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Biology Student Wins Gold Medal in National Essay Competition Through Smartwatch SART innovation Addressing Mental Health Issues

AchivementsHeadlineNews Release Friday, 3 November 2023

Ridho Nur Alam and Azra Belva Naprilian, Biology student class of 2022, have achieved a Gold Medal in the National Essay Competition FAPERTA 4 titled “Futuristics and Prestige Research, Technology and Art Fair,” under the guidance of Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, M.Sc., Ph.D. The competition, which involved a total of 243 entries, underwent several stages of selection before the Grand Final held at Dhyana Pura University, Bali on October 28-29, 2023. The competition comprised various stages, including the submission of full papers, creating video presentations, making PowerPoint presentations, and delivering poster presentations directly to the judging panel.


During this event, Ridho and Azra presented an essay titled “Smartwatch SART: Psychosocial Condition Detector Based on Galvanic Skin Response for Creating a Sustainable Mental Health Environment.” This innovation was sparked by the growing concern over mental health issues in society, particularly among students and young adults in Indonesia, which unfortunately is not proportionate to the available mental health professionals. The Smartwatch is equipped with a range of sensors based on Galvanic Skin Response (GSR). SART, an acronym for Smartwatch Stress and Anxiety Relief Tracker, will facilitate interaction between users and their families, close friends, and competent mental health professionals. Additionally, SART is also integrated with the Internet of Things (IoT), enhancing its effectiveness and efficiency in use.

This innovation is expected to provide a practical solution to address the psychological service issues in Indonesia. Furthermore, it is hoped that it will also help reduce suicide rates and address cases of mental health disorders in Indonesia, aligning with the government’s efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) point 3, which aims to create a mentally healthy Indonesia. [Author: Ridho Nur Alam]

Presenting Integration Innovation of Activated Sludge Method in the WasteWater Treatment Facility (IPAL) at TPST Piyungan, Student of Faculty Biology Win 1st Place in National Essay Competition

AchivementsHeadlineNews ReleaseWaste Management Wednesday, 1 November 2023

Biology students at Gadjah Mada University (S1) made another achievement at the national level by winning 1st place in the National Essay Competition. This achievement was achieved by Rima Arvisya Natania Putri, Reny Ras Ninta Br Tarigan, dan Gafra Favian Ratmoro, a student at the Faculty of Biology class of 2022 under guidance of Dr. Miftahul Ilmi . This national-level essay competition was organized by Department of Biology Universitas Islam Negeri Walisongo Student Executive Board with the Theme “Optimizing the Role of Smart, Proactive, and Innovative Young Generations in Facing the 5.0 Revolution as an Effort to Realize Indonesia Emas 2045”. The competition opened on 1 July 2023 and the winners were announced on October 24, 2023.


In this competition the team took the subtheme Ecotechnology with the title “ Integration of Activated Sludge Method in the WasteWater Treatment Facility (IPAL) at TPST Piyungan, Yogyakarta”. The team discusses water as a source of life for all living organisms on earth. Unfortunately, the water around Piyungan Wastewater Treatment Facility are contaminated by Leachate from suboptimal processing. Based on Research By Kartikasari et al. (2020), shown that after undergoing aeration treatment, the quality of leachate in the Piyungan Landfill still does not meet the established quality standards. The research results indicate the content of the leachate as follows: TSS 235 mg/L, BOD 241 mg/L, COD 3511 mg/L, TN 700 mg/L, Hg 0.1015 mg/L, Cd 0.035 mg/L, Cr 0.021 mg/L. The standard limits are TSS 100 mg/L, BOD 150 mg/L, COD 300 mg/L, TN 60 mg/L, Hg 0.005 mg/L, Cd 0.1 mg/L, Cr 0.1 mg/L. This comparison of data indicates the suboptimal performance of the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) applied in the Piyungan Landfill. These contents can be highly dangerous when in direct contact with living organisms.

