Investigation of Antioxidant Activities of Different Plants Grown in Baku

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This work aims to evaluate the antioxidant activities of various plants (Eupatorium maculatum, Pinus eldarica and Ficus benghalensis) grown in Baku. Antioxidants are bioactive compounds that prevent cell damage by combating oxidative stress and play an important role in the prevention of many chronic diseases including cardiovascular diseases, cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. The antioxidant potential of plants is closely related to the amount of phenolic compounds and flavonoids they contain. Within the scope of the study, three different plant species (Eupatorium maculatum, Pinus eldarica and Ficus benghalensis) widely distributed in Baku were selected and their extracts were prepared using ethanol. Then, in order to evaluate the antioxidant activity, DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) free radical scavenging activity assay and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) assay were applied. At the same time, total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined by Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum nitrate spectrophotometric methods. As a result of the analyzes, it was determined that some plants have high antioxidant potential, therefore, they have high potential for use in the pharmacological and functional food industry. It was revealed that plant extracts with high phenolic content in particular exhibited stronger antioxidant effects. The research results indicate that Baku’s local plant resources can be an important source of raw materials for the health and food industries. This study may provide the basis for more detailed biochemical studies of local plant species in the future and for a broader evaluation of their therapeutic potential. At the same time, the research results provide a useful scientific basis for further investigation of the application possibilities of new natural antioxidant resources in various industrial sectors.

Effectiveness of Pilates based Exercises Versus Blood Flow Restriction Training for Improving Pain and Function in Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

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Background: Pain that originates in the adjacent soft tissues or the patellofemoral joint itself is collectively referred to as patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). In order to improve muscle strength and encourage tissue adaptation without putting the body through strenuous exercise, blood flow restriction (BFR) training has become a popular and promising method. Pilates uses a combination of simple, repetitive exercises to create muscular exertion. The primary goal of the study is to compare the effectiveness of blood flow restriction training and Pilates-based exercises in reducing pain and improving function in patients suffering from patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Method: Thirty patients diagnosed with patellofemoral pain were selected as observation subjects and randomly divided into two groups. The treatment period was 3 months (3 sessions/week). In this study, we conducted a comparison and analysis of the Numerical pain rating scale (NRS), Anterior knee pain scale. In this study compared and analyzed the NRS score of the knee, Anterior knee pain scale at two different time points—before treatment and after treatment.

Result: After treatment, Group A experienced a significant reduction in pain intensity compared to Group B. Functional status and health-related quality of life improved dramatically in Group A following treatment compared to Group B.

Conclusion: The study’s findings demonstrate that teens with PFPS can benefit from Pilates-based core strengthening exercises in a number of ways, including pain reduction, improved functional status, and improved quality of life.

Financial Governance in Africa In the Digital Age: Financial Governance of Academic Institutions

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This article explores the impact of digital transformation on financial governance in academic institutions in Africa. It begins by examining key theories related to digital transformation and financial governance, including agency theory and shareholder value theory. The article then analyzes the benefits of digitalization, such as improved efficiency, transparency, and optimization of financial processes, while also addressing challenges like resistance to change and data security. It also highlights existing gaps in the digital financial governance of academic institutions, including data management and the need for digital skills. Finally, the article offers recommendations to overcome these obstacles and fully leverage the advantages of digital transformation to strengthen financial stability and transparency in African academic institutions.