Displaying publications 1 - 20 of 189 in total

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  1. Wong HJ, Harith S, Lua PL, Ibrahim KA
    Nutr Health, 2023 Dec;29(4):695-705.
    PMID: 35763460 DOI: 10.1177/02601060221097459
    Background: Stroke survivors are at high risk for recurrent cardiovascular events if no prevention strategies are undertaken. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the fasting serum lipid profiles and lifestyle habits in stroke survivors, and the factors associated with suboptimal lipid profiles. Methods: A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted in three public hospitals in Malaysia. Stroke survivors' data regarding the socio-demographic characteristics, clinical profiles, fasting serum lipid profiles, dietary adherence, and physical activity levels were acquired. Binary logistic regression was used to examine the factors associated with suboptimal lipid goals. Results: A total of 104 stroke survivors were recruited from patients attending the neurology and rehabilitation departments. Only 22% of the stroke survivors attained the targeted low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level (LDL-C < 1.8 mmol/L). Meanwhile, more than two thirds of patients achieved the targeted total cholesterol, triglyceride, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol goals. Patients with a longer stroke duration (Adjusted odds ratio, AOR 3.33, 95% confidence intervals, CI: 1.09, 10.13, p  =  0.034), elevated blood pressure (AOR 4.74, 95% CI: 1.65, 13.62, p  =  0.004), chronic kidney disease (AOR 3.30, 95% CI: 1.05, 10.34, p  =  0.041), abdominal obesity (AOR 3.14, 95% CI: 1.20, 8.21, p  =  0.020), excessive energy intake (AOR 2.72, 95% CI: 1.07, 6.91, p  =  0.036), and excessive saturated fatty acids intake (AOR 2.85, 95% CI: 1.02, 7.93, p  =  0.045) were significantly associated with suboptimal lipid profiles. Conclusion: The lipid goals attainment was low, particularly the LDL-C levels among Malaysian stroke survivors. Greater efforts are warranted to fully utilise the lipid-lowering therapy and the lifestyle changes in these high-risk patients.
    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  2. Ma H, Crowther TW, Mo L, Maynard DS, Renner SS, van den Hoogen J, et al.
    Nat Plants, 2023 Nov;9(11):1795-1809.
    PMID: 37872262 DOI: 10.1038/s41477-023-01543-5
    Understanding what controls global leaf type variation in trees is crucial for comprehending their role in terrestrial ecosystems, including carbon, water and nutrient dynamics. Yet our understanding of the factors influencing forest leaf types remains incomplete, leaving us uncertain about the global proportions of needle-leaved, broadleaved, evergreen and deciduous trees. To address these gaps, we conducted a global, ground-sourced assessment of forest leaf-type variation by integrating forest inventory data with comprehensive leaf form (broadleaf vs needle-leaf) and habit (evergreen vs deciduous) records. We found that global variation in leaf habit is primarily driven by isothermality and soil characteristics, while leaf form is predominantly driven by temperature. Given these relationships, we estimate that 38% of global tree individuals are needle-leaved evergreen, 29% are broadleaved evergreen, 27% are broadleaved deciduous and 5% are needle-leaved deciduous. The aboveground biomass distribution among these tree types is approximately 21% (126.4 Gt), 54% (335.7 Gt), 22% (136.2 Gt) and 3% (18.7 Gt), respectively. We further project that, depending on future emissions pathways, 17-34% of forested areas will experience climate conditions by the end of the century that currently support a different forest type, highlighting the intensification of climatic stress on existing forests. By quantifying the distribution of tree leaf types and their corresponding biomass, and identifying regions where climate change will exert greatest pressure on current leaf types, our results can help improve predictions of future terrestrial ecosystem functioning and carbon cycling.
    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  3. Loo WH, Yeow PHP, Yee Yen Y
    PLoS One, 2023;18(6):e0286022.
    PMID: 37267259 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286022
    The responsible behaviour of consumers that purchase green computers is a form of sustainable consumption, as green computers use less energy resulting in less CO2 emissions and the use of fewer toxic metals and materials during their production. The research question is how to encourage such behaviour. Although prior research has provided some answers by investigating the antecedents of the behaviour, it has done so through a piecemeal approach from the angles of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), the value-belief-norm (VBN) theory, and habits. The present research aims to investigate the antecedents of the responsible acquisition of computers behaviour (RACB) among Malaysian consumers by integrating the TPB and the VBN theory with the habits variable. Hypotheses and a research framework were developed based on these theories and a survey questionnaire was used to collect information on the green computer purchase behaviour of computer owners aged 17 and over in Malaysia. A total of 1,000 usable surveys were completed and structural equation modelling was used to analyse the data collected. The findings reveal that the TPB, the VBN theory, and the habits variable can be integrated to explain RACB, which is formed when biospheric values trigger subjective norms that subsequently result in the formation of habits that lead to intentions of acquiring green computers and RACB. The study's findings show that although personal norms do not affect RACB, subjective norms affect ascriptions of responsibility, personal norms, and RACB. The findings provide insights to policymakers, NGOs, manufacturers, and marketers that can assist them in designing strategies for the effective promotion of RACB.
    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  4. Hassanein M, Al Sifri S, Shaikh S, Raza SA, Akram J, Rudijanto A, et al.
    Diabetes Ther, 2021 Jun;12(6):1703-1719.
    PMID: 33974216 DOI: 10.1007/s13300-021-01067-1
    INTRODUCTION: To analyse the safety and effectiveness of gliclazide modified release (MR) in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus participating in Ramadan from three geographically and culturally different regions of the world included in the DIA-RAMADAN study.

