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In Vitro Evaluation of the Antibacterial Properties of Lime Mistletoe (Dendrophthoe petandra (L.) Miq.) Extract Against Escherichia coli Lisa Savitri; Juan Vega Mahardika; Novirma Yanti; Syntia Tanu Juwita
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 14, No 2 (2025)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2025.142.641-644

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria necessitates the exploration of alternative antimicrobial agents derived from natural sources. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antibacterial activity of lime mistletoe (Dendrophthoe petandra (L.) Miq.) extract against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 using the disc diffusion method. Extract concentrations of 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100% were prepared alongside negative (distilled water) and positive (Cefadroxil) controls. Nutrient Agar (NA) media were inoculated with E. coli and discs impregnated with each concentration were placed on the media, followed by incubation at 37°C for 24 hours. The inhibition zones were measured to assess antibacterial activity. Results demonstrated a concentration-dependent increase in antibacterial efficacy, with inhibition zone diameters ranging from 8.3 mm at 20% extract to 20.3 mm at 100% extract concentration. The highest concentration’s inhibition zone was comparable to that of Cefadroxil (22.5 mm). No inhibition was observed in the negative control. Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences between treatment groups (p < 0.05). The antibacterial activity of lime mistletoe extract is likely due to its bioactive phytochemicals such as flavonoids and phenolics, which are known to disrupt bacterial cell membranes and inhibit microbial growth. These findings suggest that Dendrophthoe petandra extract holds potential as a natural antibacterial agent, providing an alternative to conventional antibiotics amid growing resistance issues. Further studies involving isolation of active compounds, toxicity evaluation, and in vivo testing are recommended to validate its clinical applicability.
Onychomycosis in Students: An Overview of Nail Care Practices and Personal Hygiene Lisa Savitri; Kharisul Ihsan; Rochmad Krissanjaya; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo; Novirma Yanti; Mochamad Hanif Hilmi
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 14, No 2 (2025)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2025.142.1015-1019

Abstract

Onychomycosis is a common nail disorder caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, and non-dermatophyte molds, with increasing prevalence among young adults. Poor nail care and personal hygiene habits are essential predisposing factors that contribute to infection. Despite its clinical relevance, data on onychomycosis in student populations remain limited. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 undergraduate students from the Faculty of Health Sciences, aged 18–25 years. Nail specimens were collected from individuals presenting with suspected onychomycosis. Direct microscopy was performed using a 20% potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation, and samples were cultured on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar supplemented with chloramphenicol and cycloheximide. Fungal isolates were identified based on macroscopic and microscopic characteristics. Sociodemographic data, nail care habits, and hygiene practices were collected through structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed descriptively, and associations were assessed using chi-square tests. Onychomycosis was confirmed in 27 students (18%). Dermatophytes were the most frequent isolates, with Trichophyton rubrum (9%) and T. mentagrophytes (5%) predominating, followed by Candida albicans (3%) and Aspergillus spp. (1%). Risk factors significantly associated with infection included irregular nail trimming (p = 0.01), sharing of nail clippers (p = 0.03), and prolonged use of closed footwear (p = 0.02). No significant associations were observed with gender or age. Onychomycosis is prevalent among university students, with dermatophytes as the leading causative agents. Inadequate nail care and poor hygiene practices play a critical role in the occurrence of diseases. Health education and preventive interventions should be prioritized to reduce infection rates in young adults. Further studies employing molecular methods are recommended to refine species identification and improve epidemiological insights.
The Influence of Strain Type and Female Age on the Receptivity of Female Drosophila melanogaster in Homogamous Crosses Lisa Savitri; Kharisul Ihsan; Rochmad Krissanjaya; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 14, No 2 (2025)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2025.142.937-941

Abstract

Drosophila melanogaster is a widely used model organism in genetic research due to its short life cycle and the presence of many genes homologous to those found in humans. It plays an important role in studies related to genetic inheritance, gene interaction, sex determination, and developmental genetics. One key aspect of its reproductive biology is female receptivity—the willingness of a female to accept mating—which is influenced by various internal and external factors. External factors include environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity, as well as male courtship signals like wing vibrations and chemical cues. Internal factors are mainly related to the female's sexual maturity and mating status. Generally, female receptivity increases with age after eclosion, reaches a peak, and gradually declines. This study investigates the impact of strain type and female age on receptivity in homogamous crosses of D. melanogaster, using two mutant strains: dp (with a wing mutation) and wa (with an eye color mutation). Receptivity was measured by the presence or absence of F1 offspring following crosses between males and females of the same strain, with females tested at different ages ranging from 10 to 60 hours after eclosion. The results indicate that strain type does not have a significant effect on female receptivity. In contrast, female age plays a clear role: individuals aged 30 years and older were more receptive and more likely to produce offspring. No significant interaction was found between strain type and age. These findings suggest that female receptivity in D. melanogaster is more strongly influenced by sexual maturity (as indicated by age) than by genetic differences between strains.
Academic Stress and Blood Glucose Levels: A Correlational Study Among Medical Laboratory Technology Students Lisa Savitri; Mochamad Hanif Hilmi; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo; Rochmad Krissanjaya; Kharisul Ihsan
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 14, No 2 (2025)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2025.142.977-981

