Search

Nigella sativa or black cumin is one of the medicinal plants that botanically belongs to the Ranunculaceae family and is literally described as the 'seed of blessings' due to its medicinal use in Islamic historical background. Black cumin has a wide spectrum of pharmacological actions, but its stability is still a limitation. To overcome this, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) was introduced as an alternative carrier system of active compounds. In this study, solid lipid nanoparticles containing black cumin seed oil were successfully prepared by the emulsification-ultrasonication method. The effects of different emulsifiers were studied in terms of particle size. The particle size decreases with increasing lecithin/emulsifier concentration. The dynamic light scattering analysis of solid lipid nanoparticles confirmed the particle diameter of the formulated SLNs stabilized with poloxamer and tween 80 was approximately 220 nm to 1.2 µm. The results obtained from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed the sphere-like shape of SLNs. From the SEM analysis, the diameter of the SLNs was in the range of 250 - 900 nm. Physiochemical characterization using DSC technique demonstrated a difference in crystal structure between SLNs with and without black cumin seed oils. SLNs system has a potential to show a high stable loading capacity of active lipophilic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is recognized as a heart disease resulting from sequelae in acute rheumatic fever (ARF), mostly manifested in mitral regurgitation. PINP and PIIINP play an important role in triggering the remodeling process. This is a cross-sectional study. Forty RHD patients underwent echocardiographic examinations to be classified into ARF without valve abnormalities, mild, moderate, and severe mitral regurgitation. PINP and PIIINP through venous blood and ELISA were examined. The result shows a significant PIIINP level and ratio PIIINP/PINP difference between the mild and severe MR groups (p = 0.020 and p = 0.026) with insignificant PINP levels. According to the correlation test, there is a correlation between the level of PIIINP and the degree of mitral regurgitation severity (p = 0.018) with (r = 0.372) while PINP dan PIIINP/PINP ratio is insignificant. According to the study, the PINP level is indicated insignificant, but PIIINP levels and PIIINP/PINP ratio show that in RHD, children with the severe form of mitral regurgitation are significantly higher than mild regurgitation group. Thus, there is a correlation between the PIIINP level and the degree of mitral regurgitation severity in children in RHD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preterm infants need adequate nutritional intake for the faster growth process. Lack of zinc functioning in cellular metabolic processes causes growth and development disorders. One of the hormones playing a role in the growth and found to be reduced in preterm infants is insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). This study aimed to determine whether zinc supplementation had an impact to increase zinc serum, IGF-1 levels, and growth parameters in preterm infants. This study was a pure experimental study with a double-blind randomized clinical trial (RCT). This study also conducted pre and post-tests in control group. There was a significant difference in zinc serum level, IGF-1 level, and growth parameters at 3-month corrected age between the zinc and the placebo groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kelor leaves are local food that can be used as food products because of the fairly complete nutritional content. This study aimed to determine the effect of moringa leaf puree on Moringa jelly candies' organoleptic properties and get the best formulation based on the result. This research employed an experimental study using CRD with three formulas and two repetitions. Data were tested using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and continued with Duncan's test. The determination of the best formulation was then calculated using the effectiveness index method. The results showed that the highest average organoleptic properties which is sensory evaluation and consumer acceptability were obtained by Moringa jelly candy with 20% moringa leaves puree. The best formulation was obtained by Moringa jelly candy with 20% moringa leaf puree with a product value of 0.84. Hence, the fortification of jelly candy ingredients by adding Moringa leaves powder (MOLP) offers an alternative model for the future development of nutritional candy and healthy food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The SA-Fe2.75Mn0.25O4/Ag ferrogel has been successfully synthesized using the encapsulsion method. The crystal structure characterization of the Fe2.75Mn0.25O4/Ag material was carried out using the XRD instrument. The XRD data analysis showed the appearance of peaks of the Fe3O4 phase and the Ag phase in the sample diffraction pattern. Furthermore, the characterization of the functional group SA-Fe2.75Mn0.25O4/Ag was conducted using the FTIR instrument which the results showed that the resulting functional group bonds correspond to the wavelength range of the constituent atoms. The magnetic properties of the SA-Fe2.75Mn0.25O4/Ag ferrogel were characterized using a YSM instrument. This characterization resulted in a hysteresis curve indicating that the magnetic properties of the SA-Fe2.75Mn0.25O4/Ag ferrogel behavior as superparamagnetic. Its potential application as a material in hyperthermia therapy is characterized by using a series of magnetic induction devices that produce optimal SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) values. The