    METHODS: DIA-RAMADAN was a real-world, observational, international, non-comparative study. The global study population was divided into three regional subgroups, with data gathered at inclusion 6-8 weeks prior to Ramadan (V0), during Ramadan (4.5 weeks) and 4-6 weeks after Ramadan (V1). Primary endpoint was the proportion of patients reporting ≥ 1 symptomatic hypoglycaemic events (HE), which were collected using a patient diary along with other adverse events.

    RESULTS: Patient numbers from the three regions were n = 564 (46.5%; Indian sub-continent), n = 354 (29.1%; Middle East) and n = 296 (24.4%; South-East Asia). Patient baseline characteristics, demographics, fasting habits and antidiabetic treatments varied between regions. There were similar proportions of symptomatic HE between regions, with no severe HE. Significant weight reductions were observed in all regions following Ramadan, along with reductions in HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose.

    CONCLUSION: These real-world study data indicate that gliclazide MR is safe and effective for management of type 2 diabetes during Ramadan in all three regions studied as part of DIA-RAMADAN.

    TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT04132934. INFOGRAPHIC.

    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  5. Abu HB, Ludin SBM, Sowtali SNB
    J Public Health Res, 2021 Apr 14;10(2).
    PMID: 33855404 DOI: 10.4081/jphr.2021.2206
    BACKGROUND: This preliminary finding from a qualitative study examined the process of self-efficacy for the development of physical activity during myocardial infarction (MI) after recovery. A combination of healthy behaviors, including physical activity is the secondary prevention recommended to reduce the risk of recurrent MI. This study aims to understand how self-efficacy for physical activity is developed in a patient after MI by examining their perceptions and personal adherence to physical activity.

    DESIGN AND METHODS: This was a qualitative study and data was collected through semi-structured in-depth recorded phone interviews with eight Malay male participants. They were screened using a questionnaire and participants that met the inclusion criteria were interviewed, and were admitted to National Heart Centre, Malaysia between January to June 2019 diagnosed with MI. The data collected were analysed using NVivo 12 software and thematic analysis was applied.

    RESULTS: Four preliminary themes emerged from the study: 1) beliefs in physical activity; 2) healthy lifestyle: new normal or same old habit; 3) factors determining participation in pa; and 4) physical activity adherence strategies.

    CONCLUSIONS: The results of the studies showed that participants understand the need to maintain physical activity, which helps to maintain a healthy life after MI and prevent recurrent infarction. Strategies for developing self-efficacy for physical activity were also discussed. The need to understand that maintaining physical activity as well as adopting a new normal of healthy habit after MI is crucial in order to maintain the health and prevent recurrence of MI.

