Eight carbonatogenic bacterial isolates have been successfully isolated from the limestone soils of Bukit Bulan, Jambi Province, Indonesia. This research aims to obtain superior bacteria as biocement agents that can help the self-healing process of concrete cracks. The eight carbonatogenic bacteria are isolates coded BB1, BB2, BB3, BB4, BB5, BB6, BB7, and BB8. Qualitative screening revealed that all isolates were capable of forming calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) precipitation in the test medium. Quantitative tests revealed that all isolates were capable of producing precipitation of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). CaCO₃ crystals produced by carbonatogenic bacteria exhibit properties of both calcite and vaterite phases, which can potentially enhance the strength of concrete structures. Seventy-five % of the isolates are gram-positive, and 25% are gram-negative. All isolates can produce the enzyme cytochrome oxidase C, which enhances the natural self-healing ability of bacteria in repairing concrete. All isolates can decompose urea, suggesting that they may contribute to the formation of CaCO₃ minerals. The motility test revealed that 50% of carbonatogenic bacteria are motile, which can enhance the efficiency in self-healing concrete. When applied to concrete mixtures, it is known that the carbonatogenic bacteria BB1, BB2, BB3, and BB4 can aid in repairing concrete cracks. The BB3 isolate can close concrete cracks faster than other isolates, indicating that it has the potential to be further developed as a biocement agent.
The increase in toxic pollutants, such as the heavy metal lead (Pb²⁺), in aquatic environments is caused by anthropogenic activities and natural factors. Lead is difficult to degrade naturally, necessitating bioremediation methods, one of involves biosorption agents. Macrofungi, such as Pleurotus ostreatus, have complex cell walls capable of absorbing heavy metals through β-glucan. This study evaluates the effectiveness of β-glucan from P. ostreatus in adsorbing lead. The biosorption mechanism is influenced by functional groups such as hydroxyl (-OH), carboxyl (-COOH), and amine (-NH₂), as well as the coil structure of β-glucan, which affects binding site availability. Results show biosorption efficiency reaches 89–97%, with the highest at 97% at 25.64 mg/L and a contact time of 3 hours. Even after 1 hour, efficiency remains high (96%), indicating rapid and effective adsorption. FTIR analysis reveals changes in functional group structures after lead exposure, confirming the role of active groups in biosorption. Biosorption efficiency is also influenced by metal concentration, biomass amount and surface area, contact time, and biosorbent diffusion. These findings highlight the potential of β-glucan from P. ostreatus as a natural biosorbent for lead remediation in aquatic environments.
Oxidative stress, characterized by an imbalance between reactive oxygen species and antioxidant defenses, contributes to various diseases. Natural products, particularly plant-derived compounds, offer promising therapeutic avenues due to their antioxidant potential. This study investigates the antioxidant properties of wild Sumatran turmeric (Curcuma sumatrana), an endemic Zingiberaceae species from Sumatra, through in silico computational analyses of its rhizome’s bioactive compounds. Twenty-two compounds were evaluated for drug-likeness using Lipinski’s Rule of Five, revealing 21 compounds (95%) as orally bioavailable. Predictive bioactivity via PASS Online identified six compounds with moderate antioxidant activity (Pa >0.3). Molecular docking against antioxidant enzymes (GPx, SOD, CAT) and the Keap1-Nrf2 complex demonstrated significant binding affinities. Notably, 9,10-Epoxy-12-octadecenoate exhibited superior binding to SOD (-5.75 kcal/mol), GPx (-6.42 kcal/mol), and Keap1-Nrf2 (-8.39 kcal/mol), outperforming native ligands. Abietic acid and N-Octylgallate also showed strong interactions with Keap1-Nrf2, suggesting activation of antioxidant response pathways. The results highlight C. sumatrana’s potential to modulate enzymatic antioxidants and Nrf2 signalling. The findings underscore the species’ role as a source of bioactive compounds with drug-like properties, advocating further exploration of its phytochemicals for mitigating oxidative stress-related pathologies while highlighting C. sumatrana as a viable candidate for developing natural therapeutics targeting redox imbalance.
