Matrix Science Pharma (MSP)

MEDIA EXPOSURE AND ADVERTISING PRACTICES AMONG HERBAL MEDICINE DEALERS (HMDS) IN LIBERIA

February 25, 2026 In Uncategorized

msp.04.2025.116.121

MEDIA EXPOSURE AND ADVERTISING PRACTICES AMONG HERBAL MEDICINE DEALERS (HMDS) IN LIBERIA

Journal: Matrix Science Pharma (MSP)
Christina F. Blama‑Hessou, Adeyinka Olufemi Adepoju, Abraham Julian Wenna

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

DOI: 10.4103/mtsp.mtsp_14_24

ABSTRACT

Background: Herbal medicine dealers (HMDs) play a significant role in the promotion and distribution of traditional remedies. However, their advertising practices and the impact of media exposure on their business growth and standard of living remain underexplored. Objective: This study aims to examine the advertising practices of HMDs and assess how these practices contribute to their business growth and overall standard of living, with particular focus on the use of various media channels. Methods: A quantitative survey design was employed using a structured questionnaire to collect data from 70 HMDs. The participants included 28 recognized Herbal Medicine Practitioners from the Complementary Medicine Unit of the Ministry of Health and 42 Herbal Product Vendors across seven major markets in the study area. Participation was voluntary, and anonymity was assured. Results: Findings revealed that 80% (56) of HMDs were exposed to radio, 20% (14) to social media platforms, while 6% reported no media exposure. Among those exposed to media, only 5.4% (3) engaged in media advertising, whereas 94.6% (53) did not, likely due to limited understanding of the potential benefits of media promotion for business growth. Conclusion: The study highlights a gap in the utilization of media advertising among HMDs. By incorporating media-based promotional strategies, HMDs can enhance their business visibility, increase sales, and improve their standard of living. The findings provide valuable insights for stakeholders and policymakers to support sustainable growth in the herbal medicine sector.

 

Pages 116-121
Year 2025
Issue 4
Volume 9

Download

PDF File
Download
XMLFile
Download
Posted by Basem
February 25, 2026 In Uncategorized

msp.04.2025.111.115

MUMPS‑ASSOCIATED SENSORINEURAL HEARING LOSS: A REVIEW

Journal: Matrix Science Pharma (MSP)
Santosh Kumar Swain

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

DOI: 10.4103/mtsp.mtsp_13_25_1

ABSTRACT

Mumps is one of the common causes of acquired sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Hearing loss following mumps infection is usually mild or moderate and severe. Bilateral hearing loss due to mumps is very uncommon. The diagnosis is primarily based on clinical presentations, supported by audiometric findings to confirm the degree and nature of deafness. The majority of mumps‑related hearing loss manifests as unilateral significant SNHL, which is frequently unresponsive to therapy. Management of mumps‑associated SNHL includes early detection and intervention to improve the outcome. Corticosteroids can be prescribed to decrease the inflammation and edema in the inner ear, although their efficacy in treating viral‑induced SNHL is uncertain. The role of antiviral medications in mumps‑induced SNHL has a limited role with doubtful effectiveness. For those with severe hearing loss, rehabilitation methods including hearing aids and cochlear implants may be beneficial. Cochlear implants improve speech perception in those with bilateral significant hearing loss. It is generally advised to get vaccinated against mumps to avoid hearing loss linked to the disease.

 

Pages 111-115
Year 2025
Issue 4
Volume 9

Download

PDF File
Download
XMLFile
Download
Posted by Basem
February 25, 2026 In Uncategorized

msp.03.2025.115.116

RESISTANCE ‑ POLYMYXIN E IN ACINETOBACTER BAUMANNII ISOLATED FROM PATIENTS IN THE WOUND UNIT

Journal: Matrix Science Pharma (MSP)
Letter to Editor

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

DOI: 10.4103/mtsp.mtsp_22_24_1

ABSTRACT

Polymyxin E is the last antibiotic effective against multidrug‑resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter baumannii infections. It disorders bacterial cell membranes, leading to cell death, but it has significant nephrotoxicity. Due to the rise of resistant strains for colistin, its clinical use requires careful monitoring and consideration of combination therapies. This study aimed to identify resistance genes (mcr), assess prevalence, and analyze factors driving resistance to guide better antibiotic use and control its spread in healthcare settings. Three hundred specimens were collected for culturing from patients who were admitted to the Al‑Hilla Teaching Hospital for the period between May 2023 and March 2023 among which only 20 specimens possessed A. baumannii isolates carrying the mobilized colistin resistance gene (MCR) genes.

