Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry (E-Journal - Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity)
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Toddler Massage as a Supplementary Intervention in Overcoming Stunting in Children: Research from Stunting Locus Area in Gorontalo City
Get PDFStunting defined as impaired linear growth resulting in a child’s height falling below the age-appropriate standard, remains a pressing global health concern due to its long-term implications on development and increased risk of mortality. In Gorontalo Province, Indonesia, the prevalence of stunting exceeds the national target of 23.8%, with North Gorontalo Regency reporting the highest rate at 29.3%. This study aimed to examine the effect of toddler massage on weight gain among stunted children. A quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group approach was employed, involving 32 stunted toddlers selected through purposive sampling. Participants were equally allocated into an intervention group (n=16), which received toddler massage based on standard operating procedures, and a control group (n=16), which did not receive the intervention. Body weight was measured using digital scales. The results of the paired t-test revealed a statistically significant weight gain in the intervention group (p = 0.00), whereas no significant difference was observed in the control group (p = 0.164). The findings indicate that toddler massage may contribute to weight improvement in stunted children and could be considered a supportive non-pharmacological intervention in stunting management programs
Application of Taguchi Experimental Design in Optimization of Levulinic Acid Production from Cellulose Derived From Millet Stalk
Get PDFCellulose is the primary component of lignocellulosic biomass and the main source of renewable materials in chemical industry. This study aims at optimizing the production of levulinic acid from cellulose derived from millet stalk using Taguchi experimental design approach. The millet stalks were pretreated by acid and alkali treatment method. The extractives, hemicellulose, lignin, and cellulose contents of the millet stalks were estimated using dry-weight basis technique. Levulinic acid production from the millet stalk was carried out in Teflon lined stainless steel autoclave (50cm3) using standard method. The optimum conditions for the production of levulinic acid were evaluated using Taguchi experimental design method. Levulinic acid was characterized using GC-MS and FT-IR techniques. The cellulose content of the millet stalk was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the other components. FT-IR spectrum showed the presence of O-H, C=O, C-H, and C-O stretch in the levulinic acid. The highest (95%) yield of the levulinic acid was obtained with an acid concentration of 0.2M at 2000C, for 4 hours. The optimum temperature, acid concentration, and time for the production of levulinic acid from the millet stalk were 2000C, 0.2M, and 4 hours, respectively. Levulinic acid is characterized by a range of functional groups.Keywords: Cellulose, Levulinic acid, Millet stalk, Optimization, Taguchi desig
Optimization of Total Polyphenol Content In Herbal Tea Formula Bay Leaves, Cinnamon, and Black Tea
Get PDFPolyphenols are one of the secondary metabolites found in bay leaves, cinnamon and black tea. This mixture is formulated for therapy, one of which is chronic degenerative diseases, such as hypertension. This research aims to optimize the formulation of bay leaves, cinnamon and black tea on total polyphenol levels. This research method includes: determining the polyphenol content of the three simplices, designing the formulation design, determining the optimization of the total polyphenol content of the 14 formulations and the conformation of the selected formula using Design Expert 13. The results of the research obtained the total polyphenol content of bay leaves (49.36 mg GAE/g), cinnamon (61.36 mg GAE/g), and black tea (61.73 mg GAE/g). Optimization of the highest polyphenol content was 58.419 mg GAE/g. The optimal formula conformation consisted of 1 gram of bay leaves, 8 grams of cinnamon and 1 gram of black tea, resulting in a polyphenol content of 59.63 mg GAE/g. The conclusion of this research is the optimization of the highest polyphenol content of 58.419 mg GAE/g with a formulation composition of Bay Leaves 10%, of Cinnamon 80%, and of Black Tea 10%
Phytochemical, Antioxidant, and Antibacterial Activities of Stem Bark Fractions of Eucalyptus globulus Against Multidrug-Resistant Bacterial Isolates
Get PDFThe growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has intensified the need for alternative therapeutic agents, with medicinal plants offering promising solutions due to their bioactive compounds. This study investigated the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of Eucalyptus globulus bark extracts against multidrug-resistant bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus). Plant samples were collected from Adamawa State Polytechnic, Nigeria, authenticated (voucher ASP-765), and subjected to reflux extraction using hexane and water. Phytochemical analysis revealed alkaloids, phenols, tannins, glycosides, and terpenoids in both methanol and aqueous extracts, while flavonoids and steroids were absent in aqueous extracts, and methanol extracts lacked saponins. Antibacterial activity was assessed through agar well diffusion and broth dilution assays, demonstrating a concentration-dependent effect. Methanol extracts showed greater efficacy against E. coli and P. aeruginosa (12.8–13.8 mm inhibition zones), while aqueous extracts were most effective against S. aureus (19.3 mm at 100 mg/mL). Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values ranged from 25 to 50 mg/mL, with E. coli exhibiting the lowest MIC (25 mg/mL), highlighting the extract’s antimicrobial potential. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using phosphomolybdate and ferricyanide assays. The methanol extract exhibited strong free radical scavenging activity, with a total antioxidant capacity (TAC) expressed in ascorbic acid equivalents (AAE), although lower than pure ascorbic acid. Statistical validation (one-way ANOVA, p < 0.05) confirmed the significance of the results. These findings support the traditional medicinal use of E. globulus and its potential for combating antibiotic-resistant infections and oxidative stress-related conditions. Further studies are recommended to isolate bioactive compounds, determine mechanisms of action, and develop optimized therapeutic formulations for AMR management
