Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences

Impact of Storage Duration and Container Materials on Hydroxy Methyl Furfural Levels in Indonesian Trigona Honey

Esti Mumpuni, Esti Mulatsari, Husna Kayla Isria — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Hydroxymethyl Furfural (HMF) is a six-carbon heterocyclic organic compound containing aldehyde and alcohol functional groups. It is formed from reducing sugars when heated through the Maillard reaction. HMF is widely recognized as an indicator of honey quality, reflecting the time and type of storage container used. In this study, we analyzed HMF content to investigate the effects of different storage container types and durations on HMF levels in honey. The analysis was conducted using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) with the following parameters: a mobile phase of acetonitrile:water in a 10:90 ratio, a stationary phase of octadecylsilane (C18), a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min, and a UV detector set to 280 nm. The results showed an increase in HMF content during the storage process, with variations depending on the container type and the storage duration. The highest HMF level recorded was 47.7931 μg/g in honey stored in transparent glass bottles for 8 months. These findings indicate that both the container type and the storage duration significantly influence HMF accumulation in honey, making it an important parameter for evaluating honey quality.

Molecular Interactions of Mycobacterial Transporter for Novel Antimicrobial Strategies

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Efflux mechanisms for extruding antimicrobials, mediated by multidrug transporters, are key contributors to multidrug resistance in mycobacteria. The current study focused on molecular interaction analysis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis multidrug transporter implicated in multidrug and antimicrobial resistance. We screened a library of efflux transporter inhibitors against the protein structure to identify a lead compound that can potentially inhibit the transporter significantly. The efflux transporter sequence was modeled based on crystallized templates using protein structure prediction and molecular docking. The analysis deduced molecular interactions and critical binding residues that can be targeted as novel biotherapeutics strategies against multidrug transporters of mycobacteria. This study paves the way for targeting multidrug and antimicrobial resistance in the mycobacteria, offering hope for developing effective treatments.

Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of DOF transcription factor in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and its effect against developmental and stress condition

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The transcription factor known as DNA-binding with one finger (DOF) is a plant-based regulator involved in stress responses, growth, and development. Specifically, DOFs play key roles in essential biological processes, including signal transduction, cellular morphogenesis, and reactions to environmental stress. We aim to identify and characterize the DOF transcription factors in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and examine their expression under various developmental and stress conditions. In this study, we conducted a genome-wide identification of the DOF family in tomato, which involved phylogenetic analysis, conserved motif identification, predictions of sub-cellular localization, gene structure analysis, gene expression profiling, and protein-protein interaction studies. We identified, classified, and analyzed the expression of 8 DOF genes in tomato. The sequences of these genes showed similarity to those in S. lycopersicum, including DOF5.1, DOF3.1, DOF2.4-like, DOF2.5-like, DOF3.4-like, DOF1.4, DOF3.4-like, and DOF3.1. The zf-DOF (pfam ID: pfam02701) and the zf-DOF superfamily (pfam Cl: 03664) were identified as two common superfamily domains across all eight genes. Through phylogenetic analysis, we identified two genes associated with stress response and six genes related to developmental processes. Notably, DOF1.4 was found to be expressed in both stress and developmental contexts. The distinct expression profiles of DOF genes in response to abiotic stimuli suggest their significant involvement in the plant's defense mechanisms. These findings enhance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying plant growth, development, and stress responses, providing valuable insights that could improve crop productivity and resilience in agricultural practices.

Optimized in vitro micropropagation and microtuber production in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) through apical buds using hormone regulation and tissue culture techniques

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Potato is an essential crop worldwide, and optimizing micropropagation techniques is important for enhancing germplasm conservation and large-scale production. This study focuses on the in vitro propagation of two potato varieties, Agata and Fianna, emphasizing optimizing sterilization protocols, shoot induction, rooting, and microtuber production. Apical buds from healthy, disease-free plants were selected as explants. These buds were surface-sterilized using 70% ethanol and sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) with Tween-20. The explants were excised from tuber sprouts and cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with various concentrations of plant growth regulators, including benzylaminopurine (BAP) at 0.10–0.40 mg/L, gibberellic acid (GA3) at 0.20–1.00 mg/L, and naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) at 0.01 and 0.04 mg/L to promote root development. The study also explored the effects of these hormonal treatments on shoot induction, proliferation, and rooting. Significant differences were observed between the two varieties regarding oxidation, contamination, and aseptic conditions, with Fianna demonstrating better resistance to oxidation and contamination than Agata. Shoot multiplication was most efficient with BAP concentrations of 0.40 mg/L for Fianna and 0.30 mg/L for Agata. Root induction was maximized with higher sucrose concentrations (110 g/L) and GA3 (1.00 mg/L) for Agata, while moderate concentrations of these compounds produced optimal results for Fianna. Microtuber formation was most successful with moderate sucrose (80–100 g/L) and GA3 (0.25–0.75 mg/L) concentrations. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing tissue culture practices for potato propagation, enhancing both microtuber production and the overall efficiency of potato production systems.