    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  6. SITI DIANA KAMILA NADIM, JARINA MOHD JANI
    MyJurnal
    Investing in natural cosmetics contributes to the sustainability of natural resources in two ways – the emission of less harmful by-products, and the conservation of ecosystems through sustainable harvesting of resources. Therefore, studying students’ (millennials’) behaviour and attitude towards these products may help improve awareness-raising approaches on their benefits for local market acceptance. A study was conducted in Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), Malaysia with the aim to understand the current perception and habits of UMT students towards natural cosmetics and their readiness to convert to natural cosmetics. 521 responses were collected through an online survey that focused on three themes: Stage of Change, Decisional Balance Inventory, and Product Knowledge and Perception. The study found that most of the respondents (79%) claim to be using natural cosmetics, while only nine percent are not considering at all. Eighty-six percent of those users practice label reading habits although most respondents could not distinguish natural cosmetics from synthetic ones if solely based on personal knowledge and appearance of product. This proves that product design does influence customers’ purchasing behaviours. Moreover, results indicate that existing natural cosmetic users are quite likely to maintain the habit, while others are still indecisive. Meanwhile, label reading habits are quite likely to be maintained by many respondents. Hence, based on results, businesses should acknowledge that there is a demand in natural cosmetics among Malaysian millennials, and should increase their promotional activities, improve product design and affordability in order to grab consumers’ attention to switch from synthetic to natural cosmetics.
    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  7. MOHD YUSOFF YUSLIZA, ABDUL HAFAZ NGAH, DHIYA HILLMAN FADZIL
    MyJurnal
    This paper examines the determinants of pro-environmental behaviour among university students. It uses the theory of planned behaviour in determining the factors that lead to such behaviour. The determinants consist of environmental awareness, psychological factors (motivation, moral norms, perceived behavioural control and attitude), environmental knowledge and personality traits (agreeableness, extroversion, conscientiousness, neuroticism and openness to experience). Data was collected using convenience sampling through self-administered surveys and online forms distributed to 400 students in a public university in Malaysia. Data was subjected to construct validity and reliability analysis. The findings highlighted that motivation, agreeableness and perceived behavioural control were positively related to the practice of pro-environmental behaviour, whereas environmental awareness, moral norms, attitude and environmental knowledge were negatively related. Some personality traits, namely neuroticism, openness to experience, conscientiousness and extraversion, did not show any significant relationship with the practice of pro-environmental behaviour. This study provides a scope to improvise and incorporate environmental practices into the habits of students by aligning their goals with the universities’ dimensions, including curriculum, campus operation, research and outreach activities. The results could make an important contribution in establishing a sustained green culture through a new university paradigm.
    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  8. Fesol SFA, Arshad MM
    Data Brief, 2020 Dec;33:106421.
    PMID: 33102666 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2020.106421
    This paper presents the dataset of undergraduates learning habits during and before the occurrence of pandemic COVID-19 under the scope of sociodemographic and psychological aspects. This dataset consists of four (4) main sections which are students' demographic, psychological disruption, students' learning habits and integration of online sessions with sustainability topics. A total of 37 variables were distributed via an online survey platform. The link of the online survey was circulated to the students using few social media platforms such as WhatsApp groups, Telegram, and faculties' Facebook starting from June 1 until June 31, 2020. There was a total of 668 respondents accompanied by consent were agreed to join the survey. This dataset can have an important role for research and education in identifying the impact on learning performance among the undergraduate students during COVID-19 pandemic based on different sociodemographic and psychological aspects.
    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  9. Chun T'ing L, Moorthy K, Yoon Mei C, Pik Yin F, Zhi Ying W, Wei Khong C, et al.
    Heliyon, 2020 Dec;6(12):e05805.
    PMID: 33409389 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05805
    This research was conducted to explore the factors affecting Malaysians' application of reduce, reuse and recycle (3Rs) concept in plastic usage. This study adopted variables from the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), namely, attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control and added on two more variables, habit and facilitating conditions to study the plastic usage. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect the data and analysis done. The results showed that all variables influence the plastic usage behaviour. This research contributes to a better understanding of the relationship between the determinants of behavioural intention of 3Rs application on plastic usage. Through the suggestions of suitable strategies, this research would contribute to reducing environment pollution caused by plastic waste.
    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  10. Zhang X, Goh GB, Chan WK, Wong GL, Fan JG, Seto WK, et al.
    Liver Int, 2020 11;40(11):2719-2731.
    PMID: 32799384 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14638
    BACKGROUND & AIMS: Lifestyle modification is the cornerstone for the management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We aim to understand lifestyle habits of NAFLD patients, compare across Asian regions and identify area of deficiency.