SAR values of ferrogel SA-Fe2.75Mn0.25O4/Ag at a frequency of 483 and 553 Hz were 0.12 and 0.24 W/g, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental pollution is a complex problem because waste is generated in all areas of life. If not handled properly, laboratory waste can pollute and endanger the environment. Laboratory waste containing heavy metals such as Cadmium, Chromium, Nickel, and Zinc is hazardous if it pollutes the environment. An easy and inexpensive method of treating heavy metal waste is adsorption. This research applies silica-cellulose material as heavy metal adsorbent in laboratory waste. Variations in contact time were used to measure the adsorbent capacity and adsorbent effectiveness on heavy metals Cadmium, Chromium, Nickel, and Zinc. The results showed that the contact time affected the adsorption capacity and the adsorption effectiveness of silica-cellulose on heavy metal content in laboratory waste. For Cd and Zn metals, the highest adsorption capacity at the contact time of 1 h with adsorption effectiveness values above 90%. Whereas for Cr and Ni metals, the highest adsorption capacity was at the contact time of 3 h with different values of adsorption effectiveness. For Cr metal, almost entirely can be absorbed well, while Ni metal is only half of the total metal can be absorbed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The magnetic nanomaterials have attracted significant attention as effective and potential adsorbents. We synthesized the Fe3O4/MnO2/HA nanocomposite as an adsorbent for strontium adsorption. The nanocomposite was synthesized by the coprecipitation method. Humic acid (HA) is used to coat nanocomposites were obtained from the compost of TPST Supit Urang Malang City, East Java, Indonesia. HA, Fe3O4 nanoparticle, and Fe3O4/MnO2/HA nanocomposites characterized by XRD, FT-IR, VSM, SEM-EDX, and BET methods. The Fe3O4/MnO2/HA has been successfully synthesized. Coating Fe3O4 nanoparticles with MnO2/HA caused the composite size to be smaller when compared to Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The ideal situation for the adsorption of Sr2+ by the nanocomposites was 0.4 g mass of adsorbent, pH 10, and contact time of 24 hours. The pseudo-second-order model is suitable for the adsorption of Sr2+ by the nanocomposite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High salt-tolerant extracellular protease is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in industries and requires high salt conditions. Some protease enzymes are not resistant to high salt conditions because they may denature under high salt concentrations. Halophilic microbes produce extracellular enzymes that are stable at high salts. This research has succeeded isolating several halophilic microbes capable of producing extracellular proteases from Bledug Kuwu, Grobogan, Central Java, Indonesia. Extracellular proteases producing bacteria screened with skim milk selective medium and purified with the quadrant streak method. Then, the pure isolate and the resulting extracellular protease were characterized BK1B isolate was a Gram-positive bacterium, while BK1D was a Gram-negative bacterium. BK1B isolate is a halotolerant bacterium and BK1D is a moderate halophilic bacterium. BK1B and BK1D had the largest proteolytic index values, capable of producing extracellular proteases with an optimal production time of three days and pH 6. Extracellular proteases from BK1B and BK1D worked optimally at pH 6 and temperatures of 45 and 42 °C with 2.541 and 3.505 U/mL activity and resistance to NaCl concentrations ranging from 3 - 13% NaCl. This suggests that extracellular proteases from BK1B and BK1D strains can be stable at high salt concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to analyze Brantas River's quality through the Biotilik method by utilizing macrozoobenthos as a bioindicator. The study was conducted in January 2020. Determination of the sample location was done by purposive sampling. There were three sampling stations, namely in Coban Talun, Vinolia area, and Jodipan Tourism Village (KWJ) area. Data analysis of determining the Water Pollution Index (WPI) was done by calculating the macrozoobenthos tolerance index found at each station. The Water Pollution Index in Coban Talun is three so that it is clean and mildly polluted. The identified families are Tipulidae and Baetidae. The Water Pollution Index in the Vinolia Region and the KWJ Region is 2, indicating it as dirty and rather heavily polluted waters. The discovered families are Lymnaeidae, Thiaridae, Buccinidae, Parathelpusidae, Corbiculidae, and Chironomus. Vinolia Region and KWJ Region are close to the settlement. The closer to the settlement of the water quality tends to be polluted because the water contaminated by the waste from the human activities near the river. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cipadessa baccifera (C. baccifera) is a plant belonging to the Meliaceae family growing in tropical areas and containing terpenoids and flavonoids. Flavonoids have antioxidant properties so they can inhibit oxidoreductase enzyme activities, such as xanthine oxidase playing a significant role in uric acid biosynthesis. This study aimed to determine the antioxidant activity, xanthine oxidase inhibition activity, and the bioactive compounds in methanol extract and the most active fraction of C. baccifera leaves using LC-MS/MS. The research was carried out in the following steps: 1) extraction of C. baccifera leaves by maceration method using methanol solvent then phytochemical test, 2) fractions separation using solvents of n-hexane, ethyl acetate, butanol and water, 3) antioxidant and xanthine oxidase inhibition test of initial methanol extract and each fraction, 4) Identification of compounds using LC-MS/MS. The results showed that the methanol extract of C. baccifera contained alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and steroids. The ethyl acetate fraction had the highest levels of flavonoids, antioxidant activity, and xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity, and the LC-MS/MS analysis indicated that this fraction contained quercimeritrin, kaempferol 3-0-β-D-glucopyranoside, oxofangchirine, and glehlinoside B. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vulvovaginal candidiasis occurs in 70 - 75% of women. About 40 - 45% of them experience vulvovaginal candidiasis for the second time. Approximately 70 - 89% of these infections are caused by Candida albicans. Candida albicans forming biofilm are reported to have a higher resistance to most anti-fungal drugs, including fluconazole. Objective: To determine the effects of propolis ethanolic extract (PEE) on biofilm formation and genes expression level of EFG1 on C. albicans biofilm. Methods: C. albicans biofilm formation was grown on SDB + 2% glucose and added with PEE with a concentration of 0% (control group) and 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10 and 12.5% (treatment group). Then, C. albicans biofilm formation was incubated at 37 °C for 48 hours. Biofilm inhibition was tested by the crystal violet assay. Analysis of genes expression level of EFG1 was performed using Real Time-PCR and calculated by absolute quantification method. Results: The results of the PEE effect on biofilm inhibition percentage showed a decrease in biofilm formation with the increase in PEE concentration given (p = 0.001), and gene expression level analysis showed that EFG1 (p = 0.000) expression level decreased with the increase in PEE concentration given. Conclusion: Propolis ethanolic extract could reduce biofilm formation and down-regulate the expression of EFG1 in C. albicans biofilm formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An antineoplastic agent is one of the main focuses of pharmaceutical development to treat cancer disease. In silico study can efficiently reduce the time and cost of such screening anticancer agent candidates. This study aimed to screen the biological activity and pharmacological properties of potential Cyperus rotundus bioactive compounds. Five bioactive compounds contained in Cyperus rotundus, such as apigenin, aureusidin, luteolin, quercetin, and scaberin were used in this study. The biological activity of investigated bioactive compounds was analyzed using PASS (Prediction of Activity Spectra for Substances) software. SwissADME software was used to analyze the pharmacological properties of each compound. Results showed that various biological activities have a potential as anticancer of all investigated compounds including free radical scavenging, HIF-1a inhibitor, and apoptosis agonist activity. All investigated compounds except scaberin demonstrated an antimutagenic activity, TP53 enhancer, and MMP9 inhibitor. However, antineoplastic activity only showed by aureusidin, luteolin, and scaberin. Based on SwissADME analysis known that all investigated bioactive compounds showed optimum lipophilicity, size, polarity, solubility, and flexibility. But the only scaberin showed optimum saturation. Five bioactive compounds contained in Cyperus rotundus showed a promising effect as anticancer drug candidate, so it needs to be studied further. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Covid-19 pandemic, which is happening all over the world, needs serious attention. Covid-19 initiated by an RNA type virus can cause more severe problems later on due to its ability to mutate. Integrated molecular research is required to determine the characteristics and potential of various variants of Covid-19 in mutations. This study was conducted by directing phylogenetic analysis on 17 samples of Covid-19 sequences from several countries taken from the NCBI database and followed by ORF analysis of each Covid-19 sample for further characterization. Based on the study, it is known that from 17 samples of Covid-19 sequences, Covid-19 sequences from Taiwan have the lowest similarity compared to 16 other Covid-19 sequences. These results are confirmed by the ORF analysis of each sample, which shows that the longest ORF in the Covid-19 sequence from Taiwan is an ORF 20 with lengthened by 4405 amino acids, and the shortest ORF is an ORF 38 with lengthened by 50 amino acids. However, 16 other sequence samples have the longest ORF 6, ORF 6, with lengthened by 4405 amino acids and the shortest ORF 44 with lengthened by 50 amino acids. The difference in ORF variation affects the similarity level of Covid-19 sequences from several countries. It is due to variations in ORF that produce amino acid variations that determine the Covid-19 phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the results of research on the development of nanomagnetite with Carboxymethyl kappa-carrageenan (CMKC) coat to be used as an adsorbent, of Pb+2 and Cr+3 preconcentration process of aqueous samples, through the adsorption-desorption process. The experiment was carried out in several stages (1) Preparation of CMKC coated nanomagnetite (2) Test the adsorption ability of CMKC coated nanomagnetite, as adsorbent of Pb+2 and Cr+3 from the aqueous samples, at some various ratio between adsorbent mass to sample concentration, (3) Analysis of the performance of CMKC coated nanomagnetite, as a preconcentration medium of Pb+2 and Cr+3 in aqueous samples. The CMKC coated nanomagnetite that has been synthesized is able to adsorb Pb+2 and Cr+3 ions from the samples. The analysis was performed using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (F-AAS) shows that the optimal ability of Carboxymethyl kappa-carrageenan coated nanomagnetite to adsorb Pb+2 and Cr+3 are 0.1 g Pb+2/ g CMKC coated nanomagnetite, and 0.01 g Cr+3 / g CMKC coated nanomagnetite. CMKC coated nanomagnetite was able to increase the concentrations of Pb+2 and Cr+3 in the sample, 203% for samples containing Pb2+, and 133% for samples containing Cr3+. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stunting is a growing problem caused by chronic inadequacy of nutrition intake and chronic inflammation, mainly during the first 1000 days of life. This study aims to evaluate the incidence of stunting in terms of non-exclusive breastfeeding, infectious diseases, and sanitation in Pujon subdistrict, Malang, East Java, Indonesia. This study was an observational analytic study with the case-control design carried out in 10th - 21st March 2020 in Pujon subdistrict, Malang district, East Java. This study involved 76 pairs of mothers and children age 24 - 59 months (39 cases and 37 control samples). Data were collected by questionnaire, while the statistical analysis used Chi-square test followed by the analysis of odds ratio (OR) with 95% CI. The results show that the risk factors for stunting in toddlers due to a non-exclusive history of breastfeeding (OR = 2.995), history of infectious diseases such as fever (OR = 3.059), Acute Respiratory Infection (OR = 4.452), diarrhea (OR = 7.083), and waste disposal facilities (OR = 4.000) sewage water disposal facilities (OR = 5.739). It can be concluded that non-exclusive breastfeeding, infection disease, and sanitation such as waste and sewage water disposal facilities are risk factors for stunting children aged 24 - 59 months in Pujon subdistrict, Malang, East Java, Indonesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an initial attempt to preserve springs, research on tree vegetation's characterization around the spring in Malang region was carried out. This study aimed to analyze tree vegetation structure in springs and compare the character of tree vegetation between springs in Malang with different altitudes. The vegetation analysis was used to characterize the vegetation type of trees in each springs area. The plot method used to take samples was divided into four stations in one spring area, and each research station is divided into three plot points so that there are 12 plots in one research location. The analysis of tree vegetation structures in respective springs in the lowlands and highlands of Malang has an average "medium" Diversity Index Value. The tree species based on INP in the lowlands were dominated by Meliaceae, while Lauraceae and Araucariaceae dominated the highlands' tree species. The tree family with characteristics and occurs most frequently in springs areas is the Moraceae of the Genus Ficus. The total family recorded in this study were 22 families consisting of 62 tree species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atherosclerosis is the etiology of coronary heart disease (CHD) that contributes to the highest mortality rate of non-communicable disease groups in Indonesia. The early stage of this process is marked by the presence of fatty streaks lesion in the artery wall. This study aimed to investigate the effect of holy basil leaves (Ocimum sanctum L.) to suppress the formation of the fatty streak as previous study prove the reduced lipid levels, ROS, and inflammation after treated with this extract. 25 adult male New Zealand rabbits age 4-month weight 2500-3000 g fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) and 10 mg/kgBW/day Holy Basil Extract (HBE), 25 mg/kgBW/day HBE, 50 mg/kgBW/day HBE. The negative control group was received only HFD. For the experimental standard, one group provided with standard diet rabbits were included. The fatty streak was measured in aorta wall after 45 days of treatment by immunohistochemistry method and quantified using Image J software. The results showed that there was no significant difference in the fatty streak area between each group (p > 0.05). Still, there was a trend of decreasing fatty streak area dose dependent manner (negative control 5802.21+3690.41 µm2, P1 5154.69 + 3990.79 µm2, P2 4938.31 + 3690.18 µm2, and P3 3611.68 + 4092.96 µm2) even though it was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). This paper conclude that holy basil leaves extract may exert anti-atherosclerosis inhibition through attenuation of fatty streak formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulcerative colitis is an idiopathic inflammatory disorder affecting the small intestine and rectum mucosa. The main clinical manifestations are bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain. Vitamin D3 has a role in the immunological response and ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory disease closely related to decreased levels of vitamin D3. This study examined the effects of vitamin D3 on IFN-γ and IL-1β which play a role in colitis mechanism, and colonic mucosal repair in DSS-induced colitis mice models. This is an experimental study using a randomized post-test only control group design with 21 samples, divided into three groups. The results showed significant epithelial damage found in the positive control group (9.42 ± 2.16) compared to the negative control group (0.33 ± 0.26) and treatment group (6.29 ± 1.48) based on MCHI scores and there was a significant difference in IFN-γ and IL-1β expression levels of mice colon epithelial cells among the groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gout and COVID-19 have been of global concerns. One of the drugs for gout is allopurinol that acts as a xanthin oxidase inhibitor (XOI). However, this drug has side effects, so we need safer drugs from herbal sources such as sugar apple. Sugar apple ethanol extract can act as XOI, but the activity of steeping with hot water is not known. Besides, several sugar apple compounds are also reported to be active as anti-viruses, but their activity has not been categorized against the COVID-19. This study aimed at making powder from sugar apple, which was brew using hot water, determined the phytochemical content, including TPC and TFC, tested its activity as XOI and the profile bond of the active compounds to the S protein of COVID-19. The results showed that the extract of sugar apple powder contained alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols, with TPC and TFC levels of 0.048% and 0.099%, active as XOI. Furthermore, the in silico analysis has shown three compounds in sugar apple, namely quercetin-3-glucoside, rutin, and kaempferol-3-rutinoside that can bound to the RBD of S protein of COVID-19, so it is predicted that the three compounds have anti-COVID-19 activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we considered a mathematical model of the spread of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The model was based on the COVID-19 outbreak in Wuhan, China. The model was of the type of the SEIR (Susceptible, Exposed, Infected, Removed) system involving the effects of individual reaction and governmental action. We used Euler's and Heun's numerical methods for solving the model. We took parameters of the Wuhan case for simulations of the COVID- 19 spread. Both Euler's and Heun's methods produced solutions having the same behavior. These solutions provided a prediction of the spread of COVID-19 in a particular region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Observation of agronomic traits is crucial in plant breeding programs to develop high yielding varieties. High yielding varieties can be a solution for the low productivity of domestic soybeans. This study aimed to determine the agronomic traits of F3 generation soybean derived from high yielding small-seeded soybean genotype (UM 6-1) with large-seeded soybean variety (Grobogan). The agronomic data were analyzed using principal component analysis and cluster analysis. The highest influential characters were the seed yield per plant and the number of seeds per plant based on the first and second main components. The number of unfilled pods was the least prominent because its contribution to the main component was smallest than other characters. Plant height, number of branches, number of productive nodes, number of filled pods, number of seeds per plant had a similar contribution to the population structure. The UM 6-1/Grobogan lines were divided into 5 clusters. Cluster 1 did not have a character with high value. Cluster 2 had a high number of unfilled pods and 100-seed weight. Cluster 3 had high 100-seed weight. Clusters 4 and 5 had high values for six characters. Every cluster is attributed to some dominant characters that developed the cluster. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is a product of the authors' intellectual restlessness related to the reality that Indonesia still has a continuous problem of environmental destruction despite being a Muslim majority country. It does not align with Islamic teachings, especially knowing that Islam is a religion paying the most attention to the environment. Yūsuf Al-Qarḍāwy, through his book Ri'āyat al-Bī'ah fi Sharī'ah al-Islām, affirmed that Islam is an eco-friendly religion, using maqāṣid al-sharī'ah as the method of approach. There are three main problems discussed in this work. Firstly, Yūsuf al-Qardhawy's view on environmental ethics in Ri'āyat al-Bī'ah fi Sharī'ah al-Islām and his idea on hifdh al-bī'h as a part of maqāṣid al- sharī'ah. This research fell under the subject of normative law and thus it is categorized as library research based on the method used in gathering the data. The primary and secondary data were analyzed using the descriptive-analytic method. There are three findings highlighted in this work. Firstly, there are five basic principles of environmental ethics defined by Yūsuf Al-Qarḍāwy: the principle of respect, love and affection towards nature, responsibility, simplicity, and justice. Secondly, Yūsuf al-Qardhawy's concept of hifdh al-bī'ah is a medium to actualize kulliyāt al-khams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heterogeneous catalysts in biodiesel synthesis is more environmentally friendly and reusable. Alkaline earth oxides are less alkaline than alkaline oxides. Biodiesel is an alternative fuel, which has been started to be developed as a renewable energy. The aim of this study was to synthesize biodiesel from low-quality crude palm oil (CPO) with heterogeneous catalyst of MgO-K2O using ultrasonic waves. The stages in this study were (a) activation of natural zeolites, (b) refining of low quality of CPO, (c) synthesis of MgO-K2O catalyst at ratio of 10 : 1, 10 : 2, 10 : 3 (MgO : KOH) and (d) transesterification of esterified CPO (variations in the amount of catalyst 10%, 15%, and 20%). This research achieved the optimum conditions for methyl ester synthesis at ratio of 10 : 2 (MgO : KOH) of catalyst composition (15% w/w of oil), and the yield was 88.086%. The character of the methyl ester was in accordance of Indonesian biodiesel standard, therefore, the methyl ester obtained has the potential as biodiesel. The composition of the synthesized methyl ester were 1.96% methyl myristate, 40.42% methyl palmitate, 44.32% methyl oleate, and 7.46% methyl stearate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) occurs when triglycerides inside hepatocytes are swollen. A single