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harapan@unsyiah.ac.id
Phone
+62895600103060052
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harapan@unsyiah.ac.id
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School of Medicine Universitas Syiah Kuala Darussalam, Banda Aceh, 23111 Indonesia
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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
Analysis of morphology, cytotoxicity, and water content characteristics of freeze-dried amnion membrane from human and bovine Suroto, Heri; Pratamanugroho, Ilham; Prajasari, Tabita; Susilowati, Helen; Khang, Gilson
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.v4i3.991

Abstract

Placenta tissue has biological advantages, including anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fibrotic formation, and immunomodulatory properties. The amnion membrane (AM) is an inner side membrane of the placenta that faces the fetus. The main sources of amnion are humans and animals, with bovine being one of the significant sources. The aim of this study was to analyze the morphology, cytotoxicity, and water content characteristic of freeze‑dried amnion membrane (FD‑AM) from humans and bovines to measure the safety and compatibility of bovine FD-AM as an alternative to human FD-AM. This study is an observational cross-sectional study. Samples were divided into two groups: human FD-AM and bovine FD-AM groups. Both groups were examined for morphology characteristics by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), cytotoxicity by 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) analysis, and water content by drying through moisture analyzer device. The morphology characteristics of bovine FD-AM and human FD-AM, as observed through SEM, showed similar results of a smooth, flat surface with no cavity and were well dehydrated. MTT assay analysis on both groups demonstrated cytocompatibility with cell viability exceeding 70% in the control group. However, human FD-AM showed a higher number of viable cells (0.19±0.01) compared to bovine FD-AM (0.12±0.03), with a statistically significant difference (p<0.05). The water content analysis revealed that both groups met the standard, with levels below 10%. While bovine FD-AM (7.19±0.45%) had slightly higher water content than human FD-AM (6.79±1.0%), the difference was not significant (p>0.05). Both human FD-AM and bovine FD-AM showed good results in morphology, cytotoxicity, and water content characteristics and compatibility. In conclusion, bovine FD-AM might be considered as an alternative to human FD-AM.
Estimate the relationship between CXCR4-SDF-1 axis and inhibitory molecules (CTLA4 and PD-1) in patients with colon cancer Abdul-Huseen, Suhad D.; Alabassi, Hazima 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.v4i3.992

Abstract

Colon neoplasia is one of the major malignancies in industrialized countries due to their Western-style food habits. It accounts for more than 50% of the population developing adenomatous polyps by the age of 70 years, but 10% of cancers in developed countries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the pathological role of the C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4/stromal-derived factor 1 axis (CXCR4-SDF-1  axis), and the inhibitory molecules PD-1 and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) in postoperative colon cancer patients undergoing treatment with chemotherapy (oxaliplatin and capecitabine) and estimate the correlation between these studied factors to deeply understand the basic mechanisms and potential diagnostic or therapeutic effects. The study involved 90 patients, including 50 colon cancer patients (male and female, aged 35–65) diagnosed by oncologists at Al-Ramadi Hospital, Ramadi, Iraq. All patients underwent surgical resection and received four cycles of chemotherapy with oxaliplatin (85 mg every 21 days) and capecitabine (6 grams daily for 21 days). Additionally, 40 age- and sex-matched individuals served as the control group. For each participant, CXCR4 and SDF-1 levels were measured using ELISA and the gene expression of CTLA-4 and PD-1 were measured using RT-PCR. The colon cancer patient group showed significantly lower levels of CXCR4 and SDF-1 compared to control groups (0.163±0.012 vs 0.376±0.025 pg/mL and 0.376±0.025 vs 0.699±0.110 pg/mL, respectively, both had p=0.001). Moreover, the colon cancer patient group had significantly lower expression of PD-1 and CTLA4 compared to control group (0.102±0.029-fold vs 1.199±0.391-fold, p=0.02; and 0.302±0.140-fold vs 1.441±0.334-fold, p=0.008, respectively). In conclusion, the results suggest that CXCR4 and SDF-1 appear promising as diagnostic markers for distinguishing colon cancer patients from healthy conditions.
Mesenchymal stem cells for immune modulation in systemic lupus erythematosus: From bench research to clinical applications Ginting, Andi R.; Munir, Delfitri; Amin, Mustafa M.; Darlan, Dewi M.; Putra, Agung; Rusda, Muhammad; Mutiara, Erna; Mayasari, Evita; Rozi, Muhammad F.
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.v4i3.994

