and 12.92% respectively, while the SST poverty rate is 32.68% and the Gini coefficient is 35.63%, indicating high poverty level of Poverty among the entrepreneurs. Probit results show that respondents who obtain micro-credit from deposit money banks (DMBs), microfinance banks, and relatives are less likely to be poor, with 16.9%, 11.8%, and 6.8% probabilities respectively. Also, respondents with monthly (43.88%), quarterly (48.56%), and yearly (37.08%) access to microcredi
Social and Environmental Responsibility in Accounting: Beyond Financial Metrics
Authors: Akpan James U. , Oluwagbade Oluyinka I.
Published: February 2024

This exploratory research study is motivated by the evolving role of accountants in contemporary business environments. It seeks to investigate the expanding responsibilities of accountants beyond traditional financial metrics to address social and environmental issues, driven by shifting societal expectations and the imperative for organizations to embrace sustainability and responsible business practices. Historically, accountants have been primarily concerned with financial transactions and economic performance, but the global business landscape's transformation demands a broader perspective. The pressing issues of climate change, social inequality, and corporate misconduct have highlighted the need for accounting professionals to engage with ethical considerations, sustainability reporting, and the integration of non-financial metrics into decision-making. The primary objective of this study is to comprehensively explore the expanding role of accountants in addressing social and environmental responsibility in accounting. It aims to analyze the ethical dimensions, sustainability reporting practices, corporate social responsibility, and the integration of non-financial metrics into the decision-making processes of organizations. To achieve this objective, the study employs a qualitative research design, incorporating case studies to provide in-depth insights into real-world practices. Data collection methods include literature review, document analysis, and interviews with accounting professionals. Data analysis techniques involve thematic analysis to identify patterns, themes, and key findings. The research reveals several key findings. Accountants are now expected to go beyond their traditional roles as record-keepers and financial gatekeepers. Ethical considerations have become integral to accounting practices, impacting transparency and reporting st
Health Infrastructure and Economic Development Nexus in Nigeria
Authors: Odey Ferdinand Ite , Bassey Effiong Okon , Enya Ebonghor Ideba
Published: February 2024

Nigeria like many other Sub-Saharan African countries has been plagued with lack of functional infrastructure in order to grow the economy. Recent events in Nigeria, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which emerged in late 2019 and continues to impact Nigeria, has exposed the vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the country's health infrastructure. This study investigates the impact of health infrastructure on economic development in Nigeria. The study employed time series data. Health infrastructure was captured by government recurrent and capital expenditure on health while economic development was proxied by per capita gross national product. The Autoregressive Distributive Lag (ARDL) estimation technique was used to establish the long run relationship among the variables. It was revealed that long run relationship exists among the variables in the estimated model. The results of the Error Correction Mechanism (ECM) within the framework of the ARDL shows that health infrastructure has significant impact on economic development in Nigeria. The study concludes that health infrastructure plays key roles in influencing economic development in Nigeria, and for the optimal performance of the economy, the government must increase infrastructural spending on health care in order to reduce the rate of maternal, infant and under-five mortality in the country. The study recommends that; there is a need for the government at all levels to massively invest in the provision of health infrastructure which is a strong viable means of reducing mortality incidence and enhancing economic development in Nigeria. Nigeria’s share of government expenditure to the health sector ranges between 5-7 percent, which falls immensely below the minimum standard of 16 percent as recommended by UNESCO for a developing country, which calls for emergency intervention in the health sect
The Influence of Media Campaign in Curbing Domestic Violence Against Married Women in South East, Nigeria
Authors: Chukwuka M.O , Aniugbo C. C , Chime A.C , Njeze I.V
Published: February 2024

