bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Saturated fats network identified using Gaussian graphical models is associated with metabolic syndrome in a sample of Iranian adults
Authors: Jahanmiri Reihaneh , Djafarian Kurosh , Janbozorgi Nasim , Dehghani-Firouzabadi Fatemeh , Shab-Bidar Sakineh
Published: August 2022

Background

Gaussian graphical models (GGM) are an innovative method for deriving dietary networks which reflect dietary intake patterns and demonstrate how food groups are consuming in relation to each other, independently. The aim of this study was to derive dietary networks and assess their association with metabolic syndrome in a sample of the Iranian population.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 850 apparently healthy adults were selected from referral health care centers. 168 food items food frequency questionnaire was used to assess dietary intakes. Food networks were driven by applying GGM to 40 food groups. Metabolic syndrome was defined based on the guidelines of the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III).

Results

Three GGM networks were identified: healthy, unhealthy and saturated fats. Results showed that adherence to saturated fats networks with the centrality of butter, was associated with higher odds of having metabolic syndrome after adjusting for potential confounders (OR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.61–2.82; P trend = 0.009) and higher odds of having hyperglycemia (P trend = 0.04). No significant association was observed between healthy and unhealthy dietary networks with metabolic syndrome, hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia and central obesity. Furthermore, metabolic syndrome components were not related to the identified networks.

Conclusion

Our findings suggested that greater adherence to the saturated fats network is associated with higher odds of having metabolic syndrome in Iranians. These findings highlight the effect of dietary intake patterns with metabolic syndrome.
FPocketWeb: protein pocket hunting in a web browser
Authors: Kochnev Yuri , Durrant Jacob D.
Published: August 2022

Detecting macromolecular (e.g., protein) cavities where small molecules bind is an early step in computer-aided drug discovery. Multiple pocket-detection algorithms have been developed over the past several decades. Among them, fpocket, created by Schmidtke and Le Guilloux, is particularly popular. Like many programs used in computational-biology research, fpocket requires users to download and install an executable file. That file must also be run via a command-line interface, further complicating use. An existing fpocket server application effectively addresses these challenges, but it requires users to upload their possibly proprietary structures to a third-party server. The FPocketWeb web app builds on this prior work. It runs the fpocket3 executable entirely in a web browser without requiring installation. The pocket-finding calculations occur on the user’s computer rather than on a remote server. A working version of the open-source FPocketWeb app can be accessed free of charge from http://durrantlab.com/fpocketweb.
Anakinra in pediatric acute fulminant myocarditis
Authors: Maunier Louise , Charbel Ramy , Lambert Virginie , Tissières Pierre ,   the CLOVIS study group, Barreault Simon , Beggaz Mélissa , Belli Emre , Charbel Ramy , Claude Caroline , Durand Philippe , Galeotti Caroline , Hascoet Sébastien , Lambert Virginie , Maltret Alice , Marais Clémence , Maunier Louise , Miatello Jordi , Morin Luc , Othoniel Louise , Provot Bastien , Schvartz Adrien , Tissieres Pierre , Aershot Isabelle Van , Zogby Joy
Published: August 2022

Background

Acute fulminant myocarditis in children is associated with elevated mortality and morbidity with few advances in its medical management. Here we report a preliminary experience of children treated with IL-1 receptor antagonist associated with rapid myocardial function recovery.

Methods

A retrospective case series of children admitted in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit of the Bicêtre Hospital (AP–HP Paris Saclay University) between April 2020 and January 2022 with acute myocarditis. Children were treated with subcutaneous anakinra (an IL-1 receptor antagonist). Patients characteristics, and outcome are reported.

Results

Of 10 children admitted with acute fulminant myocarditis, eight were treated with sub-cutaneous anakinra. Seven children had SARS-CoV-2 post-infective myocarditis associated with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) and one child Parvovirus B19 myocarditis. In all patients a rapid (< 24 h) improvement in myocardial function was observed with concomitant decrease in myocardial enzymes. All patients survived with full myocardial recovery.

Conclusions

In this pilot study, use of IL-1 receptor antagonist in the initial treatment of acute fulminant myocarditis in children seems to be associated with rapid stabilization and recovery.
Some inequalities and majorization for products of τ-measurable operators
Authors: Maleki Khouzani Zahra , Manjegani Seyed Mahmoud
Published: August 2022

In this paper, for a semi-finite von Neumann algebra $\mathcal{M}$
M
, we study the Young, Hölder and Heinz means inequalities and extend results for τ-measurable operators. We obtain some refinements of the those inequalities for τ-measurable operators. We have also presented several inequalities in the sense of majorization.
Capturing the antibiotic resistome of preterm infants reveals new benefits of probiotic supplementation
Authors: Guitor Allison K. , Yousuf Efrah I. , Raphenya Amogelang R. , Hutton Eileen K. , Morrison Katherine M. , McArthur Andrew G. , Wright Gerard D. , Stearns Jennifer C.
Published: August 2022

Background

Probiotic use in preterm infants can mitigate the impact of antibiotic exposure and reduce rates of certain illnesses; however, the benefit on the gut resistome, the collection of antibiotic resistance genes, requires further investigation. We hypothesized that probiotic supplementation of early preterm infants (born < 32-week gestation) while in hospital reduces the prevalence of antibiotic resistance genes associated with pathogenic bacteria in the gut. We used a targeted capture approach to compare the resistome from stool samples collected at the term corrected age of 40 weeks for two groups of preterm infants (those that routinely received a multi-strain probiotic during hospitalization and those that did not) with samples from full-term infants at 10 days of age to identify if preterm birth or probiotic supplementation impacted the resistome. We also compared the two groups of preterm infants up to 5 months of age to identify persistent antibiotic resistance genes.

