bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Relevance of the Doctrines of Natural Law, Human Rights and International Law to the Principle of Self-Determination
Authors: Ayobami Joshua Samson 
Published: October 2023

In recent times, worldwide, agitations for self-determination, whether internal or external (secession), are becoming common. Also, in Nigeria, the agitation for self-determination has become intense. Historically, multiple independent nationalities were cobbled together by the British to form the nation called “Nigeria” without first seeking and obtaining their consent. Invariably, Nigeria is often under threats of instability due to separatist agitations from her diverse ethnic groups. Although, self-determination is expressed to be a “right’’ in different international legal instruments like the United Nations Charter and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) and even the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has declared it to be of erga omnes in nature, the nature of this “right’ is still controversial. For instance, it is argued that the right to self-determination originated from natural law. Separatists in Nigeria, agitating for self-determination anchor their arguments on this contention. This paper examine the agitations for self-determination in Nigeria from the standpoints of natural law, the doctrine of human rights and the principles of international law. The objectives are to know if self-determination originated from natural law, and to see the nexus between self-determination and the doctrine of human rights. Also, to identify the status of self-determination as a right under international law; and how all these apply to the Nigerian situation. The paper adopted doctrinal research methodology, using both primary and secondary sources. The paper concluded that the tripartite doctrines of natural law, human rights and international law apply to the Nigerian situation.
Novel Therapies in Cancer: Summit on Cancer Health Disparities, Keynote and Panel Discussion
Authors: Dandwani Mehndi , Pegram Mark , Radich Jerry , Schapira Lidia , Patel Manali , Hari Parameswaran , Osborne Sydney , Armstrong Linda 
Published: October 2023

Molecularly-targeted therapeutics play a pivotal role in the therapeutic arena in cancer medicine, in many cases prolonging overall survival. However, despite decades since their foray into the cancer therapy armamentarium, many targeted therapies are beyond the reach of cancer patients due to high, sometimes exorbitant cost. Moreover, in some cases failure of uptake of targeted therapies is due to the lack of use of sophisticated molecular diagnostic tests (many of which are also extremely expensive), and therefore patients are deprived of potentially life-saving treatment options. In this article, we will discuss the main points of Dr. Jerry Radich’s lecture at the Binaytara Foundation 2023 summit on cancer health disparities held in Seattle, WA from April 28 to April 30. Dr. Radich’s keynote address was followed by a panel discussion led by experts including Dr. Parameswaran Hari, Dr. Lidia Schapira, Dr. Manali Patel, Sydney Osborne, and Dr. Linda Armstrong. Dr. Mark Pegram moderated the session, which focused not only on the disparities in cancer treatment in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), but also highlighted great disparities here in the U.S. The session explored collaborative efforts at uprooting these disparities across various branches of cancer care.
Cajanus cajan (L) Millsp. seed extract ameliorates scopolamine-induced amnesia through increase in antioxidant defense mechanisms and cholinergic neurotransmission
Authors: Ishola Ismail O. , Olubodun-Obadun Taiwo Grace , Akinwande Abisola Sekinat , Adeyemi Olufunmilayo Olaide 
Published: October 2023

Decline in cholinergic function and oxidative/nitrosative stress play a central role in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Previous quantitative HPLC profiling analysis has revealed the presence of Pinostrobin, formononetin, vitexin and other neuroprotective flavonoids in Cajanus cajan seed extract. This study was designed to investigate the protective action of Cajanus cajan ethanol seed extract (CC) on learning and memory functions using scopolamine mouse model of amnesia. Materials and methods: Adult mice were pretreated with CC (50, 100, or 200mg/kg, p.o) or vehicle (10ml/kg, p.o) for 16 days consecutively. Scopolamine, a competitive muscarinic cholinergic receptor antagonist (1mg/kg, i.p.) was given an hour after CC pretreatment from days 3 to 16. The mice were subjected to behavioural tests from day 11 (open field test (OFT)/ Y-maze test (YMT) and Morris water maze task (MWM) from days 12-16. Animals were euthanized 1h after behavioral test on day 16 and discrete brain regions isolated for markers of oxidative stress and cholinergic signaling. Molecular docking analysis was undertaken to predict the possible mechanism(s) of CC-induced anti-amnesic action. pre-administration of CC significantly reversed working memory and learning deficits caused by scopolamine in YMT and MWM tests, respectively. Moreover, CC prevented scopolamine-induced oxidative and nitrosative stress radicals in the hippocampus evidenced in significant increase in glutathione (GSH) level, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities with a marked decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) production, as well as significant inhibition of hippocampal scopolamine-induced increase in acetylcholinesterase activity by CC. The molecular docking analysis showed that out of the 19 compounds, the following had the highest binding affinity; Pinostrobin (-8.7 Kcal/mol), friedeline (-7.5kCal/mol), and lupeol (-8.2 Kcal/mol), respectively, to neuronal muscarinic M1 acetylcholine receptor, α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor and amyloid beta peptide binding pockets, which further supports the ability of CC to enhance neuronal cholinergic signaling and possible inhibition of amyloid beta aggregation. This study showed that Cajanus cajan seeds extract improved working memory and learning through enhancement of cholinergic signaling, antioxidant capacity and reduction in amyloidogenesis.
Antioxidant activity enhancement and oxidative damage inhibition by Lagenaria breviflora fruit and Xanthosoma sagittifolium corm in hypertensive Wistar rats
Authors: Oridupa Olayinka , Omobowale Temidayo Olutayo , Oyagbemi Ademola Adetokunbo , Danjuma Naomi Oghenefega , Obisesan Ayobami Deborah , Olakojo Tolulope Ademola , Saba Adebowale Bernard 
Published: October 2023