The study focuses on the influence of Media campaigns in curbing Domestic violence against
Analyzing The Impact of Employee Attitudes on Productivity In Public Sector Organizations: A Case Study Of The Nigeria Institute For Oil Palm Research (NIFOR) In Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Adesanya Cynthia Momoh , Adesanya Shina Joshua , Agbai Edward Perekebina
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the intricate relationship between employee attitudes and productivity within the context of public sector organizations, with a specific focus on the Nigeria Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR) located in Edo State, Nigeria. Employee attitudes, encompassing job satisfaction, motivation, and organizational commitment, play a pivotal role in shaping workplace productivity. Through empirical research with the use of tables and simple percentages in the analysis of data. The test statistic adopted chi- square as a basis for computation. This study examines the nature and extent of Employee attitudes, encompassing job satisfaction, motivation, and organizational commitment impact at NIFOR and offers insights into potential improvements to enhance both employee
The potential anticonvulsant activity of the ethanolic extracts of Achillea nobilis and Momordica charantia in rats
Authors: Soliman Gamal A. , Yusufoglu Hasan , Tatli-Çankaya Irem , Abdel-Rahman Rehab F. , Aarabaci Anul Serap , Akaydn Galip
Published: February 2024

Context: Currently available antiepileptic drugs have debilitating adverse effects. Natural products and plants already used in traditional medicine can be a good place to start in the search for safer and more effective options. Aims: To investigate the anticonvulsant potential of Achillea nobilis and Momordica charantia extracts in maximal electroshock (MES), as well as pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)- and strychnine nitrate (STN)- induced seizure models in rats. Methods: For each model, eight groups of 21-day-old male Albino rats were used. The 1st group was kept as control, 2nd as standard (diazepam, 7.5 mg/kg); 3rd - 5th treated with A. nobilis (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg); and 6th - 8th administered M. charantia (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg). After 30 min, rats were exposed to a shock of 150 mA by a convulsiometer, via ear electrodes for 2 s (in MES test) or sc injection of PTZ (85 mg/kg) or STN (2.5 mg/kg). Results: A. nobilis and M. charantia extracts (200 and 300 mg/kg) demonstrated dose-dependent anticonvulsant effect against MES-induced seizures. In the PTZ induced convulsion, A. nobilis and M. charantia (200 and 300 mg/kg) significantly slowed the commencement of convulsions and minimized the duration of seizures. A. nobilis (300 mg/kg) showed 60% protection in rats against STN induced seizures. In contrast, A. nobilis (100 and 200 mg/kg) and M. charantia (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg) showed no significant protection against STN-induced seizures in rats. Conclusions: The results of the present study suggest that both extracts exhibited marked anticonvulsant activities.
Determination of the antioxidant capacity of two seagrass species according to the extraction method
Authors: González Kethia L. , Gutiérrez Richard , Hernández Yasnay , Valdés-Iglesias Olga , Rodriguez María
Published: February 2024

Context: There is a wide variety of methods for obtaining of plant extracts that enable a good yield of bioactive metabolites. For several years, extractive techniques have been perfected for obtaining natural extracts with powerful pharmacological properties. Aims: To determine the influence of various extraction methods (infusion, decoction, microwave, maceration with heat and agitation, and constant heat and agitation) on the content of solids, phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity of marine angiosperms Thalassia testudinum Banks ex König (Hyrocharitacea) and Syringodium filiforme kützing (Cymodoceaceae). Methods: The soluble solids content was determined by the gravimetric method; total phenolic content, using Folin-Ciocalteu method, and the antioxidant capacity by 2,2-diphenyl-1 picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. Results: Results showed the effectiveness of extraction by decoction for T. testudinum and by microwave for S. filiforme, among the methods that use water as the extraction solvent. In the case those that use the hydroalcoholic mixture as solvent extraction, maceration with agitation and heat extraction showed the higher yields of soluble solids and total polyphenols, as well as a higher antioxidant activity for both species. Conclusions: Results showed the effectiveness of extraction by decoction for T. testudinum and by microwave for S. filiforme, among the methods that use water as extraction solvent. In the case those that use hydroalcoholic mixture as solvent extraction, maceration with agitation and heat extraction showed the higher yields of soluble solids and total polyphenols, as well as a higher antioxidant activity for both species.
The effect of antibiotics on cytokine production by mononuclear cells and the cross-talk with colon cancer cells
Authors: Djaldetti Meir , Nachmias Nimrod , Bessler Hanna
Published: February 2024

