Shanti Bhushan Mishra, Juhi Verma, Garima Sahu, Nishi Gupta

This study explored the safety and antidiabetic potential of a hydroalcoholic extract of Praecitrullus fistulosus fruits, along with qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analyses. The antidiabetic effect was evaluated using in vitro methods, including α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition assays, as well as an in vivo high-fat diet and low-dose streptozotocin-induced diabetic model. Molecular docking studies were conducted to identify phytochemicals responsible for the antidiabetic effects. The fruit extract exhibited maximum inhibition of 52.06% and 58.10% for α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, respectively, at a concentration of 100 µg/mL. The extract also demonstrated a significant (p < 0.001) and dose-dependent antidiabetic effect at oral doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg in the tested animals. In silico analysis revealed that α-tocopherol exhibited the best docking pose, with a docking energy of -8.2 kcal/mol. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the hydroalcoholic extract of Praecitrullus fistulosus contains phytochemicals effective in controlling glucose levels. This study also validates the traditional use of Praecitrullus fistulosus fruits in managing diabetes.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Mubarak Muhammad Dahiru, Neksumi Musa, Enoch Buba Badgal

The therapeutic applications of medicinal plants in the treatment of various diseases can be attributed to their diverse phytochemical constituents. This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition of aqueous and ethanol stem bark extracts of Detarium microcarpum. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were conducted to determine the presence and concentrations of phytochemicals, followed by the identification of phytoconstituents using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The aqueous extract was found to contain saponins (27.11 ± 0.22%) and flavonoids (47.33 ± 0.70% ), with alkaloids, steroids, glycosides, and terpenoids absent. In contrast, the ethanol extract contained alkaloids (10.78 ± 0.59%), saponins (45.11 ± 0.48%), glycosides (5.44 ± 0.48%), and flavonoids (11.00 ± 0.77%), while steroids and terpenoids were not detected. GC-MS analysis revealed 14 compounds in the aqueous extract and 20 in the ethanol extract. The major constituents of the aqueous extract included hydroperoxide, 1,4-dioxan-2-yl (58.32%), 1,2,3-benzenetriol (16.44%), and cis-p-coumaric acid (11.05%). In the ethanol extract, the predominant compounds were coumarin (29.41%), benzofuran (17.23%), and catechol (9.23%). The identified compounds may serve as potential synthetic templates for the development of novel therapeutic agents targeting various diseases. This study supports the ethnomedicinal use of D. microcarpum and provides a scientific basis for its role in traditional medical practices.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Vincent Oghenerobo Imieje, Lilian Nneoma Amafili

Malaria remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where the emergence of Plasmodium falciparum strains resistant to artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) exacerbates the situation. This underscores the urgent need to identify novel, less toxic antimalarial compounds, particularly from natural sources. This study evaluated the in vitro antimalarial and antimicrobial activities of Ricinodendron heudelotii (RHD) seed extracts against Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) and select pathogenic microorganisms using standard protocols. Seeds (250 g) were dried, ground, and extracted with n-hexane and dichloromethane, yielding RHD-HEX and RHD-DCM extracts, respectively. The oily extract (RHD-HEX) was analyzed via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), revealing 26 phytoconstituents, including monoterpenes, fatty acids, and phytosterols. Antimalarial assays showed that RHD-HEX and RHD-DCM exhibited moderate activity (>200 µg/mL) against the chloroquine-sensitive P. falciparum (D6 strain). Both extracts demonstrated stronger activity against the chloroquine-resistant W2 strain, with IC50 values of 30.29 and 33.48 µg/mL, respectively. Antimicrobial screening indicated moderate activity against tested pathogenic fungi and bacteria (IC50 > 200 µg/mL) compared to fluconazole and cefotaxime controls. Cytotoxicity against VERO cell lines was also assessed. The findings suggest that the phytoconstituents in RHD extracts may contribute to the observed antimalarial and antimicrobial effects, warranting further investigation.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Abdul Jaleel K., Prakash P. S., Pooja K., Manjula K. T.

