bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hubungan Kemandirian, Sikap, dan Motivasi dengan Hasil Belajar Biologi di Kelas X SMA Negeri 1 Bilah Hulu
Authors: Junita Rizka , Siregar Zunaidy Abdullah , Machrizal Rusdi
Published: January 2025

Students’ Biology learning outcomes are influenced by two factors, namely internal and external factors. Internal factors that can influence learning outcomes are independence, attitude and learning motivation. This research aims to investigate the relationship between independence, attitudes and learning motivation with biology learning outcomes in class X SMA Negeri 1 Bilah Hulu. This research is ex post facto research. The research instrument is a questionnaire used to obtain data on independence, attitudes and motivation to learn. Learning outcome data is obtained from daily test scores. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical with product moment correlation tests, simple and multiple regression. The results of the research show that (1) students' learning independence is in the high category, (2) students' learning attitudes are in the positive category, (3) students' learning motivation is in the high category, (4) students' biology learning outcomes are in the very high, (5) there is a strong relationship between independence and biology learning outcomes, with a correlation value of 0.680, (6) there is a strong relationship between attitudes and biology learning outcomes, with a correlation value of 0.663, (7) there is a moderate relationship between motivation with biology learning outcomes, with a correlation value of 0.453, (8) there is a strong relationship between independence, attitude and motivation and biology learning outcomes with a correlation value of 0.730.
Lama Fermentasi dan Konsentrasi Bunga Chamomile (Matricarica recutita) Terhadap Mutu Fisikokimia dan Organoleptik Teh Kombucha
Authors: Fahilah Khoiriyah , Hartati Fadjar Kurnia , Yuniati Yuyun
Published: January 2025

Kombucha is a health drink that has good benefits for the body, contains polyphenols and is antioxidant so it is said to be a functional drink. Chamomile positively contains flavonoid compounds, polyphenols, and tannins as antioxidants to ward off free radicals. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of fermentation duration and concentration of chamomile flowers (Matricaria recutita) to produce kombucha drink with the best physicochemical and organoleptic quality. This study used a one-factorial Completely Randomized Design consisting of four treatments of a combination of fermentation duration (5 days and 7 days) and chamomile concentration (0.5% and 1%), each treatment was carried out three times. Parameters analyzed included color (L*a*b*), pH, antioxidant activity and organoleptic (taste, color, and aroma). The results showed that the length of fermentation and chamomile concentration had a significant effect on color (L*a*b*), pH, antioxidant activity and organoleptic parameters (taste and color). On organoleptic parameters (aroma) did not have a significant effect. The best treatment with antioxidant activity value of 67.09% in treatment F2C2 (7 days fermentation time and 1% chamomile concentration). The highest organoleptic quality was in the F1C1 treatment (5 days fermentation and 0,5% chamomile concentration).
Description of Students' Science Literacy Ability on Electrolyte and Non-Electrolyte Solution Materials at SMAN 11 Pontianak
Authors: Puspita Ninda Ikke , Junanto Tulus , Harun Andi Ifriany , Enawaty Eny , Ulfah Maria
Published: January 2025

It is important for students to learn scientific literacy because it’s related to how students understand the environment and face issues in modern society. Students with excellent scientific literacy skills are able to apply the concepts and facts learned at school in everyday situations. The purpose of this research is to provide an overview of students’ scientific literacy at SMA Negeri 11 Pontianak. The research method used is descriptive research with a quantitative approach. The population under study consists of grade XI science students, including XI IPA 1, XI IPA 2, and XI IPA 3. Sample selection employs purposive sampling technique, considering specific factors such as students who have received instruction from teachers in the subject of electrolyte solutions and possess a good academic abilities. A total of 37 students from class XI IPA 2 are chosen as research samples. Data collection technique involves measurement and communications, utilizing instruments in the form of five essay questions that have been tested for validity. Based on the research data, it is known that aspect of explaining scientific phenomena reached 60,47%, while in determine the properties and samples of solutions from electrical conductivity experimental data, percentage is 75%. To provide conclusions and opnions on electrolyte test results from everyday life phenomena reached 61,93%. If averaged, overall, students’ scientific literacy skills are in the moderate category, with an average score of  65,251%.
Synthesis of Colorimetric Sensor for Cyanide Detection with Iron(III) Chloride reagent Using Sol Gel Method with Smarthphone Combination
Authors: Rohsaita Amalia , Thohir Muhammad Bakhru , Surya Efendi Meilisa Rusdiana , Kusumaning Tiyas Windi Pangesti , Nursaida Marta Citra
Published: January 2025

