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Dyslipidemia is a health problem characterized by impaired fat metabolism in the body, characterized by changes in blood lipid levels, either increasing or decreasing. This condition is generally seen through increased levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides, and decreased levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). This imbalance in the lipid profile, if persisted over the long term, has the potential to accelerate the formation of atherosclerotic plaque on artery walls, which can lead to cardiovascular disease. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of papaya leaf (Carica papaya L.) ethanol extract microcapsules in reducing cholesterol levels in white rats induced by a high-fat diet. The high-fat diet is formulated from a mixture of beef fat, eggs, and lard to increase cholesterol levels in a controlled manner. After the induction phase, the rats were divided into six treatment groups: a negative control group, a positive control group (simvastatin 0.36 mg), and three treatment groups with doses of papaya leaf ethanol extract microcapsules of 0.25%, 0.50%, and 0.75%. The treatment was given orally for 14 consecutive days. Total cholesterol levels were measured before and after treatment to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention. The results showed that administration of papaya leaf extract microcapsules significantly reduced cholesterol levels. The 0.50% dose provided the most optimal effect, with a reduction reaching 77 mg/dL, greater than the simvastatin group. However, increasing the dose to 0.75% did not show a significant additional reduction effect, indicating an optimal dose-response point. Therefore, the 0.50% concentration can be considered the most effective dose and has the potential to be developed as an alternative natural cholesterol-lowering therapy. These findings also strengthen the potential use of papaya leaves as a bioactive source to support efforts to prevent and control dyslipidemia.  

Elevated blood cholesterol levels are known to be a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Hypercholesterolemia can trigger atherosclerosis, which in turn increases the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. One approach to managing cholesterol levels is through the use of natural ingredients with antihyperlipidemic activity. White turmeric (Curcuma zedoaria Rosc) is an herbal plant long used in traditional medicine and contains bioactive compounds such as curcuminoids and essential oils. These compounds are reported to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, as well as potential as agents for lowering blood lipid levels. Herbal-based therapies are increasingly considered as safe alternatives to synthetic drugs in managing hyperlipidemia. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a microencapsulated preparation of white turmeric ethanol extract in reducing total cholesterol levels in male rats (Rattus norvegicus) induced by a high-fat diet. The study was conducted experimentally using 25 rats divided into six treatment groups. The groups consisted of normal controls, negative controls, positive controls using simvastatin, and three treatment groups given white turmeric extract microcapsules at concentrations of 0.25%, 0.50%, and 0.75%. The microencapsulation technique was applied to improve the stability and bioavailability of the turmeric extract. Cholesterol levels were measured before and after treatment. The results showed that the treatment group with the 0.25% concentration produced the most significant cholesterol reduction, from 110 mg/dL to 59 mg/dL. These findings indicate that even at a relatively low concentration, microencapsulated turmeric extract can significantly reduce cholesterol levels in vivo. Therefore, it can be concluded that white turmeric extract in microcapsule form is effective in lowering total cholesterol levels, especially at the 0.25% dose. This suggests that Curcuma zedoaria microcapsules hold promise as a natural therapeutic option for managing hypercholesterolemia and reducing cardiovascular risk.  

Dyslipidemia is a lipid metabolism disorder characterized by an increase or decrease in blood plasma fat levels. This condition includes high levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides, as well as decreased levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). In general, dyslipidemia is divided into two types: primary, which is influenced by genetic factors, and secondary, which is caused by other diseases or an unhealthy lifestyle. Dyslipidemia is one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease, making its prevention and treatment very important. In this study, male white mice were used and induced with a high-fat diet to trigger dyslipidemia. The test animals were then divided into six groups: a negative control, a positive control (given simvastatin at a dose of 0.36 mL/day), and three treatment groups with microcapsules of Chinese betel leaf herb ethanol extract (EEHSC) at concentrations of 0.25%, 0.5%, and 0.75%. The treatment was administered orally for 14 days. Cholesterol levels were measured before and after treatment using a digital cholesterol tester and laboratory analysis to ensure more accurate results. The results showed a decrease in cholesterol levels with varying percentages in each group. The negative control decreased by 24.8%, the positive control by 36.1%, the 0.25% EEHSC by 24.1%, the 0.5% EEHSC by 34.7%, and the 0.75% EEHSC by 45.5%. This indicates that the 0.5% EEHSC treatment produced cholesterol reductions almost comparable to simvastatin. Interestingly, the highest effect was observed in the 0.75% group, indicating a dose-dependent response. In contrast, the 0.25% concentration only produced a less than optimal effect. Thus, microcapsules of ethanol extract of the Chinese betel leaf herb have potential as an alternative agent for lowering cholesterol levels, particularly in dyslipidemia. These findings suggest that natural-based therapies could complement conventional treatments in managing lipid disorders.