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prevalent autoimmune disease affecting multiple organ systems. Disease progression is inevitable as part of its natural course, necessitating aggressive therapeutic strategies, particularly with the use of immunosuppressants. Long-term use of steroids and other immunosuppressants is associated with significant adverse effects. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been shown to modulate the immune response, leading to immunosuppressive effects against self-antigens. MSCs have demonstrated the ability to modulate several immune cell populations, contributing to favorable outcomes in controlling immune and inflammatory conditions. Recent evidence has shown an increase in Treg and Breg cell subsets following MSC administration, along with modulation of other immune cells, including dendritic cells, B cells, and T cells. However, the balance between MSC pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory phenotypic activation remains a critical factor in determining therapeutic outcomes. Various covariates also influence the efficacy of MSC therapy. The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive overview of the utilization of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in SLE treatment, leveraging their immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive capabilities. Understanding the fundamental preclinical effects of MSCs and recent findings from clinical studies may enhance the potential of MSC therapy in the management of SLE patients.
Undernutrition-induced stunting-like phenotype in Drosophila melanogaster Putri, Tenri ZAD.; Wahyudin, Elly; Pratama, Muhammad R.; Fatiah, Dewita; Hardiyanti, Widya; Chaeratunnisa, Rizkya; Latada, Nadila P.; Fatmawati, Fatmawati; Mudjahid, Mukarram; Nainu, Firzan
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.v4i3.999

Abstract

Stunting resulting from undernutrition is a significant global health challenge, particularly in developing countries, yet its underlying mechanisms and consequences remain inadequately understood. This study utilizes Drosophila melanogaster as an in vivo model to investigate the molecular basis of stunting. Due to the conserved nature of signaling pathways between Drosophila and vertebrates, this organism serves as an effective model for studying growth disorders. The aim of this study was to establish a Drosophila model exhibiting a stunting-like phenotype and to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying this condition. The stunting phenotype was induced through dietary manipulation, involving a standard nutrient-rich diet (100%) and treatment diets with reduced concentrations of sucrose, glucose, yeast, and cornmeal at 50%, 25%, and 12.5%. Phenotypic assessments included measurements of larval body size, fecundity, survival rates, and locomotor activity, alongside molecular analyses of gene expression related to metabolism, cell proliferation, and survival, using RT-qPCR. Results demonstrated that undernutrition profoundly affected D. melanogaster, causing growth retardation, reduced larval body size, diminished fecundity, and lower survival rates, though locomotor function remained unaffected. Molecular analysis revealed a significant decrease in the expression of the totA gene and notable increases in the expression of dilp5, srl, and indy genes, with no significant changes observed in the expression of the pepck gene. These findings indicate that undernutrition induces a stunting-like phenotype, likely driven by alterations in the expression of genes associated with metabolism, cell proliferation, and survival. Overall, this study establishes D. melanogaster as a valuable in vivo model for studying stunting-like phenotypes resulting from nutritional deficiencies and provides insights into the molecular pathways involved in growth impairment.
Challenges in diagnosing and treating Liddle syndrome in resource-limited settings: A case report from Indonesia Prabowo, Nurhasan A.; Putranto, Wachid; Myrtha, Risalina; Ardyanto, Tonang D.; Gautama, Coana S.; Wulandari, Evi L.; Hermawati, Berty D.; Putri, Desy P.; Ramadhani, Artika; Dewi, Herlina K.
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.v4i3.1000

Abstract

Liddle syndrome, a rare form of monogenic hypertension, poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to its phenotypic variability and the need for genetic testing. The rarity of the condition, coupled with the limited availability of first-line treatments such as epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) blockers, makes this case report particularly urgent and novel, highlighting alternative management strategies in resource-limited settings. The aim of this case report was to present the diagnostic challenges, therapeutic strategies, and clinical outcomes of a patient with Liddle syndrome who did not have access to ENaC blockers, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and personalized treatment. A 35-year-old female presented with resistant hypertension (190/100 mmHg) and bilateral limb weakness. Laboratory results revealed persistent hypokalemia, hypernatremia, and metabolic alkalosis. Low aldosterone levels, alongside clinical and family history, led to the diagnosis of Liddle syndrome. Genetic testing was not conducted due to resource limitations, and ENaC blockers were unavailable. The patients were managed with a combination of alternative antihypertensive agents, potassium supplementation, and a low-sodium diet. Although this approach led to modest improvements in blood pressure and motor strength, persistent hypokalemia and hypernatremia underscored the suboptimal control of the syndrome's underlying pathophysiology in the absence of ENaC blockers. This case highlights the challenges faced in resource-limited settings and the need for innovative strategies to manage rare conditions like Liddle syndrome. Liddle syndrome's diagnostic and therapeutic challenges underscore the critical importance of early recognition and access to targeted therapies. In the absence of ENaC blockers, alternative treatment strategies can provide some benefit, but they often fall short of optimal management. This case emphasizes the need for enhanced clinical awareness, improved access to genetic testing, and the development of personalized treatment approaches to achieve better patient outcomes.
Predictors for 30-day mortality in hepatocellular carcinoma patients undergoing liver resection Prabowo, Erik; Susilaningsih, Neni; Suharti, Catharina; Purnomo, Hery D.; Riwanto, Ignatius; Fuadi, Ahmad F.; Ar, Ardiyana; Bulandari, Beatrice LA.; Tjandra, Kevin C.; Respati, Danendra RK.; Rampengan, Derren DCH.
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.v4i3.1001

