bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mulching tree leaves improve the growth, yield, and yield components of hybrid maize
Authors: Akter Nasrin , Parvin Dil Atia , Hasan Mohammad Kamrul , Roshni Nasima Akther , Hemel Syed Aflatun Kabir , Wadud Md Abdul
Published: September 2024

The experiment was carried out at the Agroforestry Farm, Department of Agroforestry, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh from November 2019 to March 2020 to assess the impact of tree leaf mulching on the growth, yield attributes, and yield of maize. The study used a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications and six treatments. These treatments were: T0=Control (no mulch), T1=Akashmoni (Acacia auriculiformis) tree leaf mulch, T2=Segun (Tectona grandis) tree leaf mulch, T3=Kalo koroi (Albizia lebbeck) tree leaf mulch, T4=Jhau (Casuarina equisetifolia) tree leaf mulch, and T5=Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) tree leaf mulch. The results showed that the Kalo koroi tree leaf mulch (T3) led to the highest values for various parameters such as plant height, number of effective tillers per plant, number of leaves per plant, leaf length, leaf diameter, number of cobs per plant, length, and diameter of cob, the weight of single cob, number of grains per cob, grain weight per cob, 100-grain weight, and grain yield of maize (221.18 cm, 0.93, 17.29, 79.26 cm, 7.30 cm, 4.18, 1.70, 21.11 cm, 6.08 cm, 212.12 g, 453.85 g, 138.91 g, 30.60 g, and 11.81 t/ha). Conversely, the lowest values were obtained in the control (T0) (no mulch), followed by T2 and T1 treatments (209.39 cm, 0.37, 12.5, 72.48 cm, 4.62 cm, 1.50, 15.03 cm, 4.44 cm, 202.19 g, 421.56 g, 111.55 g, 26.46 g, and 8.35 t/ha). Among the various tree leaf mulch treatments, it was found that the Kalo koroi tree leaf mulch performed better for vegetative growth, yield, and yield-contributing attributes in maize compared to the no mulch treatment. Therefore, it was suggested that tree leaf mulches could be a potential alternative to traditional mulches in maize cultivation.
Res. Agric. Livest. Fish. Vol. 11, No. 2, August 2024: 205-214
Pendampingan Implementasi Materi Berpikir Komputasional di Mata Pelajaran Informatika Pada Kurikulum Merdeka Tingkat SMP di Wilayah Kabupaten Bandung
Authors: Rachmawati Ema , Yulianto Fazmah Arif , Ningsih Lidya
Published: September 2024

Penguasaan Berpikir Komputasional (BK) atau Computational Thinking (CT) menjadi kunci dalam pendidikan Informatika di era globalisasi dan digitalisasi sekarang ini. Mata pelajaran (mapel) Informatika ini diwajibkan pelaksanaannya di Kurikulum Merdeka mulai tahun 2024 di tingkat Sekolah Menengah Pertama (SMP). Namun, terdapat kesenjangan antara pelaksanaan kurikulum dengan kesiapan tenaga pendidik untuk materi BK di wilayah Kabupaten Bandung. Oleh karena itu, program pendampingan ini dilakukan untuk mengurangi kesenjangan antara tuntutan kurikulum yang berkembang dan kesiapan guru dalam mengimplementasikannya. Program ini bertujuan meningkatkan kualitas pembelajaran dan membekali guru dengan keterampilan relevan untuk mengajarkan materi BK ke siswa, serta berperan dalam pemberdayaan masyarakat melalui peningkatan literasi digital secara umum. Dari kegiatan pendampingan yang telah dilakukan, terdapat peningkatan kemampuan guru yang cukup signifikan ditinjau dari peningkatan nilai post-test dari pre-test dan umpan balik yang positif dari peserta.
Pelatihan Teknik Penyusunan Presentasi dengan Ms. Power Point Untuk Mahasiswa IKIP Saraswati Tabanan
Authors: Iswari Ni Made Satvika , Paramitha A. A. Istri Ita
Published: September 2024

Kemampuan dalam menggunakan Microsoft Power Point menjadi nilai tambah signifikan bagi lulusan perguruan tinggi dalam menghadapi dunia kerja. IKIP Saraswati, Tabanan, menyadari pentingnya keterampilan ini dan bekerja sama dengan Universitas Primakara untuk mengadakan pelatihan penggunaan Microsoft PowerPoint. Pelatihan ini bertujuan untuk memastikan setiap lulusan memiliki kemampuan yang memadai dalam membuat dan menyampaikan presentasi yang efektif. Kegiatan pengabdian kepada masyarakat ini melalui beberapa tahapan perencanaan untuk memastikan pelaksanaannya berjalan lancar. Tahap pertama adalah analisis kebutuhan mitra, diikuti dengan koordinasi pra pelaksanaan kegiatan. Sebelum pelatihan, dilakukan pre-test untuk mengukur kemampuan awal peserta. Pelatihan dilaksanakan secara daring, mencakup konsep dasar sistem komputer, penggunaan internet, pengenalan fitur-fitur Microsoft PowerPoint, dan tips menyiapkan presentasi yang menarik. Tahap akhir adalah post-test dan evaluasi untuk mengukur peningkatan kemampuan peserta, yang terbukti signifikan dengan nilai rata-rata post-test sebesar 79.24 dibandingkan pre-test 58.15. Pelatihan ini efektif dalam meningkatkan pengetahuan dan keterampilan peserta.
Hubungan kemampuan berpikir kritis matematis dan kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematis siswa SMA
Authors: Fitri Sinditia , Hidayati Nita
Published: September 2024

