HAYATI Journal of Biosciences

Evaluation of Lantana camara Leaf Extract as Biopesticide for Lifecycle Disruption in Spodoptera litura

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Spodoptera litura is a destructive agricultural pest whose management is hindered by synthetic pesticides' ecological and health risks. Plant-based biopesticides, such as Lantana camara leaf extract, provide a sustainable alternative due to the presence of bioactive phytochemicals with pesticidal properties. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of L. camara extract in disrupting the lifecycle of S. litura. A completely randomized design was adopted, and six treatment concentrations of L. camara extract, namely 0%, 6.25%, 12.5%, 25%, 50%, and 100%, were applied to second-instar larvae. Observations included larval development time, leaf consumption, pupation rate, pupal weight, moth emergence, and fecundity. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, and the result showed that the extract had strong dose-dependent effects on all variables. Pupation, moth development, and fecundity were inhibited by concentrations greater than 25%. Feeding activity was significantly reduced at higher concentrations, with a 100% concentration achieving a 3.67% leaf consumption rate after 48 hours. Larval development was delayed or halted entirely at critical thresholds. In conclusion, L. camara extract effectively disrupted the lifecycle of S. litura, providing immediate suppression and long-term population control. The dual-action potential, biodegradability, and natural origin made extract a sustainable alternative to synthetic pesticides. Future studies are recommended to validate these results under field conditions and evaluate impacts on non-target species.

Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Entomopathogenic Fungi Beauveria spp. Bengkulu Isolate

Sempurna ginting, Djamilah, Sipriyadi, Silvia Permata Sari — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 09:54:10 +0700

Beuveria is a genus of entomopathogenic fungi that plays an important role in controlling agricultural pests. Pest control with entomopathogenic fungi is an alternative to reduce influence the use of chemical insecticides. The diversity of entomopathogenic fungi intraspecies is by the genetic diversity of isolates, a high diversity of isolates can result diversity of fungus virulence. The purpose of this study was to perform the characterization molecular of entomopathogenic fungi Beauveria spp. Bengkulu isolate. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed for molecular identification Beauveria isolates were obtained from infected larvae in the field (1. Isolate from Coleoptera in Kepahiang, Bengkulu (BBC), 2. Isolate from Hemiptera: Pentatomidae in Rejang Lebong, Bengkulu (BBL), and 3. Isolate from Hemiptera: Alydidae in Taba Mulan, Merigi District, Kepahiang, Bengkulu (MT). The results of the amplification of the entomopathogen Beauveria samples produce DNA bands around ±580 bp. The DNA sequence analysis of ITS 5F and ITS 4R primers showed that the isolates BBC, MT and BBL have fairly high similarity with the Beauveria bassiana isolate 1397, Beauveria bassiana isolate SBI TNSPI, Beauveria bassiana strain B-Bug, Beauveria bassiana voucher TSJBB, Beauveria bassiana isolate SASRI C2, Beauveria bassiana isolate IMI 382764, Beauveria bassiana BCRC:FU31669, Beauveria bassiana isolate B098, Beauveria bassiana isolate INRS-CFL, Beauveria sp. JS-2009a isolate B4B, Beauveria bassiana isolate KACC with the homology of 99.83%, 99.83%, and 98.61%.

Effect of Phosphate-based Glass Porous Microspheres (P30) Loaded with Extracellular Vesicle on Osteoblast Behaviour: In Vitro Study

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 13:22:04 +0700

Bioactive materials, particularly phosphate-based glasses (PBG), hold great promise in bone repair due to their controllable degradation rates and bioactivity. This study evaluated PBG porous microspheres (P30) loaded with extracellular vesicles (EVs) for bone tissue engineering, focusing on osteogenesis, EV uptake, and cell invasion. P30 concentrations (5P30, 10P30, 50P30, 100P30, 500P30) were tested for their effects on calcification, EV uptake, and cell migration. Results showed that 100P30 exhibited optimal conditions for osteogenesis and EV delivery, with the highest calcification areas at both Day 7 and Day 14 and the most efficient EV internalization. Meanwhile, 500P30 demonstrated the highest cell migration, supporting pre-osteoblastic migration at this concentration. These findings indicate that 100P30 is ideal for mineralization and EV uptake, while 500P30 enhances cell invasion. This study highlights P30's versatility as a biomaterial for bone regeneration, with specific concentrations tailored to different regenerative goals. These results underscore the potential of P30 microspheres loaded with EVs as an effective strategy for promoting bone repair and regeneration.

