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Universa Medicina
Published by Universitas Trisakti
ISSN : 19073062     EISSN : 24072230     DOI : -
Core Subject : Health, Science,
Universa Medicina (univ.med) is a four-monthly medical journal that publishes new research findings on a wide variety of topics of importance to biomedical science and clinical practice. Universa Medicina Online contains both the current issue and an online archive that can be accessed through browsing, advanced searching, or collections by disease or topic
Arjuna Subject : -
Articles 589 Documents
Mineral levels in lactating Lagos women: blood-breast milk correlation and environmental-nutritional influences Oyelowo, Oluwakemi; Makwe, Christian; Adejare, Abdullahi; Ajulo, Oyinkansola; Dieobi, Cynthia
Universa Medicina Vol. 44 No. 1 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Trisakti

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.18051/UnivMed.2025.v44.73-83

Abstract

Background Lifestyle choices and environmental exposure to certain materials have been reported to alter the distribution of key electrolytes in the blood and breastmilk of pregnant women and, in some cases, worsen micronutrient deficiencies. This study aimed to determine the association of sodium, iron, potassium, and calcium ions in maternal blood with those in breast milk and how maternal lifestyle routines could affect the level of these micronutrients.   Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 30 breastfeeding mothers with newborns. They were administered a pre-tested questionnaire following informed consent. Blood and breastmilk specimens were obtained thereafter to determine the serum and breastmilk levels of iron, potassium, sodium, and calcium. Data were analyzed using unpaired t-tests with the significance level of p<0.05.   Results A significant reduction in serum and breastmilk potassium ion levels (p<0.001 for both) was found in lactating women taking vitamin D, vitamin B, calcium, and folic acid supplements, particularly with increased serum iron levels. Conversely, exposure to paints (p<0.001), radiation (p<0.001), borehole water (p<0.05) and tap water (p<0.05) increased potassium ion levels in both blood and breastmilk. Notably, significant correlations existed between blood and breastmilk levels of sodium and potassium ions.   Conclusions While breastmilk sodium and potassium ion levels are directly related to the level in the serum, supplemental intake of some vitamins as well as exposure to paints and radiation could significantly reduce blood and breastmilk potassium, thus further worsening the micronutrient deficiency (aka hidden hunger) in pregnant women.
Galectin-3 and galectin-1 interactions in breast cancer therapy Rani, Vanitha Innocent; Manohari, Aleti Lakshmi; Murali, Uthamalingam; Imran, Mohd; Correya, Mary Anelia; Chakraborty, Tamalika; Bagchi, Preenon; Das, Gunamoni
Universa Medicina Vol. 44 No. 1 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Trisakti

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.18051/UnivMed.2025.v44.101-112

Abstract

Galectins, a family of β-galactoside-binding proteins, play critical roles in tumor progression, angiogenesis, and immune evasion, making them significant therapeutic targets in cancer treatment. By binding β-galactoside containing glycoconjugates, galectins modulate immune responses, apoptosis, and tumor development. The increasing recognition of their oncogenic roles has led to the development of carbohydrate- and peptide-based inhibitors that competitively bind to the carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD), disrupting galectin-mediated immune evasion, T-cell apoptosis, and angiogenesis. Given their intricate functions in the tumor microenvironment, a comprehensive evaluation of galectin inhibitors is warranted. This review synthesizes recent advancements in galectin-targeted therapies, including their mechanisms of action, efficacy in preclinical models, and potential synergy with chemotherapeutic agents and monoclonal antibodies. Despite promising developments, challenges remain in optimizing treatment regimens, overcoming resistance mechanisms, and identifying predictive biomarkers for patient stratification. Patient stratification, based on molecular or genetic profiles, is essential for enhancing therapeutic efficacy and ensuring personalized treatment approaches. A systematic literature search (2014–2024) was conducted using Google Scholar, ProQuest, Science Direct, and Scopus databases, with key terms including galectin inhibitors, cancer therapy, tumor microenvironment, immune evasion, and targeted therapy. This review highlights the role of galectin-1 and galectin-3 in breast cancer therapy, emphasizing their impact on tumor progression, immune modulation, and resistance to conventional treatments. Further translational research is necessary to refine clinical applications, optimize combination strategies, and establish biomarkers that enhance the integration of galectin inhibitors into existing treatment paradigms.
Threat of zoonotic malaria and strategy to overcome in Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo) bordering Malaysian Borneo Natalia, Diana; Handoko, Willy; Rahmayanti, Sari; Wahyudi, Tri; Abdul Rashid, Ayu Akida; Divis, Paul Cliff Simon
Universa Medicina Vol. 44 No. 2 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Trisakti