Penelitian ini bermaksud untuk menganalisis hubungan kemampuan berpikir kritis dan kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematis siswa dalam materi logaritma. Metode yang diterapkan pada penelitian ini adalah metode deskriptif dalam penelitian kualitatif. Subjek penelitian adalah kelas X dan memilih sampel sebanyak 3 siswa yang dipilih secara  purposive sampling  pada salah satu SMA di Kabupaten Karawang tahun pelajaran 2022/2023. Penelitian dilakukan dengan Instrumen tes yakni berupa 5 soal dimana soal terdiri dari indikator berpikir kritis teori Ennis dan indikator pemecahan masalah teori Polya. Teknik analisis data meliputi pengumpulan data, reduksi data, penyajian data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Temuan penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kemampuan berpikir kritis siswa terkategori rendah sebanyak 8 orang, kategori sedang sebanyak 24 orang, dan kategori tinggi sebanyak 4 orang dengan persentase berturut-turut yaitu 11%, 22%, dan 67%. Adapun hasil dari penelitian menunjukkan rata-rata kemampuan pemecahan masalah berkategori sedang yaitu dengan penjabaran kategori tinggi mampu menguasai seluruh indikator, kategori sedang belum menguasai indikator looking back, dan kategori rendah belum menguasai indikator carrying out the plan dan looking back. Dengan demikian, tingkat kemampuan berpikir kritis mempengaruhi cara pemecahan masalah matematis. Semakin tinggi kemampuan berpikir kritis, maka semakin baik kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematis siswa
Investigasi literasi matematika siswa menengah pertama: bagaimana literasi matematika siswa dalam menyelesaikan soal PISA?
Authors: Firdaus Andi Mulawakkan
Published: September 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui gambaran literasi matematika siswa kelas VIII SMPN 21 Makassar pada tahun ajaran 2022/2023 dalam menyelesaikan soal PISA. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian yang menggunakan pendekatan campuran (Mixed Methods Research) yang dirancang untuk mengetahui literasi matematika siswa dalam menyelesaikan soal PISA. Data yang diolah adalah data literasi matematika siswa. Metode pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah pemberian tes dan wawancara. Soal yang digunakan dalam tes mengukur literasi matematika siswa adalah soal-soal yang diadaptasi dari PISA yang berjumlah 3 soal dan terdiri dari level 1,3 dan 5. Soal-soal ini dikerjakan oleh 30 orang siswa dalam 45 menit. Berdasarkan olahan data, diperoleh bahwa literasi matematika siswa kelas VIII SMPN 21 Makassar tergolong baik untuk level 1 dan 3, kurang sekali untuk level 5. Adapun kesulitan yang paling dominan dialami siswa adalah kesulitan dalam perhitungan, kesulitan menganalisis soal, dan kesulitan dalam memahami soal cerita.
Analisis kesalahan siswa dalam menyelesaikan soal cerita berdasarkan teori kastolan di SMP negeri 3 kombi
Authors: Manawan March Yakob , Pesik Anekke , Maukar Marvel Grace
Published: September 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui tipe-tipe kesalahan yang dilakukan siswa kelas VII SMP N 3 Kombi dalam menyelesaikan soal cerita bentuk aljabar menurut teori Kastolan. Metode yang digunakan pada penelitian ini ialah metode deskriptif dan menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif. Instrumen pada penelitian ini yaitu tes tertulis. Subjek pada penelitian ini adalah siswa kelas VIII SMP N 3 Kombi berjumlah 8 orang siswa. Berdasarkan hasil analisis data yang dilakukan oleh peneliti, terdapat tiga jenis kesalahan yang dilakukan oleh siswa setelah menyelesaikan soal cerita bentuk aljabar yaitu kesalahan konseptual sebesar 25% atau sebanyak 2 orang siswa, kesalahan Prosedural sebesar 37,5% atau 3 orang siswa, dan kesalahan teknik sebesar 37,5% atau sebanyak 3 orang siswa, faktor penyebab kesalahan adalah siswa tidak mampu memilih dan menerapkan rumus untuk menyelesaikan soal, serta faktor penyebab kesalahan prosedural siswa adalah siswa kesulitan dalam menuliskan langkah-langkah dalam menyelesaikan soal, dan faktor penyebab kesalahan teknik adalah kurangnya ketelitian, serta siswa tidak mengecek kembali hasil pekerjaannya.
A Case of Soft Tissue Myxoma Originating From the Mouth Floor
Authors: Yun Young Bin , Lee Hyung-geun , Rha Seo Hee , Lee Dong Kun
Published: September 2024

Myxoma is a benign tumor of mesenchymal origin that most commonly arises in the heart. It can arise in various sites including the subcutaneous tissue, bone, skin, and muscles. Myxomas in the head and neck region predominantly occur in the maxilla or mandible, accounting for 76% of the cases, while occurrences in the soft tissues are extremely rare. The floor of the mouth in the head and neck region is the rarest site for the occurrence of soft tissue myxomas. In the international literature, only two cases have been reported, and there have been no reported cases in the domestic literature. In this paper, we report, with a review of literatures, a case of a 74-year-old female patient who presented with a mass lesion found beneath the left mandible and was finally diagnosed with a myxoma.
Indonesia Kepemimpinan Kepala Sekolah yang Efektif
Authors: Azizah Wafiq Wafiq
Published: September 2024