The Potential Use of Wood Vinegar as an Alternative Inhibitor to Enhance 5-Aminolevulinic Acid Production by Bacillus paramycoides

Farah, Ahmad Fauzi, Dicky Adihayyu Monconegoro, Diana Nurani, Silva Abraham — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 09:54:07 +0700

The expensive production of 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) as a plant growth stimulator led to an attempt to get an alternative substrate to reduce the production cost. Levulinic acid is the inhibitor of ALA dehydratase in ALA production. Wood vinegar, a liquid gas produced from wood combustion in airtight conditions, is known to contain 12-17 mM of levulinic acid. This study aims to explore the use of wood vinegar as a potential substitute for levulinic acid in the extracellular production of ALA by bacteria identified as Bacillus paramycoides through 16S rRNA sequence analysis. Adding precursor and inhibitor glutamate and 1% wood vinegar increased the ALA production to 174.3 µM, while the combination of glutamate and levulinic acid raised the ALA production to 179.9 µM. This study confirmed that wood vinegar can enhance the concentration of ALA and potentially substitute levulinic acid as an inhibitor in ALA production.

Exhaustive Extraction of Bioactive Components from Sargassum cristaefolium Brown Seaweed: Antioxidant Potential and Bioactivity

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 11:57:38 +0700

Bioactive components are essential ingredients of functional foods, supplements, pharmaceuticals, etc. Sargassum cristaefolium brown seaweed, as an Indonesian marine resource, provides promising bioactive components. The present study was to extract the total bioactive components of S. cristaefolium with a microwave instrument. The extraction method was done serially using different polarity solvents (1^st-stage: non-polar, 2^nd-stage: semi-polar, Final-stage: polar). Yielded extracts were analyzed for bioactive compounds, functional groups, total phenolic and flavonoid, and antioxidative activities. The results showed that all staged extractions obtained bioactive compounds with various characteristics. However, the 2^nd-stage extract was superior, and it exhibited the highest total phenolic and flavonoid (17.53±0.78 mg GAE/g, 72.64±3.01 mg QE/g), the richest volatile bioactive compounds (neophytadiene and phytol were dominant), and the predominant bioactive compound of antioxidative (oleoylethanolamide). Their functional groups confirmed the structure of antioxidative phenolic molecules: C―C stretching skeleton (phenyl/aromatic core), C―H stretching, C―H bending, and O―H stretching. The strongest primary (1439.84±63.02 µg/ml) and secondary (389.73±16.71 µg/ml) antioxidant activities were presented by the 2^nd-stage extract. The efficiency of MAE and the potential of S. cristaefolium were promising for developing functional foods and pharmaceuticals that relate to antioxidants in the future.

Antiplasmodial Activity, Cytotoxicity, and Active Compounds Analysis of Active Fraction of Harmsiopanax aculeatus Leaves from Maluku, Indonesia

Rachel Turalely, Mustofa, Triana Hertiani, Mahardika Agus Wijayanti — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 14:47:59 +0700

The leaves of the H. aculeatus plant are known as a traditional antimalarial medicinal plant in Maluku. Several studies have reported on the leaf activity of this plant, but studies on in vitro and in vivo antiplasmodial activity and the compounds in the active fraction (F7) of H.aculeatus leaf have not been reported. This study aims to determine the antiplasmodial activity of the F7 of H. aculeatus leaves and to analyze the compounds contained therein. In vitro, antiplasmodial activity was tested on Plasmodium falciparum strain FCR3 using a microscopic method. A cytotoxicity test was performed on Vero cells using an MTT assay. In vivo, the antiplasmodial activity of F7 was carried out using the 4-day suppressive test method by treating Swiss mice infected with P. berghei. Analysis of the compounds in an F7 was done using spray reagent and UV Vis DAD and HPLC DAD-MS with a UV detector. The results showed that the F7 was very active in vitro (IC₅₀ of 0.7 µg.ml^-1) and in vivo (ED₅₀ of 2.49 mg.kg BW^-1.d^-1) also selectively (SI of 8159.94) inhibited the growth of Plasmodium. The F7 contains a group of essential oils, triterpenoids, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids after being analyzed using spray reagents. Based on the analysis results, five compounds were identified: fomoxanthone, cyclopentene, microspherone, indole 3-carbaldehyde, and naamine. In addition, seven compounds were not identified.

