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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
Effects of Moringa oleifera extract on inflammaging markers, muscle mass, and physical endurance in geriatric mice model Budiningsih, Fatichati; Purwanto, Bambang; Wasita, Brian; Poncorini, Eti
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.v5i1.2052

Abