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+62895600103060052
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School of Medicine Universitas Syiah Kuala Darussalam, Banda Aceh, 23111 Indonesia
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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
Effectiveness of combined physical exercise and cognitive training in older adults with cognitive impairment: A systematic review and meta-analysis Wati, Dwi NK.; Lin, Heng Y.; Wang, Jing J.
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.v4i3.1040

Abstract

Falls among cognitively impaired older adults are a global concern. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of combining physical exercise and cognitive training to improve balance among older adults. A systematic search of databases, including Embase, Medline-OVID, CINAHL-EBSCOhost, and Central-Cochrane Library, was conducted from March 9 to April 6, 2023. The search used keywords based on the PICO question, where the population was older adults with cognitive impairment. Compared to a single therapy, the intervention involved a combination of muscle strengthening and cognitive therapy, with the outcome of falls or balance. Inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in any setting. Studies with participants under 60 years old and lacking baseline clinical assessments were excluded. EndNote 20 was used as a reference manager tool, and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 flow diagram was used to map out the number of identified records. Two investigators worked independently, and the Jadad scale was used for critical appraisal. The PROSPERO registration number is CRD42023454876. A fixed-effects meta-analysis was performed using an inverse-variance method. Four articles met the inclusion criteria, three of which were included in the meta-analysis. Studies were from Europe, New Zealand, and the Philippines, with a total sample of 255 participants and mean ages of 65.9–87.5 years. The studies used combined physical and cognitive training in one group. Results showed a significant moderate effect size (effect size (ES): 2.29; standardized mean difference (SMD): 0.41; p<0.05; heterogeneity (I2): 0%) indicating no heterogeneity. In conclusion, the combined intervention displayed the potential to improve balance for cognitively impaired older adults.
Probiotic-rich fermented milk from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IIA-1A5: Effects on pregnancy health in the animal model Sukma, Ade; Suharto, El LS.; Melia, Sri; Juliyarsi, Indri; Vebriyanti, Ely; Fitria, Najmiatul; Rahmadian, Yudi; Hajrawati, Hajrawati; Arief, Irma I.
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.v4i3.1052

Abstract

Previous studies of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IIA-1A5 have shown its potential as a probiotic in modulating gut microbiota and providing health benefits; however, its effects during pregnancy remain underexplored. The aim of this study was to assess the safety of fermented milk enriched with L. plantarum IIA-IA5 in pregnant mice. An experimental study was conducted at Universitas Andalas, Padang, Indonesia. Two groups of pregnant mice (Mus musculus L.) were used, each with six mice. The control group received sterilized milk (10 mL/kg body weight (BW)), while the intervention group was given fermented milk containing L. plantarum IIA-1A5 (107 colony forming unit (CFU)/mL). The evaluated outcomes included maternal weight changes, fetal counts and measurements, and assessments of fetal morphology and skeletal development. Results indicated that the morphology of fetuses showed no significant differences between the control and intervention groups; both groups demonstrated normal development with no detected resorption sites, growth retardation, or hemorrhage. For skeletal development, both groups had the same bone counts, including frontal, parietal, intraparietal, exoccipital, supraoccipital, nasal, pre-maxilla, mandibular, thoracal, lumbar, sternum, and extremities. This study highlights that L. plantarum IIA-1A5-enriched fermented milk was safe, as no significant morphological or bone developmental abnormalities were observed, indicating its potential as a dietary supplement to support pregnancy health. However, further studies involving larger sample sizes may be needed to provide a more comprehensive assessment of its outcomes and safety.
Urinary level of 1,2-dichloroethane and its effects on blood biochemical markers among outdoor workers exposed to air pollution in Thailand Thetkathuek, Anamai; Kongsombatsuk, Marissa; Nakyai, Teeranun; Polyong, Chan P.
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.v4i3.1055

