The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have become a requirement in school curricula to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to contribute to sustainable development. One implication for biology education is the need to develop 21st-century skills, including problem-solving and creative thinking skills. This study aims to develop ThinkNature.id, a Problem-Based Learning based educational website designed to enhance students’ problem-solving and creative thinking skills in the context of biodiversity. This study employed the development model proposed by Lee and Owens. The results indicate that ThinkNature.id was categorized as highly valid and highly practical. Implementation of the website improved problem-solving skills, with an N-Gain score of 0.51, while creative thinking skills also increased by 0.64. ANCOVA test results revealed a significant difference between the experimental and control classes (p = 0.001 < 0.05). Therefore, the Problem-based learning based ThinkNature.id platform is deemed valid, practical, and effective in supporting the improvement of students’ problem-solving and creative thinking skills. Keywords: Biodiversity; Creative Thinking Skills; Problem-Based Learning; Problem-Solving Skills; ThinkNature.id.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that cannot be cured, but it can be managed using synthetic or herbal hypoglycaemic agents. Herbal plants containing phytochemicals serve as an alternative treatment for diabetes due to their lower incidence of side effects. Bhee fruit (Melastoma malabathricum L.) is rich in antioxidants and has potential as a hypoglycaemic agent. This study aims to identify the phytochemical content qualitatively and quantitatively, and to test the effect of bhee fruit extract on blood glucose levels in a diabetic mice model. Qualitative identification was carried out using water, ethanol and methanol as solvents. Quantitative analysis was performed using UV-Vis spectrophotometry and gravimetry. The in vivo test involved 24 mice divided into six groups: normal control, metformin control, diabetic control, and three treatment groups with extract doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight over 28 days. The results showed that the aqueous solvent extracted the highest amount of bioactive components, including steroids, terpenoids, saponins, flavonoids, phenols and tannin. Furthermore, administration of the aqueous extract significantly reduced blood glucose levels in diabetic mice, with the highest reduction at 400 mg/kg body weight (p<0.05). In conclusion, the aqueous extract of bhee fruit is effective as a hypoglycaemic agent in diabetic mice. Keyword: Antioxidants; Alloxan; Hyperglycemia; Secondary metabolites.
Candida albicans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen and the principal causative agent of candidiasis, whose laboratory identification frequently relies on selective culture media most notably Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) at considerable cost. As a practical alternative, this study evaluated the potential of kratok bean (Phaseolus lunatus L.) seeds processed as flour-based agar (FBKA) and boiled-extract agar (BEKA) for supporting C. albicans growth. A pure laboratory experimental design was employed, comparing macroscopic and microscopic colonial characteristics between PDA (control) and both alternative media following 72 hours of incubation at 37°C, with three independent replicates (n = 3). Both alternative media supported C. albicans growth, producing colonies with a cream to yellowish coloration, a characteristic yeast odor, and a convex surface morphology by day 3. Microscopic examination via the germ tube test on both alternative media confirmed pseudohyphal formation. Kruskal–Wallis analysis revealed significant inter-media differences in colony diameter on day 3 (H = 7.200; p = 0.027). Post-hoc Dunn's test demonstrated that BEKA produced colonies of ≤3 mm at day 3, statistically comparable to PDA (z = 1.342; p = 0.179, ns), whereas FBKA yielded colonies of ≤2 mm and differed significantly from PDA (z = 2.683; p = 0.007). These findings indicate that the boiled-extract medium outperforms the flour-based formulation and warrants consideration as an efficient, cost-effective substitute for C. albicans culture in resource-limited laboratory settings.