Exploring Polycarpa aurata Quoy and Gaimard, 1834 Extracts as Antibiotic Candidates: GC-MS Profiling and Molecular Docking Study

Nenis Sardiani, Magdalena Litaay, Zaraswati Dwyana, Riuh Wardhani — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 15:02:34 +0700

Marine natural products have garnered global interest due to their remarkable bioactive compounds. The tunicate P. aurata, a highly abundant marine invertebrate, possesses significant bioactive potential with applications as an anti-cancer, antibacterial, and antifungal agent. This study aims to evaluate the potential of P. aurata bioactive compounds as antibiotic candidates through in vitro testing and to explore their activity via an in-silico approach using molecular docking. P. aurata was extracted using maceration, yielding both methanol and n-hexane extracts. The methanol extract of P. aurata demonstrated greater efficacy than the n-hexane extract, particularly against Staphylococcus aureus with an inhibition zone diameter of 18.8 mm, compared to 13 mm for Salmonella typhi, both at a 25% concentration. In comparison, the positive control, ciprofloxacin, produced an inhibition zone ranging from 22 to 24 mm for both bacterial strains. GC-MS analysis of the extract revealed three compounds with high % area and similarity index values: Cyclohexane, 1,3,5-triphenyl, Cholesta-5,22-dien-3-ol, and Cholesta-3,5-diene, all of which were suitable for the selected protein target. Computational analysis through molecular docking demonstrated that these compounds exhibit stronger binding affinities compared to ciprofloxacin. This study suggests that the extract of P. aurata is a promising source of bioactive compounds with substantial therapeutic potential as an antibacterial and antibiotic candidate.

Population Structure, Site Fidelity, and Residency Patterns of Whale Sharks (Rhincodon typus) in Botubarani Waters, Gorontalo Province, Indonesia

Rahman Rahman, I Nyoman Suyasa, Awaludin Syamsuddin, Reza Shah Pahlevi — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 09:14:43 +0700

Whale shark (Rhincodon typus) is the largest fish species in the world and is classified as endangered. This study is crucial for the conservation of this species and developing effective conservation strategies. The research was conducted in the Botubarani waters, Gorontalo Province. Individual whale shark identification was performed using Photo ID, including the identification of sex and wound location. Photo IDs were processed using the Interactive Individual Identification System (I3S) software and includes information related to the ID, body length, and the time the individual was previously identified. Monitoring of the location, number, timing of whale shark presences and water parameters, was carried out through direct field observations. The results showed that 5 whale shark individuals were identified, all of which were male, with lengths ranging from 4.5 to 4.8 meters, and 1 individual had visible wounds. From 78 days of monitoring, Whale sharks were observed for 70 days and not observed for 8 days. The frequency of whale shark appearances ranged from 1 to 4 individuals per day. Whale sharks in Botubarani waters exhibited site fidelity and a mixed migration pattern. The intensity of their presence is quite high. This intensity is supported by ecological conditions that are optimal for the life of whale sharks, particularly those of juvenile age. The measured water parameters significantly influence their presence.

The Effect of Papaya Derived Exosome-like Nanoparticle as a Potential Photoprotective Agent in Nanocosmetics

Faticha Nasharo Qisthia Farid, Anggraini Barlian, Indra Wibowo — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 10:14:26 +0700

Indonesia, as a tropical nation, experiences year-round ultraviolet radiation exposure. Excessive ultraviolet radiation, particularly UVB, accelerates premature skin aging, known as photoaging. UVB radiation induces photoaging by damaging DNA and increasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which leads to oxidative stress and results in increased apoptosis, melanogenesis, senescence, cell cycle arrest, and reduced cell migration capacity. Thus, identifying agents that can mitigate photoaging is crucial for developing skincare therapies. One of the alternative therapies currently being developed is plant-derived exosome-like nanoparticles (PDENs). Papaya (Carica papaya), renowned for its flavonoid and phenolic content, exhibits potent antioxidant properties and has been extensively utilized in skincare formulations. Therefore, this study investigates the effects of papaya-derived exosome-like nanoparticles (CP-PDEN) on inhibiting photoaging in 1BR3 fibroblast cell lines and zebrafish. Results indicated that CP-PDEN effectively internalized into 1BR3 cells and was categorized as nontoxic. The study then examined photoprotective effects after UVB irradiation (100 mJ/cm²) and found that CP-PDEN treatment resulted in better viability and nuclear morphology. Furthermore, CP-PDEN accelerates wound closure in 1BR3 cells and decreases melanocyte count in zebrafish compared with controls. In conclusion, CP-PDEN significantly enhanced cell viability and migration and suppressed melanogenesis, indicating its potential for anti-photoaging skincare applications.

