Arsip:
Student Activities
Two Biology students from Gadjah Mada University, Doni Dwi Prasetyo and Muhammad Maulana Ibrohim Al Ghozi, conducted research activities under the Merdeka Belajar – Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) program from October 5th to December 31st, 2023, at the Center for Applied Microbiology Research – National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). They were guided by Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, S.Si., M.Biotech. a lecturer from Faculty Biology UGM, Fitri Setiyoningrum, S.TP, M.Si., and Fifi Afiati, S.Pt., M.Si., as their mentors during their time at BRIN.
Microorganisms, including bacteria and yeast, have the capability to produce secondary metabolites, one of which is bioflavor compounds. Bioflavor compounds are volatile substances obtained from natural materials. Microbes can generate flavor compounds through biosynthetic pathways such as fermentation. During fermentation, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are broken down by microbes to produce flavor compounds. Saccharomyces cerevisiae has the potential to produce butyl butyrate bioflavor compounds resembling the fragrance of fruits like pineapple, while Kluyveromyces marxianus has the potential to produce 2-phenylethanol with the fragrance of roses and honey. Additionally, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Yarrowia lipolytica, Rhodosporidium toruloides, and Ashbya gossypii can also produce limonene bioflavor compounds, known for their distinct citrus peel scent. Among the bacteria, Lactobacillus sp.,is capable of producing ester-group bioflavor compounds and their derivatives, such as methyl esters characterized by fruity and floral scents. Limonene compounds can also be produced by Escherichia coli and Streptomyces bacteria.
Throughout their MBKM activities at the Center for Applied Microbiology Research, the students engaged in various tasks, including isolating endophytic microbes from various citrus varieties, documenting microbial isolates, and rejuvenating microbial isolates. They also conducted biotransformation of bioflavor compounds by adding substances like vitamins, enzymes, and precursors necessary for microbes to synthesize the desired bioflavor compounds. The students further analyzed compound contents using GC-MS and LC-MS. The experiences gained during this MBKM activity can serve as valuable knowledge for their thesis research.
According to Dr. Abdul, their supervising professor, this endeavor marks the initial step toward further research on the potential of bioflavors as substitutes for synthetic flavors. “I hope that the outcomes of this research can make a positive contribution to the development of safer flavor compounds compared to synthetic ones,” . This MBKM activity also aims to raise public awareness regarding the diversity of microbes and their potential in producing safer compounds compared to synthetic ones. Through this research, it is hoped that new innovations can be created in the fields of food, medicine, and cosmetics for the betterment of human welfare.
The team of Community Service Program – Independent Learning Independent Campus (PkM-MBKM) conducted a Socialization and Tissue Culture Training on Sunday, November 12, 2023. The event took place at PKBM Ibnu Hajar (Pasinaon Laboratory) in Sirahan Village, Salam District, Magelang Regency, with 30 participants from SMK Negeri 1 Salam. The event was successfully conducted with Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, M.S., M.Sc., as the supervising professor, along with 19 biology students of the Faculty of Biology, UGM.
PKBM Ibnu Hajar is a non-formal learning institution initiated by the community. This institution facilitates learners to study and develop skills outside formal schooling. One of the facilities owned by PKBM Ibnu Hajar is the Pasinaon Laboratory, a household-scale laboratory that can be used for plant propagation using tissue culture techniques. This facility opens up new potential that can be utilized by various groups, both in terms of education and the economy. Therefore, the PkM-MBKM Orchid Team conducted tissue culture training for the young generation of Indonesia, especially students from SMK N 1 Salam, to maximize this potential in creating a skilled generation to realize Indonesia Emas in 2045.The topic of this activity supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) program for 4 goals, namely goals 3, 4, 11 and 17: Good health and well-being; Quality education; Sustainable cities and communities; and Partnership to achieve goals.