 

Pages 115-116
Year 2025
Issue 3
Volume 9

Download

PDF File
Download
XMLFile
Download
Posted by Basem
February 25, 2026 In Uncategorized

msp.03.2025.111.114

NEGLECTED AND UNDERUTILIZED CROP SPECIES (NUS) IN NEPAL: STATUS AND NUTRITIONAL IMPORTANCE OF FOXTAIL MILLET (SETARIA ITALICA L. BEAUV) IN NEPAL

Journal: Matrix Science Pharma (MSP)
Sushma Paudel

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

DOI: 10.4103/mtsp.mtsp_5_25

ABSTRACT

The majority of crop species that are cultivated for food in Nepal are not prioritized in formal research, education, and development, making
them neglected and underutilized. Foxtail millet (Setaria italica L. Beauv) is an ancient grain with significant cultural and nutritional importance in Nepal. This review paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the status and nutritional benefits of foxtail millet within the country. Despite its historical relevance and adaptability to diverse agro‑ecological conditions, the cultivation and consumption of foxtail millet have declined in recent years due to the increasing popularity of major cereals such as rice and wheat. This review synthesizes available literature on the current production trends, geographical distribution, and traditional practices associated with foxtail millet in Nepal. In addition, the paper highlights the nutritional profile of foxtail millet, emphasizing its high protein content, essential amino acids, dietary fiber, and micronutrients such as iron and calcium, which are crucial for addressing malnutrition and promoting health, particularly in rural and marginalized communities. The review also explores the potential health benefits associated with the consumption of foxtail millet, including its role in managing diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity. By examining the challenges and opportunities for reviving foxtail millet cultivation and consumption, this paper underscores the need for integrated efforts to promote this resilient and nutritious crop, thereby contributing to food security and nutritional well‑being in Nepal.

 

Pages 111-114
Year 2025
Issue 3
Volume 9

Download

PDF File
Download
XMLFile
Download
Posted by Basem
February 25, 2026 In Uncategorized

msp.03.2025.103.110

CHEMICAL CONSTITUENT AND LUTEIN EXTRACTION FROM MARIGOLD

Journal: Matrix Science Pharma (MSP)
Prakash Awasthi

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

DOI: 10.4103/mtsp.mtsp_6_25

ABSTRACT

Marigold (Tagetes erecta L.), widely recognized for its ornamental and medicinal values, is a rich source of bioactive compounds, including lutein, a carotenoid with significant health benefits, particularly for eye health. Lutein’s demand is increasing in the nutraceutical and food industries, where it is valued for its antioxidant properties and as a natural colorant. This study explores the chemical profile of marigold flowers and examines various methods for efficient lutein extraction. The research aims to enhance lutein yield and purity by optimizing extraction techniques. These findings advance the potential for large‑scale lutein production and highlight marigold’s role as a sustainable resource for natural bioactive compounds.

