bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Community radio: an instrument for good governance in Nigeria
Authors: Julius-Adeoye ‘Rantimi Jays
Published: June 2020

Decree No. 38 of 1992 enacted under the administration of General Ibrahim B. Babangida put a stop to fifty seven years of government’s exclusive ownership and operation of broadcasting in Nigeria. However, with the cost of setting-up, management and obtaining license for media station being prohibitively expensive, the system can only be accessed by the rich and powerful in the society, thereby depriving rural communities’ involvement in the development of the country. As part of the panoply of strategies to ensure rural communities’ participation in democratic governance, there is need for the establishment of rural community radio stations, which is very much different from educational institutions’ type currently being paraded as community radios but rather a training room for communication and theatre arts students. Using historical-analytic method, this article looks at the role community radio could play in making good governance in Nigeria accessible to every segment of society, especially the rural populace. Therefore, it is recommended that Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) policy should consider the inclusion of community radio as the third in the sector of radio broadcasting in Nigeria after public and commercial ownership. Furthermore, since community radio is essentially non-for-profit, government should make the operation licence free or at a minimal cost to the host community.

Keywords: Community radio, NBC, Good governance, People’s participation, Nigeria
Ritual culture phenomenon in Igbo films: a study of Money is Money
Authors: Hanmakyugh Teddy Thaddeus
Published: June 2020

Film as a means of communication is a very potent instrument for image making, cultural diplomacy, propaganda, education, information and entertainment. The Nigerian film industry (Nollywood) ranks among the first three top world filmmaking industries in terms of the quantity of productions, popularity amongst Nigerians and the transnational audiences. Culture is the bedrock of Nollywood’s thematic film expositions. One can, therefore, conclude that Nollywood is Nigeria’s cultural ambassador. Although Nollywood films are quite potent in celebrating and promoting Nigerian cultures, some of these films have come under thematic criticisms as they glamourize negative, ritual themes in the name of culture. It is against this backdrop that this article examines the occult ritual of cultural phenomenon in Prince Emeka Ani’s Money is Money (2005) and the negative image it portends for Nigeria globally. The film depicts Andy (Kanayo O. Kanayo), an Igbo youth who deploys occult means as an instrument for making money even at the cost of his life. This paper uses content analysis and literary methods as tools to interrogate the preponderance of the occult themes in Nollywood movies. The findings show that Nigeria has several acceptable cultures as raw materials that could positively portray Nigeria’s cultures globally. However, the unceasing preoccupation with “juju”, the relentless celebration of dark rituals and diabolical cults could make viewers cultivate the perception of reality portrayed by these films. Money is Money celebrates the non-attractive side of Nigeria. Therefore, it is recommended that the Nollywood film professionals tell the global audience acceptable culturally based value themes about Nigeria.

Keywords: Igboland, Ritual culture, Nollywood film professionals, Igbo film, Nigerian cultures
All Hands on Deck: The Process and Activities of Collaboration between Chiefs and Local Government Authorities in Ghana
Authors: Boateng Kwabena , Afranie Stephen
Published: June 2020

Local governance historically revolved around chiefs. However, colonialism witnessed the transfer of the powers and functions of chiefs to local government authorities. Current local government legislations failed to provide the needed formalised process of collaboration between the two actors resulting in conflict and tensions between them. This notwithstanding, chiefs have exhibited their preparedness to collaborate with developmental partners including local government authorities. The study examined the processes and activities that chiefs and local government authorities collaborated for the purpose of community development. Simple random and purposive sampling techniques were used to select forty-nine participants from New Juaben, Ghana. Multiple qualitative methods including participant observation, in-depth and key informant interviews were used to collect data. The study revealed that chiefs and local government authorities collaborated on an ad hoc basis in organising communal labour and sanitation, disaster management, revenue mobilisation and crime prevention. Though chiefs and local government authorities collaborated in diverse activities, the process of collaboration was not formalised. Chiefs are however needed in local governance to aid in the materialisation of the objectives of community development. The study recommends for the formalisation of the process of collaboration between the two actors to enable the former play active roles in local government.

Keywords: Collaboration, Local Government Authorities, Chiefs, Community Development
Dynamics and Socioeconomic Drivers of Illegal Hunting of Wildlife Animal for Consumption in Oba Hills Forest Reserve in Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Akinsorotan O.A. , Olaniyi O.E. , Oguntuase B.G. , Raheem T.
Published: June 2020

This study investigated the dynamics and socioeconomic drivers of illegal hunting of wildlife animal commonly called bushmeat in Oba Hills Forest Reserve (OHFR) in Southwest Nigeria. Two hundred and thirty-four households in 8 host communities were subjected to direct household survey using a multi-stage sampling technique. The results revealed that mainly young and middle-aged men engaged in group and seasonal bushmeat hunting, mostly during the dry season. Also, the scale of daily illegal bushmeat hunting is high in the protected area. Non-selective hunting has increased over the last five years with traditional means of hunting still prominent during the hunting expedition. Thus, the socioeconomic drivers (age, ethnicity and household size) had a strong relationship with illegal bushmeat hunting, and their odds ratio ranged between 2.11 and 3.73. Failure to provide stakes for the host communities’ inhabitants and weak penal system influenced illegal bushmeat hunting in OHFR. We conclude that the aforementioned factors need to be addressed for illegal bushmeat hunting to be tackled effectively. However, in the absence of political and economic stability, controlling illegal bushmeat hunting will remain extremely difficult and the future of wildlife conservation will remain bleak.

