Multinational Research Society Publisher

MRS Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Studies

Issue-2 (February), Volume-3 2026

1. Modern diagnostic approaches for hepatitis B virus infection
3

Mustafa Raheem Tuamah*
* DNA Research center, University of Babylon, Babylon, Hillah, 51001, Iraq
1-3
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18538134

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a major global public health problem due to its wide geographic distribution, high rate of chronicity, and strong association with progressive liver disease, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite the availability of effective vaccination programs, HBV continues to pose a significant diagnostic and clinical challenge, particularly because many infected individuals remain asymptomatic for long periods. Accurate diagnosis relies on the combined interpretation of serological, molecular, and biochemical markers. This review highlights modern diagnostic approaches for HBV infection, focusing on the clinical significance of serological markers, the role of molecular techniques in disease monitoring, and methods used to assess liver injury severity.

2. Primary Adrenal Insufficiency (Addison’s disease): Pathophysiology, Di...
1

Mustafa Raheem Tuamah*
* DNA Research center, University of Babylon, Babylon, Hillah, 51001, Iraq
4-6
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18538379

Background: Primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI), commonly known as Addison’s disease, is a rare but potentially life threatening endocrine disorder resulting from destruction of the adrenal cortex and consequent deficiency of glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and adrenal androgens. Autoimmune adrenalitis represents the leading cause in developed countries. Objective: This narrative review aims to summarize current knowledge regarding the epidemiology, pathophysiology, immunological mechanisms, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approach, and management strategies of Addison’s disease. Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted based on key articles, international clinical guidelines, and major reviews published in peer reviewed journals focusing on primary adrenal insufficiency. Results: Addison’s disease typically presents with nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, hypotension, and hyperpigmentation, often leading to delayed diagnosis. Laboratory findings include low serum cortisol, elevated adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), electrolyte disturbances, and the presence of adrenal autoantibodies, particularly 21 hydroxylase antibodies. Lifelong hormone replacement therapy with glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids remains the cornerstone of management. Failure to recognize or adequately treat the condition may result in adrenal crisis, a medical emergency associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Conclusion: Early recognition of Addison’s disease, appropriate diagnostic evaluation, and patient education regarding lifelong therapy and stress dose adjustment are essential to improve outcomes and quality of life.

3. ZERO TOLERANCE FOR CORRUPTION, BRIBERY AND EXTORTION IN SOUTH AFRICA:...
4

Dr. John Motsamai Modise*
Tshwane University of Technology
7-24
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18639232

Corruption, bribery, and extortion remain major barriers to governance, socio-economic development, and public trust in South Africa. Despite a strong legislative framework and a declared zero-tolerance policy, enforcement gaps, institutional weaknesses, and political interference persist. This article explores the prevalence, causes, and impacts of these crimes, drawing on practical examples such as the Mthatha High Court bribery scandal, corruption in school governing bodies, and high-profile whistle-blower cases like Babita Deokaran. The study integrates both South African and international perspectives to analyze policy effectiveness, institutional capacity, and civil society engagement. It concludes with practical recommendations to strengthen anti-corruption efforts and foster transparent, accountable governance. To examine the prevalence and impact of corruption, bribery, and extortion in South Africa. To evaluate the effectiveness of the zero-tolerance policy in reducing corruption. To provide actionable recommendations for improving governance, accountability, and public trust. Despite South Africa’s legislative frameworks, such as the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act (PRECCA), and high-level rhetoric about zero tolerance, corruption, bribery, and extortion persist across public and private sectors. Institutional inefficiencies, political interference, and threats to whistle-blowers undermine enforcement. High-profile cases like Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and Babita Deokaran exemplify these challenges, highlighting a gap between policy commitments and practical outcomes. Design: Qualitative research integrating a literature review and case study analysis. Data Sources: Recent South African media, government reports, NGO records (e.g., Corruption Watch), and international sources (e.g., Transparency International, OECD, World Bank). Analysis: Thematic analysis to identify patterns of corruption, enforcement challenges, and institutional gaps. Rationale: Allows exploration of systemic issues and practical enforcement outcomes in South Africa, supported by international comparisons. Systemic Corruption: Bribery and extortion occur at both elite and grassroots levels (e.g., Mthatha High Court, school governing bodies). Enforcement Gaps: Zero-tolerance policies are inconsistently applied, with political interference and institutional weaknesses limiting effectiveness. High-Profile Cases Influence Public Perception: Whistleblower threats and slow prosecution of elite officials reduce credibility. Link with Organised Crime: Corruption facilitates extortion and criminal networks, threatening service delivery and economic development. Civil Society as a Critical Actor: NGOs and media play an essential role in exposing corruption and holding institutions accountable. South Africa’s zero-tolerance policy demonstrates a strong commitment to combating corruption, bribery, and extortion. However, enforcement gaps, weak institutional capacity, and risks to whistle-blowers hinder its effectiveness. A multi-faceted approach combining stronger institutional independence, legal enforcement, civil society engagement, and international cooperation is essential to reduce corruption and restore public trust. Implementing these strategies can enhance transparency, accountability, and socio-economic development across the nation.