Context: Antibiotics belong to the powerful weapons applied against microbial infections. It is notable that in addition to their antimicrobial effect they express immunomodulatory and anti-cancer activities. Aims: To explore the effect of four antibiotics on the immune cross-talk between peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and colon carcinoma cells from two human lines. Methods: Cefotaxime, meropenem, ampicillin and vancomycin were separately added to PBMC co-incubated with cells from two human colon carcinoma cell lines, i.e. HT-29 and RKO. After 24 hours, the level of the following cytokines produced by PBMC was evaluated: IL-6, IL-1ra, IL-1β, TNFα, IFNγ and IL-10. Results: All four antibiotics did not affect the generation of IL-6 and IL-1ra in both co-cultures. On the other hand all of them restrained the production of IL-1β by PBMC incubated with HT-29 cells. In the same incubation mixture cefotaxime, vancomycin and meropenem decreased IFNγ and IL-10 production, while ampicillin and vancomycin inhibited TNFα. As for PBMC incubated with RKO carcinoma cells, cefotaxime inhibited the production of IL-1β, IFNγ and mildly of IL-10, whereas vancomycin repressed that of IL-1β, TNFα and IFNγ. Notably, vancomycin increased the production of IL-1β and decreased that of TNFα and IFNγ. The results indicate that the four antibiotics examined exert a modulatory effect on the immune cross-talk between PBMC and human colon cancer cells from two lines expressed by a different impact on pro-and anti-inflammatory cytokines generation. Conclusions: These findings support the conception that antibiotics may express not only an anti-microbial effect, but also possess an anti-cancer activity that may be considered for integration to the therapeutic arsenal against cancer.
Pharmacognostic and pharmacological studies of Bombax ceiba thorn extract
Authors: Kamble Manish A. , Mahapatra Debarshi Kar , Dhabarde Disha M. , Ingole Ashwini R.
Published: February 2024

Context: Bombax ceiba is a large deciduous tree found in tropical and sub-tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia. Traditional systems of medicine such as Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani have been highlighted the use of B. ceiba parts (bark, leaves, and flower) for the treatment of numerous ailments like algesia, hepatotoxicity, hypertension, HIV infections, fever, dysentery, inflammation, catarrhal affection, ulcer, acne, gynecological disorders, piles and urinary infections. However, no scientific pharmacognostic, phytochemical and pharmacological study has been reported for B. ceiba thorn. Aims: To study the pharmacognostic and pharmacological potentials of B. ceiba thorn extract. Methods: The physicochemical properties were determined using pharmacopoeial tests. The phytochemical screening was carried out using standard protocols. The in vitro anti-inflammatory activity was performed by human red blood cells stabilization method, in vitro anthelmintic activity by Pheretima posthuma method, in vitro antioxidant activity by DPPH scavenging method, and anti-microbial studies by agar streak dilution method against bacteria E. coli, B. subtilis, K. pneumonia, and fungi C. albicans and A. niger. Results: The hydroalcoholic thorn extract of Bombax ceiba (TEBC) showed significant anti-inflammatory (46.9% stabilization), anthelmintic (death at 59.22 min), in vitro anti-oxidant (41.62% inhibition), and anti-microbial activities (B. subtilis > E. coli > K. pneumonia; A. niger > C. albicans). Conclusions: The study revealed the physicochemical, photochemical and pharmacognostic features of thorn of the B. ceiba. The study also revealed the possession of different pharmacological potentials of extract.
Iridoid glycosides from the root of Acanthus sennii
Authors: Assefa Etagegnehu , Alemayhu Israel , Endale Milkyas , Mammo Fikre
Published: February 2024