Given this issue, there is a need for the development of the activated sludge method to treat leachate more efficiently and effectively, with the aim of removing organic contaminants and hazardous chemicals contained within it. The innovation brought by this team involves the development of the activated sludge method with the optimization of land use, utilization of flocs, provision of biomass storage tanks, and the use of PAC as a clarifying agent. Thus, it is hoped that this innovation will be able to create a Wastewater Treatment Facility that meets the standards, thereby restoring the quality of water to a better state and enhancing the self-sufficiency of the community in support of the realization of Indonesia Emas 2045. [Author: Reny Ras Ninta Br Tarigan]

UGM Students Develop Livestock Feed Supplement from Seaweed to Reduce Methane Emissions from the Livestock Sector

AchivementsHeadlineNews Release Tuesday, 17 October 2023

Efforts to mitigate climate change within the livestock sector have received little attention in Indonesia. Despite its relatively small contribution compared to the industrial and energy sectors, the livestock sector’s role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions can help lower global temperatures and prevent extreme global warming. According to BMKG data (2022), the average concentration of methane emissions worldwide has been steadily increasing since January 1980, reaching 1,909.3 ppb by December 2021, up from 1,620 ppb. The livestock sector ranks as the third-largest contributor of methane, accounting for 20 to 25% of total global methane emissions. Most of the methane emissions from the livestock sector are generated by ruminant animals through the complex fermentation process in their stomachs (rumen), which is later released through feces and belching.


This issue caught the attention of Ahmad Rizal Riswanda Danuartha (Livestock Science and Industry, class of 2022), Akmal Bunyamin (Biology, class of 2021), Anggi Abdillah Surya Amni (Chemistry, class of 2022), Yessa Juliaputri (Aquatic Resource Management, class of 2021), and Siti Komariyah (Livestock Science and Industry, class of 2022), who formed the PKM-RE Team with mentorship from Moh. Sofiul Anam, S.Pt. M.Sc. namely PELLETAN funded by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology. Their goal was to utilize seaweed (Macroalgae Sargassum sp. and Gracilaria sp.) from Gunung Kidul Beach, Yogyakarta, as pellets for ruminant livestock feed supplements. These supplements were expected to modify the rumen environment, thereby reducing methane production. Macroalgae, commonly known as seaweed, holds the potential to be a rich source of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other bioactive compounds. “We chose macroalgae as the primary ingredient for ruminant livestock feed supplements because of the presence of tannins and saponins, which have the ability to reduce methane production. While seaweed has been widely used in food, feed, and pharmacology, utilizing it as a feed additive in livestock farming presented a challenge for us in terms of exploring and identifying crucial compounds that could be beneficial, especially in creating a ready-to-use, high-quality, and affordable product for farmers,” explained Ahmad Rizal. Yessa added that research on the potential of seaweed for methane mitigation has been conducted, but there hasn’t been an innovation in the form of ready-to-use pellet products for farmers. “We turned our research into pellets to make it easier for farmers to apply, making it more efficient. Additionally, with the pellet form, livestock feed supplements have a longer shelf life,” added Siti.

Gunungkidul Regency boasts extensive coastlines, making it a potential area for seaweed cultivation, one of which is found at Trenggole Beach. “Initially, we collected seaweed samples at Trenggole Beach in Gunung Kidul, then processed the seaweed into pellets. Afterward, we conducted in vitro tests at the TMT Lab using rumen fluid taken from Bali cattle. We then collected the gas from the in vitro test to analyze the production of carbon dioxide and methane gas. The results of the gas test were positive, indicating that this feed supplement is capable of reducing methane emissions resulting from rumen fermentation,” explained Akmal.

By integrating various disciplines of scientific knowledge and skills acquired during their studies, they successfully created pellet-shaped livestock feed supplements from macroalgae, which will be tested for effectiveness in vitro at the Animal Feed Technology Laboratory of the Faculty of Animal Sciences (TMT) and the Organic Chemistry Laboratory at UGM.Based on gas tests conducted at the Agricultural Environmental Instrument Standard Testing Center in Pati on the seaweed supplement pellets developed by Rizal and his team, the supplement successfully reduced methane production by 21.19% for 3% supplementation and 21.38% for 6% supplementation. Additionally, based on data analysis from their in vitro test, the seaweed supplement pellets increased the digestibility of dry feed by 7.11% to 7.29%. This is undoubtedly a positive development for farmers, as previous research indicated that 3 to 12% of digestible energy from feed is not maximally absorbed due to being lost in methane production.

