Fajriansyah Fajriansyah, Keri Lestari, Zulfahmidah Zulfahmidah

Evidence on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Indonesia remains limited, particularly during the acute phase of infection. This study aimed to describe HRQoL and its associated sociodemographic and clinical factors among hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Indonesia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among adult patients with polymerase chain reaction confirmed COVID-19 who were hospitalized at Rumah Sakit Darurat COVID-19 (RSDC) Wisma Atlet, Jakarta, between October - December 2021. HRQoL was assessed using the validated Bahasa Indonesia version of the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire, including the utility index derived from the Indonesian value set and the EQ visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize HRQoL distributions, and group differences were analyzed using the Mann–Whitney U test and Kruskal–Wallis test. A total of 154 patients were included in the analysis. The mean EQ-5D-5L utility index was 0.762 (SD 0.23; 95% CI: 0.726–0.798), and the mean EQ-VAS score was 75.00 (SD 15.81; 95% CI: 72.48–77.52). Utility index values ranged from 0.311 to 1.000, with 31.17% of participants reporting full health. Among the EQ-5D-5L dimensions, anxiety/depression was the most frequently reported problem (68.83%). Statistically significant differences in utility index scores were observed across sex, age groups, and occupational status (p < 0.05). In conclusion, hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Indonesia reported moderately high overall HRQoL, while psychological problems particularly anxiety and depression were highly prevalent. These findings highlight the importance of integrating mental health support into inpatient care and recovery services. 

Sciences of Pharmacy

Abdul Jaleel K, Prakash PS, Nakshathra KV, Devika V

Cycas revoluta Thunb. (sago palm), a cycad native to southern Japan, is widely cultivated and has a long history of ethnobotanical use, including as a famine food and in traditional medicine, but is also well known for its pronounced toxicity to humans and animals. This review critically synthesizes literature published between 1958–2025 on the ethnobotany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of C. revoluta from ScienceDirect, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Presented as a structured narrative review, the study highlights diverse phytochemicals, including biflavonoids, cycasin, β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), and reported antimicrobial peptides, noting variability in compound verification and reproducibility. Reported pharmacological activities are derived mainly from in vitro and preclinical studies, with limited in vivo validation and no established clinical relevance, whereas toxicological evidence for neurotoxicity, genotoxicity, and hepatotoxicity is robust. This imbalance underscores the need for caution in extrapolating therapeutic potential. Key gaps include inadequate extract standardization, limited bioavailability and safety data, and overreliance on single-study findings. Future research should prioritize rigorous toxicological assessment and reproducible validation before any translational application is considered. In addition, the review emphasizes the importance of distinguishing traditional knowledge from experimentally validated evidence and separating descriptive phytochemical inventories from mechanistic and translational insights. Particular attention is given to methodological limitations, including inconsistent extraction protocols, insufficient structural confirmation of reported compounds, and the frequent absence of dose–response, pharmacokinetic, and long-term safety evaluations. By adopting a critical and balanced perspective, this review aims to guide future studies toward scientifically rigorous, ethically responsible, and clinically relevant research directions.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Cholid Muzakar, Ni Made Dwi Sandhiutami, Hesty Utami Ramadaniati, Bimantoko Hadi Sriyono

Vertical transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a major public health challenge in Indonesia, particularly among pregnant women with high viral loads. Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) has been recommended to prevent perinatal transmission; however, local data regarding its efficacy and safety remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate Analyzing the effectiveness and safety of TDF in HBsAg-reactive pregnant women and its relationship with the infant's HBsAg status is necessary. An observational cohort study was conducted on 103 HBsAg-reactive pregnant women at five referral health facilities in Jakarta. Maternal effectiveness was measured by changes in SGPT and SGOT levels before and after therapy using the Wilcoxon test. Safety was assessed based on adverse events, pregnancy complications, and renal function using the chi-square test. Infant effectiveness was analyzed based on HBsAg status and tested using multivariate logistic regression. TDF significantly reduced SGPT and SGOT levels (p &lt; 0.001). No significant association was found between TDF duration and adverse events, complications, or renal impairment (p &gt; 0.05). Ninety-one-three percent of infants were HBsAg non-reactive, and 93.2% received complete hepatitis B vaccination. Complete vaccination (OR = 414.52; p &lt; 0.001) and the absence of pregnancy complications (OR = 0.048; p = 0.021) were the main protective factors. TDF is safe and effective in preventing vertical transmission of HBV. Successful prophylaxis is highly dependent on infant vaccination and maternal health. These results support the integration of TDF into the national hepatitis B elimination program. 