Context: Acanthus sennii is a plant traditionally used for the treatment of antifungal, cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antioxidant, insecticidal, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, anti-platelet aggregation and anti-viral potential. Aims: To investigate the phytochemical constituents of roots of Acanthus sennii. Methods: Phytochemical screening tests were conducted to identify the class of compounds present in the root extract. Silica gel column chromatographic technique was applied to separate the constituents of the extracts. Various spectroscopic techniques (IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, DEPT-135, COSY, gHSQC, and gHMBC) were applied to determine the structures of isolated compounds. Results: Phytochemical screening of the dichloromethane/methanol (1:1) and methanol (100%) root extract of the plant revealed the presence of phenolic compounds, steroids, flavonoids, and terpenes. Chromatographic separation of dichloromethane/methanol (1:1) root extract of Acanthus sennii yielded two iridoid glycosides (1, 2). Conclusions: The roots of Acanthus senni contain various class of constituents such as flavonoids, phenols, terpenoids, tannins, and iridoid glycosides identified through phytochemical screening test and purification process, which might be responsible for the traditional use of the plant. To the best of our knowledge, these compounds are isolated for the first time from this genus.
Clinical evaluation of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia, treated with the natural product Calprost®: a randomized, controlled study
Authors:   Calprost Study Group, Machado-Leiva Magnelis , Jiménez-Rodríguez Daise , Festary-Casanovas Tatiana , Silveira-Pacheco Deydree  C. , Barroso-de la Cruz Emilio S. , Suárez-Reyes Mariela , Salas-Cruz Genma , Wong-Arocha Haydee , Fernández-Viera Roberto , Tuero-Iglesias Ángela D. , Delgado-Hernández René , García-García Idrian
Published: February 2024

Context: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common disease that course with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS), mainly in over 50 years-old men. Commonly indicated drugs such as alpha adrenergic-blockers are life-treatment with some adverse reactions. Center for Drug Research and Development produce a microencapsulated lipophilic extract of pumpkin seed oil (Calprost®) with anti-androgenic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiproliferative and diuretic properties. Aims: To evaluate the effect and safety of Calprost® in patients with BPH and LUTS. Methods: A multicenter, randomized, controlled, open exploratory clinical trial was conducted. Two experimental groups, study group (Calprost®, 140 mg daily) (n=81), and control group (terazosin, 2 mg daily) (n=50) were conformed. All the patients were treated during three months. Efficacy was evaluated through International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS), residual bladder volume and prostate volume. Results: Most of the included patients (74.0%) were white skin color and their mean age was 66 yrs. Fifteen patients, nine of them from terazosin group, withdraw the trial voluntarily. A significant reduction in the overall IPSS scale was obtained for both groups. Nevertheless, some obstructive (intermittency, straining) and irritative (frequency, urgency) urinary symptoms decreased more markedly in the Calprost® group being milder. Median residual and prostatic volumes decreased significantly (p=0.048 and p=0.002, respectively) only into the Calprost® group. Most of the adverse events were recorded in the terazosin group (79.4%), where postural hypotension prevailed. Conclusions: The natural product Calprost® was probed as a successful treatment of patients with BPH/LUTS, being also well-tolerated.
Anticonvulsant activity of the methanol root bark extract of Ficus sycomorus Linn. (Moraceae)
Authors: Abubakar Umar S. , Danmalam Umar H. , Musa Kabir Y. , Ahmed Abubakar , Jajere Usman M. , Abdullahi Sani
Published: February 2024