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.18051/UnivMed.2025.v44.208-218

Abstract

Indonesia aims to eradicate malaria by 2030. Indonesia has the second highest disease burden in the WHO South-East Asia region, after India, accounting for 9% of all malaria cases in 2024. Malaria cases have dropped dramatically due to national strategic plans and programs, and the Indonesian Ministry of Health has certified several districts as malaria-free zones. Malaria cases in Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo), have declined during the last two decades. Nearly all regencies within these provinces have been declared as having low malaria endemic status (API<1 per 1000 people), except for one regency in East Kalimantan Province, which showed a high endemicity level (API>5 per 1000 people). This reduced incidence, however, contrasts sharply with the zoonotic infection caused by the simian parasite Plasmodium knowlesi, which is prevalent in Malaysian Borneo. Only a few cases of P. knowlesi infection have been reported in South and Central Kalimantan Province since 2010. This difference between Kalimantan, Indonesia and Borneo, Malaysia appears contradictory given that both regions have a similar epidemiological risk of zoonotic malaria infection and share the same natural habitat. The references were tracked using various databases, such as Google Scholar, PubMed (MEDLINE) and other sources (Google engine and manual searching using a reference list). This review’s objective was to describe current malaria and zoonotic malaria, mosquito vector prevalence, and the available data from case reports along the Kalimantan border in Indonesia during the malaria elimination phase, compared with malaria distribution in the neighbouring country, Malaysian Borneo.
Hypoxia-preconditioned mesenchymal stem cells attenuate proinflammatory cytokines in collagen loss animal model Fristiani, Yeni; Putra, Agung; Sumarawati, Titiek; Setiawan, Eko; Ibrahim, Sugeng; Pramukarso, Dodik Tugasworo Pramukarso
Universa Medicina Vol. 44 No. 2 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Trisakti

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.18051/UnivMed.2025.v44.131-140

Abstract

Background Repeated ultraviolet-B (UVB) exposure induces significant collagen degradation, primarily through overproduction of reactive oxygen species, which subsequently drives an inflammatory cascade. Hypoxia-preconditioned mesenchymal stem cells (H-MSCs) constitute a promising therapeutic approach to counteract collagen loss by modulating inflammatory pathways. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of H-MSCs in regulating NF-κB p65 and IL-1β expression in a collagen loss rat model, highlighting their therapeutic efficacy. Methods Twenty-five healthy male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to five groups: K1 (healthy controls), K2 (collagen loss), K3 (collagen loss + hyaluronic acid), K4 (collagen loss + 2.5 × 10⁵ H-MSCs), and K5 (collagen loss + 5 × 10⁵ H-MSCs). Collagen loss was induced by UVB radiation (peak wavelength: 302 nm) for 2 weeks. mRNA expression of NF-κB p65 was quantified by qRT-PCR, while IL-1β levels were assessed using ELISA. The rats were maintained for 14 days before being sacrificed, to allow the H-MSCs to exert their therapeutic effects. Data analysis was by One-way ANOVA with Tukey’s post-hoc test. Results The administration of H-MSCs significantly reduced IL-1β levels in groups K4 (633.14±63.76 pg/mL) and K5 (520.80±123.82 pg/mL) compared to group K2 (931.93±205.80 pg/mL) (p<0.05), with group K5 showing the most substantial reduction. Moreover, H-MSC injection in groups K4 and K5 effectively reduced NF-κB p65 expression levels (1.13±0.50 a.u. and 0.72±0.22 a.u., respectively), compared to group K2 (2.47±0.50 a.u.) (p<0.05), with group K5 providing optimum inhibition. Conclusion This study demonstrated that H-MSCs effectively attenuate UVB-induced inflammation and modulate key inflammatory pathways.
Optimizing prehospital care: a comprehensive review of evidence-based protocols for tension pneumothorax management Alsamhari, Abdullah; Gilkaramenthi, Rafiulla; Alamer, Bader Hussain; Jebreel, Albaraa; Abdulbari, Hamdi Hasan; Mushawwah, Saad M.; Altaezi, Lara
Universa Medicina Vol. 44 No. 1 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Trisakti

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.18051/UnivMed.2025.v44.113-128