Potential of Red Seaweed Juice in Reducing Blood Pressure and Lead Levels in Urine in Workers at Public Fuel Filling Stations
Get PDFLead (Pb) pollution, primarily from fuel combustion, poses severe health risks, including hypertension and systemic poisoning. Gas station attendants are particularly vulnerable to Pb exposure due to occupational hazards. This study investigates the efficacy of red seaweed (Eucheuma spinosum) juice, rich in antioxidants and bioactive components, in reducing Pb levels in urine and lowering blood pressure among gas station workers in Kendari City, Indonesia. A quasi-experimental pre-post-test control group design was employed. Thirty gas station attendants were divided into three groups: control (P0), treatment with seaweed juice once daily (P1), and treatment with seaweed juice twice daily (P2), each receiving 200 mL for two weeks. Urinary Pb levels and blood pressure were measured pre-and post-intervention. Phytochemical analysis of the seaweed juice confirmed the presence of antioxidants, phenolics, saponins, flavonoids, and triterpenoids. Data were analyzed using One-Way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests. The P1 and P2 groups exhibited a reduction in urinary Pb levels, whereas the P0 group showed an increase. However, statistical analysis indicated no significant differences in mean urinary Pb levels among groups. Blood pressure decreased in all groups, with the P2 group showing the most significant reduction in systolic pressure. Despite these trends, no statistically significant differences in blood pressure across the groups were observed. Red seaweed juice demonstrated potential in reducing Pb levels and improving blood pressure among gas station attendants. While statistical significance was not achieved, the findings suggest further research with larger sample sizes and longer intervention durations to confirm the therapeutic benefits of seaweed-based functional foods in mitigating Pb-related health risks
Antibacterial Activity Test of Ethanol Extract Citrus Leaf Against Staphylococcus epidermidis
Get PDFOne of the causes of acne is an increase in colonies of Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria. One of the acne treatments that trigger bacterial resistance is the irrational use of antibiotics. Therefore, it is necessary to discover natural materials with antibacterial potential, namely orange plants. This study aims to determine the effect of single and combination of lime, kaff, lemon, and sweet leaves extract on of S. epidermidis. The treatment of this study was the concentration of orange leaf ethanol extract of 2%, 4%, and 8% with a bacteria sample of S. epidermidis. Phytochemical screening test results contain alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, phenols, and essential oils. The results of the One-Way ANNOVA test showed a significant difference in the average diameter of the inhibition zone of orange leaf ethanol extract against the growth of S. epidermidis (Sig.<0.05). Post Hoc test showed that the effective concentration of lime leaves, kaffles, lemons, sweet oranges, and combination was 8%, while sweet oranges are the most significant treatment group in inhibiting the growth of S. epidermidis. The conclusion is that 8% sweet lime leaf ethanol extract can be used as a pharmaceutical raw material in inhibiting the growth of S. epidermidis with a strong category
Utilization of Eco-Friendly Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Wastewater Treatment
Get PDFThis study investigates the potential of green-synthesized Iron II Oxide (Fe2O3) nanoparticles for remediating wastewater from River Benue, Nigeria, focusing on removing lead (Ld) pollutants. The nanoparticles were synthesized using Annona squamosa leaf extract, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional remediation methods. The wastewater sample, collected from River Benue in Jimeta-Yola, was analyzed using FT-IR, SEM, and atomic absorption spectroscopy. FT-IR analysis identified functional groups like alcohol O-H and conjugated alkene C=C, confirming the role of plant metabolites in nanoparticle synthesis and stabilization. SEM imaging revealed cubical Fe2O3 nanoparticle sizes ranging from 25 to 34 nm, stabilized by the plant extract. The remediation process tested varying nanoparticle concentrations (100, 500, 1000, and 1500 ppm) and contact times (60, 120, and 180 minutes) at pH 8.90 and 21.33 K. The highest adsorption efficiency was observed at 1500 ppm over 180 minutes, reducing lead levels from 0.69 mg/L to 0.02 mg/L due to increased chelating sites. Lower concentrations (1000, 500, and 100 ppm) also demonstrated significant adsorption, with lead levels dropping to 0.21, 0.32, and 0.50 mg/L, respectively. The study highlights the advantages of Fe2O3 nanoparticles, including simplicity, rapid production, environmental safety, and a high surface area for effective pollutant adsorption. This green synthesis approach is more sustainable and operationally simpler than tradisional methods, avoiding the environmental risks associated with conventional techniques. The findings suggest that Fe2O3 nanoparticle is promise for efficient and sustainable wastewater purification, offering a viable alternative to existing water treatment technologies. This research underscores the potential of eco-friendly nanomaterials in addressing heavy metal pollution, particularly in developing regions