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels, often influenced by various physiological and psychological factors. One such factor is stress, particularly academic stress among university students. This study aims to explore the potential correlation between academic stress levels and random blood glucose levels among Medical Laboratory Technology (D.IV) students at Kadiri University. A cross-sectional, quantitative approach was used in this study. A total of 28 eligible students participated. Academic stress levels were assessed using the Perceived Sources of Academic Stress (PSAS) questionnaire, while random blood glucose levels were measured using spectrophotometric methods with glucose GOD FS reagents. Data were analyzed using the Pearson correlation test to determine the relationship between the two variables. The majority of students experienced moderate academic stress (71.43%), while the rest (28.57%) experienced high stress. No students reported low stress levels. Regarding blood glucose, 53.57% of participants had normal levels, and 46.43% had elevated levels. The Pearson correlation coefficient was 0.045 with a p-value of 0.819, indicating no statistically significant relationship between academic stress levels and blood glucose levels. Regression analysis also confirmed that while there was a slight positive trend (suggesting that higher stress may slightly raise glucose levels), the effect was negligible and not statistically significant. This study found no significant correlation between academic stress and random blood glucose levels among Medical Laboratory Technology students. Although stress may contribute to changes in glucose levels through hormonal mechanisms, other factors—such as diet, physical activity, and individual coping strategies—likely play a more substantial role. Interventions focusing on stress management, healthy lifestyle habits, and regular health monitoring are recommended to maintain both psychological well-being and metabolic health in students.
Study of Sperm Utilization in Female Drosophila melanogaster of bdp and btx Strains Lisa Savitri; Kharisul Ihsan; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo; Rochmad Krissanjaya
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 14, No 2 (2025)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2025.142.1151-1157

Abstract

This study investigates the patterns of sperm utilization in female Drosophila melanogaster of the bdp and btx strains through sequential mating with multiple males. The research was conducted as a descriptive observational study without experimental manipulation. Females of each strain were crossed with four different males in a specific order, with a two-day interval between each mating. F1 offspring phenotypes were recorded daily over a six-day period following the final mating. Data were analyzed descriptively and supported by somatic chromosome reconstruction to identify the male origin of each offspring. The results indicate that sperm utilization in D. melanogaster females occurs in both random and non-random patterns. Non-random utilization was observed when offspring were produced exclusively from the first male, with no contribution from subsequent males. For example, in the female btx × male N cross, only N female and N male offspring were produced, indicating that sperm from the first male was preferentially used. In contrast, random sperm utilization was evident in later matings, where offspring from multiple males appeared, suggesting that previously stored sperm remained viable and were used alongside or instead of sperm from later matings. These findings highlight the complexity of post-mating sexual selection in D. melanogaster, particularly the role of female sperm storage and utilization mechanisms. The ability of females to either favor the sperm of a particular male or mix sperm from several males may provide evolutionary advantages in terms of genetic diversity and offspring fitness. This study contributes to a better understanding of reproductive strategies and sperm competition in insects, with potential implications for broader studies in evolutionary biology and genetics.
Laboratory Detection of Toenail Onychomycosis Using Malt Extract Agar in Students Lisa Savitri; Kharisul Ihsan; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 14, No 2 (2025)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2025.142.1325-1330

Abstract

Onychomycosis is a common nail disorder caused by dermatophytes, non-dermatophyte molds, and yeasts. Despite being more prevalent in older adults, it is increasingly reported among younger populations, including university students, due to lifestyle factors and communal exposures. Rapid and accurate diagnosis is critical for effective management, but conventional methods remain limited in sensitivity. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and etiological profile of toenail onychomycosis among university students using potassium hydroxide (KOH) microscopy and Malt Extract Agar (MEA) culture. A total of 98 students with clinical signs of onychomycosis provided toenail specimens. Direct microscopy examination with 20% KOH was performed, followed by culture on MEA at 28–30 °C for up to 21 days. Fungal isolates were identified based on macroscopic and microscopic morphology. Statistical analysis assessed associations between clinical features and culture results. KOH microscopy detected fungal elements in 59.2% of specimens, while MEA culture yielded growth in 63.3%. When combined, the overall prevalence of confirmed onychomycosis was 71.4%. Trichophyton rubrum was the most frequent isolate (35.5% of positive cultures), followed by non-dermatophyte molds such as Aspergillus and Fusarium, and yeasts including Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis. Nail thickening and discoloration were significantly associated with culture positivity (p < 0.05). Onychomycosis is prevalent among university students, with MEA culture providing superior diagnostic yield compared to KOH microscopy alone. The identification of non-dermatophyte molds and yeasts underscores the importance of comprehensive diagnostic strategies for guiding effective treatment. Future studies should combine culture and molecular methods to enhance detection accuracy and clarify the clinical significance of emerging pathogens.
In Silico Molecular Docking and ADMET Evaluation of Active Compounds from Acalypha indica L. Against the HER2 Breast Cancer Target Lisa Savitri; Kharisul Ihsan; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo; Rochmad Krissanjaya
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 15, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2026.151.45-51