Sensor untuk mendeteksi ion sianida (CN - ) telah berhasil dilakukan dengan metode sol-gel menggunakan prekursor tetraetil ortosilikat dan pereaksi FeCl3. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui kondisi optimal sintesis, kondisi optimal sensor, menentukan LoD dan LoQ. Sintesis dilakukan dengan mencampurkan prekursor dengan pelarut etanol. Selanjutnya ditambahkan H2O, Triton X-100, reagen dan katalis ke dalam campuran. Variasi yang dilakukan adalah konsentrasi reagen dan waktu penuaan terbaik. Hasil sensor dinyatakan dalam nilai Euclidean Distance (ED) titik Merah-Hijau-Biru (RGB) yang diperoleh. Kondisi optimal untuk penyensoran dilakukan dengan memvariasikan waktu kontak. Pada sintesis sol gel konsentrasi reagen terbaik diperoleh pada konsentrasi 0,1 M dan waktu penuaan terbaik adalah 4 hari. Penentuan kondisi sensor optimal terjadi pada waktu 30 detik dengan batas pencucian 120 detik. Validasi metode sensor menghasilkan linearitas pada rentang konsentrasi 100 – 1000 ppm dengan nilai R 2 sebesar 0,9984. LoD dan LoQ masing-masing sebesar 65,45 ppm dan 218,16 ppm. Karakterisasi sensor menggunakan spektrofotometer FTIR dari bilangan gelombang 4000 sampai 400 cm-1. Spektrum IR yang dihasilkan menunjukkan keberhasilan dalam sintesis sol-gel, karena pada penelitian ini SiO2 muncul pada bilangan gelombang sekitar 433 cm-1. Setelah tahap sensor dengan merendam sensor pada analisa CN - 0,01 M dan CN - 0,1 M tidak ada tanda-tanda munculnya gugus Fe-S pada bilangan gelombang 4000-400 cm-1, karena daerah serapannya berada pada 380- 311 cm -1.
The Influence of the Anchored Instruction Model assisted by PHET on Students' Problem Solving Abilities
Authors: Dewi Bq Intan Patmala , Verawati Ni Nyoman Sri Putu , Hikmawati Hikmawati , Rahayu Satutik
Published: January 2025

Abstract This research aims to test the effect of the anchored instruction model assisted by PhET on students' physics problem solving abilities in optical instruments at SMAN 1 Sukamulia. The type of research used is quasi experimental with a pretest-posttest control group design. The population is all students in class XI MIPA SMAN 1 Sukamulia, totaling 52 people. The research sample was taken using a saturated sampling technique and class XI MIPA 1 was selected as the experimental class and class XI MIPA 2 was selected as the control class. The experimental class was treated with an anchored instruction model assisted by PhET and the control class was treated with a direct learning model. The research instrument consists of a problem solving ability test (KPM) in the form of a description test of 10 questions taking into account validity, reliability, level of difficulty and differentiability of questions. The KPM pre-test and post-test data were tested for normality and homogeneity, then continued with hypothesis testing using the twin sample t-test. Hypothesis test results obtained that the calculated t value was greater than the t table, so Ha was accepted, so that the PhET-assisted anchored instruction learning model had an effect on ability. Physics problem solving for students at SMAN 1 Sukamulia.
Development of LKPD based on project-based learning oriented chemo-entrepreneurship on hydrocarbon material for phase F SMA/MA
Authors: Velly Aglin , Suryani Okta
Published: January 2025

This development research was conducted to develop a teaching material in the form of a project-based learning worksheet (LKPD) based on chemo-entrepreneurship-oriented learning on hydrocarbon material for phase F SMA / MA. The validity and level of practicality will be known. The type of research used is educational design research (EDR) with the Plomp development model which has three stages, namely preliminary research (initial investigation), prototyping phase (prototype formation stage), and assessment phase (assessment/testing). However, the assessment phase was not carried out in this study where the research was carried out until the results of the validity and practicality of the LKPD were obtained. The validity test was conducted by 3 chemistry lecturers at FMPA UNP and 2 chemistry teachers at SMAN 3 Padang using a validity questionnaire sheet. Practicality was conducted by 2 chemistry teachers and 9 students of phase F SMAN 3 Padang. The results of the study based on the validity test showed an average Aiken'V 0.87 with a valid category and based on the practicality test showed an average of 90% by students with a very practical category and 94% by teachers with a very practical category. The research results of project-based learning-based LKPD oriented chemo-entrepreneurship on hydrocarbon material for phase F SMA / MA have been valid and practical.
Kinetics of Tofu Pulp as Copper Metal Adsorbent on the Waste of the Silver Craft Industry
Authors: Indah Dahlia Rosma , Hatimah Husnul
Published: January 2025