Computational Insights into the Comparative Analysis of Insulin- like Compounds in Bitter Melon: Targeting GSK-3 Protein and Insulin Receptor
Get PDFDiabetes, a rapidly escalating global health challenge, is defined by chronic hyperglycemia resulting from impaired insulin secretion, impaired insulin action, or both. Current treatment options often fall short due to side effects and limited efficacy in addressing long-term complications, underscoring the urgent need for safer, more effective alternatives. This study delves into the potential of insulin-like compounds derived from bitter melon (Momordica charantia) to combat diabetes by targeting two pivotal proteins: glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) and insulin receptors. These proteins are crucial for glucose regulation and insulin signaling, making them key targets for blood sugar control. Through computational molecular docking, we evaluated the binding affinities and inhibition potentials of key bitter melon compounds, including Charantin and Vicine. Molecular structures were sourced from the PubChem database and optimized using density functional theory (B3LYP functional, 6-311G++ (d, p) basis set) with Gaussian-09 software. Structural data for GSK-3 (PDB ID: 1Q5K) and insulin receptors (PDB ID: 1IR3) were retrieved from the Protein Data Bank, and docking studies were conducted using the Lamarckian genetic algorithm in AutoDock 4.2. Protein-ligand interactions, bond lengths, and amino acid residues in binding pockets were analyzed with Discovery Studio, while ADMET profiles and toxicity levels were predicted using pkCSM and ProTox-II.Charantin demonstrated the highest binding affinity and inhibition potential against both GSK-3 and insulin receptors. Toxicity analysis revealed that Charantin, classified under toxicity class 6, is safer than Vicine (class 4), with a higher LD50 value indicating lower toxicity. These findings position Charantin as a promising multi-target anti-diabetic agent with significant efficacy and minimal side effects. This research paves the way for developing novel, safer anti-diabetic medications derived from natural sources, offering a beacon of hope in the fight against diabetes
Taxonomic Study and Bioprospecting Indonesian Termitomyces eurrhizus
Get PDFTermitomyces are known as wild edible mushrooms that are commonly consumed in Africa and Asia. T. eurrhizus can be easily found in many areas in Indonesia. However, the recent collection and proper documentation of this species has not been done in Indonesia. In addition, the potential utilization of this species needs to be revealed. This research aims to identify, investigate the proximate value, and test the antibacterial activity of T. eurrhizus. The exploration was carried out at the IPB University campus forest using an opportunistic sampling method. Fresh basidiomata were used for morphological identification. Proximate analysis was done following AOAC method. Mushroom extract was subjected to antibacterial test against Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli. Our specimen was identified as T. eurrhizus based on pileus characters (macroscopically) and spore features under an electron microscope (microscopically). The proximate result showed that the moisture content was 13,70 %, the ash 13,66 %, total fat content 2,05 %, total protein content 27,73 % and fiber content 8,49 %. The investigated antibacterial was evaluated based on size of antibacterial zone for concentration 200 mg/ml extract (3,5 mm), 100 mg/ml (6,5 mm), 50 mg/ml (3,83 mm), 25 mg/ml (2,5 mm), and 12.5 mg/ml 6,33 mm. Our result showed the potential utilization of T. eurrhizus as nutraceutical food and antibacterial. Further research is expected to collaborate with various cultivation or product development fields
Laboratory Detection of Toenail Onychomycosis Using Malt Extract Agar in Students
Get PDFOnychomycosis is a common nail disorder caused by dermatophytes, non-dermatophyte molds, and yeasts. Despite being more prevalent in older adults, it is increasingly reported among younger populations, including university students, due to lifestyle factors and communal exposures. Rapid and accurate diagnosis is critical for effective management, but conventional methods remain limited in sensitivity. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and etiological profile of toenail onychomycosis among university students using potassium hydroxide (KOH) microscopy and Malt Extract Agar (MEA) culture. A total of 98 students with clinical signs of onychomycosis provided toenail specimens. Direct microscopy examination with 20% KOH was performed, followed by culture on MEA at 28–30 °C for up to 21 days. Fungal isolates were identified based on macroscopic and microscopic morphology. Statistical analysis assessed associations between clinical features and culture results. KOH microscopy detected fungal elements in 59.2% of specimens, while MEA culture yielded growth in 63.3%. When combined, the overall prevalence of confirmed onychomycosis was 71.4%. Trichophyton rubrum was the most frequent isolate (35.5% of positive cultures), followed by non-dermatophyte molds such as Aspergillus and Fusarium, and yeasts including Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis. Nail thickening and discoloration were significantly associated with culture positivity (p < 0.05). Onychomycosis is prevalent among university students, with MEA culture providing superior diagnostic yield compared to KOH microscopy alone. The identification of non-dermatophyte molds and yeasts underscores the importance of comprehensive diagnostic strategies for guiding effective treatment. Future studies should combine culture and molecular methods to enhance detection accuracy and clarify the clinical significance of emerging pathogens