cover
Contact Name
Ivandini Tribidasari A.
Contact Email
ivandini.tri@sci.ui.ac.id
Phone
+622129120943
Journal Mail Official
editor_mss@ui.ac.id
Editorial Address
Directorate of Research and Community Engagement UNIVERSITAS INDONESIA UI Campus, Depok 16424 Indonesia
Location
Kota depok,
Jawa barat
INDONESIA
Makara Journal of Science
Published by Universitas Indonesia
ISSN : 23391995     EISSN : 23560851     DOI : https://doi.org/10.7454/mss
Core Subject :
Makara Journal of Science publishes original research or theoretical papers, notes, and minireviews on new knowledge and research or research applications on current issues in basic sciences, namely: Material Sciences (including: physics, biology, and chemistry); Biochemistry, Genetics, and Molecular Biology (including: microbiology, physiology, ecology, taxonomy and evolution); and Biotechnology.
Arjuna Subject : -
Articles 880 Documents
Phylogenetic Analysis of ftsZ in Wolbachia: Implications for Host Specificity Rovik, Anwar; Rahayu, Ayu
Makara Journal of Science Vol. 29, No. 2
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Abstract

Wolbachia are the most prevalent and successful endosymbiont in invertebrates and are categorized into 21 supergroups based on genetic phylogeny. The filamenting temperature-sensitive Z (FtsZ) protein is essential for bacterial cell division and is hypothesized to play a role in Wolbachia's control of host reproduction. However, despite FtsZ's importance, little is known about its diversity and function within Wolbachia. This study investigated the variability of the FtsZ-encoding gene among Wolbachia strains and their hosts. FtsZ gene sequences were retrieved from the National Center for Biotechnology Information database, and representative sequences were randomly selected from each host species and analyzed for phylogenetic relationships. A total of 1–10 sequences for each of the Wolbachia strains infecting the various hosts were included in the analysis. The ftsZ gene sequences ranged from 450 to 970 base pairs, with a consensus sequence of 520 base pairs. Phylogenetic analysis revealed substantial genetic divergence in the ftsZ gene among Wolbachia strains from different host species. In contrast, Wolbachia strains within the same host species exhibited a lower level of genetic variation, which indicates that the gene pool within populations is relatively homogeneous.
Pharmaceutical Innovation Through Computational Drug Design: A Comprehensive Exploration Chandramouli, Manasa; Surendra, Madhusudhan Heggadadevanakote
Makara Journal of Science Vol. 29, No. 2
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Abstract

Chemical biology and computer-aided drug design (CADD) are crucial for identifying and optimizing lead molecules in drug development. Chemical biology is employed to determine the biological function of the target and the mode of action of a chemical modulator. At the same time, in CADD, promising candidate medications are identified based on the structure of the target or known bioactive ligands. Structure-based and ligand-based drug designs should be used in tandem, and their integration with experimental methods can considerably accelerate drug design. Furthermore, the use of CADD along with conventional experimental approaches increases the efficiency and accuracy of the discovery and optimization of possible drug candidates. CADD provides information on the interactions between pharmaceuticals and their target molecules, with recent advances in CADD methodologies—such as artificial intelligence and machine learning—revolutionizing the field. Thus, CADD is expected to notably accelerate the development of novel, efficient treatments for a range of illnesses.
Isolation and Selection of Bacillus spp. as Candidate Probiotics for Use in Chickens Adawiah, Adilah; Wiryawan, Komang Gede; Meryandini, Anja
Makara Journal of Science Vol. 29, No. 2
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Abstract