    METHODS: In the multi-centre controlled attenuation parameter (CAP)-Asia study, we collected clinical data and lifestyle habit data of NAFLD patients from Singapore, mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Malaysia. Physical activity was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire.

    RESULTS: A total of 555 patients were included in the final analysis (mean age 54.5 ± 11.2 years, 54.1% men and median liver stiffness 6.7 kPa). More patients from mainland China (27.4%) and Taipei (25.0%) were smokers. Modest drinking was more common in Taiwan (25.0%) and Hong Kong (18.2%); only 1.3% had binge drinking. Majority of patients drank coffee (64.0%) and tea (80.2%), with varying amounts and durations in different regions. Soft drinks consumption was most common in Singapore (62.2%) and Malaysia (57.7%). Only 29.7% of patients met the Physical Activity Guidelines Recommendations, with no major differences across regions. Patients with liver stiffness <10 kPa were more likely to report any vigorous activity, and sitting time was an independent factor associated with high CAP. Tea and coffee consumption were independently associated with high CAP and liver stiffness, respectively.

    CONCLUSIONS: Despite some heterogeneity, unhealthy lifestyle and physical inactivity are common across Asian regions. Patients with liver stiffness <10 kPa were more likely to report any vigorous activity. Healthcare providers may use the comparative data to identify areas of deficiency.

    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  11. Ghasemi Fard S, Loh SP, Turchini GM, Wang B, Elliott G, Sinclair AJ
    Nutrients, 2020 Jan 18;12(1).
    PMID: 31963702 DOI: 10.3390/nu12010248
    : Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an essential component for brain and visual acuity development during foetal and early postnatal life. A newly released directive under the European Commission stipulates DHA as a mandatory ingredient in infant formula. This poses challenges to manufacturers in preserving the stability and bioavailability of DHA at levels akin to human breast milk. The aims of this study were (a) to investigate the bioavailability of microencapsulated omega-3 DHA formulations in healthy toddlers compared with high DHA fish oil for a one-month period and (b) to assess the effect of DHA supplementation on children's sleep and cry patterns. Sixty toddlers were randomly allocated to four groups: 1. unfortified formula, 2. unfortified formula plus high DHA tuna oil, 3. fortified formula with dairy-based microencapsulated high DHA tuna oil powder, and 4. fortified formula with allergenic-free microencapsulated high DHA tuna oil powder. Bioavailability was assessed from both blood and faecal fatty acid levels. The results showed an enhanced bioavailability with significantly greater concentrations of blood DHA levels in formulas with microencapsulated powders. There were no significant effects of treatment on sleep and cry patterns. Application and delivery of microencapsulated DHA tuna oil powder in toddlers' formula provided better bioavailability of the active DHA.
    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  12. Appalasamy JR, Quek KF, Md Zain AZ, Joseph JP, Seeta Ramaiah S, Tha KK
    Patient Prefer Adherence, 2020;14:1979-1990.
    PMID: 33116441 DOI: 10.2147/PPA.S253918
    Introduction: Self-efficacy is positively associated with medication understanding and use self-efficacy (MUSE) among post-stroke patients. It is also closely related to knowledge, belief, and perception, which vary among people from different socioeconomic backgrounds and cultures. As interventions using video and peer stories have emerged to be successful on behavior modification, this study aimed to explore the effectiveness of video narratives incorporated with Health Belief constructs on MUSE and its associated factors among patients with stroke at a local setting.