Feasibility of Probiotic Lactobacillus casei FNCC 0090 to Improve Growth and Immune Response of Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) toward Aeromonas hydrophila Infection

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 10:44:58 +0700

Aeromonas hydrophila can cause motile Aeromonas septicemia, leading to high mortality in catfish. An effective alternative to treat this bacterial infection is administering the probiotic Lactobacillus casei FNCC 0090. However, proper fisheries management is crucial for long-term success. The aim of this research is to determine the effect of administering the probiotic L. casei FNCC 0090 on the growth parameters and immune system of catfish. 200 catfish were divided into 5 different treatments in 5 replicates. The treatments were KN (negative control: without probiotic and infected), KP (positive control: without probiotic and not infected), A (5% probiotic and infected), B (10% probiotic and infected), C (probiotic 15% and infected). The density of probiotics administered is 10⁸ CFU/ml. The fish were kept for 42 days; on the 35^th day, the fish were infected with 1 x 10⁸ CFU/ml A. hydrophila intramuscularly. The parameters observed in this study are fish growth (specific growth rate, SGR; feed conversion ratio, FCR; and survival rate, SR) and the immune system (phagocytic activity and the amount of lysozyme enzyme). The data obtained were analyzed with SPSS One Way ANOVA. The results showed that the administration of 15% probiotic L. casei FNCC 0090 had a significant effect on the growth parameters and immune system.

The Trehalose-6-Phosphate Synthase and Trehalose-6-Phosphate Phosphatase in Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.): Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 11:20:04 +0700

Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.), a vital industrial crop renowned for its economic and nutritional significance, faces increasing challenges due to climate change-induced stresses. To enhance the understanding of cocoa's adaptive mechanisms, a comprehensive analysis was conducted on the trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase (TPP) and trehalose-6-phosphate synthase (TPS) gene families, which play crucial roles in plant stress responses and development. Five TcTPP and eight TcTPS genes were identified using the latest cocoa genome assembly, distributed unevenly across nine of the ten chromosomes. Detailed physicochemical characterization revealed significant variability in amino acid length, molecular weight, isoelectric point, and hydrophilicity among these proteins, suggesting functional diversity. Phylogenetic analyses, performed using the maximum likelihood method, classified the TcTPP family into three distinct clades and the TcTPS family into two main groups. Gene structure examination uncovered variations in exon-intron organization, with TcTPP genes containing nine to twelve exons and TcTPS genes ranging from three to eighteen exons, indicating structural diversity within these families. Based on publicly available datasets, expression profiling demonstrated differential expression patterns of TcTPP and TcTPS genes during embryo development and under biotic stress conditions, such as pathogen infection by Phytophthora megakarya. Certain genes exhibited significant upregulation or downregulation in response to stress, implicating them in cocoa's defense mechanisms. Taken together, this study provides valuable insights into the TPP and TPS gene families in cocoa. It lays a foundation for developing strategies to enhance stress tolerance and sustainability in cocoa cultivation amidst changing climatic conditions.

Relationship between Fluid Intelligence and Executive Function among University Students in Indonesia

Alfina Zalfa Suryono, Eneng Nunuz Rohmatullayaly, Kanthi Arum Widayati — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 12:17:44 +0700

Fluid intelligence is the ability to think logically and abstractly. Executive function is the behavioural ability to coordinate, control and adapt to new situations. Fluid intelligence and executive function play an important role in the ability to solve problems, adapt, and carry out daily behaviour. Previous research states that high fluid intelligence is followed by high executive function. Currently, there are no data regarding the relationship between fluid intelligence and executive function and the socio-demographic factors associated with both variables. Therefore, this study to examine the relationship and socio-demographic factors between fluid intelligence and executive function among university students in Indonesia. This study was conducted using a questionnaire and the zoom platform with a total of 306 university student in Indonesia. First, responders will complete a questionnaire containing demographic information. Second, respondents will be contacted again to assess fluid intelligence using the Baddeley Reasoning Test and executive function measurement using Tower of Hanoi. This study found that fluid intelligence was not substantially linked with planning time. However, high fluid intelligence was strongly related with less mobility and overall time. The socio-demographic component related with fluid intelligence is age. Sociodemographic factors related with executive function include sex, education level, and study discipline, as well as overall time.