The growth rate of chickens can be improved by using probiotics as alternatives to antibiotics. Bacillus spp. as probiotics are particularly beneficial due to ability to form spores, which remain stable as commercial products over extended periods. This study aimed to isolate and select Bacillus spp. from Jasinga soil as probiotic candidates for chickens. A total of 15 isolates obtained of these, 12 were identified as Bacillus spp based on microscopic observations and screening test including ascertaining hemolysis, protease, amylase, and cellulase activities. Only six isolates exhibited gamma hemolysis and the ability to hydrolyze proteins, starch, and cellulose. Isolates BTJ1.1, 1.2, 1.4, and 2.3 poliferated in 0.3% bile salts. BTJ1.1, 1.2 and 2.3 also exhibited antimicrobial activity and sensitivity to amoxicillin, tetracycline, and rifampicin. BTJ1.1 and 2.3 were highly hydrophobic, a key probiotic trait. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed that BTJ1.1 and 2.3 were >99% similar to B. amyloliquefaciens strain B54 and B. subtilis strain ASI3, respectively, highlighting their potential as probiotics.
Synthesis of Carboxymethyl Cellulose from Nypa fruticans for Coating Metformin on Zn-Based Metal-Organic Framework Nanohybrid as a Bionanocomposite Drug Delivery System Delviani, Delviani; Maharani, Viola Giary Rizkillah; Shadrina, Putri Nur; Warni, Tri; Azizah, Regina Wan; Tarigan, Indra Lasmana; Latief, Madyawati
Makara Journal of Science Vol. 29, No. 2
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Abstract

Diabetes is a common and rapidly spreading disease that affects 6.6% of the world’s population. Metformin hydrochloride (HCl) is an effective oral pharmacological treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients because of its capability to reduce glucose levels and the risk of hypoglycaemia. However, gastrointestinal sensitivities to this drug can cause diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and stomach ache. An alternative is controlled release technology by coating metformin with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and zinc-metal-organic framework (Zn-MOF) through the encapsulation method. Therefore, this study aimed to coat metformin formulations using CMC in a Zn-MOF to control release into the body and minimise the side effects related to doses. The results showed that CMC/metformin@Zn-MOF encapsulation had a controlled blood sugar lowering effect and stable healing effectiveness even at a low concentration of 1:10 of local metformin. In vitro, the released concentrations from local metformin tablets and CMC/Metformin@Zn-MOF were 199.50 ppm of 500 ppm and 42.182 ppm of 50 ppm, with release percentages of 39.90% and 84.364%, respectively. This study found that metformin masking using CMC and Zn-MOF maximally produced a modified release formula along the intestine by reducing the concentration to increase tolerability in lowering blood sugar effectively for T2DM patients with minimal side effects.
Removal of heavy metals from motorcycle washing wastewater using a zeolite-embedded sheet Takarina, Noverita Dian; Ambarsari, Hanies; Pramudyawardhani, Sekar Arum; Rahmawati, Maria Fatima Niken Kris; Johan, Erni; Matsue, Naoto; Adidharma, Mohammad Afdhal
Makara Journal of Science Vol. 29, No. 2
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Abstract