Context: Ficus sycomorus Linn. (Moraceae) is used in Northern Nigeria for the management of grand mal epilepsy without any scientific validation. Aims: To evaluate the phytochemical constituents, acute toxicity study and anticonvulsant properties of the methanol root bark extract of F. sycomorus. Methods: The basic phytochemical screening, Lorke’s method and three models of epilepsy were employed, which include the maximal electroshock test in chicks, and pentylenetetrazole- and 4-aminopyridine-induced seizures in mice. Results: The extract revealed the presence of tannins, saponins, carbohydrate, alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids and cardiac glycosides. The intraperitoneal LD50 in mice was estimated to be 565.69 mg/kg body weight. The extract afforded a slight protection, 30% (highest dose used) to the laboratory animals against the maximal electroshock test. The duration of convulsion decreased, which was not statistically significant (p>0.05) when compared to the untreated group. Also, the extract did not protect the animals against the chemically induced seizures by pentylenetetrazole and 4-aminopyridine. Conclusions: The data suggest that the methanol root bark extract of F. sycomorus, at the doses tested and under the experimental conditions reported, may not contain psychoactive principles that are relevant to the management of grand mal epilepsy as claimed by the traditional medicine practitioners.
Antifeedant and insecticidal activity of Polygonum persicaria extracts on Nomophila indistinctalis
Authors: Quesada-Romero Luisa , Fernández-Galleguillos Carlos , Bergmann Jan , Bravo Manuel A. , Fuentes-Contreras Eduardo
Published: February 2024

Context: Vegetal extracts represent an alternative to control against agricultural pests that have become resistant to pesticides. Using natural products is considered to be more friendly to the environment and safe. Aims: To determine the insecticidal and antifeedant activity of Polygonum persicaria extracts of two differents populations in Chile (Valparaiso and Curico) against Nomophila indistinctalis larvae. Methods: Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC) susceptibility test was used to evaluate the insecticidal activity of the extracts at concentrations of 100, 250, 500 and 1000 mg/L; against first instar larvae of Nomophila indistinctalis. The antifeedant activity was evaluated to determine the percentage of consumption in third instar larvae on treatment. Results: When comparing the control and the treatment groups in the antifeedant activity assay, significant differences (p<0.05) were observed after 90 minutes of exposure. With respect to the insecticidal activity, all extracts showed significant effects at the applied concentrations compared to the negative control. Moreover, the dichloromethane extracts of Curico and Valparaiso at concentrations greater than 500 mg/L showed a similar insecticidal activity as compared to the commercial formulation Neem. Conclusions: This work presents for the first time the results of the anti-feeding and insecticide activity of ethanol, methanol, and dichloromethane extracts from Polygonum persicaria on Nomophila indistinctalis. The results show that the extracts of this species can be used as an alternative for biological control. In addition, the results obtained allow a bioguided fractionation for the identification of secondary metabolites present in these extracts.
Quercus infectoria and Terminalia chebula decrease melanin content and tyrosinase activity in B16/F10 cell lines
Authors: Jamshidzadeh Akram , Shokri Yaser , Ahmadi Nahid , Mohamadi Neda , Sharififar Fariba
Published: February 2024

Context: One of the most complained skin cares in ethnic skin like Asian women is hyperpigmentation, and lightening preparations have been long-standing desired. Due to the side effects of current drugs, medicinal plants have attracted more attentions as a source of novel drugs. Mazo (Quercus infectoria galls) and Terminalia chebula fruits have been suggested in Persian Traditional Medicine as a safe treatment for hyperpigmentation. Aims: To evaluate the cytotoxicity and the effect on melanin synthesis in B16/F10 melanoma of Q. infectoria and T. chebula extracts. Methods: After collection and scientific authentication, plants were extracted by maceration method with methanol and were standardized based on total phenolic content. MTT assay and colorimetric method were used for cytotoxicity and determination of melanin content and tyrosinase activity in B16/F10 cells, respectively. Kojic acid was used as a reference compound. Results: Total phenolic content of Q. infectoria and T. chebula was determined as 287.34 ± 4.21 and 172.61 ± 8.67 mg gallic acid equivalent/g dried extract, respectively. Both plants decreased cell viability at 100 µg/mL and significantly reduced intercellular melanin to 66.25% and 71.1%, respectively in comparison to kojic acid (56.63%) at 50 µg/mL. In the same concentration, 65.7% and 71.2% tyrosinase activity was inhibited by Q. infectoria and T. chebula, which significantly were different from control (p<0.001). Conclusions: These findings suggest that both plants especially Q. infectoria could inhibit melanogenesis in non-toxic concentrations and would be a good candidate for further studies.
Effects of Sonchus asper and apigenin-7-glucoside on nociceptive behaviors in mice
Authors: Zarei Mohammad , Mohammadi Saeed , Shahidi Siamak , Fallahzadeh Ali Reza
Published: February 2024