Abstract

It is of the utmost importance to diagnose and treat tension pneumothorax (TPX) as soon as possible, because if not recognized and treated, it may swiftly cause collapse of the respiratory and circulatory systems.  An estimated 5% of people with serious thoracic injuries may die from this avoidable cause, making it a leading cause of death in trauma and prehospital situations.  Methods for diagnosis, procedures for intervention, and strategies for training are the primary foci of this study, which aims to provide a synthesis of evidence-based protocols for the prehospital treatment of TPX. A literature search was done on Pubmed and Google Scholars databases to identify the relevant literature from 2015 to 2025. This review focuses on the use of point-of-care ultrasonography to improve diagnosis accuracy and assesses the effectiveness of needle decompression and finger thoracostomy as first-line therapies.  We will go over the main research that back these methods, how they differ between regions, and the difficulties of implementing them in prehospital care.  Standardized training methods and further studies on appropriate intervention strategies are two of the significant gaps in the literature that are pointed out in this review.  These results provide suggestions for improving prehospital care, increasing survival rates, and enhancing clinical practice. This review highlights current evidence-based strategies for diagnosing and managing tension pneumothorax (TPX) in prehospital settings. It emphasizes advancements such as point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) and interventions such as needle decompression and finger thoracostomy. The review also addresses challenges in protocol implementation, especially in developing EMS systems such as in Saudi Arabia, citing issues such as training disparities, limited resources, and system readiness.
Predictors of persistent high disease activity after methotrexate treatment in rheumatoid arthritis patients Paramaiswari, Ayu; Kertia, Nyoman; Achadiono, Deddy; Sinarta, Armin; Nugroho, Dhite
Universa Medicina Vol. 44 No. 2 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Trisakti

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.18051/UnivMed.2025.v44.141-151

Abstract

Background Methotrexate (MTX) is the firstline therapy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, 30–40% of RA patients exhibit poor response. Identifying early factors associated with persistent disease activity is critical to guide treatment. This study aimed to identify predictors of persistent high disease activity (DAS28-ESR >3.2) after six months of MTX therapy in RA patients. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving 204 RA patients who had completed six months of MTX therapy. The primary outcome was DAS28-ESR score at six months. Independent variables included baseline erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), cumulative doses of MTX and low-dose methylprednisolone (LDM), and rheumatoid factor (RF) status. Simple and multiple logistic regression was used to analyze the data.  Results Significant differences in ESR and cumulative MTX dose were observed between low and high disease activity groups. Multivariate analysis identified four independent predictors of persistent high disease activity (DAS28-ESR >3.2) after six months of MTX therapy: disease duration >11 months (AOR =0.45; 95% CI 0.23–0.89; p=0.025); age at onset >50 years (AOR 0.48; 95% CI 0.24–0.94; p=0.038); cumulative MTX dose >85 mg (AOR 4.75; 95% CI 1.55–14.64; p=0.006); ESR >66 mm/hr (AOR 2.32; 95% CI 1.11–4.89; p=0.026).  Conclusion Greater cumulative methotrexate dose (>85 mg) was the most influential predictor of persistent high disease activity (DAS28-ESR >3.2) after six months of MTX therapy in RA patients. These findings may assist clinicians in identifying patients at risk for poor MTX response and support timely therapeutic adjustments.
24-hour movement guidelines: is there more to seek than time standards for health? Delfino, Leandro Dragueta
Universa Medicina Vol. 44 No. 2 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Trisakti

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.18051/UnivMed.2025.v44.129-130

Abstract

Foley catheter guided by semi-rigid ureterorenoscopy in the treatment of bladder diverticulum: a case report Wiratma, Made Kresna Yudhistira; Hendri, Ahmad Zulfan; Subekti, Eko
Universa Medicina Vol. 44 No. 2 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Trisakti

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.18051/UnivMed.2025.v44.201-207