Kepala sekolah merupakan salah satu faktor kunci dalam menentukan terwujudnya pendidikan yang bermutu. Kepala sekolah berfungsi sebagai pengelola dan pemimpin pendidikan lembaga sekolah. Manajemen dan kepemimpinan yang efektif membutuhkan kepala sekolah yang menyadari modeling dan ditunjukkan oleh karakteristik seperti pengaruh ideal, inspiratif, motivasi, rangsangan intelektual dan pertimbangan individual. Mereka harus memberdayakan staf pengajar, bekerja berdasarkan kerangka waktu yang jelas, menjalin hubungan interpersonal, mengembangkan adil dan prinsip akuntabilitas, dan mampu bekerja dalam tim. Kepala sekolah merupakan salah satu faktor kunci dan penting dalam menciptakan sekolah yang efektif. Kepala sekolah yang efektif sebagai berikut: a) memiliki visi yang kuat tentang masa depan sekolahnya, b) memiliki harapan tinggi, c) memastikan pembelajaran berjalan efektif. d) pemanfaatan waktu secara efisien dan meminimalisasi stres dan konflik negatif. e) mendayagunakan berbagai sumber belajar, f) memanfaatkan informasi untuk mengarahkan perencanaan pembelajaran. g) melakukan evaluasi dan perbaikan secara berkesinambungan.
Kata Kunci: Kepemimpinan, Super visi, Manajerial
KEBIJAKAN PEMERINTAH REPUBLIK INDONESIA DALAM MEMBERIKAN LAYANAN PENDIDIKAN YANG PRIMA BERSKALA NASIONAL
Authors: Dariyo Agoes , Indrawaty Dewi
Published: September 2024

Kebijakan pemerintah republik Indonesia difokuskan untuk memberikan layanan pendidikan berkualitas (prima) berskala nasional. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menjelaskan konsep kebijakan pemerintah Republik Indonesia dalam memberikan pelayanan pendidikan prima. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif. Teknik pengambilan data dengan wawancara, observasi dan dokumentasi. Analisis data dengan pendekatan tematik. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa penyelenggaraan pendidikan berskala nasional menjadi perhatian penting dari pemerintah Republik Indonesia sejak kemerdekaan 17 Agustus 1945 sampai detik ini. Sejak saat itulah, diresmikan pula Undang-undang Dasar 1945 sebagai dasar bagi pemerintah untuk menyelengarakan pendidikan nasional. Selanjutnya, dikeluarkan pula undang-undang nomor 20 tahun 2003 tentang Sistem Pendidikan Nasional. Didukung pula dengan kebijakan mengenai 8 standar nasional pendidikan sebagai upaya untuk memberikan layanan pendidikan yang berkualitas. Berbagai kebijakan tersebut tentu disertai dengan berbagai aturan yang relevan.
STRATEGI PENGELOLAAN PEMBELAJARAN DALAM MENINGKATKAN KUALITAS HASIL BELAJAR MAHASISWA DI INSTITUT AGAMA ISLAM NAHDLATUL ULAMA (IAINU) KEBUMEN
Authors: , Eliyanto
Published: September 2024

Penelitian bertujuan untuk mengungkapkan tentang strategi pengelolaan pembelajaran dalam meningkatkan kualitas hasil belajar mahasiswa. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif. Penelitian ini dilakukan di Institut Agama Islam Nahdlatul Ulama (IAINU) Kebumen, pada bulan September 2023 sampai dengan Februari 2024. Informan dalam penelitian adalah ketua program studi, dosen, dan mahasiswa. Teknik pengumpulan data dengan metode wawancara, observasi dan dokumentasi. Keabsahan data menggunakan triangulasi. Analisis data menggunakan model Miles & Huberman, yang terdiri dari pengumpulan data, reduksi data, penyajian data dan penarikan simpulan. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa: (1) strategi perencanaan pembelajaran dilakukan oleh para dosen dengan membuat silabus dan rencana pembelajaran semester, serta menyusun materi pembelajaran. (2) strategi pelaksanaan pembelajaran dilakukan oleh para dosen meliputi kegiatan pendahuluan (apersepsi), kegiatan inti (meliputi ekplorasi, elaborasi dan konfirmasi) dan kegiatan akhir/penutup. Dosen menerapkan berbagai model, metode, strategi pembelajaran yang variatif, selain itu juga menggunakan media pembelajaran yang tepat guna. (3) strategi evaluasi pembelajaran dilakukan oleh dosen dengan melakukan sistem penilaian proses dan hasil, yang mencakup aspek afektif, kognitif, dan psikomotorik. Ketua program studi juga melakukan supervisi akademik secara berkala untuk membantu peningkatan kinerja dosen dalam proses pembelajaran.
Perancangan UI/UX Website Informasi Wisata Dan Penginapan Di Kabupaten OKUS Berbasis Mobile
Authors: Ibadi Taqrim , Ramdhani Muhammad Iqbal
Published: September 2024

This research aims to design optimal user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) for a tourist and accommodation information website in OKUS District. Utilizing the Design Thinking approach with its five main stages: empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test, the study is conducted to deeply understand user needs, clearly define problems, develop creative ideas, create solution prototypes, and test design iterations. The process begins with the empathize stage, where researchers seek to understand user experiences and needs thoroughly. Subsequently, the define stage is used to specify design problems and goals. The ideate stage involves the development of various creative solution ideas. Next, prototyping is used to transform ideas into tangible solutions for testing. Finally, the test stage is conducted to evaluate user responses to the prototype. The results of this research are expected to provide profound insights into designing a responsive tourist and accommodation information website catering to the needs of users in OKUS District. The conclusions drawn from this study include recommendations for implementing improved designs based on the findings from the Design Thinking method
Siliceous microalgae in the surface sediments of the Shantar region of Sea of Okhotsk
Authors: Prushkovskaya Irina A. , Tsoy Ira B.
Published: September 2024

In the surface sediments of the Shantar Region of the Okhotsk Sea revealed a rich diatom flora (187 species and intraspecific taxa), represented mostly by marine and brackish water species. The sediments are dominated by the benthic-planktonic species Paralia sulcata (up to 88,6%), characteristic of sandy sediments, active hydrodynamic regime, desalinated coastal waters of the studied region. The maximum concentration of diatoms (5,8 mln valves/g) was noted in the silts of the Ulban Bay, which is due to the high content of nutrients in the surface and bottom waters of this area. Silicoflagellates are represented by single Octactis speculum and Stephanocha speculum var. minuta.
Bioindication of the water quality of some reservoirs of the Rostov region (Russia)
Authors: Glushchenko Galina Yu.
Published: September 2024

The paper presents the results of a preliminary bioindication of some reservoirs of the Rostov region (rivers Seversky Donets, Kundryuchya, Temernik, Mokryj Chaltyr, Mius, Olkhovchik). The analysis showed that there is a large species diversity of algae in the reservoirs. The values of the Shannon diversity index (1,74–2,91) and the evenness index (0,30–0,76) indicate the complexity of the structure and high biodiversity of the phytoplankton community. Diatoms were the main component of phytoplankton that allowed bioindication. They accounted for up to 20% of the total number of indicator species. The saprobic index (1,93–2,47) correspond to the III class of water quality and is mainly a β-mesosaprobic zone. They are waters slightly polluted with organic substances, but they have a sufficient degree of environmental sustainability and self-cleaning potential of the river ecosystem.
Results of diatom analysis of bottom sediment columns from the southern part of the Sea of Azov and the Kerch strait
Authors: Kovaleva Galina V.
Published: September 2024

The features of the species composition of diatoms from the Ancient and New Azov deposits of the Sea of Azov were studied. For New Azov deposits, the dominance of several taxa was revealed: species and varieties of Actinocyclus octonarius, Actinoptychus senarius, resting spores of the genus Chaetoceros spp., Thalassiosira decipience. Actinocyclus octonarius var. tonsure and A. pseudopodolicus should be considered indicator taxa, which mark the Novoazovsk layers. The Ancient Azov layers are characterized by a significant decrease in the abundance of A. octonarius, the absence of such taxa as A. octonarius var. tonsure, A. pseudopodolicus, Actinoptychus senarius. Paralia sulcata can be considered as marking species the Ancient Azov deposits (the period of the New Black Sea transgression).
Diatom assemblages in the Lateglacial-Holocene sediments of Lake Bolshoye Shchuchye (Polar Urals)
Authors: Ludikova Anna V.
Published: September 2024

The study of the diatom assemblages from the sediment core from Lake Bolshoye Shchuchye (Polar Urals) was performed. The composition of diatom assemblages in the Lateglacial sediments characterizes alternating periods of predominance of planktonic and benthic diatoms. In the Holocene, planktonic species predominate with Aulacoseira subarctica being the most abundant. The climate amelioration during the first half of the Holocene resulted in increased proportions of large-celled diatoms, the taxa with a wide geographical distribution, as well as species preferring higher trophicity. The cooling of the Late Holocene, in turn, caused an increase in the proportion of cold-water species characteristic of oligotrophic lakes. The morphological variability of A. subarctica observed in the Holocene sediments apparently results from its adaptation to changes in hydrodynamic conditions.
Ritual Pemakaman Turunan Bokeo di Kelurahan Silea Kecamatan Wundulako Kabupaten Kolaka
Authors: Mansur Runni Yanti , Laxmi Laxmi
Published: September 2024

This study aims to determine the funeral ritual procession of Bokeo derivatives in Silea Village, Wundulako District, Kolaka Regency. This research uses Levi-Strauss (1958) Structural Theory Attitude of Relationship Between Relatives Elementally. The data collection technique used in this research is Snowball Sampling by conducting involved observation (observation participation) and in-depth interviews. this research is Qualitative research using Ethnographic research methods. The research shows that: first: when a bokeo descendant dies, several funeral ritual processes will be carried out, namely first; making a coffin from the trunk of an areca tree (pu'umbundi), second; wearing forty sarongs as a calendar (O'sawu), third; slaughtering buffaloes (To'ono Mogere) and fourth; funeral custom umbrella (O'pawu).
Budaya Makan pada Balita Stunting di Desa Rahia Kecamatan Gu Kabupaten Buton Tengah
Authors: Rostiani Rostiani , Sofyani Wa Ode Winesty , Rahman Hidayah
Published: September 2024

Stunted toddlers are often not aware of it, and after two years it will be seen that the toddler is short. Chronic nutritional problems in toddlers are caused by insufficient dietary intake for quite a long time because parents or families do not know or are not aware of providing food according to their children’s nutritional needs. Based on data on the prevalence of nutritional status of children under five with indicators of height based on age (height/a) at the Central Buton Health Office. This study aimed to discover the eating culture of stunted toddlers and what causes stunting to occur in Rahia Village, Gu District, Central Buton Regency. This study uses ethnographic methods with observation participation and in-depth interviews. The results of this study indicate that the eating culture of stunting toddlers in Rahia Village, Gu District, Central Buton Regency is influenced by a lack of parental knowledge so that stunting is still difficult to overcome. The causes of stunting include the provision of MP-ASI too early, the quality of food is less nutritious, dietary restrictions for pregnant women, babies who do not receive immunizations, irregular meal schedules, low mother’s knowledge and lack of socialization regarding stunting education.
Transformasi Manusia Perahu
Authors: Ical Ical , Sifatu Wa Ode , Hartini Hartini
Published: September 2024

