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Contact Email
harapan@unsyiah.ac.id
Phone
+62895600103060052
Journal Mail Official
harapan@unsyiah.ac.id
Editorial Address
School of Medicine Universitas Syiah Kuala Darussalam, Banda Aceh, 23111 Indonesia
Location
Kota banda aceh,
Aceh
INDONESIA
Narra J
ISSN : -     EISSN : 28072618     DOI : https://doi.org/10.52225/narraj
Core Subject : Health, Science,
Narra J is a multidisciplinary journal and it is published three times (April, August, December) a year. The objective is to promote articles on infection, public health, global health, tropical infection, one health and diseases in tropics. Narra J publishes original research work across all disciplines of medicine and allied sciences, related to infection, public health, global health, tropical infection, one health and diseases in tropics. The journal publishes Original articles, Short Report, Review articles, and Letters to the Editor. All articles published in Narra J are peer-reviewed and published online for immediate access and citation. Narra J publishes the primary research papers, review articles, short communications and letters on topics but not limited to: Public health Global health Infection Tropical diseases One health Biomedical sciences Epidemiology and clinical epidemiology Molecular biology Environmental health Microbiology Pharmacological sciences Diseases in tropics
Articles 565 Documents
Potential of ant nest extract (Hydnophytum formicarum) for protection of testicular morphometry, epididymal functions, and sperm quality in male rats with alloxan-induced diabetes Roslizawaty, Roslizawaty; Abrar, Mahdi; Khairan, Khairan; Gholib, Gholib; Siregar, Tongku N.; Syafruddin, Syafruddin; Sutriana, Amalia; Azzahra, Putri; Aini, Hanipah
Narra J Vol. 4 No. 3 (2024): December 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v4i3.922

Abstract

Medicinal herbs, such as the ant nest plant (Hydnophytum formicarum), are promising for the management of diabetes mellitus-associated infertility. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biological activity of the ant nest plant and its capacity to mitigate the adverse effects of alloxan-induced diabetes on testicular morphology, epididymal function, and sperm quality in male rats. The tuber of the ant nest plant was extracted using methanol and then subjected to phytochemical screenings. For the experiment, 20 male white rats (Rattus norvegicus), aged 3–4 months and weighing 150–200 g, were equally divided into four groups. The ant nest extract was administered orally using oral gavage over 14 days. The testes, epididymis, and sperm were collected for weighing, morphometric measurements, and quality evaluation. Qualitative testing of phytochemical compounds indicated the presence of flavonoids, tannins, steroids, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds in the plants. The results revealed the protective effects of ant nest extract against the adverse fertility effects induced by alloxan and a high-fat diet, as observed in testicular weight (p=0.045), epididymal weight (p=0.041), and sperm quality (p>0.05).
Does FOXP2 gene polymorphism affect the duration of orogastric tube use in moderate to late preterm neonates? A cross-sectional study in Indonesia Mauliza, Mauliza; Dimiati, Herlina; Akmal, Muslim; Imran, Imran
Narra J Vol. 4 No. 3 (2024): December 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v4i3.933

Abstract

Premature and low birth weight neonates often struggle with oral intake due to immaturity or respiratory distress. Forkhead box protein 2 gene (FOXP2) is predicted to influence oral feeding ability in newborns, but studies assessing the role of this gene in influencing oral feeding ability are limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of FOXP2 gene polymorphism, particularly single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs17137124, on the duration of orogastric tube (OGT) use in moderate to late preterm neonates. A multi-center cross-sectional study was conducted in Lhokseumawe, Aceh, Indonesia, from September 2021 to August 2023, involving neonates with 32–36 weeks gestational age. The DNA samples were isolated from the saliva, amplified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and the FOXP2 gene was sequenced. The associations between FOXP2 gene polymorphisms and other plausible factors on the duration of OGT use were determined using Chi-squared test, Fisher’s exact test or Pearson correlation as appropriate. Preterm neonates with the CC genotype had the longest OGT use, averaging 3 days (39.1%). TT genotype preterm neonates required OGT use for 4, 5, and 6 days (each 33.3%), while CT genotype neonates predominantly required it for 4 days (41.7%). No significant association was found between FOXP2 genotypes and OGT use duration (p=0.233). Similarly, neonates with C allele required OGT use for 3 and 4 days, while those with T allele mostly required between 4 and 6 days, with no significant association (p=0.110). Analysis using dominant (p=0.109) and recessive models (p=0.481) also showed no significant associations with OGT use duration. However, the study found significant associations between delivery mode (p=0.002) and gestational age (p=0.001) with duration of OGT use in preterm neonates. This study highlights that FOXP2 polymorphisms have limited association with the duration of OGT use among preterm neonates.
Integrating epigenetic modification and stem cell therapy strategies: A novel approach for advancing Alzheimer’s disease treatment − A literature review Widaja, Edhijanto; Pawitan, Jeanne A.
Narra J Vol. 4 No. 3 (2024): December 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v4i3.935