The lack of interest of young children in learning numbers is a common challenge in kindergarten learning activities. Children tend to be passive during the mathematics learning process because the approach used is not appropriate to their age developmental characteristics, which prefer play, movement, and direct interaction with concrete media. To address this problem, the Community Service Program (KKN) at At-Tien Kindergarten, Sumber Gayam, focused on learning innovation by designing a simple media called the Mathematics Ferris Wheel. This media was designed by combining elements of play and motor activity, making it more engaging for children. The research in this community service activity used a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach, which actively involved teachers and students in the planning, implementation, and evaluation stages. The media was implemented by children turning the Ferris wheel in turns, then calling out the number indicated along with the numbers before and after. Through this activity, children not only learned to recognize number sequences but also practiced concentration, courage, and communication skills. The implementation results showed that the use of the Mathematics Ferris Wheel was able to significantly improve the understanding of number concepts in early childhood. Furthermore, children's active involvement in learning also increased, demonstrated by their enthusiasm in participating in the game from start to finish. Teachers found this media to be highly beneficial because it is easy to use, flexible, and adaptable to teach other topics such as colors, shapes, and letters. Thus, this KKN activity demonstrates that innovative, participatory learning media can create a fun, contextual, and effective learning environment. Such efforts are a practical solution to improving the quality of learning in early childhood education

Trace elements such as copper, zinc, selenium, and chromium play essential roles in various enzymatic reactions, antioxidant defense mechanisms, and overall metabolic regulation, making them crucial for maternal and fetal health. During pregnancy, the demand for these micronutrients increases significantly due to physiological changes and the needs of the developing fetus. Inadequate or excessive levels of these trace elements can lead to altered fetal development and may impact neonatal outcomes immediately after birth. Given the sensitive developmental window of gestation, the intrauterine environment—including micronutrient status—has been hypothesized to influence neonatal physiological parameters such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and Apgar scores, which are commonly used to assess neonatal wellbeing in the early minutes of life. This study attempts to explore the impact of maternal trace element status—specifically copper, zinc, selenium, and chromium—along with selected maternal parameters (BMI, parity, gravida) on indicators of neonatal wellbeing, including heart rate, respiratory rate, and 5-minute Apgar score. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Delivery Room of the Obstetric Hospital in Al-Diwaniya City, Iraq, involving 50 mother-infant pairs. Data collection occurred from December 1, 2024, to February 10, 2025. Maternal blood samples were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry to determine serum concentrations of copper, zinc, selenium, and chromium. Neonatal outcomes were assessed via standard clinical evaluations: heart rate and respiratory rate were measured immediately postpartum, and Apgar scores were recorded at five minutes. Statistical analyses included Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression to assess associations between maternal factors and neonatal outcomes. Bivariate and multivariate analyses indicated limited but noteworthy associations. Maternal serum chromium levels were significantly associated with increased neonatal respiratory rate (p = 0.026), suggesting a possible stimulatory or stress-related effect.