Potatoes are an essential agricultural commodity that needs to be genetically improved to increase productivity and meet industrial needs. The research aimed to evaluate the stability of the morpho-physiological characters, tuber yield, and transgene expression of transgenic potato cultivar IPB-CP3 harboring the FBPase gene in the G0 and G1 generations. The study was conducted by growing transgenic plants in a greenhouse and analyzing plant morpho-physiological characters, tuber yield, and gene expression. The results showed that transgenic plants had higher values in stem diameter (32.7–50.8%), number of leaves (33.9–41.2%), biomass dry weight (14.4–36.2%), photosynthetic rate (25.2–28.25%), and tuber weight (42.6–196.0%) than non-transgenic plants. However, there was no significant difference in plant height characters between the transgenic and non-transgenic plants. Transgenic plants consistently expressed the FBPase gene at higher level than the non-transgenic plants in the G0 and G1 generations. The research results suggest that overexpression of the FBPase gene increases plant growth and tuber yield. This finding implies agricultural practices, particularly in the context of crop improvement through genetic engineering.
Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) is a high-value spice commodity from Indonesia, often contamination with aflatoxin-producing Aspergillus flavus. Previous research has identified two epiphytic yeast isolates from nutmeg plants, namely DP1341a and DP1342, both of which were identified as Pseudozyma hubeiensis and showed antagonistic potential against A. flavus. This study is a follow- up study that aims to test the antagonistic activity of both isolates against A. flavus in vivo on nutmeg seeds. The research was conducted experimentally through several stages, namely testing the compatibility of isolates on Yeast Malt Agar (YMA) media, determining the optimum fermentation time, and applying liquid culture and fermentation filtrate to 120 nutmeg seeds. Results showed that the consortium of isolates DP1341a and DP1342 did not increase the inhibitory power results compared to single cultures with optimum fermentation times of 10 and 14 days, respectively. In vivo applications show that treatment with DP1342 isolate (KC-DP1342) and consortium in liquid culture provides the highest level of resistance to A. flavus infection, namely 38.67% and 28.00%. The findings suggest that P. hubeiensis DP1342 has potential as a biological control agent in controlling A. flavus on nutmeg seeds, although further formulation and optimization are needed.
Pollution in Kayeli Bay is from the Marlosso and Nametek rivers. This area forces full adaptation of biota, including the seagrass Enhalus acoroides. This study aimed to compare changes in the anatomical structure and physiological response of the seagrass Enhalus acoroides. The preparation method uses a modification of the Ruzin method. Measurements are made using a microscope equipped with a micrometer and a spectrophotometer. The results showed that the thickness of the root epidermis and endodermis in the Marlosso area was 5.77 μm and 2.3 μm; and in Nametek, epidermis 5.58 μm and endodermis 1.54 μm. The epidermis and endodermis of the Marlosso rhizomes are 9.98 μm and 3.5 μm. Nametek rhizomes are 6.62 μm and 3 μm. The leaf tissue in Marlosso, namely the adaxial and abaxial cuticle, is 0.57 μm, the adaxial and abaxial epidermis is 2.84 μm and 2.78 μm, the thickness of the epidermis and cuticle is 10.2 μm and 1.81 μm. Nametek Waters are 0.45 μm and 0.54 μm, and the adaxial and abaxial epidermis are 1.62 μm and 2.29 μm. It was concluded that there was thickening of the cell walls in all tissues in the Marlosso River, and showed lower chlorophyll content compared to Nametek.