Abstract

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most frequent form of dementia and represents an increasing global burden, particularly in countries like Indonesia, where the population has begun to age significantly. Current medications, including cholinesterase inhibitors and NMDA receptor antagonists, have modest effects on clinical symptoms in the early to middle stages, but there is no curative treatment available so far despite progress. Activating or repressing epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, histone modification and microRNA regulation, appears to play an important role in AD development. These alterations further enact transcriptional changes relevant to the signature AD pathologies of amyloid-β deposition, tau protein malfunctioning, neuroinflammation, and neuronal death. Here, we discuss the feasibility of targeting these epigenetic alterations as a new treatment strategy due to the reversibility of epigenetics and their ability to correct faulty gene expression. We also review the combined promise of stem cell therapies and epigenetic modulation in neurodegeneration, inflammation and cognitive decline. This combined approach may provide a multifaceted strategy to slow disease progression, replace lost neurons, and restore neural function. Despite challenges, including ethical, financial, and methodological barriers, ongoing research in epigenetic modulation and stem cell therapy holds promise for pioneering therapies in AD.
Promising candidate drug target genes for repurposing in cervical cancer: A bioinformatics-based approach Pratiwi, Nurfi; Ulfah, Aida J.; Rachmadina, Rachmadina; Irham, Lalu M.; Afief, Arief R.; Adikusuma, Wirawan; Darmawi, Darmawi; Kemal, Rahmat A.; Rangkuti, Ina F.; Savira, Maya
Narra J Vol. 4 No. 3 (2024): December 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v4i3.938

Abstract

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women globally, and studies have shown that genetic variants play a significant role in its development. A variety of germline and somatic mutations are associated with cervical cancer. However, genomic data derived from these mutations have not been extensively utilized for the development of repurposed drugs for cervical cancer. The objective of this study was to identify novel potential drugs that could be repurposed for cervical cancer treatment through a bioinformatics approach. A comprehensive genomic and bioinformatics database integration strategy was employed to identify potential drug target genes for cervical cancer. Using the GWAS and PheWAS databases, a total of 232 genes associated with cervical cancer were identified. These pharmacological target genes were further refined by applying a biological threshold of six functional annotations. The drug target genes were then cross-referenced with cancer treatment candidates using the DrugBank database. Among the identified genes, LTA, TNFRSF1A, PRKCZ, PDE4B, and PARP were highlighted as promising targets for repurposed drugs. Notably, these five target genes overlapped with 12 drugs that could potentially be repurposed for cervical cancer treatment. Among these, talazoparib, a potent PARP inhibitor, emerged as a particularly promising candidate. Talazoparib is currently being investigated for safety and tolerability in other cancers but has not yet been studied in the context of cervical cancer. Further clinical trials are necessary to validate this finding and explore its potential as a repurposed drug for cervical cancer.
Enhancing oxytocin and prolactin levels to address oligogalactia through emotional management and massage in working mothers Astuti, Dwi; Rahfiludin, Mohammad Z.; Dwidiyanti, Meidiana; Denny, Hanifa M.
Narra J Vol. 4 No. 3 (2024): December 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v4i3.963

Abstract

Emotional management, combined with oxytocin massage and breast care, offers a comprehensive approach to boost prolactin release, enhance milk production, and improve breastfeeding outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of combining emotional management with oxytocin massage and breast care in increasing oxytocin and prolactin hormone levels to address oligogalactia in working postpartum mothers. A quasi-experimental study was conducted at Kudus Community Health Center, Kudus Regency, Central Java, Indonesia, from January to March 2024. A total of 93 postpartum mothers were randomly assigned to three groups: (1) emotional management with oxytocin massage; (2) emotional management with breast care; and (3) lactation education only. Blood samples were collected before and after the interventions to measure oxytocin and prolactin levels. The present study found that emotional management combined with oxytocin massage significantly increased oxytocin levels from 505.0±264.0 pg/mL to 600.0±231.3 pg/mL (mean difference: 103 pg/mL; p=0.002) and prolactin levels from 191.0±67.3 ng/mL to 233.0±86.8 ng/mL (mean difference: 27 ng/mL; p=0.001). The emotional management and breast care group showed a smaller increase in oxytocin (362.0±175.1 pg/mL to 418.0±185.1 pg/mL; mean difference: 23 pg/mL; p=0.048) and a significant increase in prolactin (195.0±48.8 ng/mL to 255.0±82.3 ng/mL; mean difference: 38 ng/mL; p=0.049). In contrast, the lactation education group showed no significant changes in oxytocin (p=0.756) or prolactin levels (p=0.341). In conclusion, emotional management combined with oxytocin massage significantly increased both oxytocin and prolactin levels, suggesting that integrating emotional management and oxytocin massage may be an effective strategy for postpartum lactation support.
Correlation of skin moisture and serum urea level with dermatology life quality index in patients with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis: A cross-sectional study Dalimunthe, Dina A.; Hazlianda, Cut P.; Lubis, Flora M.; Sinaga, Riana M.; Salim, Stephanie
Narra J Vol. 4 No. 3 (2024): December 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v4i3.967