Sciences of Pharmacy

Osahon Kennedy Ogbeide, Christabel Ifeoma Unachukwu, Onome Sajere, Oscar Notoriuwa Aghedo, Osarinmwian Oghomwenrhiere, Edward Nduka Dibie, James Majebi Okuo

In West African cultures, Picralima nitida has long been used in medicine for providing pain relief, controlling inflammation, reducing fever, and fighting infections. This study compares the elemental and proximate compositions, antimicrobial activities, and acute toxicity of the leaf and seed extracts of P. nitida. The samples were extracted using the cold maceration method. Elemental analysis revealed high levels of magnesium, calcium, and potassium in the leaf extract, while the seed extract contained lower amounts. The leaves also had a higher crude fiber content (15.5%), whereas the seeds were richer in crude protein (19.47%) and ether extract (14.00%). The leaf extract prevented the growth of E. coli, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa, yet did not affect C. albicans. The seed extract exhibited a broader and stronger inhibitory effect against P. aeruginosa. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of E. coli and P. aeruginosa were both 100 mg/mL (15.00 mm inhibition zone) when tested with the leaf extract, whereas S. aureus had an MIC of 75 mg/mL (13.00 mm inhibition zone). The MICs of the seed extract were 25 mg/mL (9.00 mm inhibition zone) for E. coli and S. aureus, 75 mg/mL (18.40 mm inhibition zone) for P. aeruginosa, and 25 mg/mL (11.20 mm inhibition zone) for C. albicans. For the toxicity tests, the leaf extract appeared safer for animals (mice) with no adverse effect at an LD50 of 800mg/kg, whereas the seed showed a notable adverse effect with an LD50 of ≥283 mg/kg. These experimental findings show the health benefit of P. nitida leaves and seeds in traditional medicines and its potential as an anti-microbial agent and use for dietary purposes.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Cletus Anes Ukwubile, Chidi Kaosi Clement

The present study evaluated the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of Mimusops elengi Bojer leaf extract encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles (CS-NPs) using murine models, to determine whether nanoparticle formulation enhances the biological effects of a methanolic plant extract. Preliminary phytochemical screening was conducted using established qualitative colorimetric assays, which indicated the presence of major secondary metabolite classes, including phenolics and flavonoids; these tests were intended for compositional inference rather than definitive compound identification. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were subsequently quantified using spectrophotometric methods, yielding 806.12 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g and 103.08 mg quercetin equivalents (QE)/g of extract, respectively. Antinociceptive activity was assessed using acetic acid–induced writhing and hot-plate assays, while anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated via the carrageenan-induced paw edema model. Animals treated with M. elengi–loaded CS-NPs exhibited statistically significant reductions in writhing responses, prolonged pain reaction latency, and decreased paw edema when compared with untreated controls and animals receiving the crude extract (p < 0.05). Inflammatory mediator analysis further demonstrated significant downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and PGE₂) alongside upregulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10 and IL-22). Oxidative stress assessment showed reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, indicating attenuation of lipid peroxidation. All experiments were conducted with appropriate replication, and data were subjected to statistical analysis to ensure reproducibility. While the phytochemical screening provides preliminary compositional insights, the observed pharmacological effects are attributed to the combined action of extract constituents and improved delivery via chitosan nanoparticles. Overall, the findings support the hypothesis that nanoparticle-based formulation can enhance the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory efficacy of M. elengi leaf extract, highlighting its potential as a complementary therapeutic approach while underscoring the need for further compound-level characterization and safety evaluation.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Courage Chandipwisa, Agness Shimilimo, Tendai Pride Zenda, Harrison Banda

Conventional vaccines face challenges in antigen stability, delivery efficiency, and scalability, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Nanochemistry offers innovative approaches through lipid nanoparticles, polymeric carriers, and hybrid systems. This review evaluates these platforms using criteria such as physicochemical properties, immunological outcomes, translational feasibility, and One Health relevance. A narrative literature review was conducted across major databases between 2015 and 2025. Studies were screened by title and abstract, excluded if not directly relevant to vaccine delivery, and weighted according to design, with clinical trials prioritized over in vitro or modeling studies. Reference lists of key papers were also examined to ensure comprehensive coverage. Lipid nanoparticles supported mRNA delivery in licensed COVID-19 vaccines, achieving strong immune responses but with variability across populations and reported adverse events including myocarditis and anaphylaxis. Polymeric nanoparticles such as PLGA and chitosan enabled controlled antigen release, though cost-effectiveness remains constrained by manufacturing and scalability challenges. Hybrid lipid-polymer systems demonstrated enhanced stability and multi-antigen presentation, with current evidence largely limited to preclinical studies. One Health implications are defined as the potential of nanochemistry to contribute to zoonotic disease prevention, food safety, and cross-species vaccine design, requiring clearer frameworks for integration. In conclusion, nanochemistry-based vaccine platforms show promise for advancing immunization strategies, but unresolved issues in safety evaluation, regulatory harmonization, and equitable access highlight the need for cautious interpretation and further interdisciplinary collaboration.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Abduljaleel K, P S Prakash, Manjula KT, Mini PV