bulb garlic extract containing allicin components, S-allyl-l-cysteine, Ajoene (E-Ajoene and Z-Ajoene) are thought to inhibit fat biosynthesis and reduce triglycerides in blood serum. This study aimed to analyze single bulb garlic extract in NAFLD due to a high-fat diet (HFD) in mice. Twenty male Balb/C mice were divided into five groups: normal, HFD, HFD + Single Bulb Garlic Extract (SBGE) 100 mg kg BW−1, HFD + SBGE 200 mg kg BW−1, and HFD + SBGE 400 mg kg BW−1. The administration of SBGE orally altogether with HFD for 30 days. On the last day of treatment, the mice were sacrificed. The liver was collected to make a micro-anatomic slide and stained by Hematoxylin Eosin. Liver microanatomy slides were observed under a light microscope and scoring to count fatty liver cells. The results of this study indicated that administration of SBGE affected the average liver weight (p < 0.05). Treating SBGE with dose of 100 mg kg BW−1, 200 mg kg BW−1, and 400 mg kg BW−1 decreased hepatic steatosis (p < 0.05). SBGE could prevent non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in mice fed with HFD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Streptococcus agalactiae is a gram-positive bacterium which has pili protein on its cell surface. It can cause pathogenic infections in the reproductive tract of women and newborns, resulting in premature births, meningitis, and pneumonia. Streptococcus agalactiae samples obtained from patients treated at Saiful Anwar Hospital Malang, East Java, Indonesia. Streptococcus agalactiae were cultured using biphasic brain heart infusion (BHI). The subjects were divided into 4 samples namely, the first pili cut sample, the second pili cut sample, the third pili cut sample and the whole Streptococcus agalactiae cells sample. Each group was tested for hemagglutination and SDS-PAGE electrophoresis. The analysis test result was seen based on the agglutination and the dominant color of the protein band using the EZ Gel-Biorad Gel Documentation System tool. The hemagglutination test showed that the second cut of Streptococcus agalactiae pili had the highest positive hemagglutination test at dilution of titer 64 (1/64). The SDS-PAGE electrophoresis test showed that the dominant bands were in the second pili cut sample at 35 and 53 kDa molecular weights. The pili Streptococcus agalactiae has high hemagglutination activity and dominant molecular weight, which can be used as vaccine candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaria in Indonesia exceeds more than 300.000 cases in two consecutive years since 2016. Recently, a synthetic drug called chloroquine was used for the treatment. Unfortunately, the massive consumption of chloroquine gives rise to Plasmodium resistance. This research aims to determine the potency of endophytic bacteria obtained from cinchona plants root producing quinine compound and characterize its morphological properties. Quinine extraction starts with bacterial cultured in 7 mL Nutrient Broth inside vial supplemented with 140 µL (1:20) tryptophan. All bacteria cultures were incubated at 27 °C and agitated in a shaker with 120 rpm for 48 hours. The extraction process was carried out with additional 8.4 ml (1:1.2) chloroform to each sample. The qualitative measurement uses Thalleioquin test method with hydrochloric acid (HCl), Bromine-solution (KBr + KBrO3 + H2O), and ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) as the main reagent. This screening test indicator is the color in the upper phase of the sample compared with the Green-Yellow color (5GY 8/6) from Munsell Color Chart. We found all isolates could produce quinine, and isolate a11 and a13 has the highest color strength. Both isolate a11 and a13 are classified as negative Gram, non-capsulated, and bacilli shape properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keratinase is a specific proteolytic enzyme that degrades keratin. Keratinase has wide applications in global industries. Bacillus sp. MD24 has been reported to produce keratinase by solid-state fermentation method using chicken feathers as a sole substrate. Furthermore, keratinase production could be elevated by adding biomass waste (sugarcane bagasse, tofu waste, or rice husk) to chicken feathers. However, the ratio of biomass waste addition was unknown. The liquid by-product of keratinase production contains both carbon and nitrogen sources, which is potential as organic fertilizer. This study aimed to determine the effect of chicken feathers and an additional carbon source ratio toward keratinase production by Bacillus sp. MD24 and potential of its liquid by-products as organic fertilizer. This research was conducted in several stages: keratinase production, enzyme assay, testing liquid by-product on the growth of caisim, and plant morphological analysis. The results showed that the addition of tofu waste produced higher keratinase compared to other carbon sources. The optimal ratio between chicken feathers and tofu waste to produce optimal keratinase was 1:0,4 on the 6th day. Growth rates, the number of leaves, and chlorophyll a and b pigments increased significantly with 20-days irrigation at 1:5 and 1:10 (v/v) dilution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contamination caused by heavy metals such as Cr(VI) has become a serious problem in the aquatic environment in the world. Various kinds of research to avoid the destructive effects of pollution in multiple ecosystems are being investigated. One of the important efforts is to keep track of existence of heavy metals in aquatic environment. However, the monitoring of heavy metal existence meets several blockages, in this case due to the water stream of the river. This research was aimed to investigate the use of biofilm matrix as a biological agent to monitor water river quality and focused on Cr(VI) pollution in the Cokro River, Malang Regency. Cr(VI) concentrations in water and biofilm were investigated. The environmental parameters of Cokro River were also analyzed, there were temperature, pH, conductivity, turbidity, dissolved oxygen and salinity. The summary of this study showed that the concentration of Cr(VI) in the biofilms was higher than in water. Based on the results of this research, the biofilm matrix was a potential agent to monitor Cr(VI) concentration in the lotic ecosystems especially in Cokro River. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic fluid based on local iron sand using virgin coconut oil (VCO) as a natural surfactant is a magnetic fluid that has good biocompatible properties. Fe3O4/VCO preparation was successfully synthesized using the coprecipitation method. The Fe3O4 nanoparticles obtained were characterized by using XRD and SEM. The XRD results showed a particle size was 11.28 nm. These results were well confirmed using SEM characterization, which showed that the particle size was 11.34 nm. FTIR characterization shows the bond -CH-(CH2) with an asymmetric vibration model that experiences a shift in the peak vibration on the magnetic fluid sample, and it is a representation presence of oleic acid as one of the substances in the VCO surfactant. Furthermore, a new peak with the -COO- bond shows carboxylic acids as evidence of the combination of symmetrical bonding with surface molecular bonds. This indicates that the addition of VCO surfactants can reduce the agglomeration of magnetite nanoparticles. To determine the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) value we used magneto-thermal characterization. From the analysis, SAR value of magnetic fluid indicates 1.659 and 2.021 W/g for the Fe3O4/VCO ratio of 1 : 3.5 and 1 : 4.5, respectively. From these results, the magnetic fluid of Fe3O4/VCO is a potential candidate as a material for hyperthermia therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estradiol decreases in postmenopausal women cause several changes in the physical, physiological, and psychological aspects. Consequently, various complaints emerged and affected women's quality of life (QoL). Vitamin D [25(OH)D] is an alternative to relieve menopausal complaints. This study aimed to examine the relationship between estradiol, 25(OH)D, and the QoL among postmenopausal women. This study applied a descriptive-analytic and consecutive sampling technique. The inclusion criteria were postmenopausal and physiological menopause women who were willing to participate in this study. The exclusion criteria were postmenopausal women with severe illness and under steroid treatments. ELISA, ECLIA, and MENQOL were used to examine 25(OH)D, estradiol, and QoL, respectively. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. The results showed thirty-nine postmenopausal women participated in this study. The average estradiol level was 5.68 pg/mL (SD ± 2.20), ranged from 5 to 16.07 pg/mL. There was a significant correlation between estradiol levels and QoL (r = −0.349; p = 0.029), and 25(OH)D and QoL (r = −0.383; p = 0.016). In conclusion, estradiol and 25(OH)D have a notable role in postmenopausal complaints. The QoL is a maJor consideration in postmenopausal women's life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nicotine dependence can cause numerous adverse effects, especially cardiovascular, cancer, respiratory, and gastrointestinal diseases. In order to minimize the manifestation of nicotine, inhibition on the receptor's binding site is needed. Our previous in silico study shows the activity of several bioactive compounds from Camelia sinensis, Orthosipon aristatus, and Moringa oleifera might be potent as α-3 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. Thus, in this present study, we extend the screening of inhibitor potency from Kaempferia pandurata, Camelia sinensis, Centella asiatica, Moringa oleifera, and Orthosipon aristatus bioactive compounds against the α-2 NAchR. In silico approach was performed to screen and predict the possibility of drug-likeness and medicinal plant properties of bioactive compounds. The 2D and 3D structures of ligands and protein were retrieved from PubChem and SWISS Model, respectively. The molecular docking strategy and optimization, also visualization were occupied as our previous study. The present findings show that the bioactive compounds from K. pandurata, C. sinensis, C. asiatica, M. oleifera, and O. aristatus have the possibility to be potential α-5 NAchR inhibitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out to analyze the possible active constituents present in the ethanolic extract of stem bark, leaves, and seeds of Sterculia quadrifida (Sterculiaceae). S. quadrifida is locally known as "Faloak" in East Nusa Tenggara Province and commonly used in traditional medicine to treat hepatitis. Its parts were collected from Kupang City, East Nusa Tenggara province. Chemical compounds were identified by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Fifteen compounds are identified in stem bark, twenty-one compounds in leaves, and fourteen compounds in seeds that can contribute to the medicinal quality of the plant. The prevailing compounds are Tributyl acetyl citrate (35.66%), 2,6,10,14,18,22-Tetracosahexaene (20.64%) and Hexadecanoic acid (48.84%). A minor component, such as Vitamin E, is also present. Hexadecanoic (synonym - Palmitic acid) acid has been reported to possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foraging behaviour of snake can be distinguished by their environments to be an