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of mortality in the world today with hypertension being the major clinical presentation of these diseases. This study assessed the anti-hypertensive effects of Lagenaria breviflora whole fruit and Xanthsoma sagittifolium corms in experimentally inudced hypertensive Wistar rats. The ability of the plants to ameliorate oxidative damage accompanying hypertension was evaluated using changes in oxidative stress markers as well as monitoring of cardiovascular parameters. Hypertension was induced by intraperitoneal injection of DOCA salt twice weekly and daily inclusion of NaCl (1%) in drinking water. Methanol extracts of L.breviflora or X. sagittifolium was administered to hypertensive rats for 35 days and the outcome was compared to hypertensive rats administred with lisinopril or hydrochlorothiazide and a group of normotensive rats (control). Systolic, diastolic and mean arterial pressures were determined on day 34 and blood sample collected on day 35. The rats were thereafter humanely sacrificed, and organs were harvested. This study showed that the extracts lowered blood pressure, free protein thiols but increased toal protein, gluthathione peroxidase, reduced glutathione, glutathione S-transferase, catalase and nitric oxide in the heart, kidney and liver compared to untreated hypertensive rats. However, malondialdehyde levels and hydrogen peroxide activities were reduced. L. breviflora fruit and X. sagittifloium corm exhibited antihypertensive properties and ameliorate oxidative damage associated with hypertension by enhancing the antioxidant defense sysyem and inhibiting generation of free radicals.
Influence of pregnancy and lactation on vitamin D serum levels and antioxidant status in randomized women in Zaria
Authors: Avidime Ohunene , Avidime S , Randawa A.J. , Kawu M.U. , Mohammed A. , Oweh O.T. 
Published: October 2023

Pregnancy and lactation are normal physiological conditions that tend to influence numerous biological processes. The aim of this study was to identify the impact of pregnancy and lactation on serum vitamin D level and antioxidant status in some women in Zaria, Nigeria. A cross‑sectional descriptive study conducted at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria for a period of three (3) months. Blood samples were collected, serum catalase, superoxide dismutase, lipid peroxidation and vitamin D, were determined using standard methods. Data were presented as mean ± SD, analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA and Pearson’s correlation analysis. Values were considered significant at p ≤ 0.05. There was a significant difference (p < 0.01) serum malondialdehyde level, superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione peroxidase activity during the various trimesters of pregnancy and lactating group. However, the levels of these markers were highest in the lactating group. Furthermore, serum level of vitamin D and catalase activity was highest in the 2nd trimester and lowest in the control and lactating group respectively. Pregnancy and lactation altered serum level of Vitamin D, CAT, SOD, MDA and GPx suggesting a variation in oxidative stress at different trimester of pregnancy and lactation.
Key words: Pregnancy, lactation, oxidative stress, vitamin D
Importance of Corneal Topography for Refractive Surgery with Emphasis on Schwind Peramis in Diagnostics and Treatment of Complex cases
Authors: Biscevic Alma , Bejdic Nita , Pandurevic Bojana , Ziga Nina , Pjano Melisa 
Published: October 2023