“We hope that with this innovation, we can reduce methane emissions generated by the livestock sector, as this sector has often been unfairly blamed for recent climate issues,” concluded Anggi. This research is not only a commendable achievement but also has the potential to significantly help reduce global methane production. Consequently, this could further drive carbon emission reduction goals, ultimately addressing climate change more effectively. [Author: Akmal Bunyamin]

Biology Student Receives Award as The Winner of the Most Inspiring Movement at Nutrifood Leadership Award 2023

AchivementsHeadlineNews Release Monday, 16 October 2023

The Nutrifood Leadership Award (NLA) is an initiative by Nutrifood Indonesia aimed at recognizing Indonesian students with leadership potential in the field of biology. The NLA 2023 focused on the theme “Contribution for Our Nation” and upheld Nutrifood’s core values: Health, Green, Education, and Inclusivity. This program provided an opportunity for students to enhance their capacities in order to contribute more effectively to society. It stemmed from a strong determination to provide benefits not only for oneself but also for others.


Eva Yunizar Reza, a Biology undergraduate student from the class of 2021, underwent a series of administrative selections and successfully advanced through the semi final audition stages held in four cities: Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta, and Surabaya. Out of 132 semifinalists, Eva was chosen to be one of the finalists and underwent quarantine in Jakarta. Along with 19 other finalists, Eva was divided into four groups to receive mentoring and carry out social projects involving NGOs, namely Rumah Harapan Indonesia (Health), Food Cycle (Green), Istana Belajar Anak Banten (Education), and Indika Foundation (Inclusivity). Eva, together with four other students from Diponegoro University and Lampung University, formed the Health team, collaborating with Rumah Harapan Indonesia. Through their dedication and encouragement, they succeeded in inspiring a larger audience through various programs initiated by involving communities, volunteers, and social media audiences. Eva and her team emerged as The Winners of the Nutrifood Leadership Award 2023, earning the title of The Most Inspiring Movement.

According to Eva, all these achievements would be meaningless if not accompanied by benefiting others. She believes that everything starts with small steps towards becoming something significant. This marks not the end, but the first step towards taking action, inspiring others, and making a positive impact on our surroundings. [Author: Eva Yunizar Reza]

UGM Students Develop Integrated Sensor TISs Device for Ex Situ Conservation Efforts of the Endemic Black Orchid in East Kalimantan

AchivementsHeadlineNews Release Monday, 9 October 2023

The black orchid, known as Coelogyne pandurata Lindl., is a rare endemic flora of Indonesia. This orchid can only be found in East Kalimantan and Papua. Its uniqueness lies in its black labellum adorned with green stripes and fur, along with green flower ornaments with triangular-shaped petals. This orchid holds high economic value as an ornamental and rare plant collection. Unfortunately, infrastructure development projects in East Kalimantan have escalated the rate of extinction in the wild. Despite being categorized as Appendix I under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and protected by the Presidential Regulation of the Republic of Indonesia No. 7 of 1999, this orchid faces challenges.



In light of this, three UGM students, part of the UGM 2023 PKM-RE Team funded by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, namely Anisa Dewi Rahayu, Lathief Al Umami, and Shiddharta Arya Anggoro Cen from the Faculty of Biology, with their supervising professor, Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, M.S., M.Sc., are undertaking ex situ conservation through micropropagation using Temporary Immersion Systems (TISs) technology.

The application of TISs technology represents a cutting-edge method to accelerate the growth and development of the black orchid. Its advantages include the elimination of subculturing, optimal aeration, and prevention of hyperhydration. The innovative integrated sensor system of TISs facilitates the monitoring of environmental parameters such as pH, temperature, humidity, light intensity, and carbon dioxide levels. Lathief explains that the development of the TISs device, equipped with real-time sensors, is controlled by an Arduino Uno to facilitate environmental parameter regulation. The sensor measurements of environmental conditions are displayed on an LCD display. Shiddharta adds that the incubation chamber design at the top, serving as a space for explants from seeds to plantlets, can be flexibly adjusted according to needs without the need for modifying the sensor and actuator system.