Liquid waste originating from the silver crafts industry is heavy metal waste that is dangerous for the surrounding environment, one of which is copper (Cu). Copper is a heavy metal that can have toxic effects on human health. Based on these problems, processing is needed to reduce the pollutants produced. One of the technologies used is adsorption using a natural adsorbent that is efficient and easy to obtain, namely tofu dregs. Adsorption using tofu dregs is because tofu contains protein. This protein has the ability to absorb amino acids which form two charged ions (zwitter ions). Toxic metals can be bound to proteins as metallothionein. This research aims to determine the efficiency of using tofu dregs as an absorbent for copper metal (Cu) and to determine the effect of contact time and adsorption isotherms on copper metal adsorption. 1 gram of tofu dregs was used with 25 ml of waste and then contacted with a magnetic plate stirrer at varying times of 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 minutes. The concentrations of all copper metals were analyzed using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Next, each copper metal content was calculated using a copper metal standard calibration curve. Identification using an Infrared Spectrophotometer showed that the tofu dregs waste in this study contained the functional groups -OH, N-H (stretching), C-H (aliphatic), C=O, -OH (bending vibration), and C-O. From the research it was found that the copper metal content in the sample was 19.5979 ppm. The optimum contact time for copper metal adsorption is 120 minutes, which results in an optimum adsorption efficiency for copper metal, namely 54.88%. The isotherm equation that corresponds to the adsorption of copper metal using tofu dregs waste is the Freundlich isotherm with a Kf value of 0.072 L/g and a 1/n value of 2.366. This shows that the adsorption of copper metal occurs in a multilayer layer on the surface of the tofu dregs adsorbent, which illustrates the occurrence of physical adsorption. Tofu dregs waste is an effective adsorbent for reducing copper metal levels in silver craft waste.
Chemical Concepts Related to the Context of Palm Oil Production Process for Contextual Chemistry Learning based on Local Natural Resources
Authors: Shalsabila Syifa Yulia , Kusumaningtyas Pintaka , Erika Farah
Published: January 2025

Chemistry learning oriented to local natural resources around students presents real situations that can help students to understand the concepts of learning material being studied. This research aims to identify the chemical concepts involved in the process of palm oil production for developing contextual chemistry learning materials based on local natural resources. This research used descriptive quantitative research. Data were collected from field observation, literature study and documentation study. The relevance of chemical concepts and the context of palm oil processing were assessed by the validators. Based on the finding, there are 3 chemical concepts related to the palm fruit processing into crude palm oil (CPO), namely: classification of matter,change of matter, and separation of mixture. The relationship between both of these three chemical concepts and the context of palm oil processing has been declared highly valid with a score of 3.75 by the validators. Therefore, the processing of palm fruit into CPO can be used as a learning resource for contextual chemistry learning material in the implementation of Merdeka curriculum at phase E.
The Relationship Between Metacognitive Ability and Self-directed Learning of Chemistry Education Students as Prospective Teacher
Authors: Candrawinata Natalia , Erlina Erlina , Ulfah Maria
Published: January 2025

Metacognitive ability and self-directed learning are crucial aspects to consider because good metacognitive skills are closely linked to academic success and self-directed learning. Students with strong metacognitive abilities are generally more capable of planning, monitoring, and evaluating their learning activities effectively. This study utilized a descriptive quantitative method with a correlational approach to examine the relationship between two variables: metacognitive ability and self-directed learning. The research was conducted in the Chemistry Education Program at FKIP Untan, focusing on 51 sixth-semester students for the academic year 2023/2024. Data were collected through indirect communication methods using the MAIT-18 and a self-directed learning questionnaire. The data analysis used descriptive statistical methods. The results indicated that the percentages of metacognitive ability and self-directed learning among sixth-semester Chemistry Education students were 79% and 68%, respectively. The Spearman Rank correlation test revealed a significance value of 0.478 >  0.05. Therefore, H0 is accepted and Ha is rejected, indicating that there is no significant relationship between metacognitive ability and self-directed learning among the students of the Chemistry Education Program at FKIP Untan.
Analysis of The Ionic Bond and Related Concept in High School Chemistry Textbooks in Pekanbaru
Authors: Ardiansyah Ardiansyah , Fitriyani Indah
Published: January 2025

Misconceptions about ionic bonding bond and related concept have been revealed by many studies. One source of student misconceptions is high school chemistry textbooks. This research aims to analyze the ionic bonding conceptions contained in Class X high school chemistry textbooks in the city of Pekanbaru. This research uses document analysis techniques. The research sample was 5 high school chemistry books for class X in Pekanbaru City. Misconception are grouped according to Hershey (2004), namely Oversimplifications, Overgeneralizations, Obsolete Concepts and Terms, Misidentifications, and Flawed Research. Most textbooks suffer from Overgeneralizations of the concepts of  chemical stability, ionic bonds, and properties of ionic compound.
Optimization of Distillation Process for Scale-up Production of Lavender Essential Oil: A Literature Review
Authors: Dwipa Yusri Hajjo , Salsabila Cheryl , ‘Azmi Madah Ikrimatul , Sukmawati Nani , Assyifa Muhammad Zaky , Syauqillah Ahmad , Fikroh Retno Aliyatul
Published: January 2025

Lavender essential oil being one of the most used essential oils. Oxygenated monoterpenes are the largest constituent of lavender essential oil and the determinant of the characteristic aroma produced. Lavender flowers are composed of several ingredients, such as essential oils, alpha-pinene, beta-myrcene, limonene, cineol, linalool, terpinine-4-ol, and linalyl acetate. The aim of this study is to develop an efficient, effective, and profitable method of lavender oil extraction that can be used for commercial scale production, in order to determine which method is most suitable for scale-up production. The method used in this study is literature review with the results of literature reviews conducted, the method with the highest percentage of essential oil components is the use of innovative methods such as extraction with the help of microwaves (MW) with the percentage of linalool (32.90%) linaly acetate (27%), extraction with the help of ultrasonic (AS) with the percentage of linalool (37.6% ), linalyl acetate (18.4%)., supercritical fluid extraction (SF) with linalool (24%), extraction, and negative pressure extraction (NPCE) with linalool percentage (27.18%) linaly acetate (25.23%). While the smallest percentage of essential oil components in the use of molecular distillation is the percentage of Linalool (4.56%), linaly acetate (12.78%). The originality of this research contribution can open the door for further research and wider practical applications.
Phytochemical Screening and In Vitro Antidiabetic Test of Ethyl Acetate Fraction of Tiger’s Betel (Piper porphyrophyllum)
Authors: Hanifah Nurul , Santoni Adlis , Efdi Mai
Published: January 2025

Piper porphyrophyllum or known as tiger’s betel, is a medicinal plant of the Piper genus that is quite widespread in Indonesia, especially on Java, Sumatra, and Kalimantan island. Tiger’s betel is widely used traditionally to treat headaches, bone pain, chest tightness, skin diseases, relieve inflammation, and diabetes mellitus. This study aims to determine the type of secondary metabolite compounds contained in the ethyl acetate fraction of tiger’s betel and determine its antidiabetic activity. Determination of the type of compound is conducted by phytochemical screening by a qualitative test using various reagents to identify flavonoids, phenolics, saponins, triterpenoids, steroids, alkaloids, and coumarins. The antidiabetic assay was carried out by inhibiting α-glucosidase activity and the results were reported as IC50 values. The ethyl acetate fraction of tiger’s betel positively contains alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolics. The antidiabetic activity is classified as very strong, with an IC50 value of 14.06 µg/mL.
Feasibility of Discovery Learning Based Student Worksheets on Acid-Base Materials to Practice Critical Thinking Skills
Authors: Putri Reyna Miftahud Daroeni , Yonata Bertha
Published: January 2025

This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of using discovery learning-based student worksheets (LKPD) to foster CTS in the context of acid-base topics. The feasibility of the LKPD is assessed through three key criteria: validity, practicality, and effectiveness. The worksheets incorporate critical thinking skills (CTS) such as interpretation, evaluation, analysis, and inference, applied to understanding acid-base properties and strength. A one-group pretest-posttest design was used, involving 22 students from class XI-4 at SMAN 1 Kedamean, Gresik. Research instruments included response questionnaires, student activity observation sheets, and pretest-posttest assessments for CTS and cognitive learning outcomes. The results revealed the following: (1) Practicality was supported by student activity observations, with a higher proportion of relevant activities and 93.33% of students giving positive feedback, categorizing the LKPD as very practical. (2) The LKPD received a validity score of 4. (3) Effectiveness was demonstrated through pretest-posttest results, with 90.9% of students achieving classical completeness and an n-gain of 0.7 for critical thinking skills, rated as high. Based on these results, the discovery learning-based LKPD is considered feasible.
Validity of Salt Hydrolysis E-Module Based on PBL with Teaching at the Right Level Approach
Authors: Parhusip Efriani Br , Iryani Iryani
Published: January 2025

The Independent Curriculum is an innovation introduced by the Ministry of Education, Indonesia, under regulation No. 56/M/2022. This curriculum concentrates on the core subjects while giving special attention to character development and flexible learning that is adjusted to meet the requirements of individual pupils. One of the chemistry topics in the Independent Phase F Curriculum is salt hydrolysis. The purpose was to determine the level of validation of the PBL-based salt hydrolysis e-module using the TaRL approach. This research employs the Plomp model as part of the educational design research (EDR) framework, encompassing the stages of preliminary research, prototyping, and evaluation, but is limited to Prototype III. This study used five validators to evaluate the module based on language, presentation, content, graphics, and media components using a validation questionnaire.  The results obtained from this study are PBL-based salt hydrolysis e-modules with a valid TaRL approach, with a validation value of the content component of 0.92, presentation of 0.91, language of 0.97, graphics of 0.95, and media average of 0.90.
Effectiveness of Antioxidant Compounds in Swallow's Nest from Lombok
Authors: Juniawan Alvin , Andini Arista Suci , Wanadiatri Halia
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the antioxidant activity of swallow nests known as Edible Bird Nests (EBNs) derived from the swallow species Collocalia linchi, especially those sourced from Lombok, Indonesia with various health benefits, including their potential as antioxidants. This study used swallow nest samples taken from 3 different locations, namely: East Lombok, Central Lombok and West Lombok. The extraction method used is heating and sonication. Antioxidant activity was assessed quantitatively using the DPPH method and measured by UV-Vis spectrophotometry. Results showed varying IC50 values across different extraction times, with the highest values recorded at 3818.47 mg/mL and the lowest at 2331.47 mg/mL, compared to the control (ascorbic acid) at 35.22 mg/mL. The higher the IC50 value, the lower the effectiveness of antioxidants and vice versa. These findings suggest that the antioxidant activity of EBNs extracts is relatively weak when compared to ascorbic acid. This study contributes to the understanding of optimized extraction techniques by heating and sonication to unlock the full potential of the extraction results of bioactive compounds.
Integrating Constructivist and Inquiry Based Learning in Chemistry Education: A Systematic Review
Authors: Suryati Suryati , Adnyana Putu Budi , Ariawan I PutuWisna , Wesnawa I Gede Astra
Published: January 2025