During storage and before consumption, grains often experience a decline in quality, nutritional content, and cleanliness due to pest attacks. Botanical insecticides are considered an alternative method to reduce dependence on harmful chemical pesticides. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of three concentrations of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized from the leaves of Cymbopogon citratus against Cadra cautella (Walk.) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) and their potential as biological control agents. The selection of C. cautella as the test organism was based on the limited number of studies examining this pest. The AgNPs used were synthesized through an eco-friendly method, and their optical and physical properties were analyzed using UV-Vis spectroscopy. The results demonstrated that AgNPs synthesized from C. citratus extract showed high effectiveness in controlling the eggs and second instar larvae of C. cautella. Egg mortality reached 80.3% at a concentration of 40 μg/ml after 24 hours of exposure, followed by 72.9% at 30 μg/ml, and 65.8% at 20 μg/ml. In contrast, the control group showed no egg mortality. Similarly, larval mortality rates were 74.9%, 65.8%, and 60.2% for concentrations of 40 μg/ml, 30 μg/ml, and 20 μg/ml, respectively. These findings indicate that higher concentrations of AgNPs lead to greater mortality in both eggs and larvae. This study highlights the potential of green-synthesized AgNPs from C. citratus leaves as an effective and eco-friendly biopesticide. Their significant impact on egg and larval mortality suggests that they can be developed as an alternative pest control strategy in stored grains, thereby reducing reliance on conventional chemical pesticides that are detrimental to human health and the environment. Further research is recommended to explore their long-term efficacy, safety, and integration into sustainable grain storage management.

Fish bekasam is one of Indonesia's traditional fermented products that involves the activity of microorganisms, especially lactic acid bacteria (LAB), to produce unique organoleptic, chemical, and microbiological characteristics. The fermentation process of bekasam plays a significant role not only in extending the shelf life of fish but also in creating a distinctive sour taste and texture that differs from other fish products. This study aims to analyze the microbiological community involved in the fish bekasam fermentation process through observation and identification of bacteria using Safranin Violet and Iodine staining techniques. This study employs a literature review approach, examining various references related to the fermentation process, the dominant bacteria species, and the environmental factors that affect the quality of bekasam. The analysis revealed that lactic acid bacteria such as Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus casei, and Pediococcus spp. play an important role in the fermentation of bekasam fish. These bacteria produce lactic acid, which contributes to the sour taste and plays a role in forming the product's texture. The Safranin Violet and Iodine staining techniques were effective for identifying bacteria based on their cell wall characteristics, with Gram-positive bacteria dominating the fermentation process. Environmental factors such as the fermentation time, salt concentration, and the addition of ingredients like carbohydrates or turmeric extract influence the dynamics of bacterial populations in the fermentation of bekasam. This study also emphasizes the importance of controlling pathogenic bacterial contamination, such as Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli, to ensure food safety in bekasam products. The findings provide a deeper understanding of the microbiological dynamics in fish bekasam fermentation and the relevance of staining techniques in microbiological analysis, which can be used to improve the quality and safety of traditional fermented products. This study also opens opportunities for developing safer and higher-quality bekasam products.

This study aims to analyze the quality of domestic wastewater based on three main parameters: pH, ammonia, and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD). The wastewater samples were collected from an industrial area, chosen for its role as a primary source of domestic waste that can impact environmental quality. The pH was tested using potentiometry, while ammonia and COD concentrations were measured using UV-Vis spectrophotometry, a precise method for analyzing these substances. The results showed that the pH values of the wastewater ranged from 6.68 to 10.28. This variation in pH reflects the acidity or alkalinity of the wastewater, with some samples being neutral to slightly alkaline. The ammonia levels detected ranged from 0.0654 to 0.3849 mg/L. While these levels are within the limits set by regulations, they indicate a significant presence of ammonia in the wastewater, which requires continued monitoring. However, the most striking finding was the COD levels, which ranged from 21.60 to 245.71 mg/L, with some samples showing very high values. High COD levels indicate a large presence of organic matter, which can lead to a decline in water quality. Some samples with COD values exceeding the threshold of domestic wastewater quality standards, as stated in Ministerial Regulation No. 68 of 2016, require additional treatment to reduce organic contamination. Overall, while the pH and ammonia values remain within safe limits, the high COD levels in some samples indicate that further treatment is necessary to reduce organic pollution. This study emphasizes the importance of routine monitoring of domestic wastewater to protect environmental quality and prevent broader negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems and human health.  