Amphibian diversity is an important indicator of environmental quality; however, the utilization of local biodiversity data as a learning resource remains limited, resulting in abstract learning processes. This study aimed to analyze the morphological and morphometric variations of amphibians in the Silahisabungan Geosite-Toba Caldera Unesco Global Geopark (TCUGGp) and to utilize these data as contents for developing a biodiversity booklet. A quantitative descriptive method was employed through observation, documentation, and morphometric measurements of 18 species from five families. The parameters measured included snout-vent length (SVL), head length (HL), head width (HW), tibia length (TL), and others. Data were analyzed descriptively and through morphometric comparisons among species and families. The results showed significant variation in body size and proportions, with SVL ranging from 2.48 to 11.78 cm. Differences in morphometric characteristics among families reflect adaptations to their respective habitats. These findings indicate that morphometric data have strong potential as a basis for developing contextual biology. Keywords: Amphibian; Biodiversity; Booklet; Morphometric; Toba Caldera Unesco Global Geopark (TCUGGp).
White turi (Sesbania grandiflora L.) is a tropical plant belonging to the Fabaceae family that is widely distributed and known for its diverse pharmacological activities. However, the utilization of its stem bark as a source of antifungal agents has been relatively underexplored. This study aimed to identify the phytochemical profile and bioactive compounds of white turi stem bark extract with potential antifungal properties. The sample was extracted using a maceration method with 70% ethanol for 72 hours. Qualitative phytochemical screening was conducted using standard methods, including Mayer, Wagner, Dragendorff, Liebermann–Burchard, and FeCl₃ assays. Further analysis was performed using LC-MS/MS (Agilent 6545 Q-TOF LC/MS System) to identify bioactive compounds. The results revealed the presence of alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolics, tannins, and saponins. LC-MS/MS analysis of the F6 water fraction identified several potential antifungal compounds, including adenine, phenylethyl alcohol, benzenedicarboxylic acid bis (2-ethylhexyl) ester, octadecane, and 2,3-dimethoxybenzaldehyde. These compounds are known to exhibit antifungal mechanisms through disruption of cell membranes, protein denaturation, and inhibition of fungal cellular metabolism. Overall, the findings suggest that white turi stem bark extract has strong potential for development as a natural antifungal agent and as a raw material for plant-based health products. Keyword: Bioactive compounds; natural health products; Sesbania grandiflora L.; LC-MS/MS (Agilent 6545 Q-TOF LC/MS System).
The aim of this research is to develop contextual teaching materials to increase students' learning independence and optimize the connection between learning materials and real-life contexts. This study uses a research and development method with the ADDIE model which includes the stages of analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. The research subjects consisted of fifth-grade students in the limited and extensive testing stages. Data collection techniques included expert validation sheets, teacher and student response questionnaires, and learning independence observation sheets. Data were analyzed descriptively quantitatively and qualitatively. The results showed that the developed CTL-based LKPD met the criteria of very valid with a validation percentage of media experts of 94% and material experts of 92%. The practicality level in the limited test obtained a percentage of 93%, while in the extensive test it reached an average of 94.5% with a very practical category. The effectiveness of the LKPD is shown by the results of observations of the extensive trial which are in the independent category, with an average score of 15 (Class A) and 14 (Class B), with no students in the less independent category. Based on these results, it can be concluded that the CTL-based LKPD on the ecosystem material developed is declared valid, very practical, and effective in training students' learning independence, so it is suitable for use as teaching materials in science learning in elementary schools. Keyword: Contextual Teaching and Learning; ecosystem; independent learning; research; Student worksheet.
