UNDIP, Semarang (August 5, 2025) – Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP) reaffirmed its academic commitment by presenting two new prospective professors at the professor candidacy presentations. The event was held by the UNDIP’s Board of Professors on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Academic Senate Meeting Room, 3rd Floor, SA-MWA Building, Tembalang Campus.
The session featured presentations from I Made Sukresna, S.E., M.Si., Ph.D., a lecturer from the Faculty of Economics and Business, and Dr. Alifiati Fitrikasari, dr., Sp.KJ., Subsp.KL(K), a lecturer from the Faculty of Medicine.
Dr. I Made Sukresna presented his scholarly work titled “Strategic Optimization of Inter-Business Partner Value in Industrial Marketing.” His research focuses on strategic approaches in business-to-business (B2B) relationships, emphasizing the importance of co-creating value between small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and larger corporations. Dr. Sukresna argues that mutually beneficial business relations must consider the power dynamics of each partner and apply both transactional (exchange value) and relational (use value) approaches adaptively throughout different phases of the relationship.
He further explained that during the adaptation phase, SME strategies should focus on building positive expectations and mutual dependence, while larger firms should prioritize shared goals and sustainable exchanges. Properly managed collaborations can enhance marketing performance, strengthen connectivity within distribution channels, and create lasting shared value amid global market dynamics.
In the following session, dr. Alifiati Fitrikasari presented her paper, “The Potential of Probiotics as an Adjuvant Therapy for Depression.” Her study explores a novel approach to treating depression through the use of probiotics as a complementary (adjuvant) therapy. The research highlights the potential of probiotics to alleviate depressive symptoms by influencing the gut microbiota and the brain-gut axis (BG axis).
dr. Alifiati noted that an imbalance in gut microbiota, or dysbiosis, affects biological pathways that contribute to the pathophysiology of depression. Experimental studies in both animals and humans have demonstrated that specific probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus helveticus, can reduce corticosterone levels, enhance cognitive function, and help rebalance neurotransmitters in the brain. This innovation offers a promising solution to common challenges in depression treatment, including drug resistance and patient compliance.
These two scholarly works not only showcase the academic dedication of UNDIP lecturers but also make meaningful contributions to the fields of economics and healthcare. The research presented reflects UNDIP’s active role in delivering science-based solutions with real-world impact. (Public Communication/ UNDIP/ Zaila)