Pine soda is a natural fermented liquid from pine needles (Pinus merkusii) which has a distinctive aroma and contains bioactive compounds with potential as antimicrobial agents. This study aims to determine the antibacterial activity of pine soda against Staphylococcus aureus using the disc diffusion method and to compare its effectiveness with the antibiotic ampicillin as a positive control. The process of making pine soda is carried out through simple fermentation of Pinus merkusii pine needles under certain conditions to produce a fragrant liquid. Furthermore, qualitative tests are carried out to identify the content of bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, phenols, and essential oils, which are known to have antibacterial properties. In the antibacterial activity test, paper discs that have been soaked in pine soda solutions with graded concentrations (2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, and 10%) are placed on agar media that have been inoculated with S. aureus. The results of the observation showed the presence of inhibition zones in each treatment with varying sizes. The largest inhibition zone was obtained at a concentration of 10% with a diameter of 10 mm, which is included in the medium inhibition category. As a comparison, ampicillin produced an inhibition zone of 26.3 mm, while distilled water, the negative control, showed no inhibition zone. These findings indicate that the antibacterial activity of pine soda is influenced by its bioactive compound content, although its effectiveness is still lower than that of standard antibiotics. This potential opens up opportunities for developing pine soda as a safe natural antibacterial agent, whether in the form of health products such as antiseptics, natural cleaners, or functional beverages that support body health. Further research is needed to optimize the fermentation process, increase the concentration of active compounds, and test its effectiveness against various types of pathogenic bacteria.

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. This condition can significantly impact the quality of life of sufferers, making the development of effective and safe anticonvulsant therapies a priority in pharmacological research. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of various anticonvulsant drugs, including herbal candidates, in a mouse model (Mus musculus) using acute and subchronic test protocols. Seizures were induced by administering strychnine, a glycine receptor antagonist that triggers excessive neuronal excitability. Parameters observed included seizure onset (the time from strychnine administration to the onset of the first seizure) and deadtime (the time of survival after a seizure). The study involved six treatment groups: a negative control (Na-CMC), four conventional drug groups (phenytoin, diazepam, pregabalin, and gabapentin), and one herbal candidate group made from Polyalthia longifolia (glodokan tiang). The results showed that most treatment groups were able to delay seizure onset and significantly prolong deadtime compared to the negative control. Statistical analysis using ANOVA yielded a p-value <0.05, indicating a significant difference between groups. The herbal candidate Polyalthia longifolia showed promising anticonvulsant potential, although it did not fully match the effectiveness of conventional drugs such as phenytoin or diazepam. The negative control (Na-CMC) showed the fastest onset and shortest survival time, reflecting the absence of a protective effect against seizures. This study emphasizes the importance of further testing using chronic protocols and evaluating additional parameters such as plasma drug concentrations and neurological side effect profiles. The obtained data are expected to form the basis for the development of anticonvulsant therapies based on a combination of modern drugs and natural ingredients, with the hope of producing safer, more effective treatment alternatives, and potentially reducing dependence on long-term synthetic drugs.

This study aims to determine whether the storytelling method can improve the concentration of children aged 5-6 years at Paud Istiqomah, Tanah Seribu, South Binjai. This type of research is classroom action research (CAR) which is carried out in 2 cycles. Where each cycle is carried out 2 meetings. In each cycle, it is carried out through 4 stages, namely planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The data collection tool used is observation. The subjects of the study were 12 children in Ismail class at Paud Istoqomah South Binjai, consisting of 6 girls and 6 boys. While the object of this study is Improving the Concentration of Children Aged 5-6 Years Through the Use of the Storytelling Method at Paud Istiqomah South Binjai The results of the analysis at meeting 1 cycle I after the storytelling method was carried out, the average assessment of children's concentration was 32.3% which means it is included in the sufficient category. While at meeting 2 cycle I after the storytelling method was carried out, the average concentration of children was 43.5%, still in the sufficient category. The results of observations and reflections at meeting 1 of cycle II after the storytelling method was carried out, the average assessment of children's concentration was 65.7%, which means it is included in the good category. While at meeting 2 of cycle II after the storytelling method was carried out, the average concentration of children increased to 80.5%, which is still included in the good category. From the results of the study above, it can be concluded that using the storytelling method can increase the concentration of children aged 5-6 years at Paud Istiqomah South Binjai.