Diabetic ulcers are frequently complicated by infections from multidrug-resistant bacteria such as Alcaligenes faecalis, necessitating the development of alternative therapeutic strategies. Bacteriophage therapy presents a promising approach due to its specificity and efficacy against antibiotic-resistant pathogens. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate a bacteriophage-based topical cleanser using the phage ϕAFaV1 for treating A. faecalis infections, focusing on high antibacterial efficacy and low dermal toxicity. Three suspension formulas (F1, F2, F3) were prepared with varying chitosan concentrations (0.5; 0.75, and 1.0%) as a suspending agent. These formulations underwent physical stability testing over 28 days, including assessments of viscosity, pH, zeta potential, and homogeneity. Antibacterial efficacy was determined through inhibition zone assays. All three formulations effectively inhibited bacterial growth, forming clear zones. The F2 formula (0.75% chitosan), containing 200 µL of active phage ingredient, was identified as the optimum formulation. It demonstrated superior physical stability and the most effective bactericidal activity against A. faecalis, as confirmed by statistical analysis. These results indicate that a bacteriophage suspension stabilized with 0.75% chitosan is a highly promising and stable topical agent for combating multidrug-resistant A. faecalis in diabetic wound care.
Wreathed hornbill is a bird species that can be a bio-indicator and has a role in forest regeneration. This study aimed to estimate the population density of the wreathed hornbill and to identify its habitat characteristics. Bird populations were counted using the Variable Circular Plot (VCP) method. Habitat characteristics were then assessed by measuring environmental factors and analyzing vegetation within 20 × 20 m plots established at foraging, roosting, and nesting sites. Data analysis involved determining individual density, distribution pattern, conducting vegetation analysis, and performing a Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Wreathed hornbill that was found are 20 ± 1.2 individuals. The population density is 7.047 individuals/km2 and has a clustered distribution pattern. The habitat of the wreathed hornbill is characterized by a vegetation composition consisting of 14 species from 8 families. Types of trees with the highest INP were Ficus mbulu (Ficus annulata) (INP 54%), Ficus krandan (Ficus sp1) (INP 46%), and Ficus bulu so (Ficus globosa) (INP 32%). There are 9 types of foraging trees, 10 species of roasting trees, and 1 nesting tree species used by the wreated hornbill. Based on PCA, wind speed and light intensity are environmental factors that have a correlation with the population density of the wreated hornbill in Sokokembang Forest.
Boyong River is upstream of Code River and one of the areas potentially affected by volcanic mudflow and pyroclastic flow of Mount Merapi. Boyong River is the upstream of Code River that passes through Hargobinangun Village to Sinduharjo Village. Vegetation data collection in this study used the Belt Transect method as far as 50 meters. Each station consisted of 10 continuously placed plots, and vegetation measurements were taken on each 10 × 10 m plot. Data were analyzed using the Spatially Explicit Individual-based Forest Simulator (SExI-FS) software version 2.1.0. The diversity of riparian vegetation in the Boyong River was found to be as much as 29 species. Albizia falcataria had the highest IVI rate, with 96% and 63% at stations 1 and 3, respectively.Swietenia mahagoni had the highest IVI rate at station 2, with 91%. The Boyong River has varied canopy stratification, and there is one location that has complete strata (strata A, B, C, and D), namely Candibinangun Village, while Hargobinangun Village and Sinduharjo Village only have three canopy strata. Canopy closure in the Boyong River still left canopy gaps that allowed other plants to grow and occupy empty space, while Candibinangun and Sinduharjo villages formed layers that overlapped each other.
Increased reactive oxygen species levels, a result of antioxidant imbalance in diabetic, can affect metabolism and cellular respiration, especially spermatogenesis that affects sperm quality. Muntingia calabura has proven to be effective as an antidiabetic and rich antioxidant through several studies. This study aims to analyse the effectiveness of Muntingia leaf extract on blood sugar levels, sperm motility, and viability in mice induced by streptozotocin. A diabetic animal model was developed with repeated low doses of streptozotocin. The group was divided into 5 groups, which are the negative control, positive control, and three extract groups (100, 150, 200 mg/kg). Blood sugar tests showed that the positive control group, mice induced with streptozotocin without Muntingia leaf extract, had the highest blood sugar levels. Treatment groups with Muntingia leaf extract had different results, those groups successfully reduced blood sugar levels to normal levels. The highest dose, 200 mg/kg, of Muntingia leaf extract reached 85.9% normal sperm motility and 82.9% sperm viability. The ANOVA test result showed a significant relationship between blood sugar levels with sperm motility and viability in streptozotocin-induced mice after Muntingia leaf extract administration. Muntingia leaf extract has the potential to reduce blood sugar levels in hypergly-cemic conditions and to improve sperm motility and viability.