Abstract

Background A bladder diverticulum can be the consequence of a congenital abnormality or acquired as a result of trauma, infection, or outlet obstruction. Despite advancements in laparoscopic techniques, to date, precise intraoperative identification of diverticula remains a significant challenge. The aim of this case report was to offer an alternative technique using a foley catheter guided by semi-rigid ureterorenoscopy to facilitate bladder diverticulum identification during laparoscopic diverticulectomy. Case description A 77-year-old male patient presented with complaints of burning sensation during urination and reported frequent episodes of urinary tract infection over the past several months. Cystographic imaging revealed a large diverticulum located on the left posterior bladder wall. Non-contrast abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan identified a 10×10 mm calculus in the left inferior renal calyx. The patient was diagnosed with a bladder diverticulum. Subsequently, laparoscopic transperitoneal diverticulectomy was performed using a foley catheter guided by semi-rigid ureterorenoscopy for diverticulum identification and excision. The procedure commenced with cystoscopy to localize the diverticulum. Four trocars were inserted: two 12 mm and two 5 mm. A pneumoperitoneum pressure of 14 mmHg was maintained throughout the surgery. The diverticulum was clearly visualized during the operation, and excised successfully without injuring adjacent structures. Postoperative recovery was uneventful. Conclusion The use of a foley catheter guided by semi-rigid ureterorenoscopy may serve as an effective alternative for intraoperative identification of bladder diverticula, particularly in laparoscopic and resource-limited settings.
Navigating the storm of healthcare workers burnout in the COVID-19 era: a bibliometric analysis Kumareswaran, Suriya; Sundram, Bala Murali; Naidu, Thaalitha
Universa Medicina Vol. 44 No. 2 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Trisakti

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.18051/UnivMed.2025.v44.219-231

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has imposed unprecedented challenges on healthcare systems globally, significantly impacting healthcare workers (HCWs) and intensifying the incidence of occupational burnout. Characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and diminished personal accomplishment, burnout has been further exacerbated by pandemic-specific stressors such as resource limitations, fear of contagion, overwhelming workloads, and emotional fatigue. This bibliometric analysis systematically evaluated 2,043 peer-reviewed publications from 2019 onwards, retrieved from major databases including Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed. Using tools such as VOS viewer, the study analysed keyword trends, author collaborations, citation metrics, and thematic clusters to map the evolving academic landscape surrounding HCWs burnout during COVID-19. The results revealed significant research diversity, with contributions from 11,156 unique authors and a collaboration index of 6.65, indicating robust interdisciplinary engagement. High research output and citation impact were observed in countries such as the United States, China, Italy, and the United Kingdom. Prominent themes included “COVID-19,” “burnout,” “mental health,” and “nurses,” highlighting the psychological toll on frontline professionals. Keyword co-occurrence and heatmap analyses demonstrated a shift in scholarly focus from the immediate crisis to long-term strategies for resilience and recovery. Despite these insights, notable disparities in research output persist, particularly in underrepresented regions such as France and several low- and middle-income countries. These imbalances may hinder the development of globally relevant, context-specific interventions. The study underscores the urgent need for inclusive, multidisciplinary collaboration to inform policy, guide mental health interventions, and enhance support systems for HCWs in current and future healthcare emergencies.
Effects of dietary protein combined with high-intensity exercise in restoring skin health in male rats Gunadi, Julia Windi; Lesmana, Ronny; Kastella, Faysal; Tarawan, Vita Murniati; Goenawan, Hanna; Gunawan, Decky; Jasaputra, Diana Krisanti
Universa Medicina Vol. 44 No. 2 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Trisakti

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.18051/UnivMed.2025.v44.152-161

Abstract

Background Protein is essential for skin integrity, while exercise modulates cellular and molecular processes that regulate autophagy, mitochondrial biogenesis, and collagen synthesis. This study evaluates the combined effects of dietary protein restriction and varying exercise intensities on epidermal thickness, autophagy markers (LC3, p62), mitochondrial biogenesis (PGC1α), and collagen synthesis (Col1a1, Col3a1) in male Wistar rats.    Methods An experimental laboratory study was conducted involving 32 male Wistar rats. They were randomized into 8 groups: control, low protein, low intensity, group IV, moderate intensity, moderate intensity low protein, high intensity, and high intensity low protein. Low protein diet (5%) compared to the control (24%) was given for 60 days, while the exercise regimen was eight weeks of treadmill exercise (low/10 m per minute, moderate/20 m per minute, and high intensity/30 m per minute) for 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Epidermal thickness, LC3, p62, PGC1α, Col1a1, and Col3a1 mRNA expression were measured at the end of the study. One-way ANOVA/Kruskal-Wallis followed by Tukey HSD/Mann–Whitney test was used to analyze the data.   Results A low-protein diet significantly reduced epidermal thickness (p=0.048), increased LC3 (p=0.043) and p62 (p=0.011), indicating impaired skin regeneration and autophagy. However, exercise, especially at high intensities with low protein, mitigated this effect by increasing both LC3 (p=0.011) and PGC1α (p=0.011).   Conclusions These findings highlight the compensatory role of exercise in maintaining tissue integrity under protein-deprived conditions in male rats. High-intensity exercise potentially enhances autophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis.

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