Minimally destructive hDNA extraction method for retrospective genetics of pinned historical Lepidoptera specimens.

The millions of specimens stored in entomological collections provide a unique opportunity to study historical insect diversity. Current technologies allow to sequence entire genomes of historical specimens and estimate past genetic diversity of present-day endangered species, advancing our understanding of anthropogenic impact on genetic diversity and enabling the implementation of conservation strategies. A limiting challenge is the extraction of historical DNA (hDNA) of adequate quality for sequencing platforms.

Prognostic values of modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular events in South African health promotion.

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are increasing at an alarming rate among the South African population. This study aimed to determine the prognostic value of modifiable CVD risk factors for fatal and non-fatal events to inform cardiovascular health promotion practices in the South African public health system.

Methods: Data was collected from individuals participating in the South African leg of a multi-national prospective cohort study.

Types of Chrysididae (Insecta, Hymenoptera) deposited at the Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule in Zürich.

A catalogue of the chrysidid type specimens housed at the Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule in Zürich with revision and discussion of their status is presented. Selected images of the primary types are given. The new replacement name Chrysis robertsi Rosa nom.

The Immediate Effect of African Drumming on the Mental Well-Being of Adults With Mood Disorders: An Uncontrolled Pretest-Posttest Pilot Study.

Objective: This pilot study is the first to examine the effects of an occupational therapist-led African drumming group on mental well-being among adult psychiatric inpatients with mood disorders.

Method: We used a quasi-experimental, uncontrolled, one-group, pretest-posttest design. We collected data for six different drumming groups (N = 13) using the Stellenbosch Mood Scale, the Primary Health Questionnaire-9, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 scale, and the Enjoyment of Interaction Scale.

HIV stigma experiences and stigmatisation before and after a HIV stigma-reduction community "hub" intervention.

This study sought to explore, describe and determine whether an HIV stigma-reduction community "hub" intervention would change the HIV stigma experiences of people living with HIV (PLWH) and the stigmatisation by the community in an urban area in South Africa. A convergent parallel mixed-method design with a single case pre-test post-test design and an interpretive description approach was utilised. The sample for this study included 62 PLWH recruited through accessibility sampling and 570 community members recruited through random voluntary sampling.