The Dem River, originating from the Coban Glothak Waterfall, is an important water source for local communities. However, the rapid growth of tourism in the Coban Glothak area raises concerns regarding potential water pollution. To evaluate the river’s ecological condition, this study analyzed biological, physical, and chemical parameters with a focus on epilithic diatoms as bioindicators. An exploratory design was applied across three representative stations, each subdivided into three sampling points. Biological analysis involved measuring abundance, diversity, and dominance of diatoms using PAST software. Physical and chemical parameters included temperature, pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), dissolved oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), nitrate (NO₃), and phosphate (PO₄). Results showed that epilithic diatom abundance was relatively high at all stations, but a decreasing trend was observed from station 1 to station 3, reflecting spatial variations in environmental conditions. The diversity index consistently exceeded 1.5, indicating a fairly diverse diatom community and suggesting supportive water conditions for aquatic organisms. Low dominance values at all stations revealed no species over-dominance, reflecting balanced ecological conditions. Furthermore, the physical and chemical measurements aligned with class 2 and 3 water quality standards, confirming that the Dem River remains suitable for sustaining aquatic life with reasonable diversity.
Raden Soerjo Grand Forest Park is a conservation area in East Java with moderate tree diversity. This study analyzed the diversity, composition, and structure of trees in three vegetation types: open forest, closed forest, and post-fire forest. Data collection used a systematic sampling method with random start. Data in the form of tree species names and numbers of individuals were analyzed to determine the ecological index and Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA). A total of 25 species from 21 families were identified, with Fagaceae and Lauraceae dominating in open and closed forests, and Casuarinaceae in post-fire forest. Lithocarpus sundaicus showed the highest Importance Value Index in open and closed forests, while Casuarina junghuhniana dominated the post-fire forest. Pioneer species such as Homalanthus populneus, Ficus hispida, and C. junghuhniana were present in all vegetation types. The diversity index showed moderate diversity (1.79 and 2.09), low species richness (2.22 and 3.45), and high evenness (0.69 and 0.71) in open and closed forests. Tree distribution is dominated by the 61–80 cm diameter class in open and closed forests, and 41–60 cm in post-fire forests. CCA showed that light intensity, soil moisture, air temperature, and soil pH influence species distribution. Four species are endemic to Indonesia, with three species of conservation concern: Lithocarpus korthalsii and Canthiumera glabra (near threatened), and Saurauia bracteosa (vulnerable).
The DNA barcoding technique is primarily utilized to rapidly identify species, particularly when samples are damaged and cannot be identified accurately through morphological methods. This approach utilizes polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology to amplify DNA fragments from the targeted species, with its success largely due to the design of the primers employed. The cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene, a mitochondrial gene, is frequently targeted in DNA barcoding and has been proven effective in distinguishing species. At Pondokdadap Port, over 90% of the fish caught consist of skipjack tuna, yellowfin tuna, and mackerel (T2C). This study aimed at designing silico DNA barcoding primers for these three species. The successful development of these primers may facilitate the documentation and understanding of the genetic diversity of the species under study, which is crucial for efficient and effective fisheries management. The primer design process applied Primer-BLAST software from the NCBI website, followed by additional testing with OligoAnalyzer. The selected primer pairs were the forward primer 5'-GGCCCATGCCTTCGTAATGA-3' and the reverse primer 5'-GCAGGGTCGAAGAAGGTTGT-3'. These primers successfully amplified the DNA of T2C fish, with PCR results indicating that the optimal annealing temperature for these primers was 55 °C
Indonesia has a long history and development of plant utilization for cosmetics; until now, various cosmetic products have been mass-produced and can slowly eliminate the traditional knowledge of local communities on plants that have potential as cosmetics. This study aims to provide information about the types of potential cosmetic plants used by people from several regions in Indonesia. The methods used were open-ended, non-structured interviews and direct observation in the field. The research was conducted in five locations from four provinces (Banten, West Java, West Nusa Tenggara, and Southeast Sulawesi), and 34 plant species from 24 families were recorded. The Zingiberaceae family is the group with the highest number of species, at four. Fruit was the most utilized plant part at 35.2%, followed by flowers and leaves. Most recorded plants were used in skin care (40.38%). Santalum album is one of the plant species that is utilized and is now included as one of the threatened plant species, and there is a need for conservation efforts for this species.