Boat people are humans who depend on the sea for their lives. This study aims to determine; 1) the life pattern of the boat people in Bajo Indah Village.  The data were analyzed qualitatively descriptively, then presented in the form of a narrative. The results of this study indicate that; 1) There was a change in the lifestyle of the boat people in the village of Bajo Indah caused by the establishment of a tourist area around the coast of Bokori island and the shift of residence from the coast to the mainland of Konawe, namely the village of Bajo Indah. This change in lifestyle can be seen from several aspects, namely; a) changes in livelihoods, b) changes in the education system, c) changes in residence, and d) changes in culture/traditions.
Etik i stadsplanering
Authors: Johansson Marcus , Khakee Abdul
Published: September 2024

Den värdegrund som det svenska samhället och svensk stadsplanering vilar på har allt mer försvagats. Samtidigt innebär globalisering, invandring, miljöförstöring och tekniska förändringar svåra prövningar. Bör man som stadsplanerare tillmötesgå de multinationella företagens krav på en investeringsvänlig stad eller främja bättre miljö och minska stadens ekologiska avtryck? Bör ombyggnaden av innerstaden tillvarata allmännyttans behov eller de resursstarka hushållens anspråk på centralt belägna lägenheter? Dessa frågeställningar och andra belyses i denna bok som tar ett brett grepp om etiken inom planeringen och bland planerare. Inledningsvis granskas olika etiska principer och deras genomslag i planeringsteoretiska sammanhang. Den empiriska analysen är tredelad. Hur planerare verksamma i tjugo av Sveriges största städer reflekterar över etiska ställningstaganden redovisas och analyseras i del ett. I del två undersöks med hjälp av en explorativ textanalys det etiska innehållet i Göteborgs och Malmös översiktsplaner. I del tre granskas planeringen i Hammarby sjöstad i Stockholm med hjälp av en ny etikåskådningsmodell. De empiriska avsnitten bygger på olika samhällsvetenskapliga metoder för hur etik kan undersökas, vilka även är användbara inom fler ämnesområden. Avslutningsvis presenteras ett utkast till hur etiska spörsmål kan tillföras befintlig planerarutbildning. Boken fyller ett sedan länge känt behov av utbildning i planeringsetik inom samhällsplanerarutbildningen. Den vänder sig till såväl studenter som lärare och forskare inom planerings- och samhällsbyggnadsutbildningar. Den bör även vara en angelägen läsning för planerare och andra offentligt anställda som möter etikfrågor i sin verksamhet.
Virtual play and real connections: unpacking the impact of rice farming simulation video games
Authors: Nishimura Takeshi , Taguchi Junko , Kumazawa Terukazu , Hayashi Kengo
Published: September 2024

This study investigates how the rice farming simulation video game Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin affects interest in real-world agriculture and the inclination to start farming amidst Japan’s declining farming population. We surveyed 428 Japanese residents, including not only game players but also those who watch the game live or are merely aware of its existence. We also interviewed an individual who started rice farming after playing the game. The findings indicate that the game successfully stimulates greater interest in agriculture and somewhat motivates players to consider farming, more than just viewers or those who are aware of it. Moreover, individuals with real-life connections to agriculture, such as farming experience or professional connections, were optimistic about the transition from game to reality. The study suggests that rice farming simulation games can foster expectations of developing an interest in agriculture and potentially embarking on farming careers, demonstrating the game’s significant impact beyond entertainment.
SparkDWM: a scalable design of a Data Washing Machine using Apache Spark
Authors: Hagan Nicholas Kofi Akortia , Talburt John R.
Published: September 2024

Data volume has been one of the fast-growing assets of most real-world applications. This increases the rate of human errors such as duplication of records, misspellings, and erroneous transpositions, among other data quality issues. Entity Resolution is an ETL process that aims to resolve data inconsistencies by ensuring entities are referring to the same real-world objects. One of the main challenges of most traditional Entity Resolution systems is ensuring their scalability to meet the rising data needs. This research aims to refactor a working proof-of-concept entity resolution system called the Data Washing Machine to be highly scalable using Apache Spark distributed data processing framework. We solve the single-threaded design problem of the legacy Data Washing Machine by using PySpark's Resilient Distributed Dataset and improve the Data Washing Machine design to use intrinsic metadata information from references. We prove that our systems achieve the same results as the legacy Data Washing Machine using 18 synthetically generated datasets. We also test the scalability of our system using a variety of real-world benchmark ER datasets from a few thousand to millions. Our experimental results show that our proposed system performs better than a MapReduce-based Data Washing Machine. We also compared our system with Famer and concluded that our system can find more clusters when given optimal starting parameters for clustering.
Complex thinking and adopting artificial intelligence tools: a study of university students
Authors: Vázquez-Parra José Carlos , Gonzalez-Gonzalez Carina Soledad , Amézquita-Zamora Juan Alberto , Cotino Arbelo Andrea E. , Palomino-Gámez Sergio , Cruz-Sandoval Marco
Published: September 2024