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health concern, with a 10% global prevalence. Its prevalence may further increase in the coming decades, thereby increasing the risk of uremic xerosis. Approximately 50–90% of patients with CKD have xerosis, leading to pruritus that affects their quality of life due to sleep disturbances, anxiety, and depression. However, the exact mechanisms underlying xerosis in CKD remain unknown. The aim of this study was to assess the correlation of serum urea levels and skin moisture with quality of life in patients with CKD. This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Universitas Sumatera Utara Hospital from March to December 2023. Patients with CKD aged ≥18 years who were undergoing hemodialysis for at least 3 months were included in this study. A translated Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire was employed to assess the patient’s quality of life. Serum urea levels and skin moisture were determined using venous blood and the Skin Moisture Checker MY-808S tool, respectively. In total, 67 patients with CKD, including 61.2% males and 32.8% individuals aged >60 years, were enrolled in this study. The mean age was 52.73±13.08 years. The mean serum urea levels, skin moisture, and DLQI scores were 154.08±49.10 mg/dL, 36.22±2.34%, and 4.67±3.98, respectively. No difference in DLQI scores was observed between normal and high serum urea levels or between dry and normal skin moisture levels (p=0.156 and p=0.804, respectively). Spearman’s correlation analysis revealed no correlation between serum urea levels and average skin moisture with DLQI (p=0.600 and p=0.353, respectively), indicating that multiple factors contribute to the dermatological quality of life in patients with CKD. Notably, DLQI in patients with CKD can be simultaneously affected by multiple factors, such as diverse sociodemographic backgrounds, coping mechanisms, and the impact of symptoms associated with CKD, other than serum urea levels and average skin moisture. Therefore, adopting a multifactorial and individualized approach is crucial to improving the DLQI scores of patients with CKD.
Unveiling the impacts of metformin on hepatocellular carcinoma: A bioinformatic exploration in cell lines Soraya, Soraya; Arfianti, Arfianti; Adikusuma, Wirawan; Irham, Lalu M.; Hamidy, Muhammad Y.; Winarto, Winarto; Rangkuti, Ina F.; Darmawi, Darmawi
Narra J Vol. 4 No. 3 (2024): December 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v4i3.968

Abstract

The most common type of liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), accounting for 75–85% of cases. Despite its associated side effects, sorafenib remains the standard treatment for HCC. Given the critical need to improve therapeutic efficacy while minimizing adverse effects, alternative drugs must be thoroughly investigated. Numerous studies indicate that combining sorafenib with metformin results in a more favorable treatment profile. The aim of this study was to employ bioinformatics methodologies to elucidate the molecular pathways and genetic underpinnings of metformin's efficacy in HCC treatment. Genes associated with metformin and its action against HCC (Huh-7 and HepG2 cells) were acquired from the NCBI-GEO data collection by utilizing pre-determined keywords. Subsequently, pathways implicated in metformin-mediated HCC treatment were analyzed through the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Our analysis revealed the involvement of multiple pathways, with metabolic pathways implicated in 80% of the total cases. Neurodegenerative pathways were involved in only around 60% of the total cases. These findings align with the multifaceted mechanisms of metformin’s action, encompassing adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase activation, apoptosis induction, insulin regulation, anti-inflammatory responses, and modulation of cell proliferation. This comprehensive investigation sheds light on the intricate molecular landscape underpinning metformin's therapeutic efficacy in HCC, thereby informing potential avenues for optimizing treatment strategies.
Navigating the aftermath: Risk factors of recurrence following coronary bypass surgery in Indonesia Bachtiar, Adang; Candi, Cicilya; Hasibuan, Syarif R.; Widyasanti, Nisrina; Kusuma, Dian
Narra J Vol. 4 No. 3 (2024): December 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v4i3.969