Abstract

Air contamination by 1,2-dichloroethane (1,2-DCE) is recognized as a threat across countries. Addressing this problem is challenging due to the absence of clearly defined biological standards for monitoring 1,2-DCE exposure among humans. Moreover, studies on the impacts of 1,2-DCE exposure on human health are limited. The aim of this study was to determine the level of 1,2-DCE in urine—separated into the health behavior and occupation groups—as well as its effects on blood biochemicals among overall 200 outdoor workers, with 50 working in each of the following four occupations: fishers, street vendors, public bus drivers, and traffic police in an environmentally polluted community in Thailand. The subject’s behaviors were categorized into four groups: desirable health behaviors (non-smokers and non-drinkers), non-smokers who consume alcohol, smokers who do not consume alcohol, and undesirable health behaviors (frequent smokers and alcohol consumers). Data were collected at the end of the workday using interview forms, urine, and blood samples. Urine was analyzed for 1,2-DCE, and blood was analyzed for complete blood count (CBC), liver, and kidney function enzymes. Data were analyzed using the Dunnett’s test, Kruskal-Wallis H test, and independent sample t-test according to statistical conditions. Our findings revealed that the median urinary 1,2-DCE level was 0.080 mg/L (0.022–0.462 mg/L). Subjects with undesirable health behaviors had a significantly higher urinary 1,2-DCE level (0.108 mg/L) compared to those with desirable health behaviors (0.056 mg/L), with a p-value of 0.009. Among bus drivers and local fishers, the dose of exposure was strongly associated with creatinine levels (p=0.006). No significant association was observed between exposure dose and CBC across all groups. In conclusion, the urinary samples present a small variation in 1,2-DCE concentrations and thus can be used as a benchmark baseline value for monitoring exposure among outdoor workers in areas with intense air pollution. Kidney function markers can be considered in monitoring the health effects of 1,2-DCE.
Effects of Nigella sativa on disease activity, T lymphocytes and inflammatory cytokine profiles in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus: A randomized controlled trial Barlianto, Wisnu; Wulandari, Desy; Sari, Tita L.; Rachmaningrum, Rafika R.; Asasain, Rayi I.
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.v4i3.1063

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with diverse manifestations, requiring long-term treatment that can have side effects, particularly in pediatric patients. Nigella sativa (NS) has shown potential for improving SLE symptoms due to its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the immunomodulatory effect of N. sativa oil (NSO) on disease activity, T lymphocyte activity and inflammatory cytokine profiles in pediatric SLE patients. A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted at Saiful Anwar Hospital in Malang, Indonesia, from January 2022 to January 2023. Pediatric patients with SLE were randomly assigned to receive either one gram of NSO or a placebo containing starch in capsule form as adjunct therapy alongside their SLE primary treatment. Blood samples were collected before treatment and after eight weeks of daily capsules. Disease activity was assessed using the SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K); flow cytometry was used to identify T helper lymphocytes, and serum cytokine levels were measured using ELISA. The statistical analysis tests were performed to compare the outcomes between groups at baseline or after the treatment, and within-group comparisons before and after the study period, as appropriate. A total of 32 patients were included in the study. A significant decrease in the SLEDAI-2K score was observed at post-treatment in both the NSO and placebo groups (p<0.001 and p=0.025, respectively). The percentage of T helper 17 (Th17) cells was significantly reduced in both the NSO and placebo groups post-treatment compared to pre-treatment (p=0.026 and p=0.034, respectively). Conversely, the post-treatment percentage of regulatory T (Treg) cells increased significantly in both groups. A significant reduction in interleukin (IL)-2 levels was observed in the NSO and placebo groups at post-treatment compared to pre-treatment (p=0.006 and p=0.046, respectively). Additionally, there were increases in IL-4 and IL-6 serum levels in both groups at post-treatment compared to pre-treatment (p<0.05). This study highlights that although disease activity was not significantly different between NSO and placebo groups, NSO could affect the inflammatory cytokine profiles in pediatric SLE patients.
Development of the Indonesian sexual quality of life scale for women (ISQOL-W) Hadiprajitno, Peter I.; Ediati, Annastasia; Ariani, Mahayu D.; Muniroh, Muflihatul; Juniarto, Achmad Z.
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.v4i3.1073

Abstract

Sexual quality of life is greatly influenced by sexual function, yet thorough measures remain limited and vary across regions.  In Indonesia, diverse cultural and religious contexts notably shape sexual quality of life. Thus, it is important to have a tool that considers both internal and external aspects. The aim of this study was to develop a valid and reliable scale that specifically measures Indonesian sexual quality of life for women (ISQOL-W), considering cultural and social factors. A total of 228 participants were recruited from April 30, 2023, to September 30, 2023. The ISQOL-W was developed through two phases: item generation and psychometric evaluation. In the first phase, 68 items were drafted based on definitions and dimensions of sexual quality of life. In the second phase, exploratory factor analysis resulted in 34 items with a loading factor greater than 0.4 (ranging from 0.41 to 0.84) which were categorized into four domains/factors: sexual-related emotion, sexual fantasy, sexual arousal, and sexual relationship. The Cronbach’s α coefficient for the overall questionnaire was 0.915, with subscale reliability ranging from 0.826 to 0.903. Further analysis revealed significant differences in ISQOL-W scores across relationship status, educational level, history of last sexual activity, and type of sexual activity. In conclusion, the ISQOL-W demonstrated robust psychometric properties, supporting its use in future studies. This study represents the first effort to develop and validate a sexual quality of life scale specifically for Indonesian women.
Exploring the promising therapeutic benefits of iodine and radioiodine in breast cancer cell lines Elliyanti, Aisyah; Hafizhah, Nurul; Salsabila, Dhianisa; Susilo, Veronica Y.; Setiyowati, Sri; Tofrizal, Alimuddin; Kurniawati, Yulia; Irrahmah, Miftah
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.v4i3.1078