aquatic, semi-aquatic, terrestrial, or fossorial snakes. Here, we recorded not only a foraging behaviour of water snake but also other snakes that have habits to be near the water sources. Snakes at seven water sources in Malang are identified and grouped into Colubridae Family and Elapidae Family. Water snakes are usually found hang on branches and wide leaves over the slowly-flowed stream. We found a Fowlea melanzostus that active during the day, and eating Fejervarya limnocharis. The most common species was Fowlea melanzostus piscator and it is active during the day and night. Two of the four species found are arboreal snake, they are Dendrelaphis pictus and Ahaetulla prasina. Both arboreal snakes are found not only during the night but also during the day. We found one individual of Ahaetulla prasina that was hanging on a bamboo stick while eating Chalcorana chalconota during the day. Most of the water sources in Malang have been dominated by Chalcorana chalconota. It makes Bungarus candidus and Coelognathus flavolineatus also found within this ecosystem. Besides preying on the frog, this snake also preys other's snake and mouse which are also found in nocturnals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress is a state of imbalance of free radicals in the cells and is one of the causes of various diseases in humans. One method that is thought to reduce oxidative stress is calorie restriction or fasting. However, its effects remain unclear. This study was conducted to determine the effect of intermittent fasting and prolonged fasting on the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) as an oxidative stress marker in the liver and plasma of New Zealand White rabbits. Fifteen of New Zealand White rabbits were divided into three groups (intermittent fasting (IF), prolonged fasting (PF), and control). MDA was measured in plasma and liver homogenate using spectrophotometry. The results were analyzed using One-way ANOVA test. The liver MDA level was decreased in the IF group, but not significant. However, there was a significant increase in plasma MDA levels both in the IF and PF groups. Moreover, liver MDA level was increased in PF group, although it was not significant. In conclusion, intermittent and prolonged fasting could increase plasma MDA levels significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ladybugs "Oteng-oteng" (Epilachna sparsa) are often found in eggplant fields and eat eggplant leaves. This condition causes stunted growth of eggplants and material loss for farmers. Although quite effective, synthetic pesticides can pollute the environment, be resistant to the pest, and harm human health. To overcome it, natural pesticides or biopesticides are used. Citrus hystrix leaves is one of plants used as antifeedant. This preliminary study aims to determine effectiveness of Citrus hystrix leaves extract as antifeedant against Epilachna sparsa. GC-MS analysis showed the presence of farnesol, caryophyllene oxide, nerodilol, citronellol, and citronellal as known insect repellents. The chloroform extract of C. hystrix leaves was smeared on the eggplant leaves, observed for 3 days, and analyzed to know the effectiveness of the treatment. As a result, the C. hystrix leaves extract was less effective of being used as an antifeedant against E. sparsa with eating inhibition value (%PM) of 32.35% based on the weight of the leaves eaten by E. sparsa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We considered a mathematical model of the spread of the HIV-AIDS (Human Immunodeficiency Virus - Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndromedisease). The model is of the type of SIA (Susceptible, Infected, AIDS cases). The total population was subdivided into three compartments, that is, S (Susceptible group), I (Infected group) and A (AIDS cases group), as the name suggests, in order to form the SIA model. We used the fourth order Runge-Kutta method for solving the model. We took secondary data available in the literature for parameters and initial conditions that we used in our simulations. The resulting Runge-Kutta solutions provided behaviour and prediction of the spread of the HIV-AIDS disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypertension is a high risk of heart disease and stroke, which is caused by vasoconstrictive arteries due to angiotensin II binds to angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R). Treatment of hypertension using the drugs angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) causes side effects of headaches, constipation, and diuretics. Phenolic compounds (10-gingerol, 8-gingerol, 6-gingerol) from red ginger (Zingiber officinale var. rubrum) were used for hypertensive herbal medicines. This study aims to predict the potency of 10-gingerol, 8-gingerol, 6-gingerol as AT1R antagonist by bioinformatics approach. This research was conducted using physicochemical properties, Pa test, pharmacokinetic test, and molecular docking of the three gingerol compounds and Losartan as drug control. The results show that 10-gingerol, 8-gingerol, 6-gingerol have good oral bioavailability, good vasodilator potential (Pa >7), hepatoprotective potential, vasoprotective potential, and antioxidant potential. Based on pharmacokinetic absorption, distribution, and excretion test, the three gingerol compounds showed higher results compared to the Losartan. The toxicity of the gingerol compounds is low, not hepatotoxic, whereas Losartan is hepatotoxic. Molecular docking showed that the three gingerol compounds and the Losartan were on one side of the binding to AT1R. The conclusion of this study is red ginger has potency as a candidate for oral drug hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]