Mangroves play a vital role in coastal resilience by supporting biodiversity, preventing soil erosion, and sustaining local livelihoods. This study reports the first major outbreak of the invasive moth Hyblaea puera (teak defoliator) on mangroves in Kannur and Kasaragod Districts, Kerala, India. The larvae caused severe defoliation of Avicennia officinalis, Kerala's dominant mangrove species, leaving vast areas with a burned appearance. This infestation threatens the ecological and socio-economic value of mangroves, impacting their protective functions and local biodiversity. Similar outbreaks have occurred in Maharashtra's Airoli and Vashi Creek, primarily affecting Avicennia marina. The epidemic-level infestation in Kerala was noted in 2024, especially during monsoon and post monsoon months, with larvae also targeting species like Acanthus ilicifolius, Bruguiera cylindrica, Derris trifoliata, Derris trifoliata, Rhizophora mucronata, and Volkameria inermis. Pest identification was confirmed via mitochondrial COI gene sequencing. Natural predators, including birds, snails, spiders, and parasitoids, were observed, indicating potential for biological control. Future studies will focus on assessing the ecological impact and exploring management strategies like biological control, chemical treatments, and physical removal to protect mangrove ecosystems in Kerala, India.

Aquatic Life Sciences

Ivan Ivanov, Denis Shatalov

This study focuses on the development of a chitosan-based hydrogel incorporating polyvinylpyrrolidone and polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride for the rehabilitation of damaged and contaminated skin. The thermal properties of chitosan-containing films were characterized by measuring the glass transition temperature (Tg) using differential scanning calorimetry. Due to challenges in accurately determining the Tg of chitosan from experimental and literature data, an additional method, dynamic mechanical analysis, was employed. Using the literature value for the Tg of polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride, the transitions of the components were determined. The estimated sorption capacity of the developed hydrogel showed that the inclusion of polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride reduced the moisture content, as expected. However, the overall behavior of the hydrogels remained similar. Vapor permeability, an important factor in wound healing, was also evaluated. Antimicrobial testing revealed no activity for the chitosan control sample despite some reports in the literature, while the samples containing polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride exhibited superior antimicrobial efficacy. These findings suggest that the incorporation of polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride and polyvinylpyrrolidone significantly enhances both the mechanical strength and antimicrobial potential of chitosan-based hydrogels, positioning them as promising candidates for the treatment of contaminated wounds.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Ihsan Sanggar Rahman

Abstract This observation-based study evaluates the seed production practices of Silver Pomfret (Trachinotus blochii) at the Lombok Marine Aquaculture Center (BPBL Lombok), West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. BPBL Lombok is a key facility for marine aquaculture, focusing on breeding species such as the star snapper in an environment with optimal water quality and well-equipped facilities. The study investigates broodstock management, including hormonal induction for spawning, and the growth and grading processes of fry at various developmental stages. Stocking densities were adjusted based on size, and water quality parameters were closely monitored to ensure the survival and growth of the fry. The study also examines the impact of feed management, gonad maturation, and water quality control on the survival rate (SR) of T. blochii fry, with the results indicating a typical SR of 50%, with optimal management. The findings contribute valuable insights for improving Silver Pomfret breeding practices and highlight the importance of sustainable aquaculture techniques for the development of marine fish farming in Indonesia.

Aquatic Life Sciences

Maria Elvina Tresia Butar-Butar, Muh Taufiqurrahman, Adhe Septa Ryant Agus, Dwi Retno Sari, Selvina Selvina, Santa Eufrasia Carolin Tokan

Dry skin, a common dermatological issue affecting individuals across all age groups, often disrupts the skin's protective barrier, leading to discomfort and increased sensitivity. Addressing this condition involves the use of moisturizers, which play a vital role in restoring skin hydration. In this study, a cream preparation was successfully developed using vegetable oils, including Borneo Tallow Nut, Almond Oil, and Olive Oil. The cream formula was optimized using the Design-Expert software with the Simplex Lattice Design (SLD) method to evaluate the impact of different concentrations of these oils on the cream's pH, viscosity, spreadability, and adhesion. The results demonstrated that the cream exhibited excellent thermo-physical stability, with optimum values of Borneo Tallow Nut at 1.349% w/w, Almond Oil at 3.598% w/w, and Olive Oil at 4.051% w/w. The cream achieved a pH value of 5.702, viscosity of 16.851 Cp, spreadability of 8.147 cm, and adhesion of 63.682 s, with a desirability score of 0.718. This research confirms that Borneo Tallow Nut, Olive Oil, and Almond Oil have significant potential as excipients in cream formulations.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Juahir Juahir