In the next 5 years, artificial intelligence (AI) tools are expected to become commonplace in people’s lives, especially in their work processes. Therefore, educational institutions feel intrinsically responsible for ensuring that their students acquire and develop competences associated with the appropriate use of this technology in their educational programs. However, what are the perceptions of students regarding the inclusion of artificial intelligence tools in their educational process and future careers, and what competencies can influence a greater adoption of this technology in the classroom? The objective of this article presents the results of an exploratory study in a sample population of students from a technological university in Mexico, in which their perception and openness toward the training and use of artificial intelligence tools for their professions was examined. Their perception of the development of complex thinking and its sub-competencies was evaluated, recognizing that complex thinking is a valuable cognitive skill to face changes in uncertain environments. The methodology of the study consisted of a multivariate descriptive statistical analysis using R software. The results determined a positive correlation between students’ perceived improvement in the achievement of complex thinking competence and their perception of the use of AI tools. In conclusion, participants perceived the use of these tools as a feature of their profession, although they questioned whether this knowledge is included in their professional training. This article presents several findings that offer ample opportunities for future research.
Improving the growth of pea plant by biochar–polyacrylamide association to cope with heavy metal stress under sewage water application in a greenhouse
Authors: Naveed Muhammad , Fatima Maryum , Naseem Zainab , Ahmad Zulfiqar , Gaafar Abdel-Rhman Z , Shabbir Mubashra , Farooq Qurrat ul Ain , Hodhod Mohamed S. , Khan Muhammad Imran , Shahid Dua , Mustafa Adnan
Published: September 2024

Sewage water is extensively used for irrigation, serving as a valuable resource for plant growth to enhance agricultural productivity. However, this practice also results in a significant accumulation of heavy metals in the soil, posing potential environmental and health risks. A study was designed to evaluate the combined effect of amendments on heavy metal immobilization in soil and improved growth and yield in pea plants. For this, the soil for each treatment was mixed with biochar (BC) (1% w/w), polyacrylamide (PAM) (0.5% w/w), and also applied in combination. Pea plants were irrigated with tap water (TW), sewage water (SW), and tap + sewage water (TW + SW). A factorial design was applied to analyze data statistically. The combined application of the biochar and polymer showed a positive response by significantly enhancing the plant growth parameters (39%–84%), physiological attributes (67%–69%), and reducing Cd (56%) and Cr (65%) concentration in soil applied with SW and TW + SW. Moreover, treatment with a combined application of BC and PAM significantly reduced Cd concentrations by 43% in roots, 50% in shoots, and 91% in grains. Similarly, Cr concentrations were reduced by 51% in roots, 51% in shoots, and 94% in grains compared to the control. Overall, the study results indicate reduced bioaccumulation and health risks associated with potentially toxic elements (PTEs), supporting the application of the polymer and biochar for irrigating pea plants with TW + SW. Leveraging the combined benefits of polymer and biochar amendments appears to be an effective strategy to remediate PTE-contaminated soil, thereby increasing plant growth and yield.
Harmonisation of the HLA tests for the diagnosis of coeliac disease: experiences from the Czech external proficiency testing program
Authors: Vrana Milena , Tajtlova Jana , Mrazek Frantisek
Published: September 2024

Coeliac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder caused by the ingestion of gluten-containing grains. One of the prerequisites for the development of the disease is the presence of specific combinations of HLA alleles at the DQA1 and DQB1 loci. The HLA test is a supportive diagnostic test. In the Czech Republic, approximately 3,500 HLA tests for CD diagnosis are performed annually in almost three dozen laboratories. The HLA Department of the Institute of Haematology and Blood Transfusion in Prague has been offering the EPT “Detection of HLA Alleles Associated with Diseases” for more than 10 years. The results are evaluated in terms of the correct determination of predisposing alleles/allelic groups and clinical interpretation. Every year, we notice some problems with the detection of CD-associated alleles and the interpretation of results. Annual workshops are part of this EPT, and they also include recommendations for the interpretation of results. This interpretation is evolving based on the current knowledge in the field. The current recommendation for interpretation was adopted in 2023, dividing HLA-DQA1/DQB1 genotypes into three categories: 1) detected HLA genotype is associated with predisposition to coeliac disease; 2) coeliac disease could not be excluded based on the detected HLA genotype; 3) coeliac disease could be excluded with high probability based on the detected HLA genotype. The quality of examination is increasing but still needs improvement. Correct results and accurate interpretation can inform clinicians’ decisions about the diagnosis of coeliac disease in appropriate patients.
The NSCLC immunotherapy response predicted by tumor-infiltrating T cells via a non-invasive radiomic approach
Authors: Min Jie , Dong Fei , Chen Yongyuan , Li Wenshan , Wu Yimin , Tan Yanbin , Yang Fan , Wu Pin , Chai Ying
Published: September 2024

Introductions

Identifying patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who are optimal candidates for immunotherapy is a cornerstone in clinical decision-making. The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) is intricately linked with both the prognosis of the malignancy and the efficacy of immunotherapeutic interventions. CD8+ T cells, and more specifically, tissue-resident memory CD8+ T cells [CD8+ tissue-resident memory T (TRM) cells] are postulated to be pivotal in orchestrating the immune system's assault on tumor cells. Nevertheless, the accurate quantification of immune cell infiltration—and by extension, the prediction of immunotherapeutic efficacy—remains a significant scientific frontier.

Methods

In this study, we introduce a cutting-edge non-invasive radiomic model, grounded in TIME markers (CD3+ T, CD8+ T, and CD8+ TRM cells), to infer the levels of immune cell infiltration in NSCLC patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors and ultimately predict their response to immunotherapy. Data from patients who had surgical resections (cohort 1) were employed to construct a radiomic model capable of predicting the TIME. This model was then applied to forecast the TIME for patients under immunotherapy (cohort 2). Conclusively, the study delved into the association between the predicted TIME from the radiomic model and the immunotherapeutic outcomes of the patients.