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranks among the most prevalent and fatal liver cancers globally. Liver surgery, particularly resection, offers the potential for cure but poses challenges, especially in Indonesia, where patients often present in advanced stages. This study aimed to determine the intraoperative and perioperative factors associated with 30-day mortality of HCC patients undergoing liver resection at a tertiary referral hospital. The study included HCC patients undergoing liver resection at Karadi General Hospital, Semarang, Indonesia, between January 2018 and September 2023. Demographic data, intraoperative, perioperative, and postoperative factors were collected, with the primary outcome being 30-day mortality. Factors influencing 30-day survival were assessed using a log-rank test and the survival analysis employed Kaplan-Meier curves. Among 58 HCC patients who had liver resection, 62.1% were males, with a mean age was 57.27±9.56 years old. Preoperative comorbidities, notably hepatitis B, affected 34.4% of patients. Child-Pugh Score categorized 91.4% as class A. The study found a 30-day mortality rate of 10.3% with no subsequent increase in incidence. The failure-to-rescue rate (FTR) of this study was found to be 46%. Factors associated with 30-day mortality were Child-Pugh classification (p<0.001), intraoperative bleeding (p=0.001), creatinine levels (p=0.005), Clavien-Dindo classification (p<0.001), and posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) (p<0.001). This study suggests that pre-operative (Child-Pugh classification), intraoperative (blood loss volume) and postoperative factors (Creatinine level, Clavien-Dindo classification, and PHLF) could predict the mortality rate of HCC patients undergoing liver resection.
Intravenous administration of iron dextran as a potential inducer for hemochromatosis: Development of an iron overload animal model Khristian, Erick; Ghozali, Mohammad; Bashari, Muhammad H.; Purnama, Jeri N.; Irianto, Gunawan; Panigoro, Ramdan; Safitri, Ratu
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.v4i3.1003

Abstract

Iron overload in transfusion-dependent thalassemia patients represents a significant public health challenge due to its high mortality rate and risks of severe complications. Therefore, developing safe and effective therapeutic modalities for managing iron overload is critical, as current animal models inadequately replicate human conditions. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of intravenous iron dextran on hepatocyte morphology, liver iron concentration, and serum iron profile changes as a model for hemochromatosis. An experimental design with a post-test-only control group method was conducted using animal models. Fifty rats were used and divided into ten groups, nine received different intravenous doses of iron dextran: 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80, 100, and 120 mg/kg body weight (BW) and a control group received no treatment. The results showed that intravenous iron dextran starting at a dose of 10 mg/kg BW caused significant changes in liver iron concentration while starting at 20 mg/kg BW significantly affected hepatocyte morphology, transferrin levels, unsaturated iron binding capacity, serum iron levels, and transferrin saturation. Intravenous iron dextran starting at 40 mg/kg BW resulted significant changes in the level of total iron binding capacity compared to control group. In conclusion, intravenous iron dextran significantly altered hepatocyte morphology, increased liver iron concentration, and modified the serum iron profile, reflecting changes that might be observed in patients with transfusion-dependent thalassemia.
Community-based intervention in mosquito control strategy: A systematic review Yulfi, Hemma; Panggabean, Merina; Darlan, Dewi M.; Siregar, Irma SS.; Rozi, Muhammad F.
Narra J Vol. 5 No. 1 (2025): April 2025
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v5i1.1015