Carbazole alkaloids Koenigicine, Koenigine, Mahanine and Mukonicineas Multi-Target Inhibitors in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Insights into MMP9, MMP13, EGFR, and NUDT5 Interactions through Molecular Docking

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Plant-based natural products have been widely used for treating and preventing diseases due to their nutritional and pharmacological benefits, significantly improving the health and well-being of individuals. These medicinal plants are also easily accessible and offer a low-cost, less harmful source for developing new medications. Breast cancer is the second most common form of cancer reported in women worldwide. The treatment of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains challenging, as this subtype lacks targeted therapeutics. TNBC accounts for approximately 15-20% of newly diagnosed breast cancer cases. Because TNBC tumors do not express estrogen receptors (ER), progesterone receptors (PR), or human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), patients with TNBC do not benefit significantly from treatments aimed at ER, PR and HER2-positive breast tumors. While TNBC initially responds well to chemotherapy, it often develops resistance over time, complicating disease management and presenting a significant clinical challenge. To address therapy resistance and improve patient outcomes, exploring new therapeutic options for TNBC is essential. This molecular docking study shows strong interactions between the carbazole alkaloids Koenigicine, Koenigine, Mahanine, and Mukonicine with key oncogenic protein targets such as MMP9, MMP13, NUDT5, and EGFR, which are associated with TNBC progression. The binding energy of these molecules ranges from -7.4 to -9.9 kcal/mol, indicating a very high potential for inhibition. Mahanine exhibits the highest binding affinity for all tested targets, demonstrating strong interactions with NUDT5 (-9.8 kcal/mol) and EGFR (-9.9 kcal/mol). This suggests its potential role as a multi-target inhibitor. The primary non-covalent interactions that contribute to the binding of carbazole alkaloids with target proteins include Van der Waals forces, hydrogen bonds, alkyl interactions, π-alkyl interactions, and π-π stacking. These interactions are crucial for stabilizing the ligand-protein complexes, enhancing binding affinity, and likely influencing the inhibitory effects of the compounds on TNBC-associated oncogenic proteins. The results of this study highlight the potential role of carbazole alkaloids in TNBC treatment, warranting further experimental validation.

CONSERVATION STATE OF THE NATIONAL ZOO FOREST OF ABIDJAN (COTE D'IVOIRE)

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study aimed to assess the degradation of the National Zoo of Abidjan. To achieve this, we employed two field methods: surface survey and linear survey. The surface survey involved counting all plant species within each plot, focusing on those with circumferences greater than or equal to 7.85 cm at breast height. A 100-meter-long rope was stretched horizontally just above the ground for the linear survey. Using this technique, 100 measurements were taken at regular one-meter intervals. At each contact point, we recorded the species and the distance at which each individual was encountered along the survey line. The results indicated that the forest possesses a good regeneration capacity. Analysis of the structural profiles revealed numerous openings, and it was found that the most dominant species include lianas (such as Acacia kamerunensis, Adenia cissampeloides, and Harms) and nanophanerophytes. Additionally, the observations showed that this area is a remnant of degraded semi-deciduous forests. Based on these findings, developing strategies to protect this forest and provide valuable goods and services to Abidjan is essential.

Heat Pump Drying of Nutmeg Pericarp: Engineering Properties, Drying Kinetics, and Haghi-Angiz-II Modelling for Process Optimisation

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study investigates the engineering properties of nutmeg pericarp and develops a mathematical model to describe its drying behavior in a heat pump dryer. Nutmeg pericarp, an underutilized part of the nutmeg fruit, is a rich source of phytochemicals but is highly perishable, necessitating immediate postharvest drying for further processing. Drying experiments were conducted at a controlled temperature of 55°C and a relative humidity of 37%. Regression modeling was used to analyze the drying kinetics, utilizing MATLAB R2020a and R Studio software. Various statistical metrics, including the coefficient of determination (R²), adjusted R², and root mean square error (RMSE), were evaluated to determine the predictive accuracy of different thin-layer drying models. Among the models assessed, the Haghi and Angiz-II model best fit the experimental data, achieving the highest R² value of 0.999. A scatter plot comparing the experimental and predicted moisture ratios further confirmed the reliability of this model. The effective moisture diffusivity ranged from 2.1 × 10⁻⁸ to 9.08 × 10⁻⁸ m²/s. Additionally, the quality assessment indicates that heat pump drying positively influences the key quality attributes of nutmeg pericarp.