Result

For the immune cell infiltration radiomic prediction models in cohort 1, the AUC values achieved 0.765, 0.763, and 0.675 in the test set of CD3+ T, CD8+ T, and CD8+ TRM, respectively. While the AUC values for the TIME-immunotherapy predictive value were 0.651, 0.763, and 0.829 in the CD3-immunotherapy response model, CD8-immunotherapy response model, and CD8+ TRM-immunotherapy response model in cohort 2, respectively. The CD8+ TRM-immunotherapy model exhibited the highest predictive value and was significantly better than the CD3-immunotherapy model in predicting the immunotherapy response. The progression-free survival (PFS) analysis based on the predicted levels of CD3+ T, CD8+ T, and CD8+ TRM immune cell infiltration showed that the CD8+ T cell infiltration level was an independent factor (P=0.014, HR=0.218) with an AUC value of 0.938.

Discussion

Our empirical evidence reveals that patients with substantial CD8+ T cell infiltration experience a markedly improved PFS compared with those with minimal infiltration, asserting the status of the CD8+ T cell as an independent prognosticator of PFS in the context of immunotherapy. Although CD8+ TRM cells demonstrated the greatest predictive accuracy for immunotherapy response, their predictive strength for PFS was marginally surpassed by that of CD8+ T cells. These insights advocate for the application of the proposed non-invasive radiomic model, which utilizes TIME analysis, as a reliable predictor for immunotherapy outcomes and PFS in NSCLC patients.
Pharmacomicrobiomics in precision cancer therapy: bench to bedside
Authors: Le Ngoc Khanh , Pham Tran Thu Ha , Nguyen Tiep Khac , Huong Phung Thanh
Published: September 2024

The burgeoning field of pharmacomicrobiomics offers promising insights into the intricate interplay between the microbiome and cancer, shaping responses to diverse treatment modalities. This review aims to analyze the molecular mechanisms underlying interactions between distinct microbiota types and cancer, as well as their influence on treatment outcomes. We explore how the microbiome impacts antitumor immunity, and response to chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy, unveiling its multifaceted roles in cancer progression and therapy resistance. Moreover, we discuss the challenges hindering the development of microbiome-based interventions in cancer therapy, including standardization, validation, and clinical translation. By synthesizing clinical evidence, we underscore the transformative potential of harnessing pharmacomicrobiomics in guiding cancer treatment decisions, paving the way for improved patient outcomes in clinical practice.
Neutrophil extracellular traps and citrullinated fibrinogen contribute to injury in a porcine model of limb ischemia and reperfusion
Authors: Zollet Valentina , Arenas Hoyos Isabel , Hirsiger Stefanie , Brahim Bilal Ben , Petrucci Maria Francesca , Casoni Daniela , Wang Junhua , Spirig Rolf , Nettelbeck Kay , Garcia Luisana , Fuest Lena , Vögelin Esther , Constantinescu Mihai , Rieben Robert
Published: September 2024

Background

Ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) is a complex pathological process, triggered by the restoration of blood flow following an interrupted blood supply. While restoring the blood flow is the only option to salvage the ischemic tissue, reperfusion after a prolonged period of ischemia initiates IRI, triggering a cascade of inflammatory responses ultimately leading to neutrophil recruitment to the inflamed tissue, where they release neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). NETs are web-like structures of decondensed chromatin and neutrophilic proteins, including peptidyl-arginine deiminase 2 and 4 (PAD2, PAD4), that, once outside, can citrullinate plasma proteins, irreversibly changing their conformation and potentially their function. While the involvement of NETs in IRI is known mainly from rodent models, we aimed to determine the effect of NET formation and especially PADs-mediated extracellular protein citrullination in a porcine model of limb IRI.

Methods

We conducted our study on amputated pig forelimbs exposed to 1 h or 9 h of ischemia and then reperfused in vivo for 12 h. Limb weight, edema formation, compartmental pressure were measured, and skeletal muscle was analyzed by immunofluorescence (TUNEL assay and dystrophin staining) to evaluate tissue damage. Fibrin tissue deposition, complement deposition and NETs were investigated by immunofluorescence. Citrullinated plasma proteins were immunoprecipitated and citrullinated fibrinogen was identified in the plasma by Western blot and in the tissue by immunofluorescence and Western blot.

Results

Our data consolidate the involvement of NETs in a porcine model of limb IRI, correlating their contribution to damage extension with the duration of the ischemic time. We found a massive infiltration of NETs in the group subjected to 9 h ischemia compared to the 1 h and citrullinated fibrinogen levels, in plasma and tissue, were higher in 9 h ischemia group. We propose fibrinogen citrullination as one of the mechanisms contributing to the worsening of IRI. NETs and protein citrullination represent a potential therapeutic target, but approaches are still a matter of debate. Here we introduce the idea of therapeutic approaches against citrullination to specifically inhibit PADs extracellularly, avoiding the downstream effects of hypercitrullination and keeping PADs’ and NETs’ intracellular regulatory functions.
Causal associations between gut microbiota, circulating inflammatory proteins, and epilepsy: a multivariable Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Yang Han , Liu Wei , Gao Tiantian , Liu Qifan , Zhang Mengyuan , Liu Yixin , Ma Xiaodong , Zhang Nan , Shi Kaili , Duan Minyu , Ma Shuyin , Zhang Xiaodong , Cheng Yuxuan , Qu Huiyang , Chen Mengying , Zhan Shuqin
Published: September 2024

Background

Previous studies have suggested that gut microbiota (GM) may be involved in the pathogenesis of epilepsy through the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA). However, the causal relationship between GM and different epilepsy subtypes and whether circulating inflammatory proteins act as mediators to participate in epileptogenesis through the MGBA remain unclear. Therefore, it is necessary to identify specific GM associated with epilepsy and its subtypes and explore their underlying inflammatory mechanisms for risk prediction, personalized treatment, and prognostic monitoring of epilepsy.