This study aims to analyze the capacity and balance of Lhok Bubon tourism based on sustainable ecotourism and Acehnese local wisdom. The research approach is sequential, starting with quantitative analysis and then deepened qualitatively. Based on an area of 120 hectares, the maximum capacity of the area reaches 20,700 visitors per day with two visit cycles. The marine tourism suitability analysis produces a score of 500 in the suitable category. Supporting parameters include depth in the very suitable category, freshwater sources of sandy beaches, and open land cover also have a very suitable category, the basic material of the coral sand substrate has a suitable category. Constraints found in air clarity are less suitable. For snorkeling and diving, most physical parameters of waves, current speed, pH, salinity, and air clarity are in the S1 (Very Suitable) category, except for coral reef diversity (<25%) which is in the N (Not Suitable) category. Overall, Lhok Bubon Beach is worthy of being developed as an ecotourism habitat, but by helping with coral reef restoration, facilities, and strengthening local values, the novelty in this research is the integration of carrying capacity, tourism suitability, and local wisdom of Aceh, in addition to the quantitative-qualitative sequential approach in assessing coastal ecotourism. Keyword: Coastal Conservation; Ecotourism; Lhok Bubon; Local Wisdom
Aedes aegypti is the primary vector of dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF), which remains a major public health concern in Indonesia, including Southeast Sulawesi. Continuous use of chemical larvicides poses risks of resistance development and environmental impacts, thereby necessitating safer alternatives for vector control. This study aimed to evaluate the larvicidal efficacy of ethanol extracts from the leaves and flowers of Lantana camara against A. aegypti larvae. The extracts were prepared through maceration using 96% ethanol, followed by bioassay tests on third- and fourth-instar larvae at concentrations ranging from 10–25 µg/mL. Larval mortality was observed at 24-hour intervals. The results revealed that the leaf extract of L. camaraexhibited higher larvicidal activity than the flower extract, with LC₅₀ and LC₉₀ values of 3.26 µg/mL and 8.31 µg/mL, respectively. Larval mortality increased proportionally with both concentration and exposure time. In conclusion, the leaf extract of L. camara demonstrates potential as an effective and environmentally friendly botanical larvicide for dengue vector control. Keyword: Aedes aegypti; Lantana camara; Larvicide; LC, Mortality
Materi struktur DNA sulit dipelajari siswa karena bentuknya tidak dapat dilihat langsung dan komponennya kompleks. Penelitian ini bertujuan merancang model struktur DNA tiga dimensi berbasis daur ulang sampah. Metode yang digunakan adalah R&D (Research and Development) dengan model 4-D yang dimodifikasi (tahap define, design, develop). Subjek penelitian terdiri dari 1 ahli materi, 1 ahli media, dan 25 siswa kelas XII SMAN 1 Seulimeum, Aceh Besar. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan purposive sampling. Data dianalisis secara deskriptif kuantitatif dengan teknik persentase. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan tingkat kelayakan produk sebesar 96,64% (sangat layak), dengan rincian: uji keterbacaan produk 92,42%, validasi ahli media 100%, dan validasi ahli materi 97,5%. Model struktur DNA tiga dimensi berbasis daur ulang sampah terbukti efektif membantu siswa memahami materi DNA. Kata kunci: Daur ulang sampah; DNA; model tiga dimensi.
The Gayo Highlands communities use Asteraceae species in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. This study aimed to document the ethnopharmacological use of Asteraceae and assess community knowledge regarding their medicinal applications. Data were collected from 48 respondents across eight sub-districts using purposive sampling and structured questionnaires. The study identified 10 Asteraceae species used to treat 10 diseases, including diabetes mellitus (DM), cancer, hypertension, liver disorders, common cold, bloating, cough, fever, toothache, and skin itching. Leaves were the most frequently used plant organ (95.96%), mainly from wild plants growing near home yards or abandoned land. Approximately 81.25% of respondents reported using Asteraceae to manage DM. Standard preparation methods included boiling and pounding, with the leaves of Erigeron sumatrensis Retz being the most widely recognized and utilized for the treatment of DM and cancer. The community’s preference for these plants is attributed to their availability, perceived safety, and efficacy. This study highlights the significant ethnopharmacological potential of Asteraceae in the Gayo Highlands and provides a basis for further pharmacological investigations, particularly on E. sumatrensis. Keyword: Asteraceae; traditional medicine; ethnopharmacology; Gayo Highlands; Erigeron sumatrensis