Results

At the term corrected age, or 10 days of age for the full-term infants, we found over 80 antibiotic resistance genes in the preterm infants that did not receive probiotics that were not identified in either the full-term or probiotic-supplemented preterm infants. More genes associated with antibiotic inactivation mechanisms were identified in preterm infants unexposed to probiotics at this collection time-point compared to the other infants. We further linked these genes to mobile genetic elements and Enterobacteriaceae, which were also abundant in their gut microbiomes. Various genes associated with aminoglycoside and beta-lactam resistance, commonly found in pathogenic bacteria, were retained for up to 5 months in the preterm infants that did not receive probiotics.

Conclusions

This pilot survey of preterm infants shows that probiotics administered after preterm birth during hospitalization reduced the diversity and prevented persistence of antibiotic resistance genes in the gut microbiome. The benefits of probiotic use on the microbiome and the resistome should be further explored in larger groups of infants. Due to its high sensitivity and lower sequencing cost, our targeted capture approach can facilitate these surveys to further address the implications of resistance genes persisting into infancy without the need for large-scale metagenomic sequencing.
A two-year comparative assessment of retention of arch width increases between modified vacuum-formed and Hawley retainers: a multi-center randomized clinical trial
Authors: Ashari Asma , Nik Mustapha Nik Mukhriz , Yuen Jonathan Jun Xian , Saw Zhi Kuan , Lau May Nak , Xian Lew , Syed Mohamed Alizae Marny Fadzlin , Megat Abdul Wahab Rohaya , Yeoh Chiew Kit , Deva Tata Malathi , Sinnasamy Sindhu
Published: August 2022

Objectives

To compare the clinical effectiveness of Hawley retainers (HRs) and modified vacuum-formed retainers (mVFRs) with palatal coverage in maintaining transverse expansion throughout a 24-month retention period and to assess the subjects’ perception toward the retainers.

Materials and methods

The trial accomplished blinding only by the outcome assessor and data analyst. Data were collected from post-orthodontic treatment patients who met the inclusion criteria. Thirty-five subjects were randomly allocated using a centralized randomization technique into either mVFR (n = 18) or HR group (n = 17). Dental casts of subjects were evaluated at debond (T0), 3-month (T1), 6-month (T2), 12-month (T3), and 24-month retention (T4). The intercanine width (ICW), interpremolar width (IPMW), interfirst molar mesiobuccal cusp width (IFMW1), and interfirst molar distobuccal cusp width (IFMW2) were compared between groups over time using Mixed ANOVA. A pilot-tested and validated questionnaire consisting of six items were given at T4. Subjects were instructed to rate their retainer in terms of fitting, speech, appearance, oral hygiene, durability, and comfort on a 100-mm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS).

Results

No statistically significant differences in arch width were found between the two groups at ICW (P = .83), IPMW (P = 0.63), IFMW1 (P = .22), and IFMW2 (P = .46) during the 24-month retention period. Also, no statistically significant differences were found between perception of both retainers in terms of fitting, speech, oral hygiene, durability, and comfort (P > .05) after 24-month wear. The appearance of mVFRs was rated significantly higher compared to HRs (P < .05).

Conclusions

HR and mVFR have similar clinical effectiveness for retention of transverse expansion cases in a 24-month retention period. Both retainers were perceived to be equal in terms of fitting, speech, oral hygiene, durability, and comfort. Subjects in the mVFRs group found their retainers to be significantly more esthetic than those in HRs group.
Facile and precise quantitative determination of silicon in naphtha by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy
Authors: Joo Sungkyung , Suh Dongchul
Published: August 2022

The amount of silicon in naphtha must be controlled because it results in silica deposits in vehicle components, such as spark plugs, catalytic converters, and oxygen sensors, which can lead to fuel economy degradation, increased emissions, and damage to catalytic converters. Naphtha has low specific gravity and high volatility; plasma does not form during analysis using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry. Therefore, the analysis of silicon in naphtha has been conducted using a dilution method with organic solvents. On the other hand, a high dilution factor increases the LOQ (limit of quantitation), making it difficult to analyse below 100 ppb. In this study, propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate (PGMEA) was used to solve this problem because it has excellent naphtha solubility, low volatility, and is used widely in semiconductor processing. A LOQ and LOD (limit of detection) of up to 3.3 ppb and 1.0 ppb, respectively, could be achieved using a concentration method by diluting naphtha in PGMEA and heating it. In addition, the reference materials were prepared with octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane to ensure analysis accuracy; excellent results were obtained with an 88% recovery rate.
Developing and testing guidance to support researchers engaging patient partners in health-related research
Authors: Finderup Jeanette , Buur Louise Engelbrecht , Tscherning Sarah Cecilie , Jensen Annesofie Lunde , Kristensen Anne Wilhøft , Petersen Anne Poder , Toft Bente Skovsby , Rasmussen Gitte Susanne , Skovlund Pernille , Vedelø Tina Wang , Rodkjær Lotte Ørneborg
Published: August 2022

Background

Although interest in Patient and Public Involvement in health-related research is growing, there seems to be a lack of guidance supporting researchers in deciding on methods and levels for Patient and Public Involvement in health-related research throughout the research process. Furthermore, the numerous definitions, methods, and frameworks make it challenging for researchers new to this field to decide on the most appropriate approach for their project.