Present Status, Practices, Limitations, and Future Prospects of Organic Fruit Production in Nepal

Sushil Rai, Ankita Nepal, Sabin Basi, Thakur Dhakal, Rameshwar Rai — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Organic fruit production in Nepal has significant potential due to the country's varied agro-climatic conditions and reliance on traditional agricultural practices. However, this sector faces considerable challenges, including high certification costs, limited market access, and inadequate infrastructure. Despite the increasing global demand for organic products and a growing interest among local consumers, only 0.3% of Nepal's agricultural land is certified organic. This review analyzes 27 studies that examine the current status, practices, limitations, and prospects of organic fruit cultivation in Nepal. The findings reveal that smallholder farmers comprise most organic fruit growers, primarily using traditional methods such as composting and animal manure, which align well with organic farming principles. However, the lack of certification limits their access to premium markets. To enhance organic fruit production in Nepal, this review emphasizes the need for policy reforms that simplify certification procedures, improve infrastructure, and strengthen market linkages. Increased involvement of cooperatives and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) can provide smallholder farmers with essential training, technical guidance, and resource access. Furthermore, raising community awareness through targeted initiatives will boost local demand, encouraging more farmers to adopt organic practices. Despite the existing challenges, the study highlights Nepal's strong potential to compete in the global organic marketplace. By addressing key barriers and promoting sustainable farming practices, Nepal can enhance environmental sustainability, improve rural livelihoods, and strengthen its organic fruit industry. This review also presents policy recommendations to foster a more robust and inclusive organic farming system in Nepal.

An overview of betulin: botanical source, derivatives and biological potential: Mini Review

Aanchal Loshali, Zuha Rahman, Sumaila Saifi, Vidhu Aeri — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This review aims to provide insight into and summarize the potential of betulin and its derivatives as important pharmaceutical molecules, including their underlying mechanisms of action. This investigation compiles comprehensive scientific data regarding betulin as a botanical raw material for industrial and pharmaceutical applications. Betulin, a natural pentacyclic lupane-triterpenoid, exhibits diverse biological activities, addressing metabolic dysfunctions, infectious diseases, cardiovascular disorders, and carcinogenic activity. The extraction of betulin from natural sources, mainly birch bark, is relatively simple and cost-effective, making it an attractive compound for the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. This study lists 93 plant sources of betulin and explores its repurposing as an effective therapeutic agent. It highlights its potential as an antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and hepatoprotective compound, emphasizing the benefits of derivatizing betulin with various groups or moieties, such as imidazole carboxylic ester, hemisuccinate, hemiphthalate, nicotinate, acetylbetulin-28-o-triphenylphosphonium, succinyl, and 3-substituted glutaryl. The information gathered comes from various sources, including plant databases, Google Scholar, PubMed, ethnobotanical references, and classical texts.

Agrobiodiversity integration in farming systems for income generation and livelihood options of smallholder farmers in Nepal: A case study of Bhimphedi Municipality

Ankita Nepal, Kedar Koirala, Sushil Rai, Rameshwar Rai — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Food and nutrition security are critical global concerns, particularly for smallholder farmers in Nepal who face challenges with resources and inputs. This study explores how the Chabeli Farmers Group in Bhimphedi Municipality can utilize agrobiodiversity to enhance their farming systems and income. To achieve this, a survey was conducted involving 20 farmers (10 male and 10 female), supplemented by focus group discussions and field observations. The study identified 60 species across cereals, vegetables, fruits, forage, and fodder crops, representing 99 genotypes and 10 types of livestock. Farmers preserve and manage these species through traditional practices, such as storing seeds in Bhakari containers made of bamboo and mud. The findings of this study highlight the importance of passing knowledge from one generation to the next and the role of traditional methods in protecting biodiversity. Additionally, a Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) facilitates the sale of organic cash crops. The study demonstrates that effective biodiversity management enhances resilience, diversifies income, and improves market access. In conclusion, integrating agrobiodiversity with community-driven systems improves food security, protects biocultural heritage, and offers scalable solutions for long-term sustainable farming.