The estuarine area of Gampong Alue Naga supports high aquatic biodiversity and serves as a primary livelihood source for the local coastal community. However, ecological pressures such as overfishing, mangrove habitat degradation, and water pollution have led to a decline in economically valuable species. The research method used was quantitative descriptive with a participatory approach (participatory action research). Data collection used purposive sampling. The research instruments used were observation guidelines, interviews, and field documentation. Data analysis used quantitative descriptive. The findings indicate the presence of more than 40 aquatic species, including molluscs, crustaceans, and fish, such as Anadara granosa, Scylla serrata, and Penaeus monodon, which hold significant economic value. However, a reduction in size and population was observed in several key species. Community-oriented conservation education integrating local ecological knowledge, sustainable harvesting practices, and value-added seafood processing is recommended to maintain ecological balance and strengthen local economic resilience. Therefore, participatory environmental education plays a strategic role in achieving sustainable ecosystem management and improving coastal community welfare. Keywords: Aquatic biodiversity; Coastal economy; Conservation; Estuary; Environmental education
Synthetic insecticides used to eradicate cockroaches leads to ecosystem damage and pest resistance, so there need environmental friendly natural insecticides. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of calamansi leaf extract (Citrofortunella microcarpa) as a natural insecticide against the American cockroach (Periplaneta americana). The leaves of C. microcarpa were extracted using the maceration method with 96% ethanol. The extract was prepared in 5 (five) concentrations: 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 90%. Its effectiveness was tested using a spraying method and observed over 9 (nine) hours on the trial. The data shows decreased in the activity of P. americana and morphological changes that ultimately led to death. Mortality data were analyzed using probit analysis to determine the LC₅₀ value. The phytochemical screening of leaf C. microcarpa extract revealed the presence of tannins, saponins, flavonoids, and alkaloids. The leaf C. microcarpa extract was effective in killing P. americana, with mortality rates of 33%, 83%, 100%, 100%, and 100% at concentrations of 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 90%, respectively, and an LC₅₀ of 23.85%. Leaf C. Microcarpa extract containing tannins, saponins, flavonoids, and alkaloids. The 60% concentration demonstrated the highest effectiveness in increasing the mortality rate of P. americana. Keyword:Citrofortunella microcarpa; Periplaneta americana; Natural Insecticide; Mortality.
Inadequate exclusive A5I provision is a risk factor for stunting, which remains a major health problem in Indonesia. A polyherbal tea product A5I containing katuk (Sauropus androgynus), moringa (Moringa oleifera), klabet (Trigonella foenum-graecum), torch ginger (Etlingera elatior), and cinnamon (Cinnamomum burmannii) was developed as a natural lactagogum. This study aimed to evaluate the safety of the product through histopathological analysis of vital organs and mammary tissue in female mice after repeated administration. A 28-day subchronic toxicity test was conducted on female mice divided into control and treatment groups. The heart, lungs, kidneys, and mammary organs were harvested for histopathological examination using hematoxylin-eosin staining with a standardized scoring system. Myocardial histopathology showed minimal bleeding without necrosis. The lungs exhibited alveolar septal destruction and mild inflammatory cell infiltration without pulmonary edema, indicating a functional alveocapillary barrier. The kidneys exhibited only mild tubular degeneration without necrosis or inflammatory infiltration. Mammary tissue exhibited extensive ductal dilation and abundant intraluminal secretion distribution, consistent with active lactation. Subchronic administration of A5I polyherbal tea did not cause significant histopathological damage to vital organs, and the mammary findings support its potential lactagogic effect. These findings provide preliminary evidence of the safety of this polyherbal product as a breast milk booster, although further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm its safety and clinical effectiveness. Keyword: Breastfeeding Booster; Histopathology; Lactagogue; Mammary Gland; Mice; Polyherbal
One of the common diseases in broccoli plants is clubroot caused by soil-borne pathogens (Plasmodiophora brassicae Wor.). One form of prevention of this disease is by applying dry formulation of Trichoderma sp. This study aims to determine the effect of giving dry formulation of Trichoderma sp. in controlling clubroot disease in Broccoli. This study used a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 4 treatments, namely P0 (0 grams/liter), P1 (5 grams/liter.), P2 (7 grams/liter), and P3 (9 grams/liter) with 6 replications per treatment. The results showed that P3 was the most effective in increasing plant height, leaf blades, leaf length, leaf width, wet weight, and broccoli flower weight. While P2 was the most effective concentration in controlling clubroot disease with the lowest disease severity level of 23.85. Keyword: Dry Formulation; Trichoerma sp.; Broccoli; Mace Root.