Abstract

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality in women worldwide, and overexpression of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is associated with aggressive tumor progression, poor prognosis, and treatment resistance. Natural compounds are increasingly explored as safer anticancer candidates due to their structural diversity and lower toxicity profiles. Acalypha indica L., a traditional medicinal plant widely used in Asia, contains numerous phytochemicals with reported antioxidant and cytotoxic activities. This study investigates the binding affinity and pharmacokinetic potential of major A. indica phytochemicals against HER2 using in silico molecular docking and ADMET predictions. Twelve bioactive compounds were selected: quercetin, kaempferol, luteolin, rutin, isoquercitrin, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, esculetin, lupeol, beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol, and acalyphin. Docking was performed using AutoDock Vina against HER2 (PDB ID: 3PP0). Kaempferol (-10.2 kcal/mol), quercetin (-9.8 kcal/mol), and luteolin (-9.3 kcal/mol) showed the highest affinity, interacting strongly with key residues within the HER2 ATP-binding pocket. ADMET analysis indicated that kaempferol, quercetin, and luteolin possessed favorable oral bioavailability and safety characteristics. These findings suggest that A. indica contains promising HER2-targeting phytochemicals that warrant further investigation through in vitro and in vivo studies.
In Silico Discovery of Potent LpxC-Binding Compounds from Paederia foetida (Daun Kentut) as Promising Candidates against Gram-Negative Bacterial Infections Lisa Savitri; Kharisul Ihsan; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo; Rochmad Krissanjaya
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 15, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2026.151.749-755

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria necessitates the discovery of novel antibacterial agents targeting essential bacterial enzymes. Lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis enzyme LpxC represents a promising target due to its critical role in maintaining bacterial outer membrane integrity and its absence in mammalian cells. This study aimed to identify potential LpxC inhibitors derived from Paederia foetida (Daun Kentut) using an integrated in silico approach. Bioactive compounds reported from P. foetida were subjected to molecular docking against LpxC, followed by protein–ligand interaction analysis, molecular dynamics simulations, binding free energy calculations, and ADMET prediction. Docking results revealed that several compounds exhibited strong binding affinity toward the LpxC active site, with PF-01 showing the most favorable binding energy (-9.2 kcal/mol) and stable zinc coordination. Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the structural stability of the PF-01–LpxC complex, as indicated by low RMSD and RMSF values throughout 100 ns simulation. MM/PBSA analysis demonstrated that van der Waals and electrostatic interactions were the dominant contributors to binding stability. ADMET prediction suggested that while PF-01 showed slightly limited drug-likeness due to molecular size, it remained non-toxic and pharmacologically acceptable. Overall, this study provides molecular-level evidence supporting P.foetida as a promising natural source of LpxC-targeting compounds and proposes PF-01 as a potential lead candidate for further experimental validation against Gram-negative bacterial infections.
In Silico Study of the Antibacterial Activity of Acalypha indica L. Compounds Against Staphylococcus aureus DNA Gyrase Protein Lisa Savitri; Kharisul Ihsan; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 15, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2026.151.137-141

Abstract

Flavonoids from Acalypha indica exhibit potential antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, particularly through inhibition of DNA gyrase B. This study evaluated molecular interactions of mauritanin, acalyphin, quercetin, and kaempferol using in silico approaches, including molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, and ADMET prediction. Docking results showed that mauritanin had the lowest binding energy (-8.5 kcal/mol) and formed stable interactions with key residues in the active site, corroborated by 50 ns molecular dynamics simulations. Pharmacokinetic and drug-likeness predictions indicated that mauritanin and acalyphin had favorable profiles, with high gastrointestinal absorption and low toxicity risk. The other flavonoids showed higher permeability across the central nervous system, potentially beneficial for CNS-targeted therapies. These findings support mauritanin as a promising lead compound for novel antibacterial agent development, warranting further in vitro and in vivo validation.
Molecular Interaction Mapping of Paederia foetida Phytochemicals against NF-kB p65 Highlights Their Potential in Modulating Systemic Inflammation Lisa Savitri; Kharisul Ihsan; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo; Rochmad Krissanjaya
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 15, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2026.151.757-762