Abstract

Iodine has an anti-proliferative effect on cancer cells; however, its effects have not been explored adequately. The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic potential of iodine and radioiodine by assessing their effects on the viability of various breast cancer cell lines: MCF7, SKBR3, and MDA-MB231. The viability of cells was measured in treated cells exposed to six doses of iodine (5, 10, 20, 40, 60, 80 µM) and two doses of radioiodine (3.7×104 and 3.7×105 Bq). A 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and modified clonogenic assays were used to assess cell viability. Exposure to 80 µM of iodine significantly reduced the viability of all cell types. The cells were then exposed to a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) dose. When the cells were exposed to the IC50 dose of iodine, the MCF7 cell viability was reduced by 42.6±0.14% (IC50 dose 12.88 µM), 40.2±0.08% for SKBR3 (IC50 dose 11.03 µM) and 47.0±0.02% for MDA-MB231 (IC50 dose 14.09 µM). All cells were also exposed to 3.7×104 Bq and 3.7×105 Bq radioiodine. Both doses significantly reduced the cell viability of MCF7 and SKBR3 cells compared to the unexposed control cells (all had p<0.05), while MDA-MB231 cell viability only reduced significantly after 3.7×105 Bq of radioiodine exposure compared to the unexposed control cells (p<0.05). This study highlighted that iodine had a toxic effect on breast cancer cells, and radioiodine enhanced the toxicity to breast cancer cells. The types of cancer cells and doses of iodine and radioiodine influenced the effect. These findings suggest that iodine and radioiodine hold promise as therapeutic agents for breast cancer, similar to their established use in thyroid disease treatment. However, further in vivo studies are important to provide more evidence.
Early activation of macrophage-2 with IL-4 in stromal vascular fraction increases VEGF levels and adipocyte count and maintains volume of fat graft in Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) Vania, Rachel; Sanjaya, I GPH.; Hamid, Agus RRH.; Sudarsa, Shita D.; Dewi, I GASM.; Niryana, I W.; Martadiani, Elysanti D.
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.v4i3.1080

Abstract

Several previous studies have demonstrated the benefits of early macrophage 2 activation fat grafts supplemented with macrophage culture. However, this approach is considered impractical in clinical settings because of intraperitoneal induction use. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of early stromal vascular fraction (SVF) macrophage-2 activation with IL-4 on fat graft survival compared to SVF alone using an animal model for better fat graft viability. This experimental study included inguinal fat harvesting, isolated with collagenases to retrieve the SVF, and then injected with a combination of fat graft and SVF (0.3 mL) into the scalp region. The intervention group received an IL-4 intralesional injection on the third day, and the fat grafts were biopsied on days 7, 14, and 30. The primary outcomes were the final volume of the fat graft, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression, and the adipocyte cell count using perilipin staining on immunohistochemistry examination. The group receiving IL-4 exhibited significantly higher VEGF on days 7, 14, and 30 (p=0.009, 0.009, and 0.021, respectively). Similarly, the IL-4 treatment significantly increased the perilipin concentration on days 7, 14, and 30 (p=0.008, 0.008, and 0.029, respectively). In this group, VEGF concentration was significantly increased on day 14 as compared to day 7 (p=0.009), while no significant difference was observed in the control group (p=0.090). Additionally, the IL-4 group displayed significantly less reduction of fat graft volume than the control group, as observed on days 7, 14, and 30 (p=0.009, 0.009, and 0.021, respectively). Overall, the study underscores the potential benefits of early M2 polarization in fat grafting, as well as providing practical advantages for improving fat graft volume retention.
Primary malignant giant cell tumor (PMGCT): Diagnosis and management challenges in low resource settings Prasad, Roshan; Shukla, Samarth; Acharya, Sourya; Mittal, Gaurav; Wanjari, Mayur
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.v5i1.1088