Behaviour of Wild, Non-Adult Bornean White-Bearded Gibbons (Hylobates albibarbis) in Indonesia

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 12:32:31 +0700

Primates have an extended juvenile period associated with critical social and environmental learning. In particular, social play is positively associated with brain size in primates, indicating an important role in cognition and development. However, this behaviour has been overlooked in the Hylobatidae family. The activity patterns of eight non-adult Bornean white-bearded gibbons (Hylobates albibarbis) from four groups were studied in the Sebangau peat-swamp forest in Borneo from 2005 to 2019. We compare our findings to previous reports for adult conspecifics, report the directionality of non-adult play behaviour, and examine whether the weather impacts daily activity patterns. Feeding (39.5%), resting (27.6%) and travelling (23%) were the main activities of juveniles, while infants mostly played (42.1%) or clung to their mothers (38.3%). Non-adult groups socialised and observed their surroundings more often, and they travelled and called less often than adults. Feeding and resting frequency did not differ significantly from that of adults. Infants engaged in self-centred play twice as often as juveniles and directed most of their playing attention towards sub-adults (58%). Weather variables, previously reported to be good predictors of certain adult activities, such as singing, did not appear to affect infant and juvenile activities. Play is a critical part of primate physical and social development, and this study describes some key behaviours of young gibbons. Understanding the play behaviour of gibbons in the wild will help inform the rehabilitation of an ever-increasing number of orphaned individuals who are victims of the illegal pet trade.

Cell Cycle Target Protein Induced by Galangin Treatment in Luminal Cells Confirmed by Bioinformatics Analysis

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 08:37:41 +0700

Galangin has activity modulating cell cycle arrest on luminal cancer cells and has high selectivity and low cytotoxicity for normal cells. This research intends to know galangin's prospective targets for promoting cell cycle arrest in luminal breast cancer via experimental in vitro, network pharmacology, and bioinformatics validation. In this research, MCF-7, a luminal model cell, was treated with galangin dose-dependent. Consequently, galangin exhibited a cytotoxic impact, with IC₅₀ values of 117.86 μM. After that, SwissTargetPrediction, UALCAN, ShinyGO, and OncoLnc were used for bioinformatics validations, and Cytoscape software and the STRING website were used for computational analysis. Eight overlapping galangin target genes against luminal breast cancer were found. According to the analysis of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, eight hub genes-including CDK1, PLK1, TOP2A, ESR1, AURKB, NEK2, MMP9, and CA12-had the highest degree of freedom. Cell cycle regulation has been discovered to be tightly associated with overexpression of CDK1, PLK1, AURKB, and NEK2. By influencing the cell cycle, galangin inhibits the growth of luminal breast cancer, as determined by GO and KEGG enrichment analyses. In conclusion, by triggering cell cycle arrest, galangin may be used as a prospective chemotherapeutic treatment.

Assessment of the Influence of Adiponectin, Nesfatin-1, Insulin Resistance, and Various Biochemical Parameters in Samples of Iraqi Individuals Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Pre-diabetes

Abdullah Abdulsattar Raeef, Mohammed Hashim Mohammed, Jwan Najm Abdullah — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 09:12:37 +0700

Pre-diabetes is characterized by elevated blood sugar levels that are not yet high enough for a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis. Type 2 diabetes results from insufficient insulin production or cellular resistance to insulin. Adiponectin, secreted by adipose tissue, regulates glucose metabolism and energy balance, while nesfatin-1, derived from NUCB2, influences appetite and energy homeostasis. This case-control study at Al-Ramadi Teaching Hospital included 80 participants with diabetes mellitus (DM) or early-stage DM and 40 healthy controls. Demographic data, including age, Body mass index (BMI), and disease duration, were collected. Laboratory tests measured fasting blood glucose (FBG), Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c%), insulin, adiponectin, and nesfatin-1 levels. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation, and AUC analysis, assessed relationships and diagnostic accuracy. Results showed significantly higher levels of FBG, HbA1c, insulin resistance, and nesfatin-1 in early diabetes and DM type 2 cases compared to healthy controls. Nesfatin-1 concentrations were also notably higher in early diabetes compared to other groups. Adiponectin levels did not significantly differ between early diabetes and the control group but were significantly higher in the DM type 2 group. Both early diabetes and DM type 2 were associated with increased FBG, HbA1c, nesfatin-1, and insulin resistance, while adiponectin levels rose only in DM type 2. These findings suggest adiponectin as a potential biomarker for DM type 2, while nesfatin-1 may aid early diabetes diagnosis.

Detection of the Yersinia enterocolitica Bacteria Targeting the myfA and ystA Genes in Contaminated Vegetable Samples using Real-Time PCR to Develop Rapid Detection of Food Poisoning Bacteria