Keywords: Protected area, bushmeat hunting, conservation, seasonal employment
Adsorption of Cu (II) and Ni (II) Ions from Solution onto Calcium Alginate Beads
Authors: Jalija D.O. , Uzairu A .
Published: June 2020

The objective of this study was to investigate the biosorption of Cu (II) and Ni (II) ions from aqueous solution by calcium alginate beads. The effects of solution pH, contact time and initial metal ion concentration were evaluated. The results showed that maximum Cu (II) removal (93.10%) occurred at pH of 9.0, contact time of 120 minutes and initial ion concentration of 10 mg/L while that of Ni (II) was 94.6%, which was achieved at pH of 8.0, contact time of 120 minutes and initial ion concentration of 10 mg/L. The equilibrium data fitted well to the Langmuir Isotherm indicating that the process is a monolayer adsorption. The coefficients of determination, R2, values for the Langmuir Isotherm were 0.9799 and 0.9822 respectively for Cu (II) and Ni (II) ions. The values of the maximum biosorption capacity, Qo, were 10.79 and 6.25 mgg-1 respectively. The kinetic data also revealed that the sorption process could best be described by the pseudo – second order kinetic model. The R2 values for the pseudo – second order kinetic plots for Cu (II) and Ni (II) were 0.9988 and 0.9969 respectively. These values were higher than those for the pseudo – first order plots. The values of the biosorption capacity qe obtained from the pseudo – second order plots were very close to the experimental values of qe indicating that the biosorption process follows the second order kinetics. This study has therefore shown that calcium alginate beads can be used for the removal of Cu (II) and Ni (II) ions from wastewaters.

Keywords: Keywords: Adsorption, Calcium alginate, Isotherm, Langmuir, Pseudo- first order, Pseudo-second order
Geochemical characterization of FE-1 well, Onshore Western Niger Delta Basin, Nigeria
Authors: Amiewalan F.O. , Lucas F.A.
Published: June 2020

Major oxides and trace elements analysis was carried out on ditch cutting samples of FE-1 well, Onshore, Niger Delta Basin, to define their oxygen condition, paleo-climatic conditions, provenance, tectonic setting, sandstone classification and maturity of the sediments. Sedimentological analysis revealed five main lithofacies comprising of sandstone, shaly sand, mudstone, sandy clay and sandy shale. Geochemical results indicates that the average value of silica (87.1 wt. %) is far higher than the average values of the rest oxides which shows the duration and intensity of weathering and destruction of other minerals during transportation. Bivariate plot of La/Sc versus Th/Co, Zr versus TiO2, and trace elemental ratios of Th/Sc, Th/Co, Th/Cr, Cr/Th, La/Sc establishes that the source of the sediment are from felsic rock. Different chemical classification schemes characterized the sediments as quartzarenite, lithic arenites and Fe-rich sand. The plot of Log (K2O/Na2O) versus Log (SiO2/Al2O3) and K2O/Na2O versus SiO2 all plotted mainly in the passive margin zone. The low average value of uranium content, trace elemental ratios of U/Th, Ni/Co, Cu/Zn, V/Cr and binary plot of Ni/Co versus V/Cr indicated an oxic environment of deposition. However, the binary plot of Ni/Co versus V/ (V+Ni) indicates oxic to anoxic condition during deposition of the mixed marine and terrigenous source input sediment. Binary plot of SiO2 versus (Al2O3+Na2O+K2O) designates deposition mainly in humid/semi-humid climatic condition. The samples studied have a much higher SiO2/Al2O3 ratio with low Fe2O3/K2O ratio, thus, they are mineralogically mature. The Al2O3/(CaO+MgO+Na2O+K2O) ratio inferred that there are stable mobile oxides in the samples.

Keywords: Major oxides, lithic arenites, provenance, tectonic setting.
Effects of Solid Waste Disposal on the Receiving Soil Quality in Benin Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Sam-Uroupa E.R. , Ogbeibu A.E.
Published: June 2020

The present study investigated the impact of solid waste disposal on the receiving soil quality of four major dump-sites and a control site in Benin Metropolis, Edo State, Nigeria by collecting samples at three distances from the dump-sites of 0 – 50 m, 50 – 100 m, > 100 m at 0 – 30 cm depth. The investigation spanned from July 2011 to December 2011. Results obtained during these months were pooled together to obtain single mean for each sampling station or distance. Results showed that pH values ranged between 5.23 and 5.83, recording slight variations from one site to the other, with no significant differences (P> 0.05) across the study stations and distances. Electrical conductivity concentrations ranged from 562.00 - 982.33μS/cm, with the highest concentrations recorded at 0 - 50m, whereas concentrations were lowest beyond 100 m. Significant increased concentrations of heavy metals (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Cr, Pb, Ni and V) were reported when compared with the control. The bacterial count (F= 7.527,df = 3) and fungal count (F=5.749, df = 3) of soil sample did not show a significant difference (P > 0.05) between the test stations and the control station respectively, although the mean ranks were highest in the control station.