Background: In the context of laser keratorefractive surgery, performing corneal topography as part of the preoperative evaluation is of utmost importance. This procedure helps to evaluate the cornea’s shape, determine the curvature’s radii, and assess corneal thickness. Identifying any abnormal corneal topography is critical since it is the most significant risk factor for corneal ectasia. Objective: The primary objective of this article is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the advantages of corneal topography, with a particular focus on the Schwind Peramis system. Methods: This article was based on a literature review and Internet search through scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Results: Corneal topographers are medical devices that measure the corneal curvature. They have evolved from the Placido disc method to the Galilei®, Sirius®, and Peramis®, which are sophisticated systems that synergize the strengths of topographers and tomographers. The Schwind Peramis device accurately identifies ocular wavefront aberrations by integrating a high-resolution topography and an aberrometer. It also features a pupillography function that captures dynamic and static pupil diameter and an integrated densitometry image function that assesses potential cataracts and opacities. Corneal imaging devices are a valuable tool for ophthalmologists specializing in keratoconus screening. Conclusion: Advanced corneal imaging is critical for refractive surgery success. Schwind Peramis is precise in measuring complicated cases and analyzing data. It allows surgeons to create individualized treatment plans for better visual outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Cybersecurity in Business: A Case Study of DiDi
Authors: Liu Kai , Li Zixuan , Yang Jie 
Published: October 2023

Big data has substantially improved the efficiency of information collection and processing (Fadhil et al., 2021). (Fadhil, S. A., Kadhim, L. E. and Abdurazaq, S. G. (2021) ‘Protection measurements of computer network information security for big data’, Journal of Discrete Mathematical Sciences and Cryptography, Vol. 24, No. 7, pages 1959–1965, doi: 10. 1080/09720529.2021.1959996). Nevertheless, the transparentizing and openization of information could also increase the risk of disclosure of personal information and business secrets, leading to various illegal and criminal activities (Lim et al., 2018). (Lim, S., Woo, J., Lee, J. and Huh, S. -Y. (2018) ‘Consumer valuation of personal information in the age of big data’, Journal of the Association for Information Science and Technology, Vol. 69, No. 1, pages 60–71, doi: 10.1002/asi.23915). This paper adopts qualitative analysis and single-case study to investigate the approaches and outcomes of network information collection. It is found that many e-commerce platforms utilize big data technologies to collect, screen and process customer information. Yet, the collected customer information might be maliciously used by others to infringe on personal privacy, result in property damage and loss, trigger unhealthy market competition, and hinder economic development (Taylor, 2017). ((Taylor, I. (2017) ‘Data collection, counterterrorism and the right to privacy’, Politics, Philosophy &amp; Economics, Vol. 16, No. 3, pages 326–346, doi: 10.1177/ 1470594X17715249). Thus, this paper recommends that the application of big data should have a legal boundary. It needs to be strictly defined and regulated to facilitate its positive role in protecting cybersecurity and promoting fair market competition.
Big data, business secret, cybersecurity, data right, e-commerce platform, information processing, legal boundary, market competition, network platform, personal privacy
Central banks and inequality
Authors: Dietz Sara 
Published: October 2023

Monetary policy measures in reaction to the Global Financial Crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic have resulted in unprecedented (re)distributional effects. In addition, Central Bank (CB) interventions have been conceptualized as targeted measures favouring certain market participants compared to others. Against this background, discussions about CBs and inequality have sparked in the economic and legal literature. The article takes up this discourse and sheds light on the different aspects of equality within monetary policy: equality as an objective of monetary policy, equality and inequality considerations with regard to the design of monetary policy measures, and equality and inequality as side effects of monetary policy and the interaction between inequality and the monetary policy transmission. The aim is to provide a structural analysis of how the notion of equality is embedded in the mandate of the ECB and how it translates into legal requirements with regard to the implementation of monetary policy measures.
Central Banks, inequality, ECB, monetary policy, global financial crisis, COVID-19
Legal Foundations for Resolving Land Disputes Through Mediation as An Alternative Dispute Resolution Method
Authors: Derevyanko Bogdan , Lohvynenko Mykola , Nezhevelo Valentyna , Nikolenko Liudmyla , Zahrisheva Nadiia 
Published: October 2023

The relevance of this topic lies in the fact that land disputes are a widespread phenomenon that can arise in any country or region. The article examines the legal foundations of resolving land disputes using mediation as a non-judicial mechanism for preventing and resolving conflicts through negotiations. It discusses the essence of mediation and its use in land disputes, particularly as an effective tool for achieving mutually beneficial agreements between parties.
The article considers the procedure and stages of mediation in land disputes, including preparation for the mediation process, the actual mediation process, and the formation of a mediation agreement. The aim is to investigate the nature of mediation as a conflict resolution mechanism and promote the use of mediation in resolving land disputes while emphasizing the necessity for further development of legal mechanisms that support and popularize mediation as an extrajudicial means of conflict resolution within the realm of land relations. Furthermore, the article explores international experiences of mediation in land disputes, highlighting successful examples from countries like the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Sweden, and France. Conclusions can contribute to improving international relations and the development of sustainable land management.
mediation, alternative dispute resolution, land disputes, directive, international experience of countries and organizations
The Legal Transition Towards a More Circular Plastic Packaging ChainA Case Study of the Netherlands
Authors: De Waal I.M. 
Published: October 2023