The increased use of motorcycles for transportation has heightened environmental challenges related to their washing, particularly the discharge of untreated wastewater containing heavy metals, such as copper (Cu) and lead (Pb), into drainage systems. This study explored the effectiveness of zeolite-embedded sheets (ZESs) in the removal of these pollutants from motorcycle washing wastewater. ZESs were prepared through treatment of nonwoven sheets with Linder Type A (LTA Zeolite) powder and heat treatment, washing, and drying. Characterization was performed via scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Over a 60 min adsorption period, the ZES achieved removal efficiencies of 40% for Cu after 30 min and 70% for Pb after 60 min. The results confirm that ZESs are a promising adsorbent for heavy-metal remediation and particularly effective for lead removal in motorcycle washing wastewater.
Effects of Aloe Vera/Chitosan Ratios on the Tensile Properties of Aloe Vera/Chitosan/Polyvinyl Alcohol Nanofibrous Membranes for Wound Care Dressing Sosiati, Harini; Rahman, Abdul; Sahputra, Kelvin Kurniawan; Ibnul Fatoni, Miftahul Faruq
Makara Journal of Science Vol. 29, No. 2
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Chitosan (CS) and Aloe vera (AV) are functional and antibacterial materials compatible with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), which confers medical and healthcare potential. This study prepared and then characterized the influence of CS/AV ratios on the tensile properties of CS/AV/PVA nanofibrous membranes for wound care dressing materials. The CS/AV/PVA membranes were fabricated using an electrospinning technique at varying AV/CS/PVA volume ratios: 0:0:100, 0:20:80, 5:15:80, 10:10:80, 15:5:80, and 20:0:80. All membranes were subjected to tensile testing as per the ASTM 882 standard, and the nanofiber’s morphology was examined using scanning electron microscopy. Changes in the tensile strength related to the formation of the nanofiber morphology were evaluated to select the potential membranes for applications and then compared to those of commercial adhesive bandages. The addition of 20% CS to PVA (0:20:80) decreased the tensile properties. However, the addition of AV to CS/PVA increased the tensile strength and strain but decreased the tensile modulus. Further, the 15AV/5CS/80PVA and 20AV/PVA (20:0:80) nanofibrous membranes exhibited superior tensile properties than other membranes and commercial adhesive bandages. Based on its tensile properties and double antibacterial agent content, the nanofiber membrane of 15AV/5CS/80PVA is suggested as a potential membrane for wound care dressings.
Production and Characterization of Biodiesel from Malapari Seed Oil (Pongamia pinnata L.): Evaluation of Quality Parameters Based on the Indonesian National Standard (SNI) 04-7182-2015 Taebenu, Desi Adriyanti Nina; Arpiwi, Ni Luh; Astarini, Ida Ayu
Makara Journal of Science Vol. 29, No. 2
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Abstract

This study produced biodiesel from Malapari seed oil (Pongamia pinnata L.) by optimizing the esterification and transesterification processes. The objectives of this study were to determine the sulfuric acid (H2SO4) catalyst concentration in the esterification reaction that can reduc the free fatty acid (FFA) content of the seed oil to ≤2%, analyze the oil to methanol molar ratio (i.e.,1:6, 1:9, and 1:12) and KOH concentration (i.e.,2%, 4%, and 6%) that will produce the highest biodiesel yield, and evaluate the quality of the produced biodiesel according to the Indonesian National Standar (SNI) 04-7182-2015. The research was conducted from October to December 2023 at the Plant Physiology Laboratory and the Physical Chemistry Laboratory, FMIPA, UNUD. The research applied Completely randomized design. Quantitative biodiesel data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance. If significant differences (α < 0.05) were detected, then the quantitative biodiesel data were further analyzed using Duncan's Post Hoc Test. Results showed that an H2SO4 concentration of 7% reduced the FFA content to 1.915%. A molar ratio of 1:12 with a 2% KOH catalyst produced the highest biodiesel yield of 65.35%. The produced met the SNI for the saponification number (i.e., 52.82–133.69 mg-KOH/g), iodine number (i.e.,7.19–22.42 g_I2/100_g), and cetane number (i.e., 86.48–132.68). However, the water content (i.e., 0.721%–2.407%), viscosity (i.e., 1.73–6.18 mm²/s), acid number (i.e., 0.224–4.685 mg_KOH/g), density (i.e., 874–917 kg/m³), FFA content (i.e., 0.116 -% to 2.229%), and methyl ester content (48,13% to–132.12%_mass) partially did not meet the standards. This study highlights the potential of Malapari seed oil as a biodiesel feedstock, with further required needed to meet all quality standards.
Effect of Mercury Dose Variation on Growth and Nitrate Reductase Activity in Aquarius palifolius (Nees & Mart.) Christenh. & Byng Nurhanifah, Tsurayya; Siswanti, Dwi Umi
Makara Journal of Science Vol. 29, No. 2
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Mercury, a byproduct of mining, can harm the environment. One method to reduce this impact is through phytoremediation. This study used the Mexican sword (Aquarius palifolius), a plant with the potential to absorb and accumulate mercury. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of mercury stress on nitrate reductase activity, which plays a role in plant productivity, and to assess its impact on growth parameters, including plant height growth rate, leaf length, and number of leaves. Three-month-old A. palifolius plants obtained from rice fields in Sleman were treated with mercury at doses of 0, 14, 16, 18, and 20 ppm. The experiment was conducted in triplicate. Nitrate reductase activity was measured using a spectrophotometer, and growth rate was observed over 15 days. Data were analyzed using One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and evaluated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Mercury exposure led to adaptations, including a 9.5%–13.5% change in nitrate reductase activity and a 50%–65% reduction in the number of leaves. Growth rates of plant height and number of leaves showed no significant differences, even under mercury stress. These results indicate that A. palifolius can tolerate mercury concentrations of 14–20 ppm and has the potential to functions as a phytoremediation agent.
Characterization and Drug Release Evaluation of Chlorhexidine-Encapsulated Silica Nanoparticles for Potential Root Canal Disinfection Rakhmawati, Widya; Harmaji, Andrie; Djati, Fanni Kusuma; Sunendar, Bambang
Makara Journal of Science Vol. 29, No. 2
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Abstract