Keywords: Benin City, dump sites, Ikhueniro, soil quality, municipal waste
Impact of Bisphenol A on the Physicochemical and Bacteriological Characteristics of Water in Storage Tanks from various Locations in Salem University Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria
Authors: Udochukwu U. , Olannye P.G.
Published: June 2020

This study examined the impact of Bisphenol A (BPA) on the physicochemical and bacteriological characteristics of water in storage tanks in Salem University Lokoja. Borehole water samples were collected from three (3) locations within the University environment and stored in a jerry can for analysis. Total Heterotrophic Bacteria Count (THBC) in water samples ranged from 1.00± 0.30 x104 at week 0 to 8.95±1.00 x104 cfu/ml at week 3, while the total coliform count (TCC) also ranged from 1.30±0.15 x104 to 7.11±0.82 x104 cfu/ml. TCC and THBC were found to be higher than the NSDWQ Standard. The identified isolates from the borehole samples were Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus faecalis, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Serretia spp. Bisphenol A (BPA) was not detected in week 0, after week 3, components of Bisphenol A detected were methyl chloride, Benzene and Dichlorobenzene and their highest values were 0.054±0.033, 0.021±0.020 and 0.055±0.062 mg/l respectively. The pH, Turbidity, Total suspended solids, BOD and conductivity reduced as storage increased. Magnesium and calcium for sample B were found to have the highest value of 0.31 and 1.73 mg/l respectively. Storage of water for a long period of time should be discouraged as it could trigger increased leaching of BPA into the water which will affect its physicochemical and microbiologically quality.

Keywords: Bacteria, Bisphenol A, Storage Water Tanks, Drinking Water Quality.
Detection and Classification of Stator Short-Circuit Faults in Three-Phase Induction Motor
Authors: Abdullateef A.I. , Fagbolagun O.S. , Sanusi M.F. , Akorede M.F. , Afolayan M.A.
Published: June 2020

Induction motors are the backbone of the industries because they are easy to operate, rugged, economical and reliable. However, they are subjected to stator’s faults which damage the windings and consequently lead to machine failure and loss of revenue. Early detection and  classification of these faults are important for the effective operation of induction motors. Stators faults detection and classification based on  wavelet Transform was carried out in this study. The feature extraction of the acquired data was achieved using lifting decomposition and reconstruction scheme while Euclidean distance of the Wavelet energy was used to classify the faults. The Wavelet energies increased for all three conditions monitored, normal condition, inter-turn fault and phase-to-phase fault, as the frequency band of the signal decreases from D1 to A3. The deviations in the Euclidean Distance of the current of the Wavelet energy obtained for the phase-to-phase faults are 99.1909, 99.8239 and 87.9750 for phases A and B, A and C, B and C respectively. While that of the inter-turn faults in phases A, B and C are 77.5572, 61.6389 and 62.5581 respectively. Based on the Euclidean distances of the faults, Df and normal current signals, three classification points were set: K1 = 0.60 x 102, K2 = 0.80 x 102 and K3 = 1.00 x 102. For K2 ≥ Df ≥ K1 inter-turn faults is identified and for K3 ≥ Df ≥ K2 phase to phase fault identified. This will improve the induction motors stator’s fault diagnosis.

Keywords: induction motor, stator fault classification, data acquisition system, Discrete Wavelet Transform
Effect of Plant Extract Combinations on Some Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Obuekwe I.S. , Okoyomo E.P. , Anka U.S.
Published: June 2020

Increase in antimicrobial resistance coupled with successful treatment of various diseases with herbal medications has triggered the upsurge in research geared towards harnessing the medicinal potentials of various plants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical composition of Bryophyllum pinnatum, Ocimum gratissimum, Jatropha curcas and Ficus exasperata and their combined antibacterial activity on Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella pneumonia. Plant leaves were air–dried, extracted with ethyl-acetate and water with subsequent qualitative analyses for phytochemical compounds. Bacterial pathogens were obtained from University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), confirmed, and their zones of inhibition studied at 50, 40, 30, 20 and 10 mg/ml of extract combinations. The presence of phenols, tannins and saponins were confirmed in all extracts while alkaloids were present in all ethyl acetate extracts and terpenoids in all aqueous extracts. Different zones of inhibition were measured with the different extract combinations with E. coli having its highest zone of inhibition with the combination of Bryophyllum pinnatum and Ocimum gratissimum in 30 mg/ml (27.25 ± 1.70 mm). However, the highest zone of inhibition observed in the study was with S. aureus in 10 mg/ml concentration of ethyl acetate plant extracts of Ocimum gratissimum and Ficus exasperata (31.75 ± 3.07 mm). The Gram positive cell wall of S. aureus is less complex and therefore, more susceptible to bio-agents. Antibacterial activities of these extracts are attributed to the presence of secondary metabolites that make them good bio-agents for production of antibacterial drugs.

Keywords: Plant extracts, Inhibition zones, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus
Habitats of antlions larvae (Neuroptera: Myrmeleontidae) in the Sudano-Guinean and Sudano-Sahelian zones of Cameroon
Authors: Bakoidi A. , Ismaila D. , Maogé J. , Ngamo-Tinkeu L.S.
Published: June 2020

Antlions (Insecta: Neuroptera) are flying insect associated with sunny weather at adult stage. During larval stage, xerophilous insects they are familiar to arid soils with critical temperature, hygrometry and luminosity. These 3 climatic parameters are used to discriminate among larval habitats of antlions in the Soudano Guinean and Soudano Sahelian Savannah of Cameroon. Investigations made during 3 years from 2015 to 2018,consisted in survey of larvae’s funnels. At the level of each active pit-traps, the 3 parameters were recorded during the whole dry season. Analysis of data computerised pointed out that larvae of Cueta bourborni Navas 1935, and those of Cueta sp, are frequent within sites that are warm (40.57±0.64°C to 52.14±4.08°C); dry (10.91±0.82-16.81±2.74%rh) and lighted (94380.2 ±16109.4 lux) habitats. On the other hand, larvae of Myrmeleonquinquemaculatus Hagen 1853 are associated with sites that are: humid (75.46±4.50% RH), cloudy (448.232±300. 491 lux) with tendency to moist (22.11±0.88°C to 28.10 ±2.14°C). Presence of C. bourbonni sometimes in the moisty Soudano Guinean zone could only indicate episode of warming.