Anisa elucidates that the application of the integrated sensor TISs on black orchid plantlets in the UGM Biology Biotechnology Laboratory has proven to accelerate growth parameter increments. This application initiates the development of modern and efficient ex situ conservation efforts for other endangered plants, leading to the production of higher-quality plants with minimal production costs.

Presenting Bioluminescent Trembesi Trees: Biology Undergraduates Win Silver Medal in the 2023 National Scientific Paper Competition at Brawijaya University

AchivementsHeadlineNews Release Thursday, 5 October 2023

The students from the Faculty of Biology UGM made another achievement by winning a silver medal in the 2023 National Scientific Paper Competition at Brawijaya University. The team was guided by Dr. Wiko Arif Wibowo, S.Si., Led by Johs Carlo Edison Abon (Biology 2022) along with Adi Citra Prima Pranata (Biology 2022), Agnetta Danastri Dardjito (Biology 2022), Chandra Rifana Arifin (Biology 2022), and Muhammad Fathin Setya Daffa (Biology 2022). The event was held from June 1 to September 13, 2023, with the theme “Collaborative Nation-Building with Applied Technology Innovations towards Independent Indonesia.”


The team took the sub-theme “Climate Change and Environmental Conservation” with the title “Implementation of Bioluminescent Trembesi Trees (Albizia saman (Jacq.) Merr) as Illumination and Pollution Bioaccumulator in Urban Environments in Indonesia.” This scientific paper was motivated by the issues of air and light pollution in urban areas of Indonesia. Air pollution stems from increased mobility, leading to higher motor vehicle usage. In 2019 alone, 232,974 deaths in Indonesia were attributed to air pollution. Furthermore, urban streets necessitate even illumination, resulting in light pollution and increased demand for fossil energy.

The proposed solution in this scientific paper involved genetically engineering trembesi trees (Albizia saman (Jacq.) Merr) to become bioluminescent, capable of emitting light without requiring electricity. This was achieved by inserting a gene cluster producing the luciferin-luciferase enzyme complex, specifically Luz, HispS, H3H, and CPH, into the trembesi tree through DNA cloning and injection via the stomata of its leaves. This gene cluster was obtained from the bioluminescent fungus Neonothopanus nambi, which naturally emits light and is found in Indonesia, specifically in West Sumatra. In essence, the process that produces light in N. nambi, as described earlier, was transferred to the trembesi tree through genetic engineering.

Behind the choice of the trembesi tree lies an ecological rationale. Trembesi trees have the ability to effectively and efficiently absorb heavy metal pollutants and carbon. Annually, one trembesi tree can absorb 28.5 tons of CO2. Therefore, it is anticipated that bioluminescent trembesi trees can address the issues of light and air pollution on urban streets. Additionally, the planting of bioluminescent trembesi trees will enhance the aesthetic value of urban areas in Indonesia.

Presenting Ecosystem Quality Concerns at the Elephant Conservation Center, Biology Students Win First Place in National Scientific Writing Competition at Tidar University

AchivementsHeadlineNews Release Monday, 2 October 2023

A team of undergraduate Biology students led by Nur Farah Susilowati along with Kotimah, won first place in the National Scientific Writing Competition organized by the Biology Education Student Association of Tidar University namely “Optimizing the Ability to Conserve a Paradise of Biodiversity”. This event was conducted online with the final presentation held on August 18, 2023, and the announcement of winners on August 22, 2023. In this competition, the team were guided by Dr. Siti Nurbaiti, S.Si., addressing the sub-theme “Efforts to Address Biodiversity Degradation.” Their scientific paper was titled “Microalgae Biodiversity as a Potential Indicator of Ecosystem Quality at the Elephant Conservation Center.”


The writing of this scientific paper was motivated by the potential of microalgae to be implemented in addressing biodiversity issues in the elephant ecosystem. The aim of this scientific paper was to analyze the role of microalgae as a bioindicator, with diversity index as a parameter for the stability of a community within an ecosystem, or disturbances that occur due to environmental and biotic factors. This scientific paper was compiled using a scientific journal literacy approach, referring to the identification and calculation of the diversity of microalgae species from water and sediment samples at the elephant ecosystem. The diversity of microalgae species was used as an index of ecosystem quality, with a correlation to the characteristics of microalgae that have specific tolerance limits to physical and chemical factors, serving as bioremediation materials, food sources, bioactive substances, and containing long-chain hydrocarbons that can be utilized as an energy source. The results of this research showed varying levels of microalgae diversity as an identification of water quality at the Elephant Conservation Center, indicating the stability of its ecosystem.