The failure of root canal treatments is often attributed to bacterial invasion of the dentinal tubules, where pathogens can persist and complicate healing. Chlorhexidine digluconate, a potent antimicrobial agent, has been widely utilized for its broad-spectrum antibacterial effects. However, challenges remain in achieving efficient distribution and sustained release within the root canal system. This study investigates the encapsulation of chlorhexidine digluconate within silica nanoparticles as a novel drug delivery system that is aimed at improving root canal treatment outcomes. Silica nanoparticles were synthesized using the sol-gel method and subsequently immersed in a 2% chlorhexidine digluconate solution for 15 to 30 minutes to achieve encapsulation. The resulting materials were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy. SEM analysis revealed particle sizes in the range of 80–150 nm for nanoparticles aged for 15 minutes and in the range of 250–350 nm for those aged for 30 minutes. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of functional groups characteristic of silica, chitosan, and sodium alginate, indicating successful encapsulation. The UV–Vis spectrophotometry demonstrated that silica nanoparticles aged for 30 minutes exhibited a more stable and controlled release of chlorhexidine digluconate (0.08 ppm) over a 60-minute period. This study presents a novel approach for enhancing root canal treatment, in which silica nanoparticles are utilized for controlled drug delivery. Additionally, the study shows that longer aging times may offer improved stability and efficacy in sustained antimicrobial action. The findings suggest that the use of silica-encapsulated chlorhexidine nanoparticles is a promising strategy for more effective endodontic treatment because it addresses bacterial invasion and supports long-term therapeutic effects.
Studying the Effect of the Addition of SiC Molecules as a Nanocomposite on the Optical Properties of a PMMA-PS Blend Azeez, Hussein Mejbel; Hussein, Marwan Hadi; Abbood, Hussein Abosaooda; Rabee, Bahaa Hussein
Makara Journal of Science Vol. 29, No. 2
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In this study, a nanocomposite was prepared using a solution casting technique. The polymer electrolyte blend was formed by combining 0.6 mg of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and 0.4 mg of polystyrene (PS). Subsequently, silicon carbide (SiC) nanoparticles were incorporated into the polymer matrix at varying and precisely measured concentrations. The composite was thoroughly mixed to ensure homogeneity, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectral analysis confirmed the absence of chemical interactions between the SiC nanoparticles and the polymer components, indicating a physically stable mixture. The above can be reflected in the synthesized compound with new properties, such as semiconductors or semi-insulators. This study aimed to investigate the effect of nanoparticle concentrations on the structure and optical properties of the synthesized samples. To achieve this objective, various techniques were used to characterize the prepared sample, including optical microscopy with a power of 10× and UV-VIS spectroscopy. The absorptivity at the wavelength (200–1100 nm) was also recorded, and the absorption coefficient (a), transmittance (T), real and imaginary dielectric constant (e1 and e2), energy gap of the indirect permissible and forbidden transitions (Eg), extinction coefficient (k0), and refractive index (n) were determined. Based on calculations of previously determined quantities and properties, it was found that the overlap and diffusion of nanoparticles within polymer structures (PS-PMMA) enhanced the optical properties of these nanoparticles as their concentrations increased