    Methods: A randomized controlled trial (RCT) for 12 months was carried out on patients diagnosed with stroke at Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The RCT recruited up to 216 eligible patients who were requested to return for two more follow-ups within six months. Consented patients were randomized to either standard care or intervention with video narratives. The control of potential confounding factors was ensured, as well as unbiased treatment review with prescribed medications, only obtained onsite.

    Results and Discussion: A repeated measure of MUSE mean score differences at T0 (baseline), T2 (6th month) and T4 (12th month) for antithrombotic, antihypertensive, and all medication categories indicated significant within and between groups differences in the intervention group (p<0.05). Moreover, this impact was reflected upon continuous blood pressure (BP) monitoring compared to the control group (F (1214) =5.23, p=0.023, ƞ2=0.024). Though BP measure differences were non-significant between the groups (p=0.552), repeated measure analysis displayed significant mean differences between intervention and control group on BP control over time (F (1.344, 287.55) =8.54, P<0.001, ƞ2=0.038). Similarly, the intervention's positive impact was also present with similar trends for knowledge, illness perception, and the belief about medicine. Though significant differences (p<0.05) of all outcome measures gradually decreased between T2 and T4 in the intervention group; nevertheless, these positive findings confirmed that personalized video narratives were able to motivate and influence MUSE and its associated factors among post-stroke patients. The significant improvement in medication-taking self-efficacy and the sustenance of BP monitoring habits among patients in the intervention group strengthened our conceptual framework's practicality.

    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  13. Adam Linoby, Jamiaton Kusrin, Muhammad Iskandar Asraff, Muhammad Azamuddin Rodzi, Sufyan Zaki, Hosni Hasan
    Jurnal Inovasi Malaysia, 2020;4(1):193-208.
    MyJurnal
    The conventional heart rate monitor is usually developed with a numeric digital display. This numerical view is obviously not practical to be used during exercise. In this study, the iOS-based mobile application, called Chromozone, was developed to monitor heart rate using the universal color-coding system. The heart rate monitor during the exercise is designed to notify the exercise intensity information to users using the three universal color-coded (i.e. green zone: optimal heart rate; yellow zone: heart rate lower than the optimal zone, and red zone: heart rate higher than the optimal zone). Chromozone is programmed to display uniform colors across the smart phone display, which allows users to easily be informed in regards to the state of exercise intensity. The transfer of heart rate data from the chest transmitter to Chromozone application is designed to use Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) system technology. The heart rate data is then processed by the application to determine the intensity range of exercise training heart rate based on the user’s personal input (i.e. age, gender, fitness levels and training objective). Preliminary analysis found that Chromozone application is effective in delivering real-time exercise intensity heart rate. Chromozone could potentially help athletes, active individuals and clinical populations to monitor and regulate their workout training regime in a more effective and safer manner.
    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  14. Wan Ling Chew, Kaur Satvinder, Serene En Hui Tung, Ai Ni Teoh, Choon Ming Ng
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: Early environmental factors play a major role in shaping the health of an individual. Dietary prefer- ence and habits shaped by parental feeding practice during childhood are likely to persist into adulthood which further determines body weights status. This study aimed to determine the retrospective child feeding practices asso- ciated with obesity risk in young adults. Methods: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study with 176 university students in Kuala Lumpur. Data of maternal age, gestational age and feeding practices were collected retrospectively using Child Feeding Questionnaire (CFQ). Subject’s current socio-demographic data was collected and anthropo- metric measurements were taken using standard protocol. Results: Around 22% of the subjects were overweight/ obese. No significant association was found between child feeding practices with maternal age. A significant asso- ciation (p
    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  15. Soong Shui Fun, Segaran Ramodran, Chyretta Burno, Mohd Ishkandar Nazlan, Wihelmina Michael
    MyJurnal