Keywords. Antlions habitats, global warming, temperature, luminosity, Hygrometry
Inhibition of Pipeline Steel Corrosion in 0.5 M H2SO4 Using Cotyledon of Chrysophyllum Albidum
Authors: Othaki E.P. , Ngobiri N.C.
Published: June 2020

The corrosion inhibition characteristics of Chrysophyllum albidum cotyledon extract was studied as a green and sustainable corrosion inhibitors for pipeline steel in acidic environment attemperatures, 303,313 and 323K using gravimetric technique.The results obtained showed that the inhibition efficiency increased with increase in extract concentration but decrease with increase in temperature. The extract attained an inhibition efficiency of 94 % with 5 g/L at 303 K and 52.2 % with 1 g/L at 333K. Also increase in concentration of the extract lead to increase in activation energydepicting an exothermic process.Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) studies showed the mode of inhibition as adsorption of phytochemicals from the extract on pipeline steel surface. Langmuir adsorption isotherm best fitted into the adsorption process which is spontaneous and physical.

Keywords: Chrysophyllum albidum, Pipeline steel, Inhibition, Adsorption.
Land Hunger in Omo Forest Reserve, Area J4, Ogun State Prospects: Of Creating Harmony among Land Users
Authors: Salako B.A. , Adesope A.A.A. , Agbeja B.O.
Published: June 2020

The study verified the extent of land hunger in Omo Forest Reserve, area J4, Ogun State, with a view to creating harmony among land users. Five villages/communities (Osoko, Aberu, Fowowa, Bashiru and Oloji) in Omo Forest Reserve, area J4, Ijebu East, Ogun State were selected for the study due to the level of their involvement in farming activities. Data was obtained using two set of structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression at α = 0.05. A high level of land hunger was proven and its main causes (population increase and area of forest reservation) were identified. Good governance in the affairs of the reserve, followed by the empowerment of the people to have a say in the management of the forest reserve and a holistic land use policy, with odd ratios of 3.85, 2.73 and 2.37, respectively would highly influence the reduction of conflict between farmers and foresters in Omo Forest Reserve (J4).

Keywords: conflict, harmonisation, land hunger, forest reservation and land use.
Physicochemical and Heavy Metals Characteristics of Soil from Three Major Dumpsites in Ilorin Metrpolis, North Central Nigeria
Authors: Shehu-Alimi E. , Esosa I. , Ganiyu B.A. , Olanrewaju S. , Daniel O.
Published: June 2020

Impact of waste disposal and management is a worldwide phenomenon leading to health impact most especially in underdeveloped and developing world. This study was undertaken to assess the major contaminants in some municipal waste disposal sites and the prospective impact to the surrounding domestic water supply source as well as the impact on the health of the people in the city. This is carried out by studying variousphysico-chemical parameters of soil which were collected from three municipal dump locations namely; Ita-Amodu, Sawmill garage and Kuntu areas in Ilorin metropolis, Kwara State Nigeria. The geochemistry of the dumpsites were studied with respect to important parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity, temperature, sulphates, chlorides, nitrates, moisture content, organic matter and heavy metals having the following constituents present in its composition- Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb), Zinc (Zn), Iron (Fe), and Copper (Cu). The study revealed that the three different soils samples: “(A) Ita-Amodu”, “(B) Sawmill Garage”, and “(C) Kuntu”) have pH of 7.1, 7.2 and 6.8, respectively. Temperature of 24.2, 26.4, and 28.0 oC, Organic matter compositions of 0.95%, 0.73%, and 1.14%. The Moisture contents were 3.93%, 2.89%, and 3.48% respectively. The chloride  contents of the samples was found to be 31.76 mg/L, 48.98 mg/L, and 91.63 mg/L, while nitrates were found to be 0.10 mg/L, 0.06, mg/L and 0.23mg/L, with a sulphate values of 1.96 mg/L, 2.35 mg/L, and 2.14 mg/L. The conductivities were 1.79 μs/cm, 2.23 μs/cm, and 1.15 μs/cm respectively. Heavy metal analysis from the waste soil were found to contained copper (Cu) - 0.03 mg/L, 0.028 mg/L, and 0.031 mg/L, zinc (Zn) - 0.04, mg/L 0.009 mg/L, and 0.066 mg/L), cadmium (Cd) - 0.516 mg/L, 0.62, mg/L and 0.048 mg/L), Lead (Pb) - 0.063 mg/L, 0.07 mg/L, and 0.056 mg/L), and iron (Fe) -0.518 mg/L, 0.62 mg/L, and 0.190 mg/L.