This study systematically examines the integration of constructivist and inquirybased learning (IBL) strategies in chemistry education, emphasizing their transformative potential for enhancing student engagement, conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and problem solving skills. Utilizing a systematic review methodology, 30 peer reviewed articles from credible databases such as Scopus and Web of Science were analyzed. The findings reveal that gamification, virtual reality (VR), molecular visualization, and guided inquiry significantly improve learning outcomes by contextualizing abstract concepts and fostering active participation. Gamification and VR were particularly effective at the high school and tertiary education levels, respectively, while inquiry based laboratory activities enhanced higher-order thinking skills. The analysis highlights the theoretical alignment of these strategies with constructivist principles and their practical application in modern pedagogy. Despite their benefits, challenges such as resource limitations and insufficient teacher training persist, hindering wider adoption. Addressing these barriers through professional development, resource investment, and innovative curriculum design is essential for maximizing the impact of constructivist and IBL approaches. This study provides actionable recommendations for educators, policymakers, and researchers, advocating for systemic changes to advance chemistry education in diverse learning contexts. By combining theoretical insights with practical applications, this research underscores the importance of active, inquiry driven learning environments for preparing students to excel in STEM fields.
Impact of Anxiety, Work-Life Balance, and Diversity on Employee Performance in Bangladesh's Hospitality Industry During COVID-19
Authors: Islam Quazi Tafsirul , Hasan Md Kamrul , Chowdhury Dr. Muhammad Faisol
Published: January 2025

COVID-19 pandemic not only affected the mental and physical health of the people but also had a devastating effect on the work environment in almost all industries. During this pandemic, one of the most affected industries is the Hospitality sector due to severe travel restrictions, lockdowns, and isolations imposed by the authorities. The purpose of this study is to analyze the impact of anxiety, work life balance (WLB) and diversity (age, gender and tenure in the current organization) of the employees during this COVID-19 pandemic on their work performance in the hospitality sector. A survey questionnaire was developed and distributed among 222 respondents who are currently working in the hospitality sector of Bangladesh. Regression analysis was conducted using SPSS26 with self-rated work performance as the dependent variable and anxiety, WLB, age, gender and tenure in the current organization as the independent variables. Several tests were conducted to identify any significant impact of the independent variables on employee performance. It was found that during this COVID-19 pandemic, the work performances of the employees working in the hospitality sector are significantly impacted by their level of anxiety and diversity (age, gender and work tenure) in their current organization. The effect of WLB on work performance was found to be insignificant. The impact of anxiety on performance was negative, whereas diversity (age, gender and tenure in their current organization) have positive impact on work performance. This means employee work performance decreases as they become more anxious regarding their uncertain future in their work environment. On the other hand, their performance increases as they become aged and worked more years in their current organization. Therefore, it’s recommended that, during this crucial time of the pandemic, managers must try to bring some certainty in their work environment to minimize the anxiety level of the employees and also retain their existing employees for more years in order to enhance their work performance in the hospitality industry.
The concept of copy in modern architecture
Authors: Di Trinca Giada
Published: January 2025

The paper explores the Renaissance architecture according to the Krautheimer's iconological method. For this purpose, the central-plan church is analysed on the base of the concepts of exemplum and auctoritas as devises that reveals the underlying relationship the Renaissance artists had with the ancient models of architecture and the concept of copy.
Volume-regulated anion channels conduct ATP in undifferentiated mammary cells and promote tumorigenesis in xenograft nude mouse
Authors: Furuya Kishio , Hirata Hiroaki , Kobayashi Takeshi , Ishiguro Hiroshi , Sokabe Masahiro
Published: January 2025

The high interstitial ATP concentration in the cancer microenvironment is a major source of adenosine, which acts as a strong immune suppressor. However, the source of ATP release has not been elucidated. We measured ATP release during hypotonic stress using a real-time ATP luminescence imaging system in breast cell lines and in primary cultured mammary cells. In breast cell lines, ATP was released with a slowly rising diffuse pattern, whereas in primary cultured cells, ATP was intermittently released with transient-sharp peaks. The diffuse ATP release pattern changed to a transient-sharp pattern by cholera toxin treatment and the reverse change was induced by transforming growth factor (TGF) β treatment. DCPIB, an inhibitor of volume-regulated anion channels (VRACs), suppressed the diffuse pattern. The inflammatory mediator sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) induced a diffuse ATP release pattern isovolumetrically. Knockdown of the A isoform of leucine-rich repeat-containing protein 8 (LRRC8A), the essential molecular entity of VRACs, using shRNA suppressed the diffuse pattern. In the nude mouse xenograft model, LRRC8A knockdown suppressed the tumorigenesis of subcutaneously implanted breast cancer cells. These results suggest that abundantly expressed VRACs are a conduit of ATP release in undifferentiated cells, including cancer cells.
Global insights into the genome dynamics of Clostridioides difficile associated with antimicrobial resistance, virulence, and genomic adaptations among clonal lineages
Authors: Sholeh Mohammad , Beig Masoumeh , Kouhsari Ebrahim , Rohani Mahdi , Katouli Mohammad , Badmasti Farzad
Published: January 2025