Methods

This study aimed to develop and test guidance for researchers deciding on approaches, levels, and methods for engaging patient partners in health-related research. A group of 11 researchers in Patient and Public Involvement in health-related research participated in six workshops to develop the guidance. The feasibility and acceptability of the guidance were tested in a survey of 14 researchers using the System Usability Scale plus two elaborative questions. The guidance was also tested by five PhD students engaging patient partners in their projects.

Results

The guidance developed consisted of two resources: Resource I outlined five international approaches to Patient and Public Involvement in health-related research, and Resource II described the different levels and methods for engaging patient partners in research. The System Usability Scale score (at the 50th percentile) was 80, indicating excellent usability. Qualitative data showed that the two resources supported reflections regarding different approaches, levels, and methods.

Conclusion

The researchers found the guidance to be supportive of their reflective thinking about engaging patient partners in their research. The testing provided knowledge about when and how to use the guidance but also raised questions about the usefulness of the guidance in communications with patients.
Cutting edge rare earth radiometals: prospects for cancer theranostics
Authors: Sadler Alexander W. E. , Hogan Leena , Fraser Benjamin , Rendina Louis M.
Published: August 2022

Background

With recent advances in novel approaches to cancer therapy and imaging, the application of theranostic techniques in personalised medicine has emerged as a very promising avenue of research inquiry in recent years. Interest has been directed towards the theranostic potential of Rare Earth radiometals due to their closely related chemical properties which allow for their facile and interchangeable incorporation into identical bifunctional chelators or targeting biomolecules for use in a diverse range of cancer imaging and therapeutic applications without additional modification, i.e. a “one-size-fits-all” approach. This review will focus on recent progress and innovations in the area of Rare Earth radionuclides for theranostic applications by providing a detailed snapshot of their current state of production by means of nuclear reactions, subsequent promising theranostic capabilities in the clinic, as well as a discussion of factors that have impacted upon their progress through the theranostic drug development pipeline.

Main body

In light of this interest, a great deal of research has also been focussed towards certain under-utilised Rare Earth radionuclides with diverse and favourable decay characteristics which span the broad spectrum of most cancer imaging and therapeutic applications, with potential nuclides suitable for α-therapy (149Tb), β−-therapy (47Sc, 161Tb, 166Ho, 153Sm, 169Er, 149Pm, 143Pr, 170Tm), Auger electron (AE) therapy (161Tb, 135La, 165Er), positron emission tomography (43Sc, 44Sc, 149Tb, 152Tb, 132La, 133La), and single photon emission computed tomography (47Sc, 155Tb, 152Tb, 161Tb, 166Ho, 153Sm, 149Pm, 170Tm). For a number of the aforementioned radionuclides, their progression from ‘bench to bedside’ has been hamstrung by lack of availability due to production and purification methods requiring further optimisation.

Conclusions

In order to exploit the potential of these radionuclides, reliable and economical production and purification methods that provide the desired radionuclides in high yield and purity are required. With more reactors around the world being decommissioned in future, solutions to radionuclide production issues will likely be found in a greater focus on linear accelerator and cyclotron infrastructure and production methods, as well as mass separation methods. Recent progress towards the optimisation of these and other radionuclide production and purification methods has increased the feasibility of utilising Rare Earth radiometals in both preclinical and clinical settings, thereby placing them at the forefront of radiometals research for cancer theranostics.
Effect of processing on the antioxidant activities of porridges and Pittu prepared from finger millets (Eleusine coracana)
Authors: Chandrasekara Anoma , Senanayake Indraneela , Kumari Disna , Shahidi Fereidoon
Published: August 2022

Finger millets are important coarse grains that exhibit high levels of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activities among other cereals. Grains are subjected to a number of thermal treatments and this could affect the contents and bioactivities of phenolic compounds. The aim of the present study was to determine the phenolic contents and antioxidant activities of finger millet flour and foods, namely porridges andPittusubjected to several thermal treatments such as roasting, parboiling, and parboiled roasting of flour and open boiling and steaming of foods prepared using flour. The effect of the addition of spices on phenolic content and antioxidant activities to open boiled foods was determined. Antioxidant activities of phenolic extracts obtained from finger millet flour and foods were studied for their total phenolic, flavonoids and proanthocyanidins contents, radical scavenging capacities, reducing power, ferrous ion chelating capacity, and antioxidant activity in aβ-carotene/linoleate emulsion. The roasted flour and foods had higher total phenolic content (TPC) than other counterparts and ranged from 21.58 to 28.63 µmol ferulic acid equivalents/g dry matter. All flour and food preparations exhibited effective inhibition of radicals, reducing power, ferrous ion chelating activity, and antioxidant activity in theβ-carotene/linoleate emulsion and the degree of activity depended on the processing conditions adopted in food preparations.