Keywords: Dumpsites, Heavy metals, Ilorin, Moisture contents, Nitrates.
Giardia duodenalis infection in dogs affected by primary chronic enteropathy
Authors: Perrucci Stefania , Berrilli Federica , Procopio Cristina , Di Filippo Margherita Montalbano , Pierini Alessio , Marchetti Veronica
Published: June 2020

Background: Canine primary chronic enteropathy (CE) includes a heterogeneous group of diseases characterized by chronic gastrointestinal signs.Aim: This study evaluated the occurrence of Giardia duodenalis infection in primary CE-affected dogs.Methods: Forty-seven CE-affected dogs of different age and sex were enrolled in the study. For each dog, frequency of defecation, fecal consistency, and eventual fecal abnormalities were evaluated. A clinical scoring index of CE severity (clinical chronic enteropathy activity index) was also assessed, and the type of enteropathy was retrospectively classified. For parasitological analysis, fresh fecal samples collected from each dog were examined by fresh and Lugol stained smears, flotation test, and a rapid immunoassay. Giardia duodenalis genotypes were identified by molecularanalysis. Differences of clinical parameters between G. duodenalis positive and G. duodenalis negative dogs were statistically evaluated.Results: Among the CE canine patients, 16 out of 47 (34%) dogs were found positive for G. duodenalis and assemblages C and D were identified. No statistical differences emerged according to the types of CE between G. duodenalispositive and G. duodenalis-negative dog groups. The clinical index of CE severity was indicative of significant less severe clinical forms in G. duodenalis-positive dogs (p = 0.037).Conclusion: Results here obtained shows how G. duodenalis may be present in primary CE-affected dogs and further investigations are needed to clarify the real significance of mild clinical presentation in G. duodenalis-positive dogs affected by CE.

Keywords: Canine, Clinical forms, Genotypes, Giardiasis, Primary chronic enteropathy.
Protective effect of ginkgolide B against isoproterenolinduced chronic heart failure in rats via modulation of Nrf2 and HO-1 signaling pathways
Authors: Zhi Lu Hui , Ru Wang Bin , Yun Tan , Hui Dong , Li Liu
Published: June 2020

Purpose: To determine the protective effect of ginkgolide B (GB) against isoproterenol (ISO)-induced chronic heart failure in a rat model.

Methods: A total of 32 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups. Rats in control group received only saline, while rats in GB alone group were injected with GB at a dose of 20 mg/kg body weight (bwt) intraperitoneally (i.p). Another group of rats was injected with ISO  subcutaneously (s.c.) at a dose of 85 mg/kg for 2 days (ISO group). Rats in the GB+ISO group were administered GB at a dose of 20 mg/kg, i.p., for 7 days prior to exposure to ISO s.c. at a dose of 85 mg/kg.

Results: Rats pre-treated with GB for 7 days prior to ISO exposure showed a significant decrease in cardiac infarct size, and marked decreases in the levels of cardiac biomarkers, inflammatory and apoptotic biomarkers, and lipid peroxidation (p < 0.05), but significant improvement in the levels ofendogenous antioxidants (p < 0.05). In addition, GB administration resulted in marked increases in the protein expression levels of heme  oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and Nrf2 in cardiac tissue (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: These results indicate that pre-treatment of chronic heart failure rats with GB for 7 consecutive days considerably lowered inflammatory and apoptotic markers via upregulation of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Thus, GB has cardioprotective potential in humans.

Keywords: Ginkgolide B, Nrf2/HO-1, Inflammatory markers, Apoptotic markers, Antioxidants
Bethanechol versus selegiline in amelioration of spinal cord injury in a rat model: A potential therapeutic option in spinal cord injury treatment
Authors: Fan Guangliang , Luan Jinli , Tang Xiankuo , Song Qimin
Published: June 2020

Purpose: To compare the effect of bethanechol versus selegiline in ameliorating spinal cord injury (SCI) in a rat model.Methods: Male adult Wistar rats (200 – 250 g) were equally divided into 3 groups: test (SCI rats treated with bethanechol), and control reference (SCI rats treated with selegiline) and control (SCI rats treated with vehicle). SCI was induced in the rats using the clipping method. Thereafter, motor function was assessed in the rats using a rotarod. Each rat was sacrificed by decapitation, and the cortex was excised for use in the study of the involvement of cholinergic and monoaminergic transmission in SCI rats using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis.Results: Retention time was numerically greater in rats treated with acetyl choline agonist at all rotations (10, 15 and 25 rpm) when compared to MAO A inhibitor group, but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Both bethanechol and selegiline improved motor function by increasing cholinergic and monoaminergic transmission. Both drugs (bethanechol and selegiline) were effective in ameliorating the motor function deficit caused by spinal cord injury. A significant upregulation in acetylcholine esterase (AChE) was observed in the cortex of the SCI rats, relative to non-SCI rats (p < 0.005). Results from cholinergic receptor binding studies revealed significantly decreased Bmax and kd values for muscarinic receptors in SCI rats, when compared to non-SCI rats. Moreover, the reduction in the intensity of cholinergic receptors was significantly higher in the cerebral cortex of SCI rats than in non-SCI rats.Conclusion: Bethanechol and selegiline are effective in ameliorating motor function deficit caused by spinal cord injury in rats. Both drugs also improve motor function in SCI rats. Therefore, the drugs have potentials for use in the therapeutical management of spinal cord injury.

