International Journal of Halal Research

Neuroprotective Effect of Capsaicin Against Rotenone-Induced Parkinson’s Disease in Mice

Omar M.E. Abdel-Salam — 2024-06-30

Capsaicin, the active ingredient of hot pepper exerts neuroprotective effects. In this study, the effect of capsaicin on rotenone-induced Parkinson’s disease in mice was investigated. Mice were given subcutaneous rotenone injections (1.5 mg/kg, every other day) and at the same time treated with the vehicle, L-dopa (25 mg/kg) or capsaicin at doses of 0.5 or 1.0 mg/kg orally once a day for two weeks. Biochemical indices of oxidative stress, malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione and nitric oxide were determined in brain tissue and histopathological study of the brain was done. Behavioral tests included stair, wire hanging and wood walking tests. Results showed that rotenone treatment led to significant increases in brain malondialdehyde and nitric oxide contents parallel with marked depletion of reduced glutathione. Rotenone induced degeneration of pigmented neurons in substantia nigra and of cerebral cortex and hippocampus neurons. Rotenone impaired neuromuscular strength, motor balance and coordination. Treatment with capsaicin significantly ameliorated the neuronal degeneration caused by rotenone and improved motor function. Capsaicin alleviated the increase in lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde) and nitric oxide and prevented the depletion of reduced glutathione in brain of rotenone-treated animals. These data indicate that capsaicin protects against rotenone-induced neuronal damage and this involves decreased level of oxidative stress. Capsaicin therefore might prevent cell death in the brain of Parkinson’s disease patients.

Halal with Hydrogen: A Sustainable Energy Paradigm for a Low-Carbon Future

Zaid Khaliq — 2024-06-30

As the world confronts the pressing realities of climate change and energy insecurity, the role of hydrogen, particularly green hydrogen, is becoming pivotal in the global energy transition. Hydrogen holds immense potential as a clean energy carrier that can facilitate the decarbonization of hard-to-abate sectors like industry, transportation, and heavy manufacturing. This paper explores the possibility of integrating hydrogen technologies into the Halal framework, a concept traditionally confined to food and finance. Halal, in the context of energy, entails adherence to Islamic principles of sustainability, responsible resource management, and fairness in production and distribution processes. Muslim-majority countries, particularly members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), have the potential to lead the hydrogen economy, leveraging their vast renewable energy resources to produce Halal-certified hydrogen. This integration could enable these nations to meet their decarbonization goals while ensuring compliance with Shariah principles. Moreover, the paper explores the role of Islamic finance, particularly Sukuk (Islamic bonds), in funding hydrogen infrastructure, thereby aligning financial investments with Islamic ethical principles. By establishing Halal certification standards for hydrogen, OIC countries can position themselves as leaders in the global energy transition. This paper provides policy recommendations for the development of hydrogen technologies in OIC countries, addressing the challenges of technology, market development, and regulation. It also explores the opportunities for collaboration among OIC nations, which could catalyse the creation of a Halal hydrogen market that aligns with both Islamic values and global sustainability goals.

Reality of The Generalist Social Work Practice in Marital and Family Counseling Institutions

Mohamed M Shahin — 2024-06-30

This article aimed to shed light on the reality of the generalist social work practice, in marital and family counseling institutions, specifically in the Family Counseling Center “Wifaq” in of Qatar. This included describing and defining the range of professional roles that professional practitioners play .And the patterns of indicative skills (impact - discretionary - technological) that should be relied upon to perform these roles, in addition to describing the stages and processes that professional interventions with spouses go through in particular, within the framework of the foundations and data of the generalist social work practice model , Then the research concluded to elicit and analyze the most important positive aspects that are available at Wifaq Center, Which in itself represents the basic components and pillars that contribute to increasing the effectiveness of this guiding model when dealing in general with marital and family problems.

Indonesia Emission Cut 2030: Is Carbon Transparency the Optimal Strategy for Companies?

Marsha Stephanie Manurung — 2024-06-30

This study analyzes the impact of Carbon Emission Disclosure (CED) on firm value using four methods: Price Earning Ratio (PER), Price to Book Value (PBV), Stock Return, and Tobin’s Q. Additionally, the role of Financial Distress as a moderating variable is examined. The sample consists of 15 energy sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) from 2019 to 2023. The analysis method used is the Fixed Effects Model (FEM) and Moderated Regression Analysis (MRA). The results show that CED has a significant positive effect on firm value as measured by Tobin’s Q. Financial Distress moderates the relationship between CED and firm value, with a positive effect under green conditions and a negative effect under red conditions when measured by PBV and Tobin’s Q. These findings emphasize the importance of considering internal corporate and financial conditions in carbon transparency and firm value assessment, particularly in the context of emission reduction efforts in Indonesia by 2030.

Behaviour of Muslim Consumer Towards Halal Food Products: A Review and Bibliometric Analysis

Abdul Khader Aneesh A A — 2024-06-30

Purpose: This study reviews factors affecting Muslim consumer behavior towards halal food products, using bibliometric analysis to identify key research trends and influential works in the field. Methodology: A bibliometric analysis was conducted on 613 peer-reviewed articles from the Scopus database (2015-2024), using VOSviewer to visualize co-citation, keyword clusters, and research themes. Findings: The analysis reveals that religious beliefs, halal certification trust, and perceived product quality are key drivers of halal food purchasing behavior. Interest in halal products is growing globally, appealing to both Muslim and non-Muslim consumers due to perceived ethical and safety standards. The study identifies top contributors, influential journals, and leading countries in halal food research. Research Implications: Insights suggest further exploration into halal certification for alternative proteins, sustainability, and comparative studies across diverse regions. The findings are useful for researchers and businesses targeting the global halal market. Originality/Value: This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric review of halal consumer behavior, highlighting trends and research gaps. It is essential for those seeking to understand the evolving dynamics of the halal food sector.