Background

Clostridioides difficile is a significant cause of healthcare-associated infections, with rising antimicrobial resistance complicating treatment. This study offers a genomic analysis of C. difficile, focusing on sequence types (STs), global distribution, antibiotic resistance genes, and virulence factors in its chromosomal and plasmid DNA.

Methods

A total of 19,711 C. difficile genomes were retrieved from GenBank. Prokka was used for genome annotation, and multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) identified STs. Pan-genome analysis with Roary identified core and accessory genes. Antibiotic resistance genes, virulence factors, and toxins were detected using the CARD and VFDB databases, and the ABRicate software. Statistical analyses and visualizations were performed in R.

Results

Among 366 identified STs, ST1 (1,326 isolates), ST2 (1,141), ST11 (893), and ST42 (763) were predominant. Trends of genome streamlining included reductions in chromosomal length, gene count, protein-coding genes, and pseudogenes. Common antibiotic resistance genes—cdeA (99.46%), cplR (99.63%), and nimB (99.67%)—were nearly ubiquitous. Rare resistance genes like blaCTX-M-2, cfxA3, and blaZ appeared in only 0.005% of genomes. Vancomycin susceptibility-reducing vanG cluster genes were detected at low frequencies. Virulence factors showed variability, with highly prevalent genes such as zmp1 (99.62%), groEL (99.60%), and rpoB/rpoB2 (99.60%). Moderately distributed genes included cwp66 (54.61%) and slpA (79.02%). Toxin genes tcdE (91.26%), tcdC (89.67%), and tcdB (89.06%) were widespread, while binary toxin genes cdtA (26.19%) and cdtB (26.26%) were less common. Toxin gene prevalence, particularly tcdA and tcdB, showed a gradual decline over time, with sharper reductions for cdtA and cdtB. Gene presence patterns (GPP-1) for resistance, virulence, and toxin genes were primarily linked to ST2, ST42, and ST8.

Conclusion

This study highlights C. difficile’s adaptability and genetic diversity. The decline in toxin genes reflects fewer toxigenic isolates, but the bacterium’s increasing preserved resistance factors and virulence genes enable its rapid evolution. ST2, ST42, and ST8 dominate globally, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring.
Risking delay: the storylines of (bioenergy with) carbon capture and storage in Swedish parliamentary discourse
Authors: Almqvist-Ingersoll Ashley
Published: January 2025

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), along with Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS), feature heavily in climate mitigation scenarios. Nevertheless, the technologies remain controversial within the broader mitigation discourse, in part for their potential to excuse delay in more ambitious emissions reductions in the short term. Sweden has included BECCS and CCS as proposed “supplementary measures” to enable the country to meet its ambitious target of achieving net negative emissions by 2045. Hajer’s Argumentative Approach to Discourse Analysis is applied to Swedish parliamentary speeches, motions, and written questions and answers, to uncover the storylines and attendant assumptions constituting Swedish policy deliberation regarding CCS and BECCS. This study finds that by problematizing climate change as an issue of emissions, actors position CCS and BECCS within a dominant neoliberal discourse and characterize them as tools to facilitate a green transition centering on industrial and economic competitiveness. This discourse lacks detail, and risks delay by oversimplifying the needs and requirements for CCS and BECCS deployment. Meanwhile, a CCS-critical discourse acknowledges the need for negative emissions but challenges storylines portraying the technology as inexpensive or easy to deploy rapidly. If pursued, this discourse could serve to sharpen the debate about the technologies and bring planning in line with aspirations, helping to avert risks of delay.
Feasibility of the area reduction post-closure technique for bedside weaning of veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Xu Chen , Xu Guo-xiong , Cao Yi-fei , Chen Lei , Jin Yi-qi
Published: January 2025

Objective

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the area reduction post-closure technique for bedside weaning of veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO).

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted from December 2022 to November 2023, analyzing data from patients who underwent V-A ECMO weaning at our center. The area reduction post-closure technique, utilizing two ProGlide devices (Abbott Vascular, Santa Clara, CA), was adopted as a standard practice. The technical success was defined as achieving complete hemostasis without a bailout open repair. The complications associated with access included hemorrhagic events, pseudoaneurysm formation, limb ischemia, distal embolization, and wound infections.