Abstract

Systemic inflammation is a fundamental pathological process involved in the development of various chronic diseases, with nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) p65 acting as a central transcriptional regulator of inflammatory responses. Paederia foetida L., commonly known as Daun Kentut, has been traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory medicinal plant; however, its molecular mechanisms of action remain poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the molecular interactions between selected P. foetida phytochemicals and the NF-kB p65 protein using an in silico approach. Molecular docking was performed to evaluate binding affinity and interaction profiles of major phytochemical constituents, including flavonoids, iridoid glycosides, and phenolic acids. The docking results revealed that several compounds exhibited favorable binding energies and stable interaction patterns with key amino acid residues of NF-kB p65, such as Lys221, Arg246, Ser276, and Glu279. Among the tested compounds, quercetin and asperuloside demonstrated strong binding affinity and multiple hydrogen bonds within the transcriptionally active region of NF-kB p65. These interaction profiles were comparable to those of a reference inhibitor. The findings suggest that P. foetida phytochemicals have the potential to modulate NF-?B–mediated inflammatory signaling at the molecular level. This study provides mechanistic support for the traditional use of P. foetida as an anti-inflammatory agent and highlights its potential as a source of natural compounds for the development of inflammation-modulating therapeutics.
Co-Authors Afrilla, Rananda Agung Dwi Wahyu Widodo Agustanti, Khalimatus Nur Eka Akbar Nur Kholis Alimansur, Moh Alves, Silvina Sandra X. Amanda, Cornelia Aminah Alfiani Ana Retnowati Anjarwati, Aprilia Antoro, Ester Lianawati Apriana, Dita Arif Budi Setiawan Besan, Emma Jayanti Cornelia Amanda Datin An Nisa Sukmawati Datin An Nisa Sukmawati Dhony Hermanto Edda, Ilda Rambu Eka Wahyuningtiyas Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo, Elfred Rinaldo Elly Megasari Ester Lianawati Antoro Ester Lianawati Antoro Ester Lianawati Antoro Ester Lianawati Antoro Evi Laela Sari Farabi, Meka Faizal Fendy Prasetyawan Firdania Firdaus Rosyida Fitri, Devi Nor Freitas, João Gregório Freitas, Maria Do Carmo Da Costa Hanifah Delima Nuardani Herman Herman Herman Hilmi, Mochammad Hanif Ida Septika Wulansari Ida Septika Wulansari Ida Septika Wulansari Ida Septika Wulansari Ihsan, Kharisul Imam Agus Faizal Indrayanti, Dian Iza Dwi Muslikha Juan Vega Mahardhika Juan Vega Mahardika Juwita, Syntia Tanu Kadir, Mujtahid Bin Abd Kadir, Mujtahid Bin And Kasimo, Elfred Khalimatus Nur Eka Agustanti Kharisma Rahmasari Kharisul Ihsan Kharisul Ihsan Kharisul Ihsan Khoirul Ngibad Kholis, Akbar Nur Kholis, Muhammad Akbar Nur Konradus Klala Mebung Laili, Nur Fahma La’ally Maula Lian Pandu Farendra Loviana, Novi Maria Do Carmo Da Costa Freitas Masyhuri, Aga Adi Mebung, Konradus Klala Megasari, Elly Meri, Meri Meri, Meri Mika Tri Kumala Swandari, Mika Tri Kumala Mila Putri Daniati Mochamad Hanif Hilmi Mochamad Hanif Hilmi Mohammad Firdaus Alshol Mosse1, Yosep Muhammad Nurul Fadel Muslikha, Iza Dwi Muttaqin, Saiful Neni Probosiwi Novirma Yanti Novirma Yanti Novyananda Salmasfattah Novyananda Salmasfattah Nur Fahma Laili Nur Fahma Laili Nurul Ismillayli Ornai, Andre Mario Sequeira Alves Rasyadan Taufiq Probojati Renaldi Umbu Ndamung Kale Restyana, Anggi Restyana, Anggy Retnowati, Ana Rochmad Krissanjaya Salmasfattah, Novyananda Sanjaya, Rochmad Kris Shinta Mayasari Shinta Mayasari Sueb Sugeng Santoso Syntia Tanu Juwita Syntia Tanu Juwita Syntia Tanu Juwita Syntia Tanu Juwita Syntia Tanu Juwita Syntia Tanu Juwita Tiyas, Eka Wahyuning Tridoso Sapto A Tsamrotul Ilmi Willy Sandhika Wulansari, Ida Septika Yanti, Novirma Yosep Mosse Yosep Mosse1 yunadi, frisca dewi Yuneka Saristiana