The production and generation of plastic packaging waste in the EU continues to increase, which is accompanied by several negative externalities. At the same time, reuse remains limited and recycling rates of plastic packaging are stagnating, resulting in a significant loss of materials and value to the economy. The transition towards a more circular plastic packaging chain is proposed as a solution: both plastics and packaging are highlighted as key product groups in the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plans. However, by looking specifically at the legal framework governing the life cycle of plastic packaging – EU chemicals, product and waste legislation – this research has identified barriers to the transition towards a more circular plastic packaging chain, as well as untapped solutions and incentives to stimulate this transition. It is argued that changes to the legal framework governing the life cycle of plastic packaging are therefore necessary to enable and stimulate the transition towards a more circular plastic packaging chain. Besides improving both the alignment with and the actual contribution of the provisions and instruments of the legislation to the achievement of Circular Economy (CE) objectives, the inherent interlinkages between the different life cycle stages and the legislation governing them need to be better taken into account to not only create a legal framework that is fit for purpose, but also to avoid negative effects and unlock synergies in pursuance of CE objectives.
Circular Economy (CE), plastic packaging, EU chemicals legislation, EU product legislation, EU waste legislation
Combating Climate Change Through the International Law Perspective: The Role of the EU in Environmental Diplomacy
Authors: Volchenko Nataliia , Zhmakin Serhii , Udovenko Roman , Soldatkin Serhii , Soldatkin Igor 
Published: October 2023

The impacts of climate change extend to all countries and continents and have a cross-cutting effect on social, economic and ecological systems. Therefore, it is necessary to work together at the international level to effectively manage this problem. One effective method is to adopt a proper international legal framework. International legal regulation allows for the creation of common standards and rules that are followed by participating countries. The European Union is one of the most important actors in international cooperation on the environment and climate change. It has committed itself to achieving climate neutrality by 2050 and is taking a wide range of measures, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, supporting renewable energy, and promoting green development. Moreover, the EU provides various instruments and financial support to implement climate change measures. In view of this, it is important to study climate change at the international level, including the role of the EU in this regard. The purpose of the article is to examine the important role of the European Union in environmental diplomacy and combating climate change through international law. The article examines how the EU is an active participant in shaping the international legal regime on climate change. In particular, it participates in negotiations, concludes international agreements, and actively implements and enforces the obligations agreed upon under such agreements, such as the Paris Agreement
climate change, international law, European Union, international agreements, climate neutrality, international cooperation
The EU as a Crisis Manager: Ensuring Accountability Under IHL
Authors: Bosman Aron 
Published: October 2023

In 2022, the EU published its Strategic Compass, setting the course for the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) in the coming years. The most eye-catching proposal in the Compass is the creation of an EU Rapid Deployment Capacity (EU RDC). The creation of such a multinational force as part of the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) toolbox, which may well engage in armed conflicts, is problematic for the attribution of possible violations of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). This paper describes how the EU may be held accountable for the acts committed by the troops it deploys. Then it will discuss how the differences in the organization of EU operations may affect the opportunities for attribution. Finally, the paper recommends the EU’s CSDP operations to have a command and control structure that is fully integrated as this ensures the highest level of certainty when it comes to the attribution of wrongful acts.
European Union, EU Rapid Deployment Capacity, International Humanitarian Law, EU Strategic Compass, multinational operations, accountability, CFSP, peacekeeping, crisis management
Corporate Sustainability Reporting and Blockchain
Authors: Seretakis Alexandros , Mezzanotte Félix E. 
Published: October 2023

The recently enacted Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive is a cornerstone of the European Union’s policy to achieve a sustainable economy, environment, and society. Under this Directive, companies are required to disclose a substantial amount of information on the impact of climate change and global warming, including sustainability matters relating to the company’s activity and information on the impact of the company activity on the environment and people. Nevertheless, the practical implementation of these sustainability-related disclosure obligations will encounter significant obstacles, most notably the wide scope of reporting. In particular, the reporting company bears the burden of disclosing material information on impacts, risks and opportunities connected to not only its own operations but also the operations of its direct and indirect business relationships in the upstream and downstream value chain. Such disclosure is expected to involve information produced by different, often distant sources, making information gathering efforts very difficult and endangering the quality of the information disclosed. In this reporting process, the company is even expected to engage with its stakeholders across its value chain. This article offers insights into these challenges and sheds light on the role that Blockchain technology may play in improving data quality and management in businesses that operate global, multilayer supply chains.
corporate sustainability reporting, materiality, information disclosure, supply chain management, Blockchain