Cassia alata is widely used in traditional medicine for treating skin infections, yet its antifungal properties and chemical constituents remain underexplored. This study aimed to identify bioactive compounds in C. alata leaves and evaluate their antioxidant and antimicrobial potential. Phytochemical analysis was performed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Antioxidant activity was assessed using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay. Antimicrobial efficacy was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, Malassezia furfur, and Trichophyton rubrum at extract concentrations of 6; 9; 12; and 15%. GC-MS analysis revealed six major peaks, with myo-inositol identified as the dominant compound. The extract exhibited weak antioxidant activity, with an IC₅₀ value of 174.9 ppm. However, significant antifungal activity was observed, particularly against M. furfur and T. rubrum, with the most effective inhibitory concentrations at 12% and 15%, respectively. Despite its modest antioxidant effect, C. alata leaf extract demonstrates promising antifungal potential, especially against common fungal pathogens associated with skin infections. These findings support the traditional use of C. alata and highlight its potential as a natural antifungal agent.
This study aims to analyze the distribution of vegetation density in Langsa City using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). The research was conducted from June to October 2024, covering a study area of 21,881.41 ha. The method used is remote sensing, using Sentinel-2A satellite imagery, along with Geographic Information System (GIS) software, specifically ArcGIS, for mapping and spatial analysis. The NDVI classification results show five land cover categories based on NDVI value ranges. NDVI Class 1 (-0.38 to -0.02) includes non-vegetated land and water bodies. NDVI Class 2 (-0.02–0.20) indicates very low greenness, typically consisting of bare land. NDVI Class 3 (0.20–0.38) represents low greenness, which includes built-up areas. NDVI Class 4 (0.38–0.54) includes moderate greenness, typically found in plantations or fields, while NDVI Class 5 (0.54–0.83) represents high greenness, covering areas such as shrubs, forests, and mangroves. This analysis provides valuable information for land use planning and environmental management based on spatial vegetation data. The results of this study are expected to serve as a basis for policy-making that supports the sustainable management and conservation of vegetation in Langsa City.
Genetic-based management is a critical approach to maintain the sustainability of mahseer fish (Tor tambra and T. tambroides), which are facing threats from habitat degradation and overfishing in Jambi Province. This study aims to analyze the genetic diversity and population structure of mahseer using the COI gene markers. A total of 18 specimens were collected from six locations in the Jambi rivers (June-August 2024). DNA sequencing results showed 98.51–99.85% similarity to the references T. tambra and T. tambroides in GenBank. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the grouping of this species, with a bootstrap value of 100% and closeness to the species Barbonymus gonionotus and Hampala macrolepidota. There were 11 haplotypes with the highest diversity at stations 3 and 6 (Hd= 0.90000), while moderate genetic differentiation (Fst= 0.109–0.141) was found between station 2 and other locations, indicating isolation due to habitat fragmentation. Water quality parameters (dissolved oxygen 6.3–7.1 mg/L, pH 7.0–7.3, current velocity 0.2–0.4 m/s) support habitat suitability, but anthropogenic activities potentially threaten genetic connectivity. These findings underscore the need for genetic data-driven conservation strategies, such as restocking of highly diverse populations and protection of critical habitats. Further research is needed to monitor long-term genetic dynamics.