4. Structures of Power and Resistance in the Works of Arundhati Roy
2

Priyanka Yadav*, Dr. Aiman Rey...
Research ScholarDept. of English, J. P. University, Chapra
25-27
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18642278

Arundhati Roy’s literary and political writings constitute a sustained critique of power in its multiple manifestations, ranging from caste and patriarchy to state violence, nationalism, capitalism, and global imperialism. This research article examines how structures of power operate and how resistance is articulated in Roy’s fictional and non-fictional works. Through an analysis of her novels The God of Small Things and The Ministry of Utmost Happiness, alongside selected essays, the study explores Roy’s representation of institutionalized power and her commitment to amplifying marginalized and dissenting voices. Drawing upon postcolonial theory, subaltern studies, feminist criticism, and political discourse, the article argues that Roy’s writing destabilizes dominant narratives and exposes the moral and human costs of authoritarian systems. Resistance in Roy’s works is not always overt or victorious; instead, it often emerges through fragile acts of defiance, memory, storytelling, and survival. By foregrounding those silenced by history and power, Roy transforms literature into a space of ethical intervention and political resistance. The article concludes that Roy’s oeuvre represents a powerful fusion of aesthetics and activism, redefining the role of the writer in contemporary society.

5. Phytochemical Characterization and Cytotoxic Evaluation of Maerua ango...
2

Shagari, Maryam Bala*, James O...
Department of Histopathology, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
28-38
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18760131

Background: Conventional chemotherapy is often limited by toxicity and drug resistance. Maerua angolensis DC., used in traditional African medicine, represents an underexplored source of potential anticancer agents. This study characterized the phytochemistry and cytotoxicity of a methanolic leaf extract from M. angolensis against human breast (MCF-7) and colorectal (HT-29) adenocarcinoma cells. Methods: The extract was subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using the MTT assay after 24-hour treatment, with doxorubicin and capecitabine as positive controls. Morphological changes were assessed via Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining, and IC₅₀ values were determined by nonlinear regression. Results: Phytochemical analysis identified flavonoids, tannins, and cardiac glycosides. GC-MS revealed 22 compounds, predominantly oleic acid (29.51%), palmitic acid (21.87%), linoleic acid (12.34%), and stigmasterol (8.76%). The extract demonstrated moderate, concentration-dependent cytotoxicity. Against MCF-7 cells, the extract IC₅₀ was 15.6 ± 2.5 µg/mL, while doxorubicin was 15.6-fold more potent (IC₅₀ 1.0 ± 0.18 µg/mL; p<0.0001). Against HT-29 cells, the extract IC₅₀ was 34.4 ± 2.5 µg/mL, compared to a 3.4-fold more potent capecitabine (IC₅₀ 10.0 ± 2.0 µg/mL; p<0.0001). H&E staining confirmed concentrationdependent apoptotic morphology, with MCF-7 cells showing greater sensitivity. Conclusion: M. angolensis leaf extract, rich in bioactive fatty acids and phytochemicals, exhibits moderate in vitro cytotoxicity against breast and colorectal cancer cells, inducing apoptotic morphological changes. The IC₅₀ values fall within a biologically relevant range for natural products. These findings validate its traditional use and provide a strong rationale for further mechanistic and in vivo studies to explore its potential complementary role in cancer therapy.

6. From Rivalry to Collaboration: India and the Future of South Asian Reg...
3

Prem Anand*
MA, UGC NET (Political science) Sahebganj Sonarpatti Chowk, Chapra, Saran, Bihar, 841301
39-41
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18797449

South Asian regionalism, envisaged as a framework for cooperative development and collective security, has faced persistent challenges since the inception of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) in 1985. The dominant narrative of Indian–Pakistani rivalry, structural asymmetries among member states, and the inability of SAARC to evolve into an effective multilateral institution have stymied regional integration and cooperation. In response, India has progressively reoriented its regional engagement toward alternative frameworks such as the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), aligning with its broader foreign policy goals including the ―Act East‖ and ―Neighbourhood First‖ initiatives. This paper examines India’s historical role and evolving strategies in South Asian regionalism, critically analysing the limitations of SAARC, the emergent collaborative prospects through sub-regional mechanisms, and India’s potential to reshape regional cooperation beyond the shadows of rivalry. By exploring political, economic, and security dimensions of regionalism, it highlights how India can transition from a posture defined by bilateral tensions to one that fosters inclusive cooperation, connectivity, and shared prosperity across South Asia. The study suggests that genuine regional collaboration will depend on structural reform of existing institutions, multifaceted cooperation in trade and infrastructure, and India’s diplomatic willingness to reconcile strategic interests with collective regional goals.





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