Low student learning activity in class VII MTsN 2 Banda Aceh on the respiratory system material was marked by minimal student participation in asking questions, discussing, and expressing opinions during the learning process. This condition indicates the need to apply innovative and student-centered learning models and media. This study aims to improve student learning activities through the application of the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model assisted by audio-visual media. This study uses a Classroom Action Research (CAR) design carried out in two cycles, each covering the stages of planning, implementation of actions, observation, and reflection. The research subjects consisted of 37 seventh-grade students at MTsN 2 Banda Aceh. Data were collected using a learning activity observation sheet covering six indicators, namely visual, oral, listening, writing, mental, and emotional activities. The results showed that the average student learning activity increased from 79% in cycle I, which was categorized as high, to 91% in cycle II, which was categorized as very high. The increase occurred consistently across all learning activity indicators. Thus, the application of the PBL model assisted by audio-visual media proved to be effective in increasing student learning activities in biology learning. Keywords: Learning Activities; Problem-Based Learning; Audio-Visual Media; PTK.
BACKGROUND: Cryopreservation is a cornerstone technology in regenerative medicine, cell therapy, and biobanking; however, delayed cell death (DCD) occurring 24–48 hours post-thaw remains a critical barrier to maintaining high-quality viable cells—even when immediate post-thaw viability exceeds 95%. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the occurrence of delayed cell death (DCD) in cells after thawing following cryopreservation, and to evaluate the regulatory effect of different cryoprotective base solutions, with a focus on establishing a UW solution-based cryopreservation protocol. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Six cell lines (PESUN, Vero, RD, RK13, VeroE6, L20B) were used to compare two freezing methods (rapid freezing vs. slow freezing) and two cryoprotective base solutions (DMEM vs. UW solution). Cell viability was detected by trypan blue staining, apoptotic cells by Giemsa staining, and cell biological characteristics (proliferation, viral susceptibility) were assessed. RESULTS: 1) DCD peaked at 24 h post-thaw: the mortality rate was 42.2% and apoptotic rate was 28.9% in DMEM-based groups. 2) UW solution (intracellular-type, low Na⁺/high K⁺) significantly reduced DCD: 24 h post-thaw mortality was 21.8% (vs. 43.2% in DMEM) and apoptotic rate was 13.9% (vs. 28.9% in DMEM, both P<0.05). 3) The optimal UW-based protocol was confirmed as: 20% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), 1 min room temperature equilibration, rapid freezing, 37°C water bath thawing, 2.5% glucose in dilution medium, and ≥4-fold dilution. 4) Cells preserved by this protocol maintained pre-cryopreservation properties (proliferation index: 3.27 vs. 3.23; doubling time: 41.8 h vs. 42.2 h; Echovirus B1 log₁₀ TCID₅₀/mL: 7.50 vs. 7.50). CONCLUSION: Post-thaw DCD is closely associated with apoptosis. The UW solution-based cryopreservation protocol effectively reduces DCD while preserving cell function, providing a reliable strategy for clinical cell cryopreservation.
Buffalo meat is an essential protein source in many regions but faces quality challenges, including oxidation, discoloration, and reduced tenderness. This study investigates the impact of soaking buffalo meat in extracts from melinjau, papaya, and pineapple on its physicochemical properties (color, protein, fat content, and tenderness) and organoleptic characteristics (color, aroma, texture, tenderness, and juiciness). Buffalo meat samples were soaked in fruit extracts for varying durations, followed by analysis of color, protein and fat content, tenderness, and sensory qualities. The results showed significant effects of soaking on color, with melinjau and papaya extracts improving lightness and reducing redness. Soaking with papaya and pineapple extracts enhanced tenderness, while melinjau extract increased juiciness. Protein content decreased slightly, but fat content was significantly reduced, particularly with papaya extract. Sensory evaluation revealed that melinjau extract produced the most favorable tenderness and juiciness, while papaya and pineapple extracts also improved tenderness. These findings suggest that tropical fruit extracts can be used to enhance buffalo meat quality by improving tenderness, reducing fat content, and extending shelf life. This natural preservation method offers a potential alternative to synthetic additives, contributing to better sensory properties and higher-quality buffalo meat products.
