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Adiponectin, a bioactive molecule produced by adipose tissue, has potential effect in increasing insulin sensitivity. Adiponectin levels reduction is associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its complications, including cardiovascular disease (CVD). Triglyceride-to-high-density lipoprotein (TG:HDL) ratio can be used as a predictor of CVD risk in T2DM patients. Whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) shell contains astaxanthin, macro- and micro-nutrients that may exert synergistic beneficial effects. This study aims to determine the effect of L. vannamei shell powder (LVSP) in improving adiponectin, TG, HDL and TG:HDL of T2DM Wistar rat, and to investigate the presence of any correlations between adiponectin and lipid markers.

A total of 25 male Wistar rats were divided into five equal groups: control negative [C(−)], control positive [C(+)], treatments 1, 2 and 3 (T1, T2 and T3, respectively). C(+), T1, T2 and T3 were maintained on a high-fat diet for 14 days before streptozotocin (STZ) injection. T1 and T2 groups were administered two different doses of LVSP, while T3 group was provided astaxanthin supplement (AST).

LVSP treatments significantly increase adiponectin (p = 0.04) and HDL (p < 0.001) but reduced TG (p < 0.001) and TG:HDL (p < 0.001). A higher LVSP dose was more effective in improving all markers than the lower dose; moreover, there was a comparable effect as that of AST in increasing the adiponectin levels. Strong correlations were observed between adiponectin and lipid markers.

This study shows that LVSP as a functional food, can ameliorate adiponectin levels and normalizes blood glucose levels. The LVSP reduces the risk of CVD because of the reduction of TG:HDL.

Prediabetes can affect the central nervous system and lead to changes including impaired cognition and spatial memory. Isoflavones, especially genistein and daidzein, can increase spatial memory. Tempeh is a soy product with high levels of genistein and daidzein. The purpose of this paper is to determine the effect of tempeh on spatial memory of prediabetic Wistar rat.

A pre-and post-test randomised control group design was used. In total, 15 male Wistar rats were divided into three equal groups, Treatment 1 (T1), Treatment 2 (T2) and Treatment 3 (T3). All rats were injected with alloxan (120 mg/Kg body weight) to induce prediabetes. T1 was maintained on a diet of standard food for 14 days. T2 and T3 were given 9 g/200 g body weight and 18 g/200 g body weight of tempeh, respectively, for 14 days. The Morris water maze (MWM) test was used to test spatial memory.

While there were no statistically significant differences between the treatment groups, there was a difference with the tempeh-treated rats improving their spatial memory following tempeh ingestion with a decrease in the travel time to negotiate the MWM [T1(−8.36), T2 (−5.48) and T3 (3.66)]. Differences of travel time of the three groups was not significant (p = 0.677).

The result of the study indicates that tempeh may act as a functional food in reducing cognitive impairment associated with prediabetes and diabetes. However, as the result is not statistically significant, further research using animal models and human studies is warranted.

This desk research critically reviews the existing literature to be dialogued with interviews with several experts on multicultural education in Indonesia to provide input for policymaking and practical strategies. Through a systematic review of academic literature, policy documents and reports, this study aims to provide insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with multicultural education and propose action-based and actionable solutions to promote tolerance, understanding and unity among diverse cultural groups.

Using a systematic review methodology, this study analyzed existing literature and involved semi-structured interviews with several experts on multicultural education in Indonesia. By searching academic databases and online repositories, relevant literature was synthesized to generate insights into the current state of multicultural education, key challenges and potential solutions. Thematic analysis identified recurring themes and patterns across the literature, allowing for a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding multicultural education in Indonesia.

This research highlights the importance of promoting tolerance and unity among diverse cultural groups in Indonesian education, highlighting curriculum reform, teacher training and community engagement, despite institutional barriers and sociocultural prejudices.

The findings of this study suggest that to maximize the impact of multicultural education in Indonesia, there is a need for comprehensive teacher training programs, equitable resource allocation and localized curricula that reflect Indonesia’s cultural diversity. Policymakers should focus on developing strategies that address the unique challenges of implementing multicultural education in diverse regions, ensuring that all students have access to culturally relevant and inclusive education.

The successful implementation of multicultural education has the potential to promote social harmony and inclusivity in Indonesia by fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity. Addressing the identified challenges and gaps could lead to more cohesive and tolerant communities, reducing social tensions and conflicts rooted in cultural misunderstandings. This research calls for sustained efforts to ensure that multicultural education becomes a cornerstone of Indonesia’s educational system, contributing to the country’s broader goals of unity in diversity.

This research contributes to existing literature on multicultural education by synthesizing insights from diverse academic sources. By systematically reviewing literature, this study offers a comprehensive understanding of challenges and opportunities in Indonesia and provides evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, educators and stakeholders. Emphasizing the importance of promoting tolerance and unity, this study offers practical strategies for realizing these goals in Indonesian society.