The activity was opened by MC Safira Ameliani Ifada, followed by remarks from Dra. Ida Fitri Lusiana, the Founder of PKBM Ibnu Hajar, and Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti M.S., M.Sc. in this event Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti M.S., M.Sc delivered material on “Introduction to Orchid Cultivation with Tissue Culture for Beginners” that covered the introduction of various orchid species and their importance as national biodiversity, cultivation and care processes, and economic prospects. After the presentation, the training on sowed orchid planting and subcultured Cymbidium ensifolium orchid explants was carried out and was guided by 6 students: Anisa Dewi Rahayu, Siddharta Arya Anggoro Cen, Novi Astuti Indra Paranita, Gerald Dafa Rizaldy, Khansa Huwaida, and Gina Septiani Agustin. The training concluded with an interactive discussion between the participants and the PkM-MBKM team. The activity ended with the presentation of certificates and the textbook “Plant Biotechnology” from the Faculty of Biology, UGM, to SMK N 1 Salam and the PKBM Ibnu Hajar Library.
It is expected that this activity will be the starting point for Sirahan Village and SMK N 1 Salam in developing tissue culture skills. The basics of tissue culture techniques taught in this event can be further developed and utilized by the participants. The advancement of technology has made tissue culture techniques easy and affordable, allowing them to be performed even with simple tools and materials. Furthermore, the rapid and uniform production of plants by tissue culture will enhance plant production, contributing to economic advancement. Collaboration between PKBM Ibnu Hajar and Pasinaon Laboratory with the Faculty of Biology UGM can continue to be sustainable to achieve the goal of improving the education of the younger generation which will support the community’s economy [Authors: Muhammad Fityatul Haq and Fitra Laras Wigati]
On Saturday, November 4, 2023, the Public Opinion Management Department of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), and the Student Press Institution of the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIPOL) at UGM successfully held a seminar with the theme “Utilization of Biomass for New Renewable Energy” entitled “Potentials and Challenges of Biomass as New Renewable Energy” held offline at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology. The event addressed issues related to new renewable energy, focusing on both scientific and social perspectives.
The seminar was led by Muhammad Farrel Zharif Zidane and Fatiha Esti Murwani as the MCs and was attended by approximately 150 participants from various faculties within UGM and participants from outside UGM. The seminar commenced with an opening by the MCs, followed by the singing of the Indonesian national anthem, the Gadjah Mada University Hymn, and the Faculty of Biology March. The event continued with addresses from Rima Arvisya Natania Putri, the head of the organizing committee, and Fathur Syahrian Ramadhani, the head of the Biology Student Executive Board (BEM). Subsequently, the main activities included presentations moderated by Muhammad Fauzi. The first speaker, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, S.Si., M.App.Sc., discussed renewable energy and its utilization from a scientific perspective. He is an expert in Plant Biology and algae and their utilization in developing renewable energy. The second speaker, Prof. Dr. Poppy Sulistyaning Winanti, S.IP., M.PP., addressed the social perspective related to the use of renewable energy in society. Poppy has extensive experience in research and analysis related to social issues.
This seminar provided a platform for participants to discuss current issues related to energy and to inspire positive actions in the development of renewable energy in Indonesia. The event was a result of collaboration between the UGM Biology Student Executive Board and SINTESA FISIPOL UGM in an effort to enhance understanding and awareness of the importance of renewable energy in both scientific and social contexts.
Kombucha is one of the fermented beverages containing acetic acid bacteria with probiotic properties, beneficial as both a traditional and herbal drink. The presence of acetic acid bacteria with probiotic properties in kombucha makes it functional for the human body, including maintaining digestive health, enhancing the immune system, and supporting overall immunity. During storage, the quality of kombucha products may deteriorate due to improper conditions and duration of storage.
The Independent Learning Independent Campus (MBKM) Research Team from the Faculty of Biology, UGM, led by Prof. Dr. Endah Retnaningrum, M. Eng, along with Audy Syavanova, Khilin Shafa Nisa, and Virsandhita Althafio Ribowo, conducted research activities on testing the fermentation product of lemon tea kombucha “Kopi Oemah Martani” from August 28 to October 23, 2023. The quality of kombucha products stored at room temperature and in the refrigerator, each for 0, 7, and 14 days, was compared based on the observation of several test parameters. The analyzed test parameters included pH value, sugar content, acetic acid content, the amount of acetic acid bacteria, yeast, and coliform bacteria.The test results indicated that lemon tea kombucha products stored in the refrigerator for 7 days exhibited the best quality, with a taste and aroma preferred by the respondents.