Shallot is a horticultural plant that is susceptible to pathogen attacks. The continuous use of non-biological fungicides has a negative impact on the environment, making it necessary to implement biological control using antagonistic microorganisms. This study aims to evaluate the differences in growth and yield of shallots treated with a dry formulation of Trichoderma sp. to control Fusarium wilt. The study was conducted using a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with four treatments and six replications. The concentrations used were 0 grams/liter, 7 grams/liter, 14 grams/liter, and 21 grams/liter. The data analysis results showed that the dry formulation of Trichoderma sp. at a concentration of 21 grams/liter was the most effective in controlling Fusarium wilt, with the lowest disease severity of 23.16 (F_1,24=47.61, p
This study aims to produce an optimal formulation for making powdered salted duck eggs with foam-mat drying using Design Expert 13 Mixture D-Optimal method based on chemical and organoleptic properties. The use of salted duck eggs as instant seasoning is a form of product innovation to increase protein consumption in Indonesia. The research is to determine the optimal formulation of powdered salted duck eggs using the Design Expert 13 program using the Mixture D-Optimal method by analyzing protein content, moisture content, and organoleptics including color attributes, aroma attributes, taste attributes, and texture attributes (handfeel).The results of the study based on the prediction of the Design Expert 13 program showed that the optimization of the formula with a protein content of 18.04%, moisture content of 1.56%, and organoleptic values including color attributes of 4.99, aroma attributes of 4.67, taste attributes of 4.67, and texture attributes (handfeel) of 4.71. Then the accuracy value (desirability) was obtained, namely 0.761. Then, the verification results showed the protein content was 18,23%, mositure content was 3,04%, and organoleptics value include color 5,00; aroma 4,80; taste 4,67; and texture (handfeel) 4,93. The results of follow-up tests, there are fat content 30,91%; ash content 3,10%; carbohydarate content by difference method of 44,72%; and sodium (salt) content of 3,29%.
Abstrak: Pada konteks pendidikan tinggi Indonesia, pendekatan pembelajaran konvensional yang berpusat pada dosen masih dominan, sehingga menghambat keterlibatan aktif mahasiswa dan pengembangan keterampilan berpikir tingkat tinggi, khususnya dalam pembelajaran biologi yang menuntut pemahaman konseptual, kemampuan analitis, dan penerapan ilmiah. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis peningkatan literasi sains dan kemampuan berpikir kritis mahasiswa setelah diterapkannya pembelajaran blended yang digamifikasi pada materi Anatomi Akar. Penelitian ini menggunakan Mixed Methods Research (Metode Campuran) dengan pendekatan desain quasi-eksperimental. Hasil analisis literasi sains menunjukkan nilai t hitung sebesar 9,45, lebih besar dari t tabel 1,54 pada taraf signifikansi 0,05, serta nilai signifikansi 0,00 < 0,05. Selain itu, hasil uji t pada hasil kemampuan berpikir kritis memperkuat temuan tersebut dengan nilai t hitung 7,48 > t tabel 1,34, yang mengindikasikan adanya perbedaan yang sangat signifikan antara rata-rata nilai N-gain mahasiswa pada kelas eksperimen dan kelas kontrol. Dengan demikian, hipotesis alternatif (Ha) diterima, yang berarti model pembelajaran blended learning yang digamifikasi efektif dalam meningkatkan kemampuan berpikir kritis dan literasi sains mahasiswa. Kata kunci: Pembelajaran Blanded; Gamifikasi; Literasi Sains; Kemampuan Berpikir Kritis.