Foods prepared using steaming showed lower phenolic content and antioxidant activities in general than those of open-boiled counterparts. The addition of spices, namely garlic and cinnamon improved the phenolic contents and antioxidant activities of open-boiled porridges. The knowledge generated from this study may help to exploit the use of finger millets as a functional food ingredient to promote health and wellness.

Graphical abstract
Genetic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum isolates in Nigeria. A review
Authors: Opute Augusta Onyebuchi , Akinkunmi Joseph Adebowale , Funsho Abdulsalam Olalekan , Obaniyi Adebobola Kehinde , Anifowoshe Abass Toba
Published: August 2022

Background

The complexity of infection in malaria-endemic areas is exacerbated by the presence of genetically diverse Plasmodium falciparum strains. There is a risk that more virulent or drug-resistant versions of the disease may arise. Therefore, we reviewed most reported molecular markers that have been detailed to date in Nigeria.

Main body of the abstract

In this review, we have summarized the genetic diversity of P. falciparum in Nigeria using the two well-reported genes (msp1 and msp2) as genetic diversity biomarkers. The review includes the findings obtained from research conducted in all major geopolitical regions of the country. We found that MSP-2 infection complexity is generally moderate to high in the North-central region. However, in the South-West, there were several regions where the multiplicity of infection (MOI) was either low or extremely high.

Conclusion

Understanding how Nigeria's malaria situation fits into various reports on P. falciparum genetic variation can improve treatment and immunization options. This review will be helpful for future treatment strategies that would be tailored to the specific needs of Nigeria's malaria-endemic populations.
Decreased cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in human B-chronic lymphocytic leukemia following miR-221 inhibition through modulation of p27 expression
Authors: Ashrafi Dehkordi Korosh , Asadi-Samani Majid , Shojaeian Ali , Mahmoudian-Sani Mohammad-Reza
Published: August 2022

Background

This study aimed to investigate the effects of the miR-221 inhibition on the human B-chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL) cell viability and the p27 gene expression, to introduce a new treatment approach for this type of cancer. In this context, the cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk) inhibitor 1B (p27Kip1) is considered as an enzyme inhibitor that encodes a protein belonging to the Cip/Kip family of the Cdk inhibitor proteins.

Methods

The affected miR-221 inhibition in the B-CLL cell viability was initially assessed. The inhibition of miR-221 in the B-CLL cell line (183-E95) was thus performed using locked nucleic acid (LNA) as an antagomir. After the LNA-anti-miR-221 transfection, the miR-221 quantification, cell viability, and apoptosis assays were evaluated at different intervals by the reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, and flow cytometry (FC), respectively. The qRT-PCR was also completed for the p27 gene. The data were subsequently analyzed by independent-samples t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Results

A gradual reduction was observed in the B-CLL cell viability, and consequently the transfected LNA-anti-miR cell viability reached below 55% of the untreated cells after 72 h of transfection. A statistically significant difference was found in the cell viability between the LNA-anti-miR-treated and control groups (p-value ≤ 0.043). The downregulation of miR-221 in the B-CLL (183-E95) cells was further conducted by LNA-anti-miR-221.

Conclusion

The miR-221 inhibition significantly decreases cell viability through augmenting the p27 gene expression and inducing apoptosis. Moreover, the findings demonstrated that the inhibition of miR-221 might be a new treatment approach for B-CLL, although more confirmation is needed by investigating appropriate animal models.
Antidepressant and Cardioprotective Effects of Self-Nanoemulsifying Self-Nanosuspension Loaded with Hypericum perforatum on Post-Myocardial Infarction Depression in Rats
Authors: Khalil Heba M. A. , Mahmoud Dina B. , El-Shiekh Riham A. , Bakr Alaa F. , Boseila Amira A. , Mehanna Sally , Naggar Reham A. , Eliwa Hesham A.
Published: August 2022

Hypericum perforatum(HP) is characterized by potent medicinal activity. However, the poor water solubility of many HP constituents limits their therapeutic effectiveness. Self-nanoemulsifying self-nanosuspension loaded with HP (HP.SNESNS) was formulated to improve the bioefficacy of HP. It was prepared using 10% triacetin, 57% Tween 20, and 33% PEG 400 and then incorporated with HP extract (100 mg/mL). HP.SNESNS demonstrated a bimodal size distribution (258.65 ± 29.35 and 9.08 ± 0.01 nm) corresponding to nanosuspension and nanoemulsion, respectively, a zeta potential of -8.03 mV, and an enhanced dissolution profile. Compared to the unformulated HP (100 mg/kg), HP.SNESNS significantly improved cardiac functions by decreasing the serum myocardial enzymes, nitric oxide (NO), and tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF-α) as well as restoring the heart tissue's normal architecture. Furthermore, it ameliorates anxiety, depressive-like behavior, and cognitive dysfunction by decreasing brain TNF-α, elevating neurotransmitters (norepinephrine and serotonin), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). In addition, HP.SNESNS augmented the immunohistochemical expression of cortical and hippocampal glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels while downregulating the cortical Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) expression levels. Surprisingly, these protective activities were comparable to the HP (300 mg/kg). In conclusion, HP.SNESNS (100 mg/kg) exerted antidepressant and cardioprotective activities in the post-MI depression rat model.