Methods

We hypothesized the existence of a pathway GM-inflammatory proteins-epilepsy. We found genetic variants strongly associated with GM, circulating inflammatory proteins, epilepsy and its subtypes, including generalized and partial seizures, from large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWAS) summary data and used Multivariate Mendelian Randomization to explore the causal relationship between the three and whether circulating inflammatory proteins play a mediating role in the pathway from GM to epilepsy, with inverse variance weighted (IVW) method as the primary statistical method, supplemented by four methods: MR-Egger, weighted median estimator (WME), Weighted mode and Simple mode.

Results

16 positive and three negative causal associations were found between the genetic liability of GM and epilepsy and its subtypes. There were nine positive and nine negative causal associations between inflammatory proteins and epilepsy and its subtypes. Furthermore, we found that C-X-C motif chemokine 11 (CXCL11) levels mediated the causal association between Genus Family XIII AD3011 group and epilepsy.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the possible causal role of specific GM and specific inflammatory proteins in the development of epilepsy and suggests that circulating inflammatory proteins may mediate epileptogenesis through the MGBA.
Causal effects of systemic inflammatory proteins on Guillain-Barre Syndrome: insights from genome-wide Mendelian randomization, single-cell RNA sequencing analysis, and network pharmacology
Authors: Liu Jingwen , Pan Renbing
Published: September 2024

Background

Evidence from observational studies indicates that inflammatory proteins play a vital role in Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS). Nevertheless, it is unclear how circulating inflammatory proteins are causally associated with GBS. Herein, we conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to systematically explore the causal links of genetically determined systemic inflammatory proteins on GBS.

Methods

A total of 8,293 participants of European ancestry were included in a genome-wide association study of 41 inflammatory proteins as instrumental variables. Five MR approaches, encompassing inverse-variance weighted, weighted median, MR-Egger, simple model, and weighted model were employed to explore the causal links between inflammatory proteins and GBS. MR-Egger regression was utilized to explore the pleiotropy. Cochran’s Q statistic was implemented to quantify the heterogeneity. Furthermore, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing analysis and predicted potential drug targets through molecular docking technology.

Results

By applying MR analysis, four inflammatory proteins causally associated with GBS were identified, encompassing IFN-γ (OR:1.96, 95%CI: 1.02-3.78, PIVW=0.045), IL-7 (OR:1.86, 95%CI: 1.07-3.23, PIVW=0.029), SCGF-β (OR:1.56, 95%CI: 1.11-2.19, PIVW=0.011), and Eotaxin (OR:1.99, 95%CI: 1.01-3.90, PIVW=0.046). The sensitivity analysis revealed no evidence of pleiotropy or heterogeneity. Additionally, significant genes were found through single-cell RNA sequencing analysis and several anti-inflammatory or neuroprotective small molecular compounds were identified by utilizing molecular docking technology.

Conclusions

Our MR analysis suggested that IFN-γ, IL-7, SCGF-β, and Eotaxin were causally linked to the occurrence and development of GBS. These findings elucidated potential causal associations and highlighted the significance of these inflammatory proteins in the pathogenesis and prospective therapeutic targets for GBS.
Plasmid vector(s) in Bacillus thuringiensis harbor genes for insect pest control and for neglected infectious diseases in humans
Authors: Guerrero Gloria G. , Favela-Hernandez Juan M. , Balderas-Renteria Isaias
Published: September 2024

Plasmids (circular DNA molecules) represent an ingenious strategy for horizontal gene transfer in prokaryotes and eukaryotic cells. Plasmids harbored in bacteria are responsible for the spread of traits such as antibiotic resistance, virulence factors, and the machinery for the horizontal gene transfer e.g., type IV secretion systems. Remarkably, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) cryptic plasmids encode and carry genes that, under the host environment, replicate and concomitate with sporulation, producing parasporal crystalline proteins of two major types, crystalline (Cry) and cytolytic (Cyt), the former toxic against different orders of insects such as Lepidopterans, Coleopterans, and Dipterans (Cry proteins, MW 50–130 KDa); Cyt proteins, produced by B. thuringiensis subspecies israelensis (Bti)(MW 27-kDa) are toxic against Dipterans, i.e., mosquitoes and black flies. The X-Ray tridimensional structure for both types of toxins, formed by three domains, mostly of beta sheets antiparallel (Domain II and Domain III) linked through loops of different lengths. Domain I is a bundle of alpha helices. This structure is characterized by five conserved blocks, implying a conservation in the mode of action. Cyt proteins possess two alpha helices and some beta sheets with a structure similar to the antimicrobial peptides. Indeed, the mode of action proposed is mediated by the toxin-lipid interaction that hypothetically could result in transmembrane ionic channel formation. Several pieces of evidence support the action of both toxins in insects and mammals. The question is to what extent these Bt/Bti plasmid-encoded Cry or Cyt genes can be applied as bioinsecticides individually or in combination with Lysinibacillus sphaericus. The feasibility of being considered a promising and safe biological strategy for crop pests and vector-borne neglected infectious diseases is an issue pinpointed in the present review.