Jahe (Zingiber officinale) dan lengkuas (Alpinia galanga) merupakan tanaman biofarmaka yang dikenal memiliki berbagai manfaat termasuk aktivitas antijamur. Kajian ini bertujuan untuk membandingkan efektivitas ekstrak jahe (Zingiber officinale) dan lengkuas merah (Alpinia purpurata K. Schum) sebagai pestisida alami dalam menghambat pertumbuhan jamur patogen pada tanaman jeruk. Ekstrak kedua tanaman tersebut mengandung senyawa aktif seperti gingerol, shogaol, galangin, dan flavonoid yang diketahui memiliki sifat antijamur. Metode penelitian yang dilakukan meliputi ekstraksi bahan aktif jahe dan lengkuas merah serta pengujian aktivitas fungisidanya terhadap pertumbuhan jamur menggunakan metode difusi agar. Parameter yang diukur adalah diameter zona hambat sebagai indikator efektivitas masing-masing ekstrak. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa ekstrak jahe dan lengkuas merah memiliki kemampuan menghambat pertumbuhan jamur patogen, dengan tingkat efektivitas yang bervariasi tergantung konsentrasi ekstrak. Lengkuas merah menunjukkan aktivitas antijamur yang lebih signifikan dibandingkan jahe pada konsentrasi tertentu. Penelitian ini menyimpulkan bahwa jahe dan lengkuas merah berpotensi menjadi pestisida alami yang ramah lingkungan, lengkuas merah mempunyai efektivitas yang lebih tinggi dalam mengendalikan jamur patogen. Ekstrak lengkuas menunjukkan zona hambat yang lebih besar dibandingkan jahe, mengindikasikan potensi yang lebih kuat dalam mengendalikan infeksi jamur pada tanaman. Dengan demikian, penggunaan jahe dan lengkuas sebagai pestisida alami dapat menjadi alternatif ramah lingkungan dalam pengendalian penyakit tanaman.
Neem leaves (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) contain compounds that have antifertility potential. The constraint in giving medicine orally is the low bioavailability and distribution of active compounds in herbal plants. This problem can be solved by packing herbal plant extracts in nanochitosan. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of treating with a nanochitosan ethanol extract of neem leaves on the histological structure of the white rat uterine. This study was conducted for 8 months used a randomized design (CRD), which was divided into 3 treatment groups with 4 repetitions. Treatments is given for 21 days, including P0 (an aquades 2 mL/animal/day), P1 (an ethanol extract of neem leaves 2 mL/animal/day, and P2 (a nanochitosan preparation of neem leaves 2 mL/head/day. The variables measured were endometrial thickness, number of uterine glands, uterine diameter, and uterine weight. Numeric datas were analyzed statistically parametrically using the ANOVA test at a confidence level of 95%. The results showed that the endometrial thickness, uterine diameter, number of uterine glands, and uterine weight of P0 were normal, and did not significantly different (P >0.05) from P1 and P2. The conclusion of this study is that the treatment of nanochitosan ethanol extract of neem leaves has the same potential with ethanol extract of neem in affecting the histological structure of white rats uterine.
Invasive plants can reduce biodiversity, particularly in understory vegetation, by altering ecosystem composition and dynamics. Conservation areas, such as the Mount Tilu Nature Reserve (NR) in Bandung Regency, play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. One of its blocks, Cisorog Block, consists of open areas directly adjacent to public activities, which support the growth and spread of invasive species. This study aims to analyze the diversity, distribution patterns, and environmental factors influencing invasive understory species in Cisorog Block. Vegetation analysis and principal component analysis were conducted within a 47- hectare area at three sampling points. A total of 39 invasive species from 21 families were identified. Species with the highest Important Value Index (IVI) included Cyrtandra grandis (93.714%) at station 1, Cyperus odoratus (33.927%) at station 2, and Commelina benghalensis (15.353%) at station 3. The invasive evenness index was relatively high (0.65–0.85), while the diversity index was moderate (1.05–2.96). All species exhibited clumped distribution patterns.The environmental factors most strongly associated with invasive species distribution were light intensity and air humidity. These results emphasize the importance of developing management strategies based on environmental factors to control invasive plants and conserve biodiversity in the Mount Tilu Nature Reserve.