Graphical Abstract
Hepatic leukemia factor-expressing paraxial mesoderm cells contribute to the developing brain vasculature
Authors: Koui Yuta , Ideue Takako , Boylan Michael , Anderson Matthew J. , Osato Motomi , Suda Toshio , Yokomizo Tomomasa , Mukouyama Yoh-suke
Published: August 2022

Recent genetic lineage tracing studies reveal heterogeneous origins of vascular endothelial cells and pericytes in the developing brain vasculature, despite classical experimental evidence for a mesodermal origin. Here we provide evidence through a genetic lineage tracing experiment that cephalic paraxial mesodermal cells give rise to endothelial cells and pericytes in the developing mouse brain. We show that Hepatic leukemia factor (Hlf) is transiently expressed by cephalic paraxial mesenchyme at embryonic day (E) 8.0-9.0 and the genetically marked E8.0 Hlf-expressing cells mainly contribute to the developing brain vasculature. Interestingly, the genetically marked E10.5 Hlf-expressing cells, which have been previously reported to contain embryonic hematopoietic stem cells, fail to contribute to the vascular cells. Combined, our genetic lineage tracing data demonstrate that a transient expression of Hlf marks a cephalic paraxial mesenchyme contributing to the developing brain vasculature.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Computed tomography coronary angiography in non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Wang Kang-Ling , Meah Mohammed N , Bularga Anda , Singh Trisha , Williams Michelle C , Newby David E
Published: August 2022

Electrocardiography and high-sensitivity cardiac troponin testing are routinely applied as the initial step for clinical evaluation of patients with suspected non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Once diagnosed, patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction are commenced on antithrombotic and secondary preventative therapies before undergoing invasive coronary angiography to determine the strategy of coronary revascularisation. However, this clinical pathway is imperfect and can lead to challenges in the diagnosis, management, and clinical outcomes of these patients. Computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA) has increasingly been utilised in the setting of patients with suspected non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, where it has an important role in avoiding unnecessary invasive coronary angiography and reducing downstream non-invasive functional testing for myocardial ischaemia. CTCA is an excellent gatekeeper for the cardiac catheterisation laboratory. In addition, CTCA provides complementary information for patients with myocardial infarction in the absence of obstructive coronary artery disease and highlights alternative or incidental diagnoses for those with cardiac troponin elevation. However, the routine application of CTCA has yet to demonstrate an impact on subsequent major adverse cardiovascular events. There are several ongoing studies evaluating CTCA and its associated technologies that will define and potentially expand its application in patients with suspected or diagnosed non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. We here review the current evidence relating to the clinical application of CTCA in patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and highlight the areas where CTCA is likely to have an increasing important role and impact for our patients.
Defeating the 21st century demon “Cybercrime” on corporate bodies in Nigeria: Is security intelligence a weapon? A quantitative study
Authors: Afolabi Muyiwa B. , Raji Gbolahan Ayodamola
Published: August 2022

Background: This paper unveils the role of security intelligence in facilitating the war against cybercrime in organizations. it introduces the term cybercrime and security intelligence with financial organizations in Nigeria. Since the invention of information and communication technology in Nigeria, citizens have become fascinated and engrossed. Unfortunately, this opened the door for people with malicious intent to attack individuals, organizations, and nations. Thus, this paper examines the problem of information vulnerability, identifies the level of cybercrime in financial entities, establishes the type of cybercrime, and assesses security intelligence awareness among staff and customers. Methods: The paper employed the simple-random sampling technique, using a primary and secondary source of information, analyzing frequency counts, percentages, and charts for the demographic variables, and used chi-square through SPSS data processing. Results: The results state the ubiquity of cybercrime among financial organizations and reveals that phishing scams, website spoofing, piracy, ransomware, and hacking are the top cyber-crime types commonly used. Conclusions: Thus, the administration of security intelligence can reduce internal and external threats in an organization. Furthermore, the paper states that security intelligence intervention is independent of the nature of cybercrime across the organization. However, the paper recommends that organizations need to enlighten their staff and customers with measures to safeguard information against cybercrime with the usage of security intelligence techniques and other proactive measures.
Strategies for improving mental health and wellbeing used by adults ageing with HIV: a qualitative exploration
Authors: Mwangala Patrick N. , Wagner Ryan G. , Newton Charles R. , Abubakar Amina
Published: August 2022

Background: Physical and mental health problems are common among older adults living with HIV (OALWH). Adaptive coping strategies play a vital role in improving these adults' mental health and well-being despite the deleterious effects of HIV and ageing. However, in sub-Saharan Africa, limited evidence exists on the commonly utilized coping strategies in this population. We explore the coping strategies used by Kenyan OALWH to improve their mental health and wellbeing.

Methods: Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted between October and December 2019 with 56 participants: 34 OALWH (53% female), 11 healthcare providers (63% female) and 11 primary caregivers (73% female) in Kilifi County. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. We used the framework approach to synthesize the qualitative data.   