Abstract

Coronary heart disease (CHD) remains a leading cause of mortality in Indonesia, and coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery is frequently employed to manage arterial blockages. Despite its efficacy, the recurrence of heart disease post-surgery is a significant concern, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of its influencing factors. The aim of this study was to examine the factors associated with the incidence of heart disease recurrence after coronary bypass surgery. This study employed a prospective observational design, analyzing hospital claim data from Indonesia's Social Security Agency for Health, known as Badan Penyelenggara Jaminan Sosial (BPJS) Kesehatan, from 2017 to 2022. The analysis included 5,947 patients who survived CABG surgery. Multivariable logistic regression was utilized to assess the relationship between patient demographics, comorbidities, socioeconomic status, and compliance with follow-up visits, as well as their impact on the recurrence of cardiovascular disease. The study found that 24.1% of patients experienced hospitalization recurrence. Patients with irregular follow-ups were less likely to experience recurrence (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 0.63; 95%CI: 0.51–0.78). Other significant risk factors for recurrence included being self-employed (AOR: 2.09; 95%CI: 1.72–2.55), having comorbid conditions such as disorders of fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance (AOR: 3.55; 95%CI: 2.97–4.24), and experiencing cerebral infarction or stroke (AOR: 10.85; 95%CI: 8.24–14.29). In contrast, older age (AOR: 0.89; 95%CI: 0.88–0.91) and the presence of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (AOR: 0.35; 95%CI: 0.29–0.42) were associated with a lower risk of recurrence. Sex did not significantly influence the risk of recurrence (AOR: 1.18; 95%CI: 0.86–1.62). In conclusion, the study indicates a considerable rate of cardiovascular disease recurrence post-CABG in Indonesia, highlighting several key risk factors. Tailored postoperative management and strict adherence to follow-up protocols are essential for mitigating recurrence. These findings offer crucial insights for improving post-CABG health management strategies in Indonesia.
ACE inhibitors versus angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors for HFrEF management: A prospective cohort study from Indonesia Heriansyah, Teuku; Lestari, Nova D.; Hadi, Tjut F.; Novia, Rizki; Munawarah, Iffah; Taufiqurrahman, Taufiqurrahman; Yuvhendmindo, Shahcoga L.; Bashori, Ahmad A.
Narra J Vol. 4 No. 3 (2024): December 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v4i3.978

Abstract

Previous studies have reported that angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNI) are superior to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) in treating heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Unfortunately, previously published studies predominantly focused on Western populations, while the data remains insufficient in developing countries. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacies of ARNI and ACEI on patients with HFrEF in Indonesia. A prospective cohort study was conducted among heart failure patients at Dr. Zainoel Abidin Hospital, Banda Aceh, Indonesia. Both ACEI and ARNI each consisted of 40 subjects receiving standard treatment for heart failure. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), quality of life (QoL), suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (ST2), and troponin T were measured upon admission and at the end of the follow-up. In addition, the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) was observed during 6 months of follow-up. Paired t-test was used to compare the outcomes of ACEI and ARNI. The results revealed that KKCQ score and LVEF were improved in both ARNI and ACEI groups (each with p<0.001). A higher KCCQ overall score was observed in the ARNI group in contrast to the ACEI group (p=0.01). ARNI demonstrated superior results in improving the ejection fraction as compared with ACEI (p=0.001). Troponin T and ST2 levels exhibited no significant difference between the two groups (p=0.07 and 0.286, respectively). MACE-associated mortality (p=0.696) and rehospitalization (p=0.955) were identical between both groups. In conclusion, ARNI was more efficacious than ACEI in improving the quality of life and left ventricular ejection fraction of patients with HFrEF. However, the efficacy was not significantly different in reducing the risk of MACE.
Epidemiology and population-based incidence of influenza in two communities, Bandung district, West Java, Indonesia, 2008–2011 Agustian, Dwi; Mutyara, Kuswandewi; Murad, Chrysanti; M. Uyeki, Timothy; B. Kartasasmita, Cissy; Simoes, Eric AF.
Narra J Vol. 4 No. 3 (2024): December 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v4i3.981

Abstract

Influenza surveillance is important for monitoring influenza virus circulation and disease burden to inform influenza prevention and control measures.  The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiology and to estimate the incidence of influenza in two communities in West Java, Indonesia, before and after the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. A population-based surveillance study in the community health care setting was conducted to estimate the annual incidence of influenza. A real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay was used for influenza case ascertainment. A population census was implemented to calculate the population at risk and estimate community health care utilization rate. The mean annual incidence of influenza A and B, adjusted for healthcare utilization, was 1.6 (95%CI: 1.3–2.0) and 0.7 (95%CI: 0.5–1.0) per 1000 persons, respectively, with the most affected group being young and school-age children. The annual cumulative incidence of influenza A for children under five in 2009, 2010, and 2011 was 7.0 (95%CI: 4.4–11.2), 10.6 (95%CI: 7.3–15.4), and 6.3 (95%CI: 3.8–10.2). For influenza B was 4.3 (95%CI: 2.4–7.8), 2.0 (95%CI: 0.8–4.7), and 0.4 (95%CI: 0.1–2.8), respectively. This study highlights that the incidence of influenza among young and school-age children is consistently higher compared to adults and the elderly throughout these periods. These populations are potential targets for influenza vaccination in Indonesia.