The MBKM Thalassemia Research Team from the Faculty of Biology, UGM, consisting of four students Angeline Stefanny, Anisa Muliana, Mulyadi, and Veny Wulansari has undertaken a series of activities under the Independent Learning Independent Campus (MBKM) research program with the topic of Profiling and Genotyping Mutant Variants Causing Thalassemia in Family Members of the Thalassemia Parents Association (POPTI) in Magelang. This program collaborates with POPTI Magelang as an MBKM partner and involves Dr. Niken Satuti Nur Handayani, M.Sc., as the academic advisor, and Dr. Woro Triaksiwi Wulansari, M.Sc., Sp.A., the chairperson of POPTI Magelang and the Deputy Director General and Financial Manager of RSUD Tidar Magelang.
Thalassemia is a genetic disorder resulting from mutations in the synthesis of α and β-globin chains, causing a reduction or absence of one of the chains, leading to an imbalance in the synthesis of these two chains. The prevalence of this disease is increasing in Indonesia due to the relatively high rate of population migration. Therefore, molecular identification of mutant gene variants causing thalassemia in patient populations is necessary as a step towards screening thalassemia carriers within patient families to reduce the incidence of thalassemia carriers and births in the future. Currently, thalassemia carrier screening in patient families is limited to those with the means and understanding of thalassemia genetics. Hence, the MBKM Thalassemia Team is initiating a carrier screening program based on mutant variants causing thalassemia in these patients.
In implementing this program, observations were made regarding the conditions of thalassemia patients who are members of POPTI Magelang at RSUD Tidar Magelang. Data on the first-degree relatives or siblings of patients were collected as potential screening participants. The students also conducted an analysis to select the optimal or sensitive discrimination index (Mentzer, Matos and Carvalho, England and Fraser, King and Green, RBC, Shine and Lal, and Srivastava) for thalassemia screening in the Indonesian population. Additionally, they prepared for the optimization of the DNA sample isolation method and received training in bioinformatics before molecular data processing. Furthermore, a Family Gathering event was organized for POPTI Magelang members to strengthen family ties among members, accompanied by education on thalassemia and the importance of carrier screening by the UGM Thalassemia Research Team. This activity is expected to serve as an initiation in detecting thalassemia carriers within the patient families. However, there is still a need for education among the siblings of patients about the importance of undergoing thalassemia screening to determine whether they are carriers or not. Dr. Niken Satuti encourages and invites the community not to be afraid to undergo thalassemia screening but to fear not knowing whether one carries the thalassemia allele or not.
The Team of Biology students from Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada collaborated with PT Pagilaran on the development of herbal tea made from the leaves of Aquilaria malaccensis, an agarwood species. This collaboration, conducted from March 2023 to November 2023, was part of the Independent Learning Independent Campus Program (MBKM). The team consists of Atikah Nurunnissa’, Damar Nirma Wati, and Listia Dewi Amaliawati, under the guidance of Drs. Tri Rini Nuringtyas, S.Si., M.Sc., and Tri Wahyuni, S.TP. from PT. Pagilaran.
The herbal tea development activities commenced with a discussion at the PT Pagilaran Kotabaru headquarters, located at Jl. Faridan M. Noto, No. 11, Kotabaru, Kec. Gondokusuman, Yogyakarta. Subsequently, the students visited the PT Pagilaran Samigaluh branch on 13-14 March 2023, focusing on the production of green and black tea. During the visit, the team were guided by Mr. Waridi through the entire tea-making process, starting from harvesting, withering, fermentation, to drying. Following the visit, the team formulated agarwood leaves with other ingredients to create various herbal tea blends: 1) Agarwood leaves, black tea, red ginger; 2) Agarwood leaves, green tea, lemon; and 3) Agarwood leaves, green tea, rosella. Each formulation had different concentrations, such as Agarwood leaves: Black tea / Green tea: Natural ingredients (1: 0.75: 0.25), (1: 0.75: 0.5), and (1: 0.75: 0.75). Subsequently, the students conducted organoleptic tests to determine the preferred formulation and concentration of herbal tea. They also performed extractions using 80% ethanol, followed by UV-Scanning to identify the compound profile of agarwood herbal tea with antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antiobesity activities.The UV-Scanning results and bioactivity analysis using PASS Online revealed that all three formulations possessed potential bioactivity, making them suitable for health-supporting beverages.