Results: Five major themes emerged from the analysis of participants’ narratives, including self-care practices, religion and spirituality, relational living (social connectedness), generativity, identity, and mastery. Our study further revealed maladaptive coping strategies, including reliance on over-the-counter medications, self-isolation, waiting to see if symptoms would subside despite doing nothing, and HIV treatment interruptions during prolonged periods of prayer and fasting.

Conclusions: Our findings provide an initial understanding of the coping strategies used by OALWH to confront HIV and ageing challenges in a low-literacy, low socio-economic Kenyan setting. Our results suggest that interventions designed to enhance personal capacity, social support, positive religiosity and spirituality, and intergenerational connections may be beneficial in improving the mental health and well-being of OALWH.
Metodología LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® en los cursos de estrategia empresarial: una experiencia de clase con Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible
Authors: Rivera Rodriguez, Hugo Alberto
Published: August 2022

En el documento se presenta el uso de la Metodología LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® (LSP®) en el curso de pensamiento estratégico del programa de Negocios Internacionales de la Escuela de Administración de la Universidad del Rosario. Esta metodología logró que los estudiantes articularan los contenidos teóricos con situaciones reales, en este caso el Objetivo de Desarrollo Sostenible que se refiere a la equidad entre los géneros. La actividad no solo cumplió con el logro del resultado de aprendizaje esperado, sino que permitió fortalecer competencias comunicativas y contextuales en los estudiantes.
An Analysis of the Causes of Damage to Nata de Coco in the Fermentation Process
Authors: Alfarisy Moh , Rahmadhia Safinta Nurindra
Published: August 2022

Acetobacter xylinum greatly contributes to the fermentation process of nata de coco. It converts glucose in coconut water into cellulose slabs. The slabs turn into clear white and solid in form, called nata. This analysis is aimed to identify types and causes of damage to nata de coco in the fermentation process. Observation of the criteria of raw materials, cooking process, the making of an Acetobacter xylinum starter, pouring the medium into the stray, and the harvesting process of nata slabs was carried out in the fermentation process. Data collected were analyzed, and research problems were solved using the Fishbone diagram. Several methods applied in data collection were observation, interview, hands-on practice, documentation, and literature study. The results demonstrated some types of damage to nata slabs in the fermentation process, e.g., fungal contamination and defective, watery, and fibrous nata.
Production of Coconut Milk Cheese and Its Organoleptic Characteristics
Authors: Halim Judella Kusuma , Wangrimen Gervasius Harwin , Fitriani Aprilia
Published: August 2022

Cheese is a dairy product that contains lactose so it cannot be consumed by lactose intolerant. Coconut milk can be used as an alternative to produce lactose-free cheese. This study contribution to investigate the effect of coconut milk and soy milk composition on the physical and chemical properties of coconut milk cheese, as well as product acceptability. Direct acidification using lemon juice is used to produce cheese with different coconut milk and soy milk composition (80:20; 70:30; 60:40). The properties assayed were yield, spreadability, and organoleptic. Yield of coconut milk cheese at composition 80:20; 70:30; 60:40 was 37.96%; 34.44%; 31.48%. Spreadability of coconut milk cheese at composition 80:20; 70:30; 60:40 was 9.83 cm; 9.65 cm; 9.53 cm. The difference of coconut milk and soy milk composition affects the physical and organoleptic properties of coconut milk cheese. Decrease in the level of coconut milk substitution and increase in the level of soy milk substitution led to decrease yield and cheese spreadability. Organoleptic score below 3 indicates that coconut milk cheese acceptability was still low.
Advancing practice for the future
Authors: Spence Emily
Published: August 2022