    Introduction: The Ministry of Health Malaysia over the last 20 years has initiated healthy lifestyle campaign to curb obesity but the issue has remained an escalating problem affecting Malaysians. Obesity among students in higher institute is a concern. Undergraduate student nurses as role-model advocating health, being overweight can be a problem. This study is to identify BMI status and determine associated lifestyle factors among undergraduate nurses in UMS. Methods: The study deployed a cross-sectional descriptive survey using a questionnaire to empirically asses BMI status and associated dietary and exercise practice among student nurses. Ethical clearance for the study was ob- tained from UMS`s REC and as well as respondents` consent. A total of 100(N) nursing students were selected through stratified sampling by year of study (year 1, n=35; year 2 n=35; and year 3 n=30). Random sampling for each year of study was done using full name list generated using Microsoft excel. The study tool consists of a validated instrument which captured the respondent’s demographics, BMI index, Healthy Eating Practice Index, and Exercise Practice Inventory. Results: Among the 100 student nurses in this study, 28 students had BMI index of more than 24.9 (either being overweight, obesity Type I or Type II). Students from finalYear 3are significantly overweight(p=0.03) compared to Year 1 or Year 2 students. Comparing respondents with optimum BMI and non-optimum BMI, students who are overweight had significantly poorer Healthy Eating Practice scores and poorer Exercise practice scores. Conclusion: Findings from this study imply that 1 in 4 nursing students are overweight mostly related to poor lifestyle habits. These findings raise the rhetoric and implication of overweight nurses as health care role -models and this paper will discuss some suggestions to address the issue.