Context: Sonchus asper is an important herbal medicine that traditionally used to treatment of digestive system infections and heart disease. Aims: To evaluate of anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of Sonchus asper hydroalcoholic leaf extract (SALE) and one of its major constituent, apigenin-7-glucoside (Ap7G), in male mice. Methods: In this experimental studies were used nociceptive assessment tests, which include writhing, tail-flick, and formalin-, and glutamate-induced paw licking tests. In addition, xylene test was used for evaluating of anti-inflammatory effect of SALE and Ap7G. Results: In tail-flick, writhing and glutamate-induced paw licking tests, application of a dose of 300 mg/kg of extract showed significantly (p<0.01) antinociceptive effect compared to the control group. In the formalin test, treatment with a dose of 100 mg/kg of extract reduced the pain scores in the tonic phase compared with the control group (p<0.05). In formalin model, also naloxone (an opioid non-selective antagonist) plus the extract (300 mg/kg) reduced licking and biting in mice. Moreover, the use of morphine decreased the nociceptive activity in all assessment tests. In addition, in xylene test, treatment with dose of 100 mg/kg of SALE increased the inhibition (49%) comparing to the control group. The Ap7G showed significant antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects in all tests. Conclusions: SALE and Ap7G have both antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects under the experimental conditions performed in this study. The modulation of the glutamatergic system by opioid receptors could be involved, at least in part, in these effects.
Physical stability of emulsion and hydrophilic gels with chitosan and chitosan acetate
Authors: De la Paz Nilia , Pérez Dania , Fernández Mirna , Soler Dulce M. , Rodríguez Yanet , Nogueira Antonio
Published: February 2024

Context: Chitosan has received great attention because it is a functional, biodegradable, renewable and non-toxic biopolymer with multiple pharmaceutical applications, including stabilizing agent. Aims: To evaluate the physical stability of emulsified bases and hydrophilic gels containing chitosan or chitosan acetate as stabilizing agents. Methods: Stability of shelf-life formulations at room temperature and in refrigeration was evaluated over a period of 60 days and by thermal stress testing and centrifugal destabilization. The organoleptic characteristics, pH, conductivity and flow behavior were evaluated, the latter through the analysis of the rheograms, the determination of rheological parameters (consistency index, apparent viscosity, creep value and flow index), as well as their comparison statistics. The possible correlations between these parameters and the concentration of the biopolymers were also evaluated. Results: The bases elaborated with chitosan or its soluble derivative showed adequate physical stability during the study time. The effect of the storage temperature, as well as the type and concentration of the stabilizing agent used was evidenced. Emulsifier combinations provided less stability. A linear correlation between the rheological parameters and the biopolymer concentration was evidenced. Conclusions: Chitosan and chitosan acetate can be used as emulsifying agents in semi-solid and gelling bases in hydrophilic gels, due to the electrostatic stabilization and the viscosity they contribute to the system in relation to its concentration.
Cytotoxic activity of different polarity fractions obtained from methanolic extracts of Vismia baccifera and Vismia macrophylla (Hypericaceae) collected in Venezuela
Authors: Rojas Janne del C. , Buitrago Alexis A. , Arvelo Francisco A. , Sojo Felipe J. , Suarez Alírica I.
Published: February 2024