As the autumn annual conference of the British Association of Neuroscience Nurses is set to return after a 2 year hiatus, Emily Spence provides details of this years much anticipated event.
Toxicity test of rose periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) leaves endophytic bacteria using Brine Shrimp Lethality Test (BSLT) method
Authors: FAUZIAH FAUZIAH , MAULINASARI MAULINASARI , HARNELLY ESSY , ISMAIL YULIA SARI , FITRI LENNI
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Fauziah F, Maulinasari, Harnelly E, Ismail YS, Fitri L. 2021. Toxicity test of rose periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) leaves endophytic bacteria using Brine Shrimp Lethality Test (BSLT) method. Biodiversitas 23: 171-177. Endophytic bacteria can be obtained from plants and may have the same ability as their host to produce secondary metabolites. This study aimed to determine the toxicity of endophytic bacterial extract from rose periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) leaves using the Brine Shrimp Lethality Test (BSLT) method to determine their secondary metabolite contents. A toxicity test was carried out using Artemia salina shrimp larvae. The effect of the extract was determined based on the shrimp larvae mortality percentage using four concentration levels of 1000 ppm, 750 ppm, 500 ppm, and 250 ppm. Furthermore, the LC50 value of the extract against shrimp larvae was analyzed using SPSS software to obtain eight isolates of endophytic bacteria from Catharanthus roseus leaves. Macroscopic observations showed different characters, and five isolates were Gram-positive bacteria, while three were Gram-negative bacteria. The BETD5 isolate had the lowest LC50 value of 413,590 ppm, and the secondary metabolites of BETD5 extract were alkaloid and saponin. The molecular identification indicated that BETD5 had the highest identity percentage of 99.38% with Staphylococcus arlettae strain NR_036903, Staphylococcus gallinarum strain LMG 19119, Staphylococcus sp. strain Fop 222, Staphylococcus gallinarum strain E2 and Staphylococcus sp. strain MFC2.
Diversity and abundance of plankton in different habitat zonation of Papan River, Lake Kenyir, Malaysia
Authors: Ramlee Aliffikri , SUHAIMI HIDAYU , RASDI NADIAH W.
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Ramlee A, Suhaimi H, Rasdi NW. 2021. Diversity and abundance of plankton in different habitat zonation of Papan River, Lake Kenyir, Malaysia. Biodiversitas 23: 212-221. Lake Kenyir is the largest artificial lake in Malaysia, yet there is limited information regarding the lake’s ecology. This study aimed to determine the diversity and abundance of phytoplankton and zooplankton in various habitat ecosystems along the Papan River, Lake Kenyir. Three distinct sampling points were chosen based on the diverse habitat conditions, namely sampling point A (high water current area), sampling point B (shallow and muddy area) and sampling point C (minimum water current area). Samples were collected horizontally using a 30µm plankton net with two distinct towing methods: boat and hand towing to specific areas. The result showed that all sampling points had low chlorophyll-a concentrations ranging between 10 and 20 g/ml, indicating that no algae bloom had occurred. Bacillariophyta were found to have the highest distribution of phytoplankton division in all of the stations (50.96%). The other division discovered was Chlorophyta (29.62%), followed by Charophyta (19.43%). Additionally, 140 individual zooplankton species were discovered across all sampling locations. The phylum Rotifera is the most dominant in terms of species distribution (60.00 %), followed by Arthropoda (31.43%), Ciliophora (7.14%), and Rhizopoda (0.71%). The Shannon diversity index, evenness, and species richness measurements at sampling point A, B, and C revealed a range of index values due to variation in plankton species due to interaction and habitat conditions. The variation in planktonic abundance in the Papan River was attributed to their habitat preferences due to the freshwater lake's ecosystem's different zones and conditions.
Short Communication: A pilot-study on the occurrence and probable factors influencing the population decline of House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) along an urbanization gradient in Coimbatore district, India
Authors: Narayanappa Yashaswini , Gautam Anamika , Mahobiya Kunal , Singh Ashutosh
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Narayanappa Y, Gautam A, Mahobiya K, Singh A. 2022. Short Communication: A pilot-study on the occurrence and probable factors influencing the population decline of House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) along an urbanization gradient in Coimbatore district, India. Biodiversitas 23: 3884-3889. The House sparrow is a widely distributed, human-commensal bird species across the globe. Over the past few decades, the population of this species has been reported to be declining at an alarming rate. The primary factor postulated to cause this decline is urbanization which leads to the unavailability of suitable nesting sites, a dearth of invertebrate food, the advent of phone towers, and electromagnetic radiation. The current study aims to document the occurrence, abundance and scrutinize the reasons for the decline of House Sparrows along a gradient of urban to rural in Coimbatore district, India. To estimate the abundance of House Sparrows, we counted them in16-points within a three 3km-radius along an urban-rural gradient. Information on gender, cluster size, detection distance, an angle from the observer, etc. were collected. The questionnaire survey was conducted to understand people's perceptions about the importance of the species and its current status. Along the gradient, we observed an average of 69.8 (±24.9) individuals. The species were abundant in rural and semi-urban areas, which is attributed to the availability of nesting sites, such as roof cavities, eaves, mud-walls, adequate feeding sources, presence of open scrub patches and garbage dumping sites adjacent to the residential spaces. However, sparrows were not present in the urban areas, even in their preferred habitats. According to the questionnaire survey, the likely causes for their absence are an increase in vehicle traffic, modern buildings, high-rise structures, and electromagnetic radiation from cell phone towers.
New data on the vertical distribution of nematode communities in mountain ecosystems of Mount Zarafshan, Uzbekistan
Authors: NARZULLAYEV SARDORBEK BAKHRIDDINOVICH