 

Pages 103-110
Year 2025
Issue 3
Volume 9

Download

PDF File
Download
XMLFile
Download
Posted by Basem
February 25, 2026 In Uncategorized

msp.03.2025.101.102

THE CONCEPT OF MEDICAL REVERSAL IN NEUROSURGERY

Journal: Matrix Science Pharma (MSP)
Letter to Editor

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

DOI: 10.4103/mtsp.mtsp_16_24

ABSTRACT

The concept of medical reversal, introduced by Prasad refers to the phenomenon where new, methodologically robust, and conclusive evidence contradicts previously accepted practices. Medical reversal has tremendous implications in neurosurgical practice. Patients may undergo unnecessary interventions that lead to adverse effects, potentially harming their health and adversely impacting healthcare systems due to increased costs and resource utilization. Neurosurgeons must provide care based on evidence which is the most recent. One of the advantages of evidence‑based medicine (EBM) is the contribution of well‑conducted randomized controlled trials that feature improved blinding, better controls, greater statistical power, well‑defined endpoints, and reduced bias. Ioannidis[2] explained why most published research findings are false in six corollaries.

 

Pages 101-102
Year 2025
Issue 3
Volume 9

Download

PDF File
Download
XMLFile
Download
Posted by Basem
February 25, 2026 In Uncategorized

msp.03.2025.96.100

CYSTATIN C AND OTHER BIOCHEMICAL INDICES OF RENAL FUNCTION IN APPARENTLY HEALTHY UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS OF A PUBLIC UNIVERSITY IN EDO STATE, NIGERIA

Journal: Matrix Science Pharma (MSP)
Ali Aisha Braimah, Olulope Olufemi Ajay

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

DOI: 10.4103/mtsp.mtsp_7_25_1

ABSTRACT

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health problem, with inadequate research attention on its pathogenesis in adolescents. Early identification of CKD risk factors could help in averting the onset of the disease as well as its timely management. Aim and Objective: This study was designed to determine serum levels of cystatin C and certain biochemical indices of renal function in apparently healthy undergraduate students of Edo State University Uzairue, Edo State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: One hundred apparently healthy undergraduate students aged 15 and 24 years were randomly enrolled into this cross‑sectional study. They comprised 45 males and 55 females. Blood pressure and anthropometry indices, including weight, height, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, hip circumference (HC), and waist–hip ratio (WHR), were determined by standard methods. Serum obtained from 5 ml of fasting venous blood of each participant was used for the determination of cystatin C, creatinine, gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), uric acid, and total protein. Data were analyzed using Student’s t‑test and Pearson correlation coefficient, with P < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: BMI, HC, WHR, pulse pressure, and GGT were significantly higher in females in comparison to males (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the serum levels of cystatin C in both genders. Cystatin C correlated positively with weight in both male and female participants. Cystatin C also correlated positively with BMI in males, as well as HC in females in this study. Conclusion: The nonsignificant difference in cystatin C levels in the male and female participants may be due to their apparently healthy status. The correlation of cystatin C with weight, BMI, and HC supports its association with general and central obesity.

 

Pages 96-100
Year 2025
Issue 3
Volume 9

Download

PDF File
Download
XMLFile
Download
Posted by Basem
February 25, 2026 In Uncategorized

msp.03.2025.91.95

CONTAMINATION TO PREVENTION: ADDRESSING MICROBIAL POLLUTION IN WATER SOURCES ACROSS RAINY AND DRY SEASONS IN IKPOBA OKHA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, NIGERIA

Journal: Matrix Science Pharma (MSP)
A. E. Omoregie, A. P. Omoregie, Enyinnaya O. Okoro

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

DOI: 10.4103/mtsp.mtsp_9_25

ABSTRACT

Background: Waterborne diseases remain a major public health concern, particularly in developing countries where access to safe water is limited. Seasonal changes can significantly influence microbial contamination levels in water sources, increasing risks to human health. Aim and Objectives: This study aimed to assess the microbial quality of water sources in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area (LGA), Nigeria, during the rainy and dry seasons, and to identify the prevalence of key waterborne pathogens. Materials and Methods: Water samples were collected from five rivers (Ikpe, Ologbo, Ossiomo, Uteh, and Ikpoba), five wells, and eight boreholes across eight communities. Two samples were obtained from each river, five from wells, and eight from boreholes in both seasons. Standard microbiological methods were used to detect and quantify Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Vibrio cholerae, and Proteus species. Results: High levels of microbial contamination were observed. Salmonella and Shigella were detected in 8 of 10 samples, while E. coli was widespread, with higher counts in the dry season. P. aeruginosa and S. aureus showed seasonal variation, with S. aureus more prevalent in the rainy season. V. cholerae and Proteus species were also present with fluctuating seasonal patterns. Conclusion: Water sources in Ikpoba Okha LGA are significantly contaminated with pathogenic microorganisms, posing a serious public health risk. There is an urgent need for regular water quality monitoring, improved sanitation infrastructure, and targeted community health interventions to reduce waterborne disease transmission

