Claim Missing Document
Check
Articles

Found 2 Documents
Search

Beyond Amyloid: Investigating the Role of Tau Oligomers in Alzheimer's Disease Progression in Medan, Indonesia Sony Sanjaya; Brenda Jaleel; Cindy Susanti; Yi-Fen Huang; Husin Sastranagara; Agnes Mariska
Sriwijaya Journal of Neurology Vol. 1 No. 2 (2023): Sriwijaya Journal of Neurology
Publisher : Phlox Institute: Indonesian Medical Research Organization

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.59345/sjn.v1i1.26

Abstract

Introduction: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline and memory impairment. While amyloid plaques have been a central focus of AD research, increasing evidence suggests that tau oligomers play a crucial role in disease progression. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between tau oligomers, cognitive function, and disease severity in AD patients in Medan, Indonesia. Methods: An observasional case series study was conducted involving 50 AD patients diagnosed according to the National Institute on Aging-Alzheimer's Association (NIA-AA) criteria. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected and analyzed for tau oligomers using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) scale. Correlation analyses were performed to examine the relationship between tau oligomer levels, cognitive performance, and disease severity. Results: The mean tau oligomer level in AD patients was 120.5 ± 35.2 pg/mL. A significant negative correlation was observed between tau oligomer levels and MMSE scores (r = -0.65, p < 0.001), indicating that higher tau oligomer levels were associated with poorer cognitive performance. Furthermore, tau oligomer levels were positively correlated with CDR scores (r = 0.58, p < 0.001), suggesting a link between tau oligomers and disease severity. Conclusion: This study provides evidence for the involvement of tau oligomers in AD progression in the Indonesian population. Elevated CSF tau oligomer levels are associated with cognitive decline and disease severity in AD patients. These findings highlight the potential of tau oligomers as a therapeutic target and emphasize the need for further research to develop effective interventions.
The Impact of Health Policy on Community-Based Palliative Care Services: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation in Bandung, Indonesia Dea Albertina; Istiqomah Putri; Nazeera Hamid; Cindy Susanti
Community Medicine and Education Journal Vol. 6 No. 1 (2025): Community Medicine and Education Journal
Publisher : HM Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.37275/cmej.v6i1.697

Abstract

Palliative care is a crucial component of comprehensive healthcare, yet access to community-based palliative care services remains limited in many low- and middle-income countries, including Indonesia. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of existing health policies on community-based palliative care in Bandung, Indonesia. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. Quantitative data included a retrospective analysis of patient records (n=350) from three community-based palliative care providers in Bandung from 2018-2023, assessing referral patterns, service utilization, and patient demographics. Qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with policymakers (n=10), healthcare providers (n=15), and patients/caregivers (n=20) to explore their perspectives on policy implementation and its impact. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, thematic analysis, and a framework approach guided by the WHO Health Systems Framework. The study found that while national health policies acknowledge the importance of palliative care, significant gaps exist in implementation at the local level. The number of patients accessing community-based palliative care increased modestly from 45 in 2018 to 78 in 2023, but this represents a small fraction of the estimated need. Key policy-related barriers identified included: limited funding allocated specifically for community-based palliative care , inadequate training and workforce capacity in palliative care, lack of standardized referral pathways from hospitals to community-based services and limited public awareness of palliative care. In conclusion, health policies in Indonesia have not yet translated into widespread access to quality community-based palliative care in Bandung. Strengthened policy implementation, increased funding, workforce development, improved referral systems, and enhanced public awareness are crucial to address this gap and improve the quality of life for patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families.