Innovation in Vermicomposting Technology: Biology Students Win First Place in National Scientific Writing Competition at Brawijaya University 2023

AchivementsHeadlineNews ReleaseWaste Management Friday, 29 September 2023

A team of Biology students at Gadjah Mada University (S1) made another achievement at the national level by winning first place in the National Essay Competition, led by Ghefira Nur Fatimah along with Jauza Hanifah Azzahra, Meinawa Amaliah, Fadilla Nur Hidayat, and Nimas Ayu Pramesthi. This national-level essay competition was organized by Brawijaya University from June 1st to September 13th, 2023, with the theme “Collaborative Nation-Building through Applied Technology Innovation towards Self-Reliant Indonesia,” . This event encompassed various stages, including the submission of works, assessment, finalist announcement, video presentation submission, video presentation assessment, and winner announcement.



The team took the subtheme Food and Agriculture Processing Technology, with their work titled “Organic Capsule Fertilizer Made from Household Organic Waste as a Manifestation of Circular Economy and Environmental Conservation.” Their scientific work was motivated by the escalating issue of waste accumulation in Indonesia, a country that generates approximately 21.2 tons of waste per year, predominantly consisting of household waste such as food waste, dry leaves, wood, tree branches, and food industry waste. Among the household waste types employed by Ghefira and her team was the mangrove crab shell waste (Scylla serrata). The mangrove crab’s body is primarily composed of its shell, accounting for about 80% of its weight, with the remaining 20% being edible flesh. They selected the mangrove crab shell due to its biocompatible, biodegradable, low toxicity, easy synthesis, and safe application properties.

In their innovation, Ghefira and team implemented two technologies: vermicomposting and microwave technology. This combination transformed organic waste into an innovative product: water-soluble organic capsule fertilizer. The organic fertilizer was crafted from household organic waste, while the water-soluble capsule shell was created from mangrove crab shells. The vermicomposting technology was utilized in the production of organic fertilizer involving the use of earthworms, specifically Eisenia foetida and Eisenia Eugeniae, in composting organic matter. The end result of vermicomposting technology is vermicompost, a mixture of worm castings and compost.

The microwave technology was used in producing water-soluble capsule shells using mangrove crab shell material. Chitin compounds found in mangrove crab shells can be transformed into chitosan for capsule shell production. The chitosan from mangrove crab shells has a large molecular weight, necessitating the application of microwave technology to produce chitosan with high deacetylation degree and low molecular weight, ensuring high solubility in water. The process for making chitosan capsule shells involves several sequential steps, including sample preparation, chitin isolation (deproteinization, demineralization, and decolorization processes), chitosan synthesis (repeated deacetylation using microwave), production of Glucosamine Hydrochloride (GLcN HCl) (via hydrolysis and centrifugation processes), and finally, capsule shell formation using modified capsule molds.

Through these two technologies, they produced water-soluble organic capsule fertilizer with numerous advantages. The use of fertilizers that previously required mixing various components may now be simplified through the capsule form, making application on plants more convenient. Individuals need not worry about measuring fertilizer quantities, as the organic capsule fertilizer already contains all necessary elements for plants in a complete and precise manner. Additionally, the capsule form facilitates storage due to its relatively small size, saving storage space. The water solubility of the organic capsule fertilizer is relatively fast, preventing residual waste during use. Therefore, the organic capsule fertilizer implements a circular economy system and is anticipated to contribute to environmental conservation.