Keywords: Spinal cord injury, Bethanechol, Selegiline, Motor functions, Monoaminergic transmission, Cholinergic transmission
Mangiferin ameliorates insulin resistance in a rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome via inhibition of inflammation
Authors: Qian Qiaohong , Tang Minjie , Li Xinrong , Cao Qi , Zhu Zhiling
Published: June 2020

Purpose: To examine the effect of mangiferin on insulin resistance (IR) in a rat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) model.Methods: The rat PCOS model was established via subcutaneous injection of 6 mg/kg of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and mangiferin was orally administered. Body and ovarian weights were recorded. Serum levels of glucose, insulin, and related inflammatory cytokines were evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, while the expression levels of key proteins were analyzed by western blotting.Results: DHEA significantly increased ovarian weight and the ratio of ovarian weight/body weight (p <0.001), while mangiferin treatment decreased them (p < 0.001). Mangiferin also lowered DHEA-induced enhancements in serum glucose and insulin levels (p < 0.001). The mRNA and, expression and concentrations of inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-6(IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)) were also significantly reduced by mangiferin treatment (p < 0.001). Furthermore, mangiferin suppressed phosphorylation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) but increased the phosphorylation of protein kinase B (AKT, p < 0.001).Conclusion: These results reveal that mangiferin not only decreases inflammatory cytokine levels by regulating NF-κB signaling pathway but also ameliorates IR in a rat PCOS model via regulating AKT signaling pathway. Thus, mangiferin is a potential therapeutic strategy for the management of PCOS.

Keywords: Polycystic ovary syndrome, Mangiferin, Inflammation, Insulin resistance, NF-κB, AKT
Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T polymorphism and toxicity to 5-FU-based chemotherapy in colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Yong-lian , Xie Xiong-wei
Published: June 2020

Purpose: To investigate the toxicity of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) polymorphism in colorectal cancer patients treated with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU).Methods: A total of 105 patients with colorectal cancer who underwent 5-FU therapy were included in this study. MTHFR C677T polymorphisms were determined using direct sequencing. Physical examination and the results of blood and urine tests were used to evaluate the toxicities, including gastrointestinal toxicity, hematopoietic toxicity, hair-skin toxicity and hand-foot syndrome.Results: In 90.5 % of all patients, 5-FU toxicity was observed. With regard to MTHFR C677T mutation, 45.7 % heterozygote mutants and 19.0 % homozygote mutants were observed. MTHFR C677T polymorphism was statistically related to 5-FU toxicity (p = 0.000). In addition, MTHFR C677T mutation was closely related to hematopoietic toxicity (p = 0.005).Conclusion: MTHFR C677T can be used for the prediction of 5-FU toxicity, and can also predict hematopoietic toxicity in patients with colorectal cancer.

Keywords: MTHFR genes, Polymorphism, Colorectal cancer, Biomarker, Toxicity
Phytochemical analysis and bioactivity screening of three medicinal plants of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Wahaibi Lamya H. , Mahmood Adeem , Khan Merajuddin , Alkhathlan Hamad Z.
Published: June 2020

Purpose: To investigate the phytochemical analysis and bioactivity screening of some Asteraceae medicinal plants.

Methods: The chemical constituents were isolated by column chromatography and elucidated using chemical and extensive spectroscopic methodologies including gas chromatoraphy-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), as well as 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The plant extracts were obtained by solvent extraction method while hydrodistillation was used to isolate plant essential oils. Furthermore, cup-plate agar diffusion was applied for antimicrobial activity evaluation while minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was assessed by microdilution technique.

Results: Centaurea pseudosinaica, Tripleurospermum auriculatum, and Koelpinia linearis afforded previously undescribed three coumarins (xanthotoxin, cirsimaritin, salvigenins) from C. pseudosinaica, one steroid (estradiol) and a pentacyclic triterpene (β-amyrin) from T. auriculatum and a coumarin (santin) from K. linearis in good yields. In addition, the plant extracts and oils exhibited remarkable bioactivities including antifungal, antibacterial and antipyretic etc.

Conclusion: The results reveal the presence of bioactive phytomolecules from Asteraceae plant extracts and volatile oils from three Asteraceae plants.

Keywords: C. pseudosinaica, T. auriculatum, K. linearis, Xanthotoxin, Salvigenin, Cirsimaritin, Santin, Estradiol, β-amyrin, Antimicrobial activity
Parental awareness regarding pediatric antibiotic use in Madinah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Khojah Hani M.J. , Abdelhady Hosam G. , Alqurashi Abdulmalik A. , Kasem Enas M. , Osailan Nuha S. , Alnuman Mohammed O. , Alruhaili Ryan E. , Bedaiwy Abdulrahman A. , Mofti Razan H. , Abdel-Salam Hassan A.
Published: June 2020

Purpose: To determine the level of awareness of antibiotic use in children in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, and to identify factors associated with parental decisions regarding it.

Methods: Using a multiple-choice-question-based questionnaire survey, 1256 forms were distributed to visitors of major shopping malls in Madinah City to obtain socio-demographic and antibiotics knowledgebased data from October 2017 to January 2018. Differences in scores between and within groups on knowledge of parents about antibiotics were determined.

Results: Most participants (67 %) had good basic knowledge of antibiotics: 69 and 40 % of respondents were aware of their side effects and antibacterial resistance, respectively. Participants in high age groups (> 46 years old) have a significantly higher mean knowledge score (55.4 ± 20.1, p < 0.05) than those in younger groups. Educational status increased the mean knowledge score by approximately 60 %, with the most educated group having a mean score of 61.2 ± 16.4 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: These results reveal the importance of awareness campaigns on antibiotic use and the role of healthcare professionals in the education of patients and parents on correct use of antibiotics, as well as the significance of antibacterial resistance.