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Narzullayev SB. 2022. New data on the vertical distribution of nematode communities in mountain ecosystems of Mount Zarafshan, Uzbekistan. Biodiversitas 23: 3967-3975. New data on the vertical distribution of nematode communities in mountain ecosystems (Mount Zarafshan, Uzbekistan) is the first study on the variation of nematode species and ecological groups in Central Asia depending on altitude gradients. The study's primary purpose was to study the nematode fauna of perennial plants in the highlands and to reveal the formation of nematodes following the ecological characteristics. To achieve the study's objectives, samples were collected from perennial plants and rhizosphere soils growing in mountain ecosystems with a maximum altitude of 2590 m above sea level in 2016-2018. The sample analysis determined that the northern slope of the Zarafshan mountain range consists of 121 species belonging to 8 orders, 35 families and 58 genera. The study area is divided into four vertical altitude zones (upper, middle, lower, and foothills), which differ in climate, relief, vegetation cover and density to understand the formation of mountain nematode fauna. Sixty-four species of nematodes were identified in the upper zone, 93 in the middle zone, 104 in the lower zone, and 79 in the foothills. The nematodes in the fauna were divided into ecological groups such as plant feeders, mycophages, bacteriotrophs, predators and omnivores. The obtained results showed that the species and ecological composition of the nematode community depended on changes in vegetation cover density, soil organic composition and water regime in the height gradients.
Lesser-known wild edible plants used by Thadou-Kuki tribe of Indo-Myanmar region, Manipur, India
Authors: HAOKIP L. LHINGKHOTIN , PANMEI ROBERT
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Haokip LL, Panmei R. 2022. Lesser-known wild edible plants used by Thadou-Kuki tribe of Indo-Myanmar region, Manipur, India. Biodiversitas 23: 3991-3998. Wild edible plants are overlooked groups of plants which forms an integral part of the culture and tradition of many indigenous communities by providing both nourishment and variety in the diet. The present study is an inventory on the wild edible plants consumed by Thadou-Kuki tribe of Manipur. Field survey was carried out in five villages and three local markets of the district. The survey documented 73 wild edible plants consumed by the Thadou tribe. Except for one species each of Gymnosperm and Pteridophyte, all the species (71) are Angiosperms under 64 genera and 43 families. Most of the edible plants are consumed in cooked vegetable form (45%) while processed fruits (4%) is the least mode of consumption. The use of species like Dysoxylum excelsum, Entada rheedii, Eurya acuminata and Erigeron canadensis as vegetables and Meyna spinosa and Physalis alkekengi as fruits is one of the interesting records as these species’ usage is meager among other tribes of the northeastern state. It is found that most of the wild plant resources play a vital role in the nutritional fulfillment, medicine and socio-economic aspects of the Thadou tribe.
Genetic diversity of eight maize (Zea mays) cultivars from East Nusa Tenggara (Indonesia) based on inter simple sequence repeat markers
Authors: YANI AHMAD , CHASANI ABDUL RAZAQ , DARYONO BUDI SETIADI
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Yani A, Chasani AR, Daryono BS. 2022. Genetic diversity of eight maize Zea mays L. cultivars from East Nusa Tenggara based on inter simple sequence repeat markers. Biodiversitas 23: 4124-4130. East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) is one of Indonesia's island that has many local maize cultivars. However, the existence of this local corn is threatened by the presence of high-yielding maize seeds. Therefore, characterization of local maize cultivars using molecular marker is needed to conserve the germplasm. This study aims to determine the genetic diversity of local maize cultivars (Zea maysL.) from  East Nusa Tenggara based on ISSR markers. This research used eight local maize cultivars (Watar Ohaq, Watar Puluq, Wata Bura, Wata Kuma, Wata Bunga, Pena Muti, Boti Pulut, and Latun Wara). Young leaves of maize were used for DNA isolation. Total genomic DNA was isolated using Genomic DNA Mini Kit for Plant (Geneaid). DNA was then amplified using 5 ISSR molecular markers (ISSR-807, ISSR-808, UBC-809, UBC-811, UBC-834). DNA band profiles were scored based on the presence or absence of bands. Genetic variability was analyzed based on the UPGMA method using the MVSP ver application. 3.1. Local maize from NTT has high genetic diversity (similarity index between 0.29-0.65). Local maize cultivars were separated into two main clusters at a similarity index of 0.43 and the grouping pattern was not influenced by the geographic location of
local maize origin.
Forest structure and carbon stock of Suan Phueng Nature Education Park in Ratchaburi Province, Western Thailand
Authors: CHANLABUT UTAIN , NAHOK BENCHAWAN
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Chanlabut U, Nahok B. 2022. Forest structure and carbon stock of Suan Phueng Nature Education Park in Ratchaburi Province, Western Thailand. Biodiversitas 23: 4314-4321. Forests play an important role in the global carbon budget. Yet, carbon stocks in tropical forests are uncertain depending on many factors. This study aims to study forest structures and carbon stocks in Suan Phueng Nature Education Park, Ratchaburi, Western Thailand. In 12 plots of 20 × 20 m, an inventory of trees ? 4.5 cm diameter at breast height (DBH) was carried out. Soil samples were also collected in sampling plots. To describe forest structures, ecological parameters were analyzed (IVI, diversity indices, basal area, and DBH size classes). Forest carbon stocks were calculated based on biomass and soils. Allometric equations were used to calculate aboveground biomass and converse to carbon stock. The soil carbon was analyzed using the wet oxidation method. The result showed that the lower montane forest (493.74 ± 90.20 Mg C ha-1) had the highest forest carbon stock, followed by the dry evergreen + mixed deciduous forest (203.83 ± 82.74 Mg C ha-1), and mixed deciduous forest (145.46 ± 47.90 Mg C ha–1). In the three forests, there were atotal of 637 trees belonging to 70 species in 29 families. Shannon’s diversity index was 3.59 with a range of 2.17-3.21, indicating a moderate to high diversity. Tree density was 1,137.50 stems ha-1 with a range of 737.50-1,581.25 stems ha-1. The basal area had a range of 5.82-11.11 m2 ha-1. The DBH classes exhibited J-shaped distribution. The large trees (?71 cm) had a greater aboveground carbon stock, despite their lower density. This indicates their importance as carbon sinks in the forest. This study highlights that the forests in Suan Phueng Nature Education Park not only have the potential to be carbon stocks but also contain a high diversity of tree species.