This literature review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of homesickness, or homesickness, particularly experienced by first-year college students. The transition from home life to a new campus environment often causes psychological stress, especially for those living away from family for the first time. One form of this stress is homesickness, which can impact students' mental, social, and academic well-being. This study used a literature review method, a data collection and analysis technique that involves identifying, evaluating, and synthesizing the results of previous research. In this study, the authors reviewed 15 scientific articles that directly discussed homesickness, as well as one additional article that discussed the literature review method. The results indicate that homesickness is a complex emotional condition, characterized by feelings of sadness, loneliness, and impaired concentration that arise due to separation from a familiar home environment. Factors contributing to homesickness include a lack of social support, strong emotional attachment to family, and an inability to adapt to a new environment. The forms of homesickness can vary, from mild to disruptive to daily functioning. Symptoms can include physical complaints, sleep problems, and decreased motivation. Several prevention and management strategies that can be implemented include strengthening social support, developing coping skills, and campus-based psychological interventions. By understanding the characteristics of homesickness, it is hoped that campuses and students can take proactive steps to address it.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation has been known to cause various adverse effects on the skin, including erythema (commonly referred to as sunburn), premature aging, and, with prolonged exposure, the risk of developing skin cancer. To counteract these harmful effects, sunscreen products are commonly used to protect the skin from UV radiation. The development of natural-based sunscreens is gaining attention due to their potential safety and antioxidant benefits. One promising natural ingredient is thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.), a medicinal herb that contains several secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins. These compounds possess antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties, making them suitable candidates as active ingredients in sunscreen formulations. This study aims to determine the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) value of thyme herb extract using the UV-Vis spectrophotometric method. A qualitative approach was used to assess the photoprotective potential of the extract. The SPF values were measured at three different concentrations of the extract: 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1.0%. The absorbance of each concentration was recorded at wavelengths ranging from 290 nm to 400 nm using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The SPF values were then calculated based on the absorbance data processed using Microsoft Excel. The results revealed that the thyme herb extract exhibited high SPF values at all tested concentrations. Specifically, the SPF values obtained were 36.027 for 0.5%, 36.244 for 0.75%, and 36.516 for 1.0% concentration. All three concentrations fall under the "ultra protection" category, indicating strong UV protective potential. These findings suggest that thyme herb extract can be effectively utilized as a natural active ingredient in the formulation of sunscreen products. Further studies are recommended to explore its stability, safety, and efficacy in topical applications.

Thalassemia is a genetic disorder characterized by impaired hemoglobin synthesis. This disease is caused by mutations in the globin gene, leading to disrupted production of globin chains. As a result, the red blood cells produced are dysfunctional and have a shorter lifespan, causing anemia. This condition requires proper medical management, including blood transfusions and other treatments. One way to detect and monitor the progression of thalassemia is by using biochemical markers that can identify changes in the patient’s body. Therefore, the aim of this systematic literature review is to identify biochemical markers that can be used for the diagnosis and monitoring of thalassemia. The literature used in this study includes articles on human thalassemia research published in the last 10 years. Literature searches were conducted in several academic databases using relevant keywords such as “biochemical markers for thalassemia,” “diagnosis of thalassemia,” and “thalassemia monitoring.” Based on the search results, several biochemical markers related to thalassemia were identified, including hepcidin, ferritin, and lipid profile. Ferritin plays a role in monitoring iron levels, which are often elevated in thalassemia patients, while hepcidin regulates iron homeostasis in the body. Additionally, other components involved in thalassemia diagnosis and monitoring include Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC), and hemoglobin levels. The findings of this systematic literature review are expected to provide a comprehensive overview of biochemical markers that can be used in the diagnosis and monitoring of thalassemia. By identifying relevant markers, it is hoped that more accurate and effective diagnostic methods will be developed in the future, leading to better monitoring of thalassemia patients.