Mangrove ecosystems, distributed across tropical and subtropical coastlines, are globally recognized for their exceptional biodiversity and multifunctional ecological roles. They sustain coastal fisheries by serving as breeding and nursery habitats, support diverse terrestrial and aquatic fauna, enhance shoreline stability through wave attenuation and erosion control, and improve water quality via nutrient recycling and pollutant filtration. Mangroves are also among the most efficient blue carbon sinks, contributing significantly to climate-change mitigation. From a socio-economic perspective, they provide timber and non-timber resources, support artisanal fisheries, enable ecotourism-based livelihoods, and hold high potential for carbon-credit revenue and bioprospecting. The review synthesizes evidence from 135 studies published between 1990 and 2024, retrieved from Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and institutional repositories, based on their relevance to mangrove ecology, ecosystem services, and community-level economic benefits. Only peer-reviewed articles, technical reports, and case studies with clear methodological descriptions were included. The synthesis reveals that the ecological and economic functions of mangroves are strongly interdependent, with degradation of habitat quality directly reducing fisheries productivity, carbon storage efficiency, and livelihood security. The review highlights the urgent need for integrated management approaches, including hydrological restoration, community-based conservation, and policy-supported payment-for-ecosystem-services mechanisms, to enhance ecosystem resilience under accelerating anthropogenic and climate pressures.

Aquatic Life Sciences

Kino Kino, Rofila Dita Karmia, Harnavi Harun

Background, anaphylactic shock (AS) caused by iodinated contrast media (ICM) is a rare but potentially life-threatening immediate hypersensitivity reaction. Despite widespread use of ICM in diagnostic imaging, data on ICM-related AS are limited, particularly in Indonesia. Early recognition and timely intervention are crucial to reduce morbidity and mortality. Case presentation, a 28-year-old female underwent renal arteriography with iodixanol. Within 5 minutes of contrast administration, she developed a generalized pruritic rash, dyspnea, vomiting, hypotension, and unstable cardiac parameters. Clinical presentation confirmed iodixanol-induced anaphylactic shock. Management, initial management included intramuscular epinephrine, rapid intravenous fluids, intravenous antihistamines and corticosteroids, and norepinephrine infusion. The patient’s hemodynamic status stabilized, and she was monitored in the CVCU for 48 hours. Outcome and conclusion, the patient recovered fully without complications. This case emphasizes the importance of rapid recognition and prompt pharmacologic intervention in ICM-induced anaphylaxis, while highlighting the value of thorough allergy documentation and preventive counseling.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Rika Sari Dewi, Puspita Eka Wuyung, Melva Louisa, Ni Made Dwi Sandhiutami, Irandi Putra Pratomo

Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) represent critical events in disease progression, yet their complex pathophysiology remains incompletely understood. Understanding the mechanisms underlying these exacerbations is essential for developing effective therapeutic strategies and improving patient outcomes. This literature review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the cellular and molecular mechanisms driving acute exacerbations of COPD, highlighting the importance of utilizing appropriate animal models for future research. This review identified rodent models, particularly mice (C57BL/6 strain) and rats (Sprague-Dawley) are predominantly employed due to their genetic tractability and physiological relevance, with occasional use of guinea pigs for airway hyperresponsiveness studies. Combined approaches using cigarette smoke exposure followed by inflammatory triggers (LPS, viral infections) showed the highest translational relevance. Key pathophysiological mechanisms studied include neutrophilic inflammation, oxidative stress, airway remodelling, and mucus hypersecretion. Current animal models provide valuable insight into AECOPD pathophysiology but face limitations in fully recapitulating human disease complexity. Future directions should focus on incorporating comorbidities, aging, and standardized outcome measures.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Woro Supadmi, Shafira Diestra Afifa, Fiya Nailil Izzah, Rizky Gustinanda

Hypertension prevalence in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (31.8%) is higher than the national average (30.8%), and long-term medication use may create a burden that negatively affects adherence. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between medication-related burden and adherence among hypertensive outpatients at Panembahan Senopati Bantul Regional Hospital and Yogyakarta City Regional Hospital. Using a cross-sectional design, 161 patients were recruited between January and February 2025. Medication-related burden was assessed with the Living with Medicines Questionnaire version 3 (LMQ-3), while adherence was measured using the Medication Adherence Rating Scale-5 (MARS-5). Most patients experienced a low burden (76.4%), followed by no burden (15.5%) and moderate burden (8.1%). Regarding adherence, 83.2% showed moderate adherence and 16.8% high adherence. Spearman’s correlation analysis revealed a significant negative relationship between medication-related burden and adherence (p=0.000; Rho = -0.461). These findings suggest that a higher treatment burden reduces adherence to antihypertensive therapy, highlighting the need for strategies to minimize patient burden and improve treatment outcomes.

Sciences of Pharmacy