    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  16. Chin Yit Siew, Tee E Siong, Zawiah Hashim, Rasyedah Ahmad Raqi, Norimah A Karim
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: This paper discussed the effectiveness of “Healthy Kids Programme (HKP)”, specifically in improving the body weight status as well as knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of the children. Methods: In this longi- tudinal intervention study, a total of 12 primary schools in Klang Valley were randomly selected and divided into intervention and control groups. There were 386 standard three children participated at baseline. All children in the intervention group participated in the HKP that was conducted by nutritionists. The evaluations included the pre- and post-Immediate Impact survey (IIS) (every topic), and changes in nutrition KAP survey and anthropometric assess- ment of the children at the beginning and end of every year for three years. Results: School children in intervention group reported with an increased in the IIS score for each topic and achieved a significantly higher mean nutrition knowledge score than those in the control group over time. There were no significant differences in mean attitude and practice scores between two groups after the intervention. Children in the intervention group had lower rates of overweight and obesity (pre-test: 27.3%; post-test: 32.5%) than their counterpart (pre-test: 26.6%; post-test: 44.0%). Conclusions: The HKP is effective in improving nutrition knowledge of the children. A lower rate of overweight and obesity was observed in intervention group than control group. This approach will contribute towards inculcating healthy eating and active lifestyle habits among Malaysian children that bring about long-term health benefits.
    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  17. Weng, Brandon Chai An
    Borneo Akademika, 2020;4(4):1-8.
    MyJurnal
    Words have a habit of appearing in recurrent patterns. These recurring patterns may take the
    form of phrasal verbs, collocations, and other multi-word expressions (MWEs). Since these
    patterns constantly re-occur in both speech and writing, it would seem prudent to teach
    vocabulary to ESL learners in the manner in which words actually present themselves: in
    typical chunks. A common example of such a chunk would be “to deal with the problem”, in
    which “deal with” and “problem” are collocates. This paper contains three sections. The first
    examines what phrasal verbs and collocates are in the first place, and why they are particularly
    important for learners. The second part is a review of recent studies that support the teaching
    of MWEs and chunking pedagogy. This paper concludes by discussing the potential of
    incorporating chunking pedagogy in one’s own ESL vocabulary teaching.
    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  18. Nakabayashi M, Inoue Y, Ahmad AH, Izawa M
    PLoS One, 2019;14(6):e0217590.
    PMID: 31194749 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0217590
    Ficus species are keystone plants in tropical rainforests, and hemi-epiphytic figs play a notably important role in forest ecosystems. Because hemi-epiphytic figs have strict germination requirements, germination and establishment stages regulate their populations. Despite the ecological importance of hemi-epiphytic figs in the rainforests, seed dispersal systems by fig-eating animals under natural conditions remain unknown because of the difficulty in tracing the destiny of dispersed seeds in the canopy. Therefore, seed dispersal effectiveness (SDE) has never been evaluated for hemi-epiphytic figs. We evaluated the SDE of hemi-epiphytic figs using qualitative and quantitative components by three relatively large-sized (> 3 kg) arboreal and volant animals in Bornean rainforests that largely depend on fig fruits in their diets: binturongs Arctictis binturong, Mueller's gibbons Hylobates muelleri, and helmeted hornbills Rhinoplax vigil. The SDE values of binturongs was by far the highest among the three study animals. Meanwhile, successful seed dispersal of hemi-epiphytic figs by gibbons and helmeted hornbills is aleatory and rare. Given that seed deposition determines the fate of hemi-epiphytic figs, the defecatory habits of binturongs, depositing feces on specific microsites in the canopy, is the most reliable dispersal method, compared to scattering feces from the air or upper canopy. We showed that reliable directed dispersal of hemi-epiphytic figs occurs in high and uneven canopy of Bornean rainforests. This type of dispersal is limited to specific animal species, and therefore it may become one of the main factors regulating low-success hemi-epiphytic fig recruitment in Bornean rainforests.
    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  19. Sandya Menon Prabhakaran Menon, Asita Elengoe
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: Colorectal cancer is one of the top three most commonly occurring cancer worldwide with more than 1.8 million cases in 2018. In Malaysia, colorectal cancer is the most common cancer in males and the second most common cancer in females. Albeit being the second most common form of cancer in Malaysia, there is a lack of a formal or structured national colorectal cancer screening programme in Malaysia and it remains a low priority in healthcare planning and expenditure in Malaysia. The risk of developing colon cancer is greatly influenced by factors such as lifestyle habits, genetic inheritance, diet, weight, and exercise. Kras, the most frequently mutated oncogene in cancer, occurs in about 50 percent of colorectal cancers. Methods: This study maps the kras gene involved in colon cancer pathway, using bioinformatics applications such as STRING version 11.0 and Cytoscape version 3.7.0 to provide a clear visualisation of all the related and involved proteins and genes that interact with this kras gene in the pathway. Results: The 3391 protein interactions were assembled and visualized in y organic form. Six spe-cific non-overlapping clusters of various sizes, which emerged from the huge network of protein-interactors using MCODE version 1.32 clustering algorithm were found. Biological Networks Gene Ontology (BiNGO) was used to determine two ontologies (molecular function and biological process) involved in the protein network. Based on the resulting protein-protein network interaction map, each interaction plays an important role in the cell cycle, meta-bolic pathways and signal transduction. Conclusion: Understanding these interactions provide insight into cellular activities and thus assist in the understanding of the aetiology of disease.
    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
  20. Herlambang Devianto, Desiana Radithia, Bagus Soebadi, Adiastuti Endah Parmadiati, Rosnah Zain
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: One of the risk factors for cancer is the habit of smoking. Some carcinogenic substances in ciga-rettes are nicotine and nitrosamine. In cigarette smoke there are free radical molecules or Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) that can cause DNA mutations that can disrupt the balance of cell metabolism. One of them is the apoptosis, apoptosis is a programmed cell death mechanism. In cancer conditions there are apoptotic disorders and excessive proliferation of cells. The process of apoptosis is influenced by the death receptor, Tumor Necrosis Factor apoptosis inducing ligand R1 (TRAIL R1). This study aims to determine the effect of smoke exposure to expression of TRAIL R1 on the mucosal epithelium of the tongue of the Wistar rat (Rattus Novergicus). Methods: The subjects of this study were 24 male Rattus Novergicus with the age range of 12-14 weeks and weighing ± 170 grams. Divided into 4 groups with 2 control groups 4 weeks (K4), 8 weeks (K8) and 2 treatment groups each given 2 cigarettes / day ex-posure to cigarette smoke for each rat for 4 weeks (P4) and 8 weeks (P8). Results: The results showed that exposure to cigarette smoke can cause interference with TRAIL R1 expression. There was a significant difference in TRAIL R1 expression between the control and treatment groups and there was a significant difference in TRAIL R1 expression between the duration of cigarette smoke exposure (P4 and P8). Conclusion: Exposure to cigarette smoke can interfere with the process of apoptosis.
    Matched MeSH terms: Habits
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