Results

A total of 18 patients were included. The median age of the cohort was 72.0 years [interquartile range (IQR), 57.5–81.5 years], with a male-to-female ratio of 2:1. The median size of arterial sheath utilized was 18.0 Fr (IQR, 17.0–20.0 Fr). The median duration of the procedure was 10.0 min (IQR, 9.0–13.0 min), and the median length of total hospital stay was 31.0 days (IQR, 25.5–39.0 days). Furthermore, the technique demonstrated a success rate of 100%. One patient (5.6%) experienced minor bleeding, which was successfully managed through compression. No additional complications associated with access were observed after the procedure.

Conclusions

The post-closure area reduction technique emerges as a viable option for bedside weaning of V-A ECMO. Nonetheless, it is essential that this technique be validated through larger comparative studies.
Hydrocarbon generation, expulsion, and retention characteristics of the Permian Fengcheng shale and Lucaogou shale in the Junggar Basin: implications for the exploration of lacustrine shale oil
Authors: He Wenjun , Li Zhiming , Li Changrong , He Jinyi , Leng Junying , Sun Zhongliang , Liu Deguang , Yang Sen
Published: January 2025

Hydrocarbon generation patterns are crucial for defining favorable exploration maturity intervals and targets for shale oil. The Permian Fengcheng shale and Lucaogou shale in the Junggar Basin, as significant targets for shale oil exploration, study on their hydrocarbon generation, expulsion, and retention characteristics are insufficient. This study establishes hydrocarbon generation patterns for the Fengcheng shale and Lucaogou shale using a semi-open thermal simulation system, combined with rock pyrolysis, vitrinite reflectance (Ro), total organic carbon (TOC) analysis, carbon isotope analysis, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), mercury porosimetry, and nitrogen adsorption. Additionally, a multivariate regression model was employed to systematically evaluate the primary controlling factors of hydrocarbon expulsion ratio. Based on these results, favorable exploration maturity intervals and targets for the Fengcheng shale and Lucaogou shale were identified. The results indicate that the hydrocarbon generation potential of Fengcheng shale was superior to that of Lucaogou shale, whether considering gas yield or oil yield. However, Lucaogou shale began the thermal degradation earlier than Fengcheng shale and has a broader degradation window. The corresponding (TR) is slightly higher for Fengcheng shale. The Lucaogou shale exhibited significantly higher hydrocarbon expulsion ratios compared to Fengcheng shale, with a maximum hydrocarbon expulsion ratio 2.1 times that of Fengcheng shale. Mesopore volume and its connectivity were critical factors affecting the hydrocarbon expulsion ratio, whereas oil mobility and macropore volume have relatively limited effects. The optimal maturity interval for shale oil exploration as Ro = 1.0%–1.1% for the Fengcheng shale and Ro = 0.9%–1.1% for the Lucaogou shale. Exploration of the Fengcheng shale should focus on lithofacies assemblages, the dolomitic mixed rock-shale assemblages in the shore-shallow lake facies represent the primary exploration target. Exploration of the Lucaogou shale should focus on source-reservoir assemblages, with a higher reservoir-to-shale thickness ratio being the primary exploration target. These findings provide support for the exploration and development decisions of shale oil in the Junggar Basin.
No improvement in pregnancy and perinatal outcomes with combined luteal support in modified natural cycle frozen embryo transfer
Authors: Zhang Wen , Wu Sheling , Ren Bingnan , Jia Ruolin , Zhang Wenjuan , Wang Bijun , Du Xiaofang , Guan Yichun
Published: January 2025

Objective

We investigated whether the addition of a luteal phase support drug benefits pregnancy and perinatal outcomes in modified natural-cycle frozen-thawed embryo transfer (mNC-FET) for women up to the age of 35 years.

Methods

We analyzed the clinical data of 3658 mNC-FET cycles of women up to the age of 35 years from the Reproductive Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from January 2018 to December 2020 in a retrospective cohort study. The cycles were divided into three groups based on the luteal phase support protocol used. The patients in group A received a combination of progesterone soft capsules and dydrogesterone (882 cycles), those in group B received dydrogesterone only (627 cycles), and those in group C received a combination of progesterone vaginal sustained-release gel and dydrogesterone (2149 cycles). Pregnancy and perinatal outcomes were compared among the three groups.

Results

Logistic regression analysis indicated that the three luteal phase support regimens were not associated with the live birth rate [OR(95% CI)B vs A=1.080, p=0.960; OR(95% CI)B vs C=0.252, p=0.291]. There were no significant differences in the newborn weight, premature delivery rate, pregnancy complications rate, and incidence of birth defects among the three groups.

Conclusions

In the mNC-FET cycle, patients under the age of 35 who chose dydrogesterone alone as a luteal phase support drug exhibited no difference in the live birth rate and perinatal outcome from patients who combined dydrogesterone with progesterone soft capsules or with progesterone vaginal sustained-release gel. However, the outcome still requires confirmation by large-sample prospective studies.
Trends, seasonal variations and forecasting of chronic respiratory disease morbidity in charcoal producing areas, northwest Ethiopia: time series analysis
Authors: Tesfa Mulugeta , Motbainor Achenef , Yenesew Muluken Azage
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study analyzed the trend, seasonal variations and forecasting of chronic respiratory disease morbidity in charcoal producing areas, northwest Ethiopia, aiming to provide evidences in planning, designing strategies, and decision-makings for preparedness and resource allocation to prevent CRD and reduce public health burden in the future.