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 09:22:25 +0700

Yersinia enterocolitica is a pathogenic bacterium with the ability to survive and multiply in food in a low-temperature environment that can cause death in humans. In previous studies, the optimum annealing temperature of ymoA, ystA, and ail gene primers with amplicons of 185 bp, 123 bp, and 192 bp, respectively, was successfully found. This study aims to develop a pathogenic bacteria detection kit with confirmation, sensitivity, and specificity of myfA and ystA primers in detecting Yersinia enterocolitica bacteria quickly and accurately using the real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction method. The results showed that myfA and ystA primers have optimum annealing temperatures at 60°C with amplicon lengths of 181 bp and 123 bp, respectively. Primer myfA was able to amplify the target with real-time PCR at Ct 12.07±1 and Tm 81±1°C, while the ystA primer at Ct 12.38±1 and Tm 83±1°C. myfA and ystA primers were also able to distinguish target and non-target bacteria based on Ct or Tm. The designed primers successfully detected Yersinia enterocolitica bacteria with the smallest concentration of 0.000439 ng/µL equivalent to 7.024 × 10² CFU. The detection limit obtained is smaller than the contamination threshold set by the Food and Drug Administration (BPOM). Primer myfA and ystA Yersinia enterocolitica also successfully detected the target bacteria in cabbage and lettuce samples artificially. Based on these results, myfA and ystA primers successfully detected Yersinia enterocolitica in vegetable samples using real-time PCR quickly, sensitively, specifically, and accurately.

Expression of the BAX Gene, CO1 Gene, and their Relationship to the Motility and Spermatozoa Concentration of Rats Treated with Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 09:49:47 +0700

Spermatogenesis is the process of spermatozoa formation. An increase in free radicals, such as in hyperglycemia conditions, causes oxidative stress, which can interfere with spermatogenesis. Oxidative stress is an inequality condition between the body’s capacity to produce antioxidants and the rise of free radicals. Antioxidants such as flavonoids are contained in plants such as Moringa oleifera leaves. During spermatogenesis, an apoptosis process involves the BAX gene. BAX is a gene that functions as pro-apoptosis. There is also a CO1 gene in mitochondria, which plays a role in cellular metabolism. Gene expression examination assesses the comparative threshold cycle (CT) with RT-PCR, and spermatozoa quality examination includes assessing spermatozoa concentration and motility. This study used 30 male white Sprague Dawley rats as the test animals, which were divided into five treatment groups: treatment of moringa leaf extract dose 200 mg/kg BW, treatment dose 300 mg/kg BW, treatment dose 400 mg/kg BW, normal control group, and positive control group. The results showed a decrease in BAX gene expression and CO1 gene expression in the treatment group of test animals. The results of sperm analysis showed an increase in spermatozoa concentration in all treatment groups compared to the control group. For sperm motility in the 400 mg/KgBB dose treatment, an increase in sperm motility compared to the control group. This study concludes that administering moringa leaf extract reduced the expression of the Bax and CO1 genes. However, no significant changes were observed in sperm concentration and motility within the treatment group.

Pharmacognostical Evaluation, Growth Inhibitory and Antioxidant Activities of Chasmanthera dependens Hochst.

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 09:00:08 +0700

The absence of pharmacognostic criteria and inadequate crude drug quality control yardsticks are the primary reasons for medicinal plant misidentification, therapeutic failure, and toxicity associated with herbal medicines. This study aims to identify the macroscopic and microscopic features, physicochemical properties, important chemical constituents, and antioxidant and growth inhibitory potential of Chasmanthera dependens, a species found in the rainforest of West Africa. A detailed pharmacognostic evaluation of C. dependens was carried out, including macroscopic and microscopic characterization, phytochemical screening, and physicochemical analysis. Antioxidant and growth-inhibitory bioassays were performed to assess its bioactivity. Chasmanthera dependens is characterized by a cylindrical, partly long, rough-surfaced twig with evergreen, cordate leaves. Its exudate is odorless but slightly sweet, with a bitter aftertaste. Microscopic analysis revealed covering trichomes on both adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces, with an anomocytic type of stomata only on the abaxial surface. The chemical analysis showed the fruit is rich in phytoconstituents like alkaloids, tannins, and flavonoids, as well as important micronutrients such as zinc, copper, cadmium, magnesium, manganese, protein, lipids, and fiber. The extracts demonstrated significant antioxidant and growth-inhibitory effects. This study provides the first detailed pharmacognostic features of C. dependens, contributing valuable data for its identification, quality control, and potential medicinal applications.