Abstract

As part of the World Health Organization’s One Health Initiative, vector-borne disease control requires multidisciplinary and community involvement. This review examined community-based mosquito control intervention methods, their efficacy, and limitations. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline, data were extracted from four medical databases: PubMed, Clinical Key, ProQuest, and ScienceDirect, covering the period from 2014 to 2023. The search used the keywords "community intervention," "vector control," and "mosquito." Filters were applied for full text, primary sources, scholarly journals, and publications within the last ten years (2014–2023). Studies without community intervention components were excluded. The initial search retrieved 1,035 articles, and 32 full-text articles were selected and assessed for eligibility, with 15 papers included in the final analysis. The included studies focused on arbovirus or malaria vectors and used randomized controlled trials (RCTs), pre- and post-intervention surveys, community-based implementation surveys, or qualitative research designs. Commonly applied interventions included community-driven vector population control and community education. Overall, the studies reported improvements in outcome measures such as entomological indices, community knowledge and practices, costs, and disease incidence or prevalence. However, some studies reported challenges with community perception and acceptance. In conclusion, this review consistently demonstrated a positive impact of community interventions on managing mosquito control.
A network pharmacology approach to elucidate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina Del.) Sailah, Illah; Tallei, Trina E.; Safitri, Linda; Tamala, Yulianida; Halimatushadyah, Ernie; Ekatanti, Dewi; Maulydia, Nur B.; Celik, Ismail
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.v4i3.1016

Abstract

The therapeutic potential of bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina Del.) has been established both empirically and in various scientific investigations. However, the molecular pathways related to its possible anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties remain unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to elucidate the molecular interactions between bitter leaf's bioactive compounds and cellular targets involved in these activities. The compounds in bitter leaf were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis, and subsequently, a network pharmacology approach was employed together with molecular docking and dynamics simulations. Acetonitrile (4.5%) and dimethylamine (4.972%) were the most prevalent compounds among the 38 identified by the GC-MS analysis of bitter leaf extract. The proto-oncogene tyrosine-protein kinase (SRC) demonstrated significant connectivity within the antioxidant network, highlighting its pivotal role in facilitating inter-protein communication. It also exhibited strategic positioning in anti-inflammatory mechanisms based on closeness centrality (0.385). The enrichment analysis suggested multifaceted mechanisms of bitter leaf compounds, including transcriptional regulation and diverse cellular targeting, indicating broad antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Eicosapentaenoyl ethanolamide (EPEA) displayed strong interactions with multiple proteins, including SRC (-7.17 kcal/mol) and CYP3A4 (-6.88 kcal/mol). Moreover, EPEA demonstrated to form a stable interaction with SRC during a 100 ns simulation. In conclusion, the computational simulations revealed that the hypothetical antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions of bitter leaf compounds were achieved by specifically targeting SRC. However, confirmation using either in vitro or in vivo techniques is necessary.
Prevalence of major INSTI and HIV-1 drug resistance mutations in pre- and antiretroviral-treated patients in Indonesia Djojosugito, Fauzia A.; Arfianti, Arfianti; Wisaksana, Rudi; Siregar, Fajri M.; Nasronudin, Nasronudin; Rachman, Brian E.; Khairunisa, Siti Q.; Indrati, Agnes R.
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.v4i3.1022

Abstract

Indonesia has one of the highest HIV infection rates in Southeast Asia. The use of dolutegravir, an integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI), as a first-line treatment underscores the need for detailed data on INSTI drug resistance mutations (DRMs). Currently, there is a lack of comprehensive data on DRMs INSTI and other HIV drug resistance in Indonesian patients, both pre- and post-treatment. The aim of this study was to identify the subtypes and drug resistance mutations of the protease, reverse transcriptase, and integrase genes in both treatment-naive and ARV-treated patients in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving HIV-positive patients at Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia, from September 2022 to January 2023. The patients were categorized into two groups: ARV-treated and pre-treatment patients. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were processed for DNA extraction, followed by amplification and sequencing of the pol gene to detect mutations and subtypes. The study found that the predominant subtype was CRF01_AE, accounting for 85.4% and 69% of pre-treatment and treated patients, respectively, followed by recombinant forms such as A1/CRF01_AE, CRF01_AE/CRF02_AG, subtype B, and other subtypes. Among ARV-treated/INSTI-naive patients, major INSTI DRMs R263K and Y143H were identified, while pre-treatment patients exhibited accessory integrase DRMs. The most common DRMs detected were non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) DRMs, with prevalences of 14.6% and 7% in pre-treatment and ARV-treated patients, respectively. In conclusion, CRF01_AE emerged as the predominant subtype in both pre-treatment and ARV-treated patients in Bandung, underscoring the necessity for ongoing surveillance of integrase DRMs, particularly given the presence of major INSTI DRMs in patients undergoing INSTI treatment.