Materials and methods

The trend, seasonal variation, and forecasting for CRD were estimated using data collected from the three zones of Amhara region annual reports of DHIS2 records. Smoothing decomposition analysis was employed to demonstrate the trend and seasonal component of CRD. The ARIMA (2, 1, 2) (0, 0, 0) model was used to forecast CRD morbidity. The model's fitness was checked based on Bayesian information criteria. The stationarity of the data was assessed with a line chart and statistically with the Ljung-Box Q-test. SPSS version 27 was utilized for statistical analysis.

Results

The annual morbidity rate of CRD has shown an increasing trend in both sexes over a seven-year period among people aged 15 years and older. Seasonal variation in CRD morbidity was observed. The smoothing decomposition analysis depicted that the seasonal component was attributed to 44.47% and 19.16% of excess CRD cases in the period between September to November, and June to August, respectively. A substantial difference among the three zones of the Amhara region in CRD morbidity rate was noted, with the highest observed in the Awi zone. Forecasting with the ARIMA model revealed that CRD-related morbidity will continue to increase from 2020 to 2030.

Conclusion

The study revealed that the CRD morbidity rate has shown an increasing trend from 2013 to 2019. Seasonal variation in the CRD morbidity rate was observed, with the highest peak from September to November. The morbidity attributed to CRD will continue to increase for the next ten years (2020–2030). Therefore, this study could potentially play a groundbreaking role. Further study is warranted to understand the risk factors and facility readiness through a further understanding of seasonality and future trends.
Case Report: Novel ADA2 variants cause atypical adenosine deaminase 2 deficiency
Authors: Yu Haishao , Lin Shuangzhu , Li Lin , Li Jiayi , Chen Qiandui , Wu Yuheng , Qi Yangfan , Wang Wanqi , Chang Xingzhi , Zhang Jie
Published: January 2025

Case presentation

A girl aged 2 years and 5 months presented to the hospital with chief complaints of intermittent fever and weakness of the left limb for more than 1 month. The child had transient urticaria appearing on her face for 5 days. The inflammatory biomarkers were significantly increased. Brain MRI showed multiple ischemic lesions in the brain’s small vessels. The patient exhibited significant systemic inflammation and multiple vasculitis. Whole-exome sequencing showed c.1358A>G p. (Tyr453Cys) and c.1082-7T>A compound heterozygous variants in the adenosine deaminase 2 (ADA2) gene, of which the c.1082-7T>A variant has not been reported yet in previous literature. Peripheral blood mRNA reverse transcription-Sanger sequencing confirmed that this variant affected mRNA splicing, resulting in a frameshift with premature stop codon c.1083_1103del p. (Leu362Glnfs*45). Peripheral blood test suggested a significant decrease in ADA2 activity. Eventually, the patient was diagnosed with deficiency of adenosine deaminase 2 (DADA2). Her condition improved after treatment with etanercept. She had no more fevers, and no hemiplegia attacks were observed during the 3 years of follow-up.

Conclusion

Fever and hemiplegia were the main manifestations in this patient, without typical rashes. DADA2 was finally confirmed by enzymology and genetic testing, and we believe this is the first reported case of the c.1082-7T>A intronic variant in DADA2, and the RNA studies conducted in this case have been pivotal in assessing its pathogenicity.
Classical and machine learning tools for identifying yellow-seeded Brassica napus by fusion of hyperspectral features
Authors: Liu Fan , Wang Fang , Zhang Zaiqi , Cao Liang , Wu Jinran , Wang You-Gan
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Due to its favorable traits-such as lower lignin content, higher oil concentration, and increased protein levels-the genetic improvement of yellow-seeded rapeseed has attracted more attention than other rapeseed color variations. Traditionally, yellow-seeded rapeseed has been identified visually, but the complex variability in the seed coat color of Brassica napus has made manual identification challenging and often inaccurate. Another method, using the RGB color system, is frequently employed but is sensitive to photographic conditions, including lighting and camera settings.

Methods

We present four data-driven models to identify yellow-seeded B. napus using hyperspectral features combined with simple yet intelligent techniques. One model employs partial least squares regression (PLSR) to predict the R, G, and B color channels, effectively distinguishing yellow-seeded varieties from others according to globally accepted yellow-seed classification protocols. Another model uses logistic regression (Logit-R) to produce a probability-based assessment of yellow-seeded status. Additionally, we implement two intelligent models, random forest and support vector classifier to evaluate features selected through lasso-penalized logistic regression.

Results and Discussion

Our findings indicate significant recognition accuracies of 96.55% and 98% for the PLSR and Logit-R models, respectively, aligning closely with the accuracy of previous methods. This approach represents a meaningful advancement in identifying yellow-seeded rapeseed, with high recognition accuracy demonstrating the practical applicability of these models.