Evaluation of the 90-Day Administration of Cyperus rotundus Tubers on Nrf2, SOD, and MDA Profiles by Flow Cytometry

Meddy Setiawan, Noviana Dwi Lestari, Sulistyo Mulyo Agustini — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 09:13:03 +0700

Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) are components involved in the antioxidant system and the body's response to oxidative stress. The bioactive compounds of Cyperus rotundus tuber (CRT) have pharmacological effects as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of CRT administration for 90 days on the profiles of Nrf2, SOD, and MDA. 24 male Wistar rats were used in this study and divided into 4 treatment groups: Control, dose 1 (300 mg/kg BW), dose 2 (600 mg/kg BW), and dose 3 (900 mg/kg BW). Oral administration of CRT was carried out for 90 days. On day 91, liver isolation was performed to determine the profiles of Nrf2, SOD, and MDA using Flow Cytometry. Statistical analysis using One-Way ANOVA with P<0.05 was conducted using SPSS. The administration of CRT to Wistar rats for 90 days did not induce toxic or harmful effects. The Nrf2 and MDA profiles did not show excessive activation with CRT administration. The SOD profile increased with D1 administration compared to the control and other doses. The administration of CRT for 90 days has the potential to be used as a natural alternative to address diseases related to oxidative stress.

Elevation Affects the Development, Growth, and Cocoon Quality of Eri Silkworm Samia cynthia ricini Boisduval (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae)

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 10:14:51 +0700

Samia cynthia ricini is a species of silkworm whose survival, development, and cocoon quality are affected by its environmental factors such as elevation, which affects temperature and humidity. This study aimed to examine the impact of elevation on the survival, development time, cocoon shell weight, and fecundity of S. c. ricini. The research was performed at two sites with different elevations: highland and lowland regions. The findings indicated that S. c. ricini, reared in the highlands, had higher survival rates than those cultivated in the lowlands. Meanwhile, the developmental time of S. c. ricini reared in the lowlands was faster than in the highlands. Additionally, the cocoon shell weight of S. c. ricini reared in the lowlands was also heavier, and the total fecundity of the adults of S. c. ricini reared in the lowlands was higher than those reared in the highlands. This study recommends that S. c. ricini be reared in lowland settings for best results.

The Gene Analysis and Probiotic Potential Characterization of Pseudomonas alcaligenes SG03

Baso Manguntungi, Iman Rusmana, Apon Zaenal Mustopa, Anja Meryandini — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 10:56:09 +0700

AHPND causes up to 80% of shrimp mortality, severely impacting Indonesia's aquaculture. Rising antibiotic resistance necessitates sustainable alternatives. This study investigates the probiotic potential of Pseudomonas alcaligenes SG03, a bacterium with unique genomic traits, to address antibiotic resistance and promote animal health. Genome analysis revealed a 6.17 Mb genome with 4,446 protein clusters, including genes for carbohydrate metabolism (26.63%), amino acid metabolism (19.93%), and energy metabolism (10.88%). Key probiotic-related genes, such as acid resistance (rpoS, actP), salinity tolerance (gshA, cysK), antibiotic resistance (vanB, gyrA), and metal resistance (copZ, zwf), were identified. In vitro, assays evaluated probiotic properties under conditions mimicking the shrimp gastrointestinal tract. Osmo-tolerance tests showed optimal growth at 10% glucose, with a significant drop in viability at higher concentrations. Autoaggregation increased progressively, reaching 0.78 at 18 hours and 0.13 at 48 hours. Optimal growth occurred at 30°C, with a 2.5-fold increase in optical density compared to 25°C. NaCl tolerance peaked at 2% (20.33×10¹² CFU at 48 hours), while bile salt tolerance was highest at 0.1% (27.00×10¹² CFU at 48 hours). pH tolerance was optimal at pH 5 (20.00×10¹² CFU at 48 hours). Antioxidant (53.00%) and anti-inflammatory (60.33%) activities peaked after 48 hours. Phenotypic antibiotic resistance was observed against Tetracycline, Amoxicillin, Cefixime, Streptomycin, and Chloramphenicol, with proteolytic activity but no lipolytic or hemolytic properties. These findings highlight P. alcaligenes SG03’s potential as a probiotic in aquaculture to support shrimp health and reduce antibiotic dependency. Future studies should focus on in vivo validation and formulation development.

Truncation on N-Terminal Hydrophobic Domain of L1 Major Capsid Protein of Human Papillomavirus Type 52 Enhances Its Expression in Hansenula polymorpha

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 13:23:44 +0700

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the main cause of cervical cancer. The administration of the HPV prophylactic vaccine, which is commonly produced based on HPV L1 major capsid protein, significantly reduces the incidence of cervical cancer. However, the coverage of the HPV vaccination program is often hindered due to its relatively high cost. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of N-terminal hydrophobic domain truncation on the expression of L1 major capsid protein of HPV type 52 in Hansenula polymorpha. The truncation enhanced the yield of L1 protein expression compared with the full length, which was confirmed by Western blot and ELISA. Furthermore, the truncated L1 protein formed virus-like particles (VLPs), which were confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Bioinformatics analysis showed that the truncated L1 protein was more soluble compared with the full length, possibly increasing the protein expression. These findings could pave the way for the development of a more cost-effective HPV type 52 L1 protein production in H. polymorpha to be used as a VLP-based prophylactic vaccine.