Keywords: Antibiotics misuse, Pediatrics, Patient education, Antibacterial resistance
MicroRNA-421 protects against chronic intermittent hypoxia-induced vascular endothelial cell injury by targeting TLR4
Authors: Yuan Jie , Shi Jiankuan , Yu Shuqi , Zhang Hong
Published: June 2020

Purpose: To investigate the role of miR-421 in endothelial cell injury caused by chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH), and to unravel the mechanism of action.

Methods: A rat aortic endothelial cell model of CIH was established by 18-h exposure to hypoxic treatment. Cell viability was evaluated by MTT while cell apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry. Cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were assessed by cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay kit. The mRNA and protein levels were also determined. Sprague Dawley rats were used to establish a rat CIH model over a 6-week hypoxic exposure. The degree of lung and renal injuries in the rats were observed by HE staining.

Results: MiR-421 was downregulated and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) upregulated in CIH cells compared to control cells. Treatment of CIH cells decreased their viability, increased cellular ROS levels, promoted cell apoptosis, and caused changes in protein levels of apoptosis- and inflammation-related genes. However, miR-421 mimics reversed these results caused by CIH treatment. Dual luciferase reporter assay verified that TLR4 was targeted by miR-421. Moreover, TLR4 overexpression suppressed the protective effect of miR-421 on CIH cells. Finally, miR-421 agomiR inhibited CIH-induced TLR4 upregulation in rats. Histopathological examinations confirmed that miR-421 agomiR inhibited CIHinduced injury and collagen deposition in rat lungs and kidneys.

Conclusion: MiR-421 protects vascular endothelial cells against CIH-induced injury in rats by targeting TLR4, which may provide a biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of CIH-induced injury.

Keywords: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, MiR-421, TLR4, Chronic intermittent hypoxia, Vascular endothelial cells
Protective effect of midazolam against convulsion in neonatal rats via down-regulation of LC3 and Beclin-1 expression
Authors: Shi Juan , Jiang Shuzhong , Wang Qinhua , Hua Jiajia , Xu Feifan , Gu Delin , Zhou Hui
Published: June 2020

Purpose: To investigate the effect of midazolam on growth of neurocytes in vitro and in neonatal rats.

Methods: Neurocyte proliferation and activity of lactate dehydrogenase were assessed by MTT and lactate dehydrogenase assays, respectively. Western blotting was used to determine the effect of midazolam on LC3, Bax, p62 and Beclin-1 protein expressions.

Results: The suppression of neurocyte proliferation byconvulsion was alleviated significantly (p < 0.05) by midazolum treatment. Exposure of convulsion model of neurocytes to midazolum suppressed LC3, Bax, p62 and Beclin-1 protein expression. Midazolum exposure of convulsion model of neurocytes suppressed LDH, caspase-3, caspase-8 and caspase-9 activities. The 3-MA (autophagy inhibitor) treatment also significantly (p < 0.05) promoted neurocyte viability after convulsion induction. In convulsion-induced neurocytes, 3-MA exposure suppressed expression of caspase-3/8/9, LC3, Bax, Beclin-1 and p62, while application of midazolum treatment to the rats with convulsion markedly decreased brain water content and neurocyte apoptosis (p < 0.05). Treatment with midazolum inhibited LC3, p62 and Beclin-1 expression in the rat model of convulsion.

Conclusion: Midazolum promotes neurocyte proliferation and inhibits edema development via downregulation of autophagy. Therefore, midazolum can potentially be used for the treatment of convulsion, but further studies need to be carried out first.

Keywords: Convulsion, Neurocytes, Caspase, Autophagy, Mitochondrial pathway
Antiproliferative effect of the Red Sea cone snail, Conus geographus
Authors: Alburae Najla Ali , Mohammed Afrah Eltayeb
Published: June 2020

Purpose: To investigate the antiproliferative effect of the Red Sea cone snail, Conus geographus, against 4 MCF-7 (breast), MDA-MB-231 (epithelial human breast), HepG2 (hepatocellular) and SKOV-3 (ovarian) cancer cell lines.

Methods: Extraction of Red Sea cone snail sample with a mixture of CH2Cl2 and CH3OH (1:1, v/v) yielded 0.55 g of a green viscous material. The cytotoxic effects of the organic extract against the cancer cell lines were determined using cell proliferation (MTT) assay, and the half-maximal concentration (IC50) values measured. The effect of the crude extract on the cell cycle of the HepG-2 was determined by flow cytometry.

Results: The extract produced significant inhibitory effects against SKOV-3, MDA-MB-231, MCF-7 and HepG2, with IC50 values of 22.7 ± 2.2, 68.7 ± 6.2, 47 ± 4.2 and 19 ± 2.1 μg/mL, respectively. Cell cycle analysis revealed that the extract enhanced accumulation of HepG2 cells in the Go/G1 phase, at a level of 23.4 and 24.1 % at IC50 (19 μg/mL) and ½ IC50 (9.5 μg/mL), respectively, when compared to the untreated cells.

Conclusion: These results indicate that C. geographus extract exhibits potent cytotoxic effect against HepG2 cells via a mechanism involving G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. Thus, C. geographus is a potential source of a new anti-cancer agent.

Keywords: Conus geographus, Marine invertebrate, HepG2, Antiproliferation
Nootropic and neuroprotective effects of ethanol extract of Vateria indica L bark on scopolamine-induced cognitive deficit in mice
Authors: Alshabi Ali Mohamed , Shaikh Ibrahim Ahmed , Savant Chetan
Published: June 2020

Purpose: To investigate the neuroprotective and memory-boosting properties of ethanol extract of Vateria indica bark on scopolamine-mediated defects in learning and memory in young mice.