Abstract

Bone primary malignant giant cell tumor (PMGCT) cases are extremely rare, and the optimal management remains unclear. This case report details the diagnosis and successful management of PMGCT in a 45-year-old female presenting with left knee pain, swelling, and restricted movement for one year. Accompanying weight loss and loss of appetite led the patient to seek tertiary care after unsuccessful prior treatment. Imaging, including X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), revealed a tumor measuring 7.9 × 7.7 × 6.6 cm, and histopathological examination using fine needle aspiration cytology confirmed the diagnosis of PMGCT. A multidisciplinary approach was taken, involving orthopedic surgery to remove the tumor successfully, and physiotherapy for post-operative care. The patient underwent tumor excision and curettage under spinal and epidural anesthesia, followed by a week of bed rest, and then physiotherapy was started to aid in limb mobilization. Post-operative care involved blood transfusions, femoral artery stenting, continued physiotherapy and adjuvant radiotherapy, initiated two weeks post-surgery, with a total dose of 50 Gy delivered in 25 sessions to reduce the risk of recurrence. Initial monthly follow-ups, later transitioning to quarterly, showed improved joint mobility and function, with no recurrence at the 9-month follow-up. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and a multidisciplinary approach in managing PMGCT. Collaboration across specialties contributed to the positive outcome, even in a resource-limited setting. Long-term monitoring remains essential to detect recurrence, and further research is needed to refine treatment strategies for malignant GCTs.
Exploring links between visuospatial ability and anatomy learning in education: A bibliometric analysis and scientific mapping Rahmani, Muhammad Z.; Bukhari, Agussalim; Wiyono, Nanang; Amru, Khaeriah; Baharuddin, Baharuddin; Nurhadi, Asty 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.v4i3.1095

Abstract

The field of medical education faces a significant challenge in teaching human anatomy, a fundamental aspect of medical science that is often perceived as complex and demanding. Understanding the shapes and anatomical structure locations is crucial for students to master the intricacies of anatomy. Visuospatial ability, which involves comprehending three-dimensional structures and their spatial relationships, plays a pivotal role in anatomy learning. The aim of this study was to examine keywords, territories/countries, the number of publications, institutions, authors, and associated journals related to visuospatial ability in anatomy learning through extensive bibliometric analysis. Data were gathered from the Scopus database, and VOSviewer was employed to conduct a bibliometric analysis. Approximately 552 eligible articles were examined in their entirety. The findings indicated that the most significant research growth occurred in 2012, with the United States of America emerging as the leading country in the field.  Furthermore, Anatomical Science Education was recognized as the most esteemed journal in this field, with Wilson, T.D. being credited as the most influential author. The bibliometric data also demonstrated various approaches to improve visuospatial capacity in anatomy learning, such as utilizing virtual reality or other computer-assisted learning modalities and their integration into medical education practice. In conclusion, these findings highlight the critical role of visuospatial ability in facilitating the acquisition of anatomical knowledge and offer direction for future research in this area.
Prevalence and associated risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders among information technology (IT) professionals: A systematic review Prasetya, Tofan AE.; Mamun, Abdullah A.; Rahmania, Aisy; Ahmed, Mobashwer; Uddin, Abu SMS.; Nilamsari, Neffrety; Wardani, Ratnaningtyas WK.
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.v4i3.1100

Abstract

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a growing concern among information technology (IT) professionals. Understanding the specific risk factors associated with MSDs among employers, occupational health practitioners, and IT professionals may reveal effective preventive measures. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and identify the risk factors associated with MSDs among IT professionals. A comprehensive literature search was conducted on several databases, including PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, Online Library Wiley, Springer, Web of Science, and manual searches to identify relevant studies published between 2013 and 2023. The search strategy employed appropriate keywords related to IT professionals, musculoskeletal disorders, prevalence, and risk factors. Two reviewers independently assessed each article using PRISMA guidelines and the Joanna Briggs Institute’s (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for Prevalence Data. Data extraction was performed, and a narrative synthesis was conducted to summarize the findings. Our search yielded a total of 1159 records, with 13 studies finally included in this review. The selected studies were from several countries and contained a total of 4632 participants. The prevalence of MSDs was reported with a maximum rate of 89% and a minimum rate of 20%, reflecting the overall percentage of affected individuals and including data on specific body areas affected. Identified risk factors from the selected studies include work duration, experience, sex, strenuous back positions, smoking, physical inactivity, MSD history, uncomfortable workstation setting, mental stress, insufficient sleep, body posture, exercise status, alcohol consumption, prolonged sitting, workspace, job demands, overexertion, breaks during work, and excessive usage of smartphones.