Context: Cancer is a complex disease involving numerous changes in cell physiology and abnormal cell growth, which lead to malignant tumors. Many investigations are still carrying on in different areas including, natural products, to find a possible break point to this pathology. Aims: To evaluate the cytotoxic activity on different polar extracts from Vismia baccifera and Vismia macrophylla collected in two locations of the Venezuelan Andes. Methods: Cytotoxic activity assay was carried out following the colorimetric (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) MTT assay. Human tumor cell Lines from breast carcinoma without gene over-expression (MCF-7), breast carcinoma with overexpressed gene (SKBr3), prostate carcinoma (PC3) and cervix epithelial carcinoma (HeLa) were tested with different polarity solvent extracts (hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, butanol, water) from the two species under investigation. Human dermis fibroblasts were used as control cells. Mean inhibitory concentration (IC50) was calculated. Results: Extracts from V. macrophylla showed significant inhibition of cervix epithelial carcinoma with values ranging from 6.09 µg/mL to 17.51 µg/mL; breast carcinoma with an overexpressed gene with values from 12.14 µg/mL to 16.90 µg/mL and prostate carcinoma from 10.91 µg/mL to 17.70 µg/mL. V. baccifera extracts showed the strongest activity against prostate carcinoma with an IC50 value of 2.92 µg/mL. Conclusions: The present study showed evidence for the anticancer activity of Vismia baccifera and Vismia macrophylla extracts since caused growth inhibition in different cell lines at low concentrations, thus, it is considered not only an important contribution to the natural products research but bring supportive data for further investigations on cancer research.
Odour-active compounds of Citrus deliciosa Tenore var. Caí essential oils detected by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and gas chromatography-olfactometry
Authors: Minteguiaga Manuel A. , Frizzo Caren D. , Dellacassa Eduardo S.
Published: February 2024

Context: Mandarins are a complex taxonomic group including different species, cultivars and hybrids growing around the world being fruits greatly appreciated by the consumers. Citrus deliciosa Tenore var. Caí originates from Rio Grande do Sul State (Brazil) and the fruit is characterised by its pleasant properties, especially its aroma. Aims: To evaluate the C. deliciosa cold-pressed essential oils, classified as "green", "yellow" and "red" according to fruit maturity, and the one produced by distillation by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and gas chromatography-olfactometry (GC-O). Methods: The essential oils aromatic quality was evaluated by GC-O through a panel of trained judges. The identification of the volatile compounds was performed by GC-MS and their quantification by GC-FID. Results: The chemical composition of the three types of cold-pressed essential oils was very similar. However, the distilled oil presented a higher concentration of oxygenated monoterpenes (mainly α-terpineol, 4-terpineol and sabinene hydrates). Herbaceous and floral aromatic notes were able to describe the "green" oil, while for the distilled oil wood and unpleasant notes were perceived. Conclusions: The cold-pressed oils did not show nor chemical, or aromatic differences, by the fruit maturity. The distilled oil was characterized by aromatic nuances making the oil less appreciated (inferior quality) than the cold-pressed oil. Probably as consequence of artifacts formation during the distillation process.
Chemical constituents of the roots of Kniphofia isoetifolia Hochst. and evaluation for antibacterial activity
Authors: Meshesha Melaku , Deyou Tsegaye , Tedla Abebe , Abdissa Negera
Published: February 2024