Methods: The ethanol extract of V. indica bark was prepared via Soxhlet extraction and subjected to qualitative and quantitative phytochemical assessment. The acute toxicity of the extract was also evaluated in mice. Six groups of 3-month-old Swiss albino mice (6 per group) were used: normal control, negative control, piracetam group, 250 mg/kg V. indica extract alone group, 500 mg/kg V. indica extract alone group, 250 mg/kg V. indica extract + scopolamine group and 500 mg/kg V. indica extract + scopolamine group. The mice were pretreated with piracetam (standard nootropic drug) or varied doses of the extract for 14 days prior to induction of amnesia. With the exception of normal control group, amnesia induction using scopolamine (3 mg/kg) i.p. on day 14 at 1½ h after the last extract dose. Mice in normal and negative control groups received 0.5 % tragacanth orally at a dose of 10 mL/kg. Cognitive deficit was assessed using elevated plus maze (EPM), step-down avoidance, and Morris water maze (MWM) tests.

Results: Qualitative phytochemical screening of V. indica bark extract showed flavonoids, phenolics, glycosides, tannins, carbohydrate, saponins and steroids. The total phenol and total flavonoid contents were 580.96 ± 0.95 mg GAE/g extract and 66.89 ± 0.56 mg RE/g extract, respectively. The mice tolerated the extract up to 5000 mg/kg bwt. They all survived during and after the acute toxicity study and no significant changes in appearance or general behavior were noticed. The extract significantly enhanced learning and memory, and improved spatial recognition in scopolamine-induced amnesic mice (p < 0.05). Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and levels of dopamine and noradrenaline were markedly higher in negative control mice than in normal control, but were significantly reduced after pretreatment with ethanol extract of V. indica bark (p < 0.05). The results of histopathological examination provided evidence in support of the protective effect of the extract on hippocampal and cortical neurons.

Conclusion: Pretreatment with ethanol extract of V. indica bark confers neuroprotection and enhances memory in young amnesic mice. Therefore, the extract of the plant can potentially be develpoed for the management of degenerative brain conditions.

Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease, Cognitive deficit, Neuroprotection, Phytochemicals, Vateria indica
Extracts of edible, medicinal Thai plants inhibit the human breast cancer cells
Authors: Buranrat Benjaporn , Konsue Ampa , Wongsuwan Pornpimon
Published: June 2020

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of ten edible, medicinal Thai plant extracts on MCF-7 cell viability and cell migration, as well as their mechanism(s) of action.

Methods: Ethanolic plant extracts of ten edible, medicinal plants were tested for their cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cells using sulforhodamine B (SRB). To investigate the cytotoxic mechanism(s) of action of these extracts, the study was examined gene expression and protein expression by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting. Cell migration was studied by wound healing assay.

Results: Four of the ten test extracts were potently cytotoxic, Careya sphaerica (CS), Azadirachta indica (AI), Piper nigrum (PN) and Oroxylum indicum (OI) with half maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) less than 100 μg/mL. All four extracts stimulated ROS overgeneration, increased caspase 3 activity and decreased growth-related gene expression including cdk2, cdk4, cdk6, cyclin D1 and cyclin E. Furthermore, the extracts significantly enhanced cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor (CDKI) p21 levels and activated cancer cell death. The four extracts, CS, AI, PN and OI, also significantly reduced cancer cell migration, with PN being the most potent.

Conclusion: Extract of the edible plants CS, AI, PN and OI have in vitro anticancer activity and are promising starting points for the development of breast cancer drugs.

Keywords: Careya sphaerica (CS), Azadirachta indica (AI), Piper nigrum (PN), Oroxylum indicum (OI), Breast cancer, Cell death
Yangjing capsule attenuates cyclophosphamide-induced deficiency of testicular microcirculation in mice
Authors: Jin Baofang , Dong Weihang , Sun Dalin , Cai Bin , Deng Weimin , Cui Yugui , Jin Yihan , Tong Li , Wu Ping
Published: June 2020

Purpose: To explore the protective effects of Yangjing capsule (YC) on testicular microcirculation in a mouse model of deficiency of testicular microcirculation.

Methods: Immunohistochemistry was applied to determine the effects of YC on microvascular density of mice. The protein level of CD34 and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF A) was measured by western blot. The viability of Testicular cell line (TM4 cells) was examined by CCK-8 assay.

Results: Histopathological changes demonstrated that CP-induced decrease of microvascular density of the mice was rescued by YC dose-dependently (p < 0.5). Western blot data showed that the protein levels of CD34 and VEGF A in CP group were significantly decreased, but dose-dependently increased by YC, respectively, following co-administration of CP + YC, compared with those in CP group (p < 0.5). The results from CCK-8 assay showed that the cell viability of TM4 cells increased with the amount of YC administered, and that high concentrations of YC (0.1 and 1 mg/mL) showed significant effects (p < 0.5). Moreover, YC showed little effect on VEGF A mRNA and protein expression in TM4 cells.

Conclusion: YC may be considered an alternative therapeutic agent for the management of testicular microcirculation disease. However, further studies are required to ascertain this.

Keywords: Yangjing Capsule, Testicular microcirculation, Cyclophosphamide, Vascular endothelial growth factor A