Phytochemical Analysis and Pharmacological Properties of Epipremnum pinnatum (L.) Fruit Extracts

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 13:28:56 +0700

Epipremnum pinnatum (L.) Engl., belonging to the family Araceae, is a medicinal plant used by locals in many Asian countries to treat common ailments such as wounds and pain. In this study, the different parts of the fruits -peel, core, and kernels were analyzed for their phytochemicals and antioxidant potentials. Initial phytochemical investigation revealed that flavonoids, polyphenols, and sterols were found in all parts. Terpenoids were found in the core and peel extracts, while cardiac glycosides were found in the core and kernel extracts. The peel extracts were found to have the highest flavonoid content (308.9±19.2 mg quercetin equivalent per g fresh wt sample). It also exhibited the highest total antioxidant activity (EC₅₀ = 23.1±4.2 ppm) among the three extracts, which is next to the activity of ascorbic acid (EC₅₀= 4.6±1.6 ppm) using the phosphomolybdate method. It also gave the highest DPPH-free radical scavenging activity (EC₅₀ = 41.9±2.6 ppm) among the three extracts but lower activity than the ascorbic acid (EC₅₀ = 1.1±0.5 ppm). At 200 ppm, the peel extracts exhibited a profound inhibitory effect (>50%) on the melanin production in zebrafish embryos. But, at this concentration, the peel extracts were also found to be toxic to the embryo, with 43% mortality. However, the extract did not exhibit antibacterial properties against E. coli and S. aureus. These results suggest the potential of the fruit parts, particularly the peel, as a source of natural compounds with pharmacological importance.

DNA Barcoding of Commercially Important Groupers (Epinephelidae) in Simeulue and Banyak Islands, Aceh, Indonesia

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 13:47:09 +0700

The groupers are a group of demersal fish that live in tropical and subtropical areas and are mostly linked to coral reefs. The fish are highly valued in international markets and are subjected to overfishing in the wild. Accurate fish resource identification knowledge is essential for sustainable fisheries management. This research is aimed to generate a reference COI sequence library of grouper species caught in Simeulue and Banyak Islands, Aceh. The study was conducted from April-September 2021 at sixteen fish landing sites in Simeulue and Banyak Islands. In total, this study generated 70 COI sequences representing 20 grouper species. Epinephelus (54%) was the most prevalent grouper genus at the study site, followed by Cephalopholis (19%), Plectropomus (13%), Variola (12%), Hyporthodus (1%), and Anyperodon (1%). According to the IUCN classification, 17 species (85%) fall into the category of Least Concern, two (10%) fall into the category of Vulnerable, and one (5%) falls into the category of Data Deficient. The average genetic distance based on the Kimura-2-Parameter (K2P) between specimens was 0.51% at the species level and 8.34% at the genus level. Overall, this study has provided the COI sequence database of grouper for the Simeulue and Banyak Islands.

The Role of Biofilm on Microplastics as A Vector for Heavy Metals in the Waters of Sendang Biru, Malang Regency

Ahmad Nuril Fuad Al Fatih, Andi Kurniawan, Maharani Pertiwi Koentjoro — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 14:20:41 +0700

Microplastic contamination in water provides an ideal surface for biofilm formation. It facilitates other pollutants, such as heavy metals, to attach to their surface. This interaction leads to biological and environmental problems. We tested this phenomenon by investigating the presence of microplastics in water, biofilms on surfaces, and heavy metal accumulation during September 2024. It further examines the relationship between microplastic and their contamination in fish. Samples were collected from two stations, namely Kondang Buntung Fish Auction Place (TPI) and the Indonesian Navy Post, water from Sendang Biru, using a purposive sampling method. A total of 20 liters of water and 6 Banyar fish (Rastrelliger kanagurta) specimens were analyzed. In contrast, biofilm morphology and heavy metal content were analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray. The result found that fibre-shaped microplastics, with fragments and filaments, dominated water samples. Microplastics 1-5 mm in size show that their colors included black, blue, red, and transparent. Five biofilm morphologies on the microplastic surfaces were identified: platelet, thin film, solid film, sporous, and diatoms. Heavy metals (Pb, Hg, Cd, Al, Mg, Fe) were detected with weight percentages ranging from 0.473 to 2.533%. Microplastics are found in the digestive tracts of fish, predominantly microplastic as filaments followed by fragments and fibers. We found that biofilm-coated microplastics accumulate heavy metals, posing a risk of pollutant transfer to aquatic organisms.