Context: The genus Kniphofia Moench, with species close to 70, is traditionally used to treat wide ranges of ailments including menstrual pains, infertility, abdominal cramps, wounds, malaria, chest complaint and hepatitis B. Kniphofia isoetifolia, an endemic species in Ethiopia, is known for wounds healing applications in Southern Ethiopia. Aims: To investigate the roots of Kniphofia isoetifolia and evaluate the extracts and its constituents for antibacterial activity. Methods: The roots of Kniphofia isoetifolia was extracted with chloroform/methanol (1:1 v/v), and the resulting crude extract was partitioned between EtOAc/H2O. The ethyl acetate extract afforded four compounds after chromatographic purification, and their identification was based on spectroscopic analyses. The extracts and pure compounds were evaluated for in vitro antibacterial activity on four bacterial strains namely Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterococcus faecalis. Results: The purification of the extract of roots of Kniphofia isoetifolia resulted in identification of four compounds (1 – 4). This is the first report on the phytochemical investigation of Kniphofia isoetifolia and occurrence of compound 1 in the genus Kniphofia. The extracts and isolates demonstrated antibacterial activity. The Compound 3 in some cases demonstrated comparable zone of inhibition with gentamycin. Conclusions: This is the first report of the occurrence of naphthoquinone derivative, 3,5,8-trihydroxy-2-methylnaphthalene-1,4-dione (1) in the genus Kniphofia which appears to have a chemotaxonomic significance to narrow down the gap between Alooideae and Asphodeloideae subfamily. The two dimeric anthraquinones (3, 4) showed strong activity with highest zone of inhibition recorded for asphodeline (3) against E. faecalis.
Türk ve Alman Uygulaması Kapsamında TCK’da Bazı Suç Tiplerinde Yer Alan “Suçun Birden Fazla Kişi Tarafından Birlikte İşlenmesi” Nitelikli Halinin Anlamı
Authors: Apiş Özge
Published: February 2024

5237 Sayılı Kanun’un II. Kitabında bazı suç tipleri bakımından, suçun birden fazla kişi tarafından birlikte işlenmesinin cezayı artıran nitelikli hali olarak düzenlendiği görülmektedir. Söz konusu düzenleme, bazı suç tiplerinde suçun işlenmesini kolaylaştırmak ve mağdurun direncinin daha çabuk kırılmasını sağlamak gerekçeleriyle kabul edilmiştir. İştirak kurumu, genel anlamda her suç tipi bakımından böyle bir özellik gösterse de cezanın artırılmasının kimi suç tipleri bakımından kabul edilmesi kanun koyucunun benimsediği suç ve ceza politikasına ilişkin bir husustur. Türk Hukuku’nda suçun birden fazla kişi tarafından birlikte işlenmesi, müşterek faillik şeklinde anlaşılmaktadır. Alman Hukuku’nda da bazı suçlar bakımından suçun müşterek faillik şeklinde işlenmesi, temel cezanın artırılmasını gerektirmektedir. Ancak Türk Hukuku’ndan farklı olarak bu hukuk sisteminde, suçun, suça katılan bir başka kişiyle ortaklaşa işlenmesi de kimi suçlar bakımından cezanın artırılmasını gerektirmektedir. Çalışmada iki hukuk sistemindeki düzenlemelerin karşılaştırılması amaçlanmaktadır.
The Effects of Employee Recognition, Pay, and Benefits on Job Satisfaction: Cross Country Analysis of Pakistan, China and Saudi Arabia
Authors: Ali Masroor , Mahar Ali Dino , Panhyar Mohammad Ali
Published: February 2024

This paper analyzes the effect of employee recognition, pay, and benefits on job satisfaction. In this cross-sectional study, survey responses from university students in the Pakistan (n = 450), China (n = 340) and Saudi Arabia (n = 399) were analyzed. Employee recognition, pay, and benefits were found to have a significant impact on job satisfaction, regardless of home country income level (high, middle or low income) and culture (collectivist or individualist). However, the effect of benefits on job satisfaction was significantly more important for China. respondents than for respondents from Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The authors conclude that both financial and nonfinancial rewards have a role in influencing job satisfaction, which ultimately impacts employee performance. Theoretical and practical implications for developing effective recruitment and retention policies for employees are also discussed.