It is anticipated that this collaboration will provide valuable insights for the students throughout their research process, expanding possibilities for drug development from natural resources, particularly agarwood leaf extracts. This activity is expected to strengthen public understanding of Indonesia’s natural wealth and its potential in pharmaceutical development, inspiring the creation of innovative solutions to enhance human health and well-being. [Author: Damar Nirma Wati]
Ethnobotany is a discipline that studies the utilization and classification of plants. Indonesia’s diversity of ethnicities and cultures significantly contributes to the field of ethnobotany. Furthermore, the use of local plants as medicinal resources continues to be studied for alternative treatment. Three students from the Faculty of Biology UGM, namely Muhammad Hafid Dinata, Cinta Alivia Atha, and Erinda Putri, conducted a survey on the use of traditional Indonesian plants for skin or hair care. This activity was directly supervised by Woro Anindito Sri Tunjung, M.Sc., Ph.D., and Dr. Fajar Sofyantoro, S.Si., M.Sc., along with Khairul Anam, Ph.D., who served as the partner supervisor at BRIN. This activity is part of the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) in collaboration with the Applied Microbiology Research Center, BRIN, Bogor, Indonesia.
The survey was conducted from February to May 2023 through the Google Forms platform. Data analysis was performed using a qualitative descriptive method. The survey results show various types of traditional Indonesian plants commonly used for skin or hair care. Based on the results of this survey, it is hoped that the community will be able to enhance the utilization of plants in their surroundings and improve their understanding of the phytochemical content and benefits of these plants. This survey represents an initial step for researchers to make a positive contribution towards developing innovations in creating medicines from endemic Indonesian plant. Therefore, endemic Indonesian plants can be utilized as beneficial skin and hair care products for the community.
From June 7- 18, 2023, five biology students from UGM namely Rachmawati Dwi Hasanah, Vida Rahma Lathifah, Tiara Amelia Putri, Novia Noor Rachmawati, and Karso Suryo Putro – participated in the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) guided by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., and Mr. Gede Sangu Gemi. The MBKM activities were conducted online to present various types of melons and hydroponic applications. The melon used as the subject of the MBKM research was the ‘Hikapel’ cultivar. ‘Hikapel’ is a melon resulting from the crossbreeding of the ♀ ‘Sun Lady’-3 and ♂ ‘Hikadi’ cultivars. It is one of the melon cultivars developed by the Faculty of Biology UGM. Hikapel has smooth, unribbed skin and tends to be round in shape. Its striking yellow color sets it apart from other melon varieties, making it popular among melon enthusiasts.
The melon planting took place in the hydroponic greenhouse of Dusun Jamusan, Bokoharjo Village, Prambanan Subdistrict, Sleman Regency, DIY (Special Region of Yogyakarta). The ‘Hikapel’ melon cultivar was planted using cocopeat as the growing medium, and the hydroponic technique with the drip irrigation system.
Throughout the MBKM activities, the students learned about various hydroponic techniques, various of mediums that can be used, and the application of IoT (Internet of Things) in hydroponics. The activities concluded with the collection of data on phenotypic characteristics and various deviations observed in ‘Hikapel’ during the planting process, such as observing segregation and plants affected by viruses. [Author: MBKM Team]
On Tuesday, October 24, 2023, from 15:00 to 20:00 WIB The Presentation Training in Preparation for PKP2 PKM 2023 was conducted online via the Zoom meeting and was attended by 16 out of a total of 17 PKM-RE teams led by students from the Faculty of Biology, UGM, who will be presenting their PKP2 on Thursday, October 26, 2023, along with their supervisor. The event was divided into three sessions, beginning with an explanation of the presentation training mechanism for PKP2 PKM 2023 by a representative from the PKM Corner Biology committee as the moderator. This was followed by a session with drh. Retno Murwanti, MP, Ph.D.. She shared tips on successful strategies for assessing the progress of PKP2 implementation.
In each session, the team was given 10 minutes to do a presentation after being introduced by the moderator, followed by a 5-minute discussion with the reviewers. The reviewers were Aries Bagus Sasongko, S.Si., M.Biotech., from Faculty Biology UGM and a drh. Retno Murwanti, MP, Ph.D. from Faculty of Pharmacy UGM.