This study was conducted at the Boncong Bancar Marine Farming Facility in Tuban, East Java, focusing on Blue Swimming Crab (Portunus pelagicus) aquaculture. As a high-value seafood commodity with crucial export markets, the study aimed to enhance knowledge and skills, providing valuable insights for students and stakeholders. It emphasized the need for sustainable aquaculture to reduce reliance on wild harvesting, as Blue Swimming Crab demand exceeds natural supply. The research adopted a descriptive approach, including biological characteristics, survival rates, behavior, water quality, and feeding techniques according to MFF Boncong standards. Water quality measurements resulted in an average pH of 6 to 8, temperatures not exceeding 33°C, dissolved oxygen levels between 5.0 ppm and 8.4 ppm, and salinity between 30–35 ppt. In summary, Blue Swimming Crab aquaculture offers a profitable business opportunity, contributing to the country’s foreign exchange reserves, and warrants close attention from fisheries experts.

Aquatic Life Sciences

Madhuchandra Lahan

Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLCs) are colloidal drug delivery systems composed of both solid and liquid lipids. They enhance drug loading capacity, regulate the release of poorly water-soluble drugs, and are suitable for targeted delivery. Resveratrol, a polyphenol with promising anticancer properties, faces challenges due to its low water solubility, poor bioavailability, and chemical instability, resulting in rapid metabolism and excretion. Therefore, it is crucial to develop a delivery system that safeguards resveratrol during its transit through the body. This study aimed to develop and characterize resveratrol-loaded NLCs using the nano-precipitation method followed by ultrasonication, incorporating Mesua ferrea seed oil as the liquid lipid. The NLCs were evaluated for particle size, morphology (TEM), zeta potential, drug entrapment efficiency, drug loading, and in vitro drug release. The resulting NLCs demonstrated stability and homogeneity, with a particle size of 181.6 ± 12.4 nm, a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.135 ± 0.09, drug entrapment efficiency of 82.76 ± 12.2%, and drug loading capacity of 42.94 ± 7.5%. They exhibited sustained drug release, achieving 84.56% release within 24 h. These findings suggest that the developed NLCs can effectively enhance the incorporation and controlled release of poorly water-soluble drugs like resveratrol, offering potential advantages over conventional delivery systems.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Mubarak Muhammad Dahiru, Abdulhasib Oluwatobi Oni, James Danga, Aisha Alfa Alhaji, Faith Jonah, Alkasim Yahaya Hauwa, Zainab Muhammad

Medicinal plants are regarded as important sources of exogenous antioxidants due to their phytoconstituents’ free radical scavenging potential. The present study explores the phytoconstituents and antioxidant activity of n-hexane (HFDM) and chloroform (CFDM) fractions of Detarium microcarpum for potential use in the phytotherapy of oxidative stress-linked ailments. The phytoconstituents were qualitatively determined, while the antioxidant activity was determined by in vitro assays. Alkaloids, saponins, steroids, and flavonoids were detected in both fractions, while glycosides and terpenoids were absent. The HFDM (55.40 ± 2.66 AAE µg/mL) showed a significantly higher total antioxidant capacity than the CFDM (34.84 ± 1.22 AAE µg/mL, p<0.05) at the tested concentration (100 µg/mL) while the CFDM (57.84 ± 2.16 AAE µg/mL) exhibited a significantly higher ferric reducing antioxidant power than the HFDM (46.11 ± 1.91 AAE µg/mL, p<0.05) at the tested concentration (100 µg/mL). In the ferric thiocyanate assay, there was no significant (p>0.05) difference between the HFDM (65.59 ± 2.32%) and CFDM (77.42 ± 2.95%). However, both fractions exhibited significantly higher percentage inhibition than ascorbic acid (9.68 ± 5.41%, p<0.05). Moreover, the HFDM (0.21 ± 0.01 nmol/mL) exhibited a significantly lower MDA concentration than the CFDM (0.66 ± 0.06 nmol/mL) and AA (0.46 ± 0.02 nmol/mL). Additionally, ascorbic acid (0.46 ± 0.02 nmol/mL) showed a significantly lower MDA concentration than CFDM (0.66 ± 0.06 nmol/mL). The n-hexane and chloroform fractions of the plants showed promising antioxidant potential, which might be attributed to the identified phytochemicals that have potential applications in the phytotherapy of oxidative stress-linked diseases.

Sciences of Phytochemistry