This study investigated the phytochemical screening and antibacterial activity against various microorganisms including E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterococcus faecalis, and Candida albicans. Active compounds were isolated and identified from Aleppo Oak Gallnut, obtained from the Iraqi plant Quercus Infectoria L. Plant extracts were prepared using a continuous extraction apparatus, Soxhlet, with a successive solvent system based on polarity differences, including petroleum ether (60-80°C), ethanol (78°C), and hot aqueous extracts. Acid hydrolysis was performed on the raw ethanol and hot water extracts to obtain free phenolic compounds, including Gallic acid, Apigenin, Rutin, Kaempferol, Chlorogenic acid, and Caffeic acid, using high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) techniques. The inhibitory activity of Aleppo Oak Gallnut extracts (Ethanol and Hot Aqueous) after acid hydrolysis was tested using four concentrations (25%, 50%, 75%, 100%) against various microorganisms. The Ethanol extract exhibited a significant inhibitory effect on Enterococcus faecalis. The Hot Aqueous extract showed a modest inhibitory effect on Enterococcus faecalis. The Ethanol extract demonstrated strong inhibition against Klebsiella pneumoniae. The Hot Aqueous extract at 100% and 75% showed high inhibition. The Ethanol extract exhibited significant inhibitory effects against Staphylococcus aureus at 100%. The Hot Aqueous extract at 75% and 100%  demonstrated weaker inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus. The Ethanol extract demonstrated weaker inhibition against E. coli, and the Hot Aqueous extract showed no effect at 50%  and 25%, and slight inhibition at 100%  and 75%. For Candida albicans, the Ethanol extract showed minimal inhibition at all concentrations and no effect at 25%. The Aqueous extract had a slight effect at 100%  and no inhibition at 75%, 50%, and 25%.

Pedada leaves (Sonneratia caseolaris), a type of mangrove plant that grows in tropical and subtropical coastal areas, have high ecological and pharmacological value. In addition to functioning as coastal protection from abrasion and seawater intrusion, this plant is also known to contain various secondary metabolite compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids. These compounds have been widely reported to have important biological activities, one of which is as an antimicrobial agent. This study aims to identify the effectiveness of pedada leaf ethanol extract in inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, especially bacteria that cause infections. The extraction process was carried out using 96% ethanol solvent through the maceration method, namely soaking the material in the solvent for a certain time to optimally obtain active compounds. The obtained extract was then tested for its antimicrobial activity using the disc diffusion method against test bacteria, both Gram-positive and Gram-negative. The inhibition zone formed around the disc was measured as an indicator of the antibacterial effectiveness of the extract. The results showed that pedada leaf extract was able to produce inhibition zones with varying diameters depending on the concentration used. The higher the extract concentration, the larger the diameter of the inhibition zone formed. This indicates a positive relationship between extract concentration and its antibacterial strength. This activity is believed to originate from the ability of compounds such as flavonoids and tannins to damage bacterial cell walls or disrupt microbial metabolic processes. This study provides initial evidence that pedada leaves have potential as an environmentally friendly and sustainable source of natural antibacterials. This potential is highly relevant in efforts to develop alternative antibacterial materials based on local plants, especially amidst increasing bacterial resistance to synthetic antibiotics.

A thesis is an original scientific paper where the author presents their ideas by referencing the views of experts. The process of writing a thesis often leads to stress among students, which can affect various aspects of life, including physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Stress occurs when individuals struggle to cope with threats or challenges, which can negatively impact their physical well-being (Hardjana, 1994). The factors or situations that cause stress are known as stressors, which are divided into two types: eustress and distress. Eustress is a positive form of stress that encourages individuals to confront challenges constructively, while distress is a negative form of stress that can reduce motivation, concentration, and productivity, especially during the thesis writing process. Proper stress management is crucial for students to remain productive and avoid the negative effects of stress. One effective way to cope with stress is by practicing gratitude. Gratitude helps individuals focus on the positive aspects of their lives, such as the achievements they have made, the support from friends, or assistance from professors. By practicing gratitude, students can shift their focus away from failures or difficulties they face and remain optimistic in confronting challenges. Based on interviews with several students, it was found that those who successfully manage stress tend to practice gratitude in various forms. They look for the positive side in every challenge, appreciate the support from their surrounding environment, and value each small achievement in the thesis-writing process. This approach helps them stay resilient and motivated through the challenges they face during their thesis work, allowing them to remain focused and productive despite the pressure.