The Bachelor’s and Master’s Students of Faculty Biology UGMHave Been Awarded The Panasonic Scholarship 2023

AchivementsHeadlineNews Release Monday, 28 August 2023

The Panasonic Scholarship Indonesia was first launched in 1998 by Panasonic Corporation Japan to celebrate its 80th anniversary. The scholarship is offered through PT. Panasonic Manufacturing Indonesia in the form of Postgraduate Scholarships at the best universities in Japan for outstanding graduates with a Bachelor’s degree (S1) from various universities in Indonesia. Since 2014, Panasonic has changed the scholarship policy to provide Education Cost Aid and monthly Stipends for Bachelor’s (S1) and Master’s (S2) students, and in 2019, it was extended to include Diploma (D3/D4) students. The selection process for the Panasonic Scholarship begins with candidate selection through their respective universities /faculties /programs, followed by Panasonic’s own selection. The determination of scholarship recipients takes into various factors such as the completeness of administrative documents, students’ GPA, language proficiency, family’s economic condition, involvement in organizations, “Future Plan” essay, and readiness to become a Panasonic Scholarship recipient.

Panasonic has designated 22 students as recipients of the Panasonic Scholarship 2023, comprising 12 students from the Bachelor’s program (S1), 4 from the Master’s program (S2), and 6 from the Diploma program (D3/D4). Adhisa Fathirisari Putri (Bachelor) and Aji Sukma Iqbal Najibulloh (Master) are students in Faculty Biology UGM, respectively, who have been selected as recipients of the Panasonic Scholarship 2023. Adhisa’s essay titled “To Understand Oneself, To Be A Leader of Our Own Self” explores the connection between neuroscience and human capability in understanding oneself, becoming a self-leader, and enhancing the quality of life. Aji’s essay, “Researcher is A Leader for Their Research Object,” explains the steps to comprehend one’s identity and leadership style, manage study plans, and explore taxonomic research opportunities for Indonesia’s progress.

The scholarship awarding ceremony for the awardees was held in person at PT. Panasonic Manufacturing Indonesia on Thursday, July 27, 2023. In his address, Mr. Tomonobu Otsu, the President Director of PT. Panasonic Manufacturing Indonesia, expressed that the 22 selected students are talented individuals who are expected to contribute to society at large. Aji was chosen to deliver a gratitude speech, highlighting that wise students not only enhance their knowledge and skills but also develop attitudes and leadership qualities to understand their own capacities.

 

Presenting Microfluidics Technology and Microorganisms as Heavy Metal Biosorption Agent, UGM Biology Students Win 2nd Place in National Essay Competition

AchivementsHeadlineNews ReleaseWaste Management Monday, 21 August 2023

Biology students at Gadjah Mada University (S1) Zildan Basara made another achievement at the national level by winning 2nd place in the National Essay Competition in collaboration with student of Electronics and Instrumentation (S1), MIPA Faculty UGM Ferdian Arvin Nayandra.This national-level essay competition was organized by UKM MAPALA LOKA SAMGRAHA Universitas Pendidikan Ganesha, namely “Jaga Bumi Tetap Lestari”. The competition was opened on 1 May 2023, and the winners were announced on 10 June 2023.

In this competition, the team took the sub-theme Technology and Environmental Innovation with the title “Integration of Microfluidics Technology and the Role of Microorganisms as Biosorption Agents in Detection and Mitigation of Heavy Metal Pollution on the River Code, Yogyakarta”. The team discusses that rivers in Indonesia are vital resources for human life, serving as a source of drinking water, agricultural irrigation, transportation, and also rich in biodiversity. Unfortunately, many rivers in Indonesia Suffer from serious pollution, including being contaminated by heavy metals. According to the data from Bureau of Statistic (BPS), throughout the year 2021, 10,683 villages in Indonesia suffered from river contamination. In addition, according to the same data, approximately 46 percent of Indonesian rivers have experienced severe contamination, 32 percent have moderate, 14 percent have moderately polluted, and 8 percent have mild contamination. (Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, 2022). In the past few decades, the Code River has experienced significant pollution levels, including contamination by heavy metals such as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd), which enter the river through poorly managed industrial and domestic waste (Harian Jogja, 2021).

Therefore, it is essential to develop sensitive and effective detection methods to identify the level of heavy metal contamination in River water. In addition, bioremediation approaches are also needed to eliminate heavy metal contamination, where microorganisms capable of reducing or eliminating heavy metals can be utilized to naturally clean the river. The essay aims to integrate microfluidics technology as sensitive biological sensors in the detection of heavy metals, and utilizing microorganisms as bioremediation agents that can reduce the level of heavy metal contamination in the river Code water.