 

Pages 91-95
Year 2025
Issue 3
Volume 9

Download

PDF File
Download
XMLFile
Download
Posted by Basem
February 25, 2026 In Uncategorized

msp.03.2025.87.90

OLIVE (OLEA EUROPAEA) LEAF AND ARUGULA (ERUCA SATIVA) SEED EXTRACTS HAVE ANTIBACTERIAL PROPERTIES

Journal: Matrix Science Pharma (MSP)
Taher A. Salih, Salma N. Malik, Sameer M. Yaseen, Esraa S. Jameel

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

DOI: 10.4103/mtsp.mtsp_2_24

ABSTRACT

Background: Olive leaf and arugula seed crude extracts were tested for their in vitro antibacterial activities. Utilizing the disc diffusion technique, antibacterial activity against three microorganisms was assessed. Both the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) have been established. The standard medication for the investigation of antibacterial activity was gallic acid. Materials and Methods: The antibacterial activity was selected against two Gram-positive bacteria, Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus; The extract’s antibacterial activity was determined using a diffusion test on Mueller-Hinton agar that had previously been injected with 1 mL of an 18-hour-old bacterial solution (106 CFU/mL). Results: With an average zone of inhibition of 3 to 8 mm, the methanol extract of olive leaves and arugula seeds demonstrated strong antibacterial activity. Staphylococcus aureus was the bacterium with the highest level of sensitivity. In comparison to olive leaf extract, the antibacterial activity of arugula seed extract was higher. For Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus, the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) values of the olive leaves and arugula seeds extract were 80 and 40 g/ml, respectively, while the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values for S. aureus and B. cereus, respectively, were 60 and 600 g/ml. Conclusion: These findings imply that arugula seeds and olive leaves have intriguing antimicrobial properties.

 

Pages 87-90
Year 2025
Issue 3
Volume 9

Download

PDF File
Download
XMLFile
Download
Posted by Basem
February 24, 2026 In Uncategorized

msp.02.2025.82.86

ROLE OF THE COMMUNITY PHARMACISTS IN GENERIC PRESCRIBING IN INDIA: A REVIEW

Journal: Matrix Science Pharma (MSP)
Shatavisa Mukherjee

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

DOI: 10.4103/mtsp.mtsp_3_25

ABSTRACT

Generic prescribing is crucial for reducing healthcare costs and improving access to essential medications, especially in resource‑limited settings like India. Generic medicines provide the same therapeutic benefits as branded drugs at significantly lower costs, contributing to more equitable health care. Community pharmacists, as accessible and trusted healthcare professionals, play a vital role in ensuring patients benefit from these cost‑effective options. Pharmacists act as a bridge between prescribers and patients, providing critical education about the safety and efficacy of generic medications. They address misconceptions, foster patient trust, and encourage acceptance of generics. However, challenges such as prescriber bias, patient skepticism, and inconsistent regulatory support hinder their efforts. Strategies employed by pharmacists include patient‑centered counseling, advocacy for robust quality assurance mechanisms, and active engagement in healthcare policy reforms. Digital tools and professional training further empower pharmacists to enhance the safe use of generics. This review emphasizes the need for strengthened regulatory frameworks, public awareness campaigns, and continued pharmacist development to optimize generic prescribing. Community pharmacists are essential in bridging the gap between affordable health care and widespread accessibility in India.

 

Pages 82-86
Year 2025
Issue 2
Volume 9

Download

PDF File
Download
XMLFile
Download
Posted by Basem