This event was aimed to prepare the participants’ presentation skills, evaluate the completeness of the components in the files to be presented, and solidify the participants’ understanding or mastery of the planned program to be accountable for during the PKP2 PKM 2023 event. [Author: PKM Corner]
This event was aimed to prepare the participants’ presentation skills, evaluate the completeness of the components in the files to be presented, and solidify the participants’ understanding or mastery of the planned program to be accountable for during the PKP2 PKM 2023 event. [Author: PKM Corner]
The Meet & Greet, Organizational Training, Research training, Cultivation training, Conservation training, and Written Evaluation of BiOSC in 2023 mark the initial phase of Basic Education conducted by the Biology Orchid Study Club (BiOSC) at the Faculty of Biology, UGM. The aim of the BiOSC Basic Training is to provide organizational and scientific preparation for new BiOSC members through the presentation of material and practical exercises in various areas, including organization, research, cultivation, and conservation. This initiative aims to produce enthusiasts and advocates of orchids who can preserve and advance the native orchids. The activities took place at the Faculty of Biology, UGM, with a total of 26 participants.
The basic education commenced with the Meet & Greet and Organizational Training on September 9, 2023, in Room X of the Faculty of Biology, UGM. During this event, the BiOSC Advisor, Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, M.S., M.Sc., delivered a welcome address and motivation to the XVIII BiOSC potential new members (CAD). This event included an explanation of the rules and regulations during the training, a general introduction to BiOSC, the organizational structure, and an introduction to the 7 fields within BiOSC: Secretary, Treasurer, Entrepreneurship, Household Affairs (RT), HR, Public Relations and Networking (Humjar), as well as Media and Publication (Medpub). During the post-to-post session, the committee and field staff were divided into several stations to share information to the participants.
On September 17, 2023, the training continued with the Research Training. The event was held in Room IV A of the Faculty of Biology, UGM. During this session, topics such as systematics, taxonomy, basic photography techniques, sketches, and orchid identification were discussed. Following the presentations, field practice was conducted in three stations: orchid identification, photography, and sketching. Each group showed great enthusiasm during the practical exercises, and they were able to successfully identify and document orchids through photos and sketches.
The training series continued on September 23, 2023, with the Cultivation training. This session took place in Room 1 of Building B at the Faculty of Biology, UGM and covered topics related to the orchid growth environment, propagation techniques, and general orchid cultivation methods. Similar to previous sessions, practical field exercises were conducted in three stations: pollination station, splitting station, and keiki station. During the pollination station, participants were taught about the correct method of pollinating orchids by inserting pollen into the stigma cavity of the orchid flower using a toothpick. Representatives from the participants then practiced pollinating Vanda tricolor orchids near the Auditorium Biologi Tropika. Splitting and keiki separation are propagation techniques practiced in the Cultivation Training stations. Orchid clusters that have become too dense are divided into smaller clusters to promote optimal orchid growth. Meanwhile, orchids with keikis (typically from the genus Dendrobium) – new shoots on the orchid stem due to stress – should be separated from the parent plant once they are long enough and healthy. In the orchid propagation station, participants also practiced splitting techniques using Oncidium Golden Shower orchids and separating keikis from Dendrobium fimbriatum orchids near the Al-Hayat Mosque.
The Conservation Training served as the final indoor training session in the XVIII BiOSC CAD series for 2023. This session was held on October 15, 2023, in Room 1 of Building B at the Faculty of Biology, UGM. The Conservation training covered topics such as orchid ecology, orchid conservation, exploration, inventorying, and survival techniques. The field practice was divided into several stations, including tent-making training, introduction to the use of physico-chemical parameter tools, training on arranging items in a carrier bag, and familiarization with survival tools.
After the instruction provided in the various trainings, the Written Evaluation took place on October 21, 2023, in Room 1 of Building B at the Faculty of Biology, UGM. The Evaluation was conducted to assess the participants’ understanding of the material presented in the training. The Written Evaluation is not the final phase of the BiOSC training; there is still one more activity to anticipate – the Field Training (Diklap). Stay tuned for the XVIII BiOSC CAD Diklap in 2023 on your favorite platform. BiOSC! Grow, Develop, Sustain!! [Author: BiOSC]