This study aims to determine the extent to which mental ability influences volleyball underhand passing skills and strategies for improving them in seventh-grade students at MTs SA Atholibiyah Bumijawa. The mental abilities studied included learning motivation, concentration, and self-confidence, as all three are considered important factors in supporting sports performance. The study used an experimental survey method with a correlation approach. The sample was determined through a purposive sampling technique, meaning only students who were actively involved in volleyball learning were included as respondents. The research instruments included a questionnaire to measure students' mental ability levels and an observation sheet to assess underhand passing skill practice. Data analysis was conducted using a correlation test to identify the relationship between mental ability and underhand passing skills, and regression analysis to measure the magnitude of the effect. The results showed a significant effect of mental ability on underhand passing skills. Students with high learning motivation tend to be more enthusiastic and consistent in practicing. Good concentration enables students to control movements, maintain balance, and manage timing when passing. In addition, strong self-confidence encourages students' courage in making decisions and reduces technical errors. This results in passing skills with more accuracy, control, and optimal timing. Improving strategies that can be implemented include structured training with the use of assistive devices to enhance technique, providing motivation and positive feedback from teachers to maintain enthusiasm, and focused training such as game simulations to strengthen concentration. The findings of this study confirm that mental development plays a crucial role in learning sports skills, particularly volleyball, thereby improving both the quality of learning and student achievement.

Beluntas (Pluchea indica L.) contains of flavonoids, which are beneficial for treating acne. Previous research has been conducted on peel-off gel masks made from ethanol extract of beluntas leaves. The aim of this study is to determine the variation in carbopol concentrations in the formulation of gel masks containing beluntas leaf extract, as well as to evaluate their physical stability. This research using three formulations with different carbopol concentrations: Formula I with 1% carbopol, Formula II with 1.5% carbopol, and Formula III with 2% carbopol. The physical evaluation of the beluntas leaf extract gel mask preparations included organoleptic, homogeneity, viscosity, pH, spreadability, and adhesiveness testing. All formulations underwent a stability test known as the cycling test (cycles 1 to 6). The results of the stability tests showed that Formulas II and III met the requirements for physical quality, whereas Formula I did not meet the viscosity and spreadability value ranges. The gel mask with the best results was Formula II with 1.5% carbopol concentration. However, based on the cycling stability test, there was an increase in viscosity and adhesiveness. Based on the cycling test results for organoleptic properties, homogeneity, and spreadability, Formula II did not show significant changes.

Anemia is a common health problem among adolescent girls, especially in developing countries like Indonesia. This condition is generally caused by insufficient iron intake, an unbalanced diet, and increased iron requirements during growth. Anemia not only impacts physical health but also affects concentration, productivity, and quality of life. Therefore, interventions based on nutrition education and the utilization of local food sources are crucial in sustainable anemia prevention efforts. One potential complementary therapy alternative is the consumption of herbal drinks based on moringa leaves (Moringa oleifera). Moringa leaves are known to be rich in iron, vitamin A, and antioxidants that play a role in red blood cell formation. This community service activity aims to increase the knowledge and skills of adolescent girls in utilizing moringa leaves as a natural source of iron. The target group is grade 10 and 11 female students at SMA Sejahtera Palembang, which was held in June 2025. The activity methods included a nutrition lecture on anemia and the importance of iron, an interactive discussion on the benefits of moringa leaves, and hands-on practice in making herbal moringa drinks (such as moringa leaf tea and moringa juice). The material was delivered using a communicative and participatory approach to actively engage participants. The results of the activity showed an increase in participants' understanding of the causes of anemia, the benefits of moringa leaves, and their willingness to consume herbal drinks as a preventative measure. Most participants also expressed interest in trying to make their own moringa herbal drink at home. This activity is expected to become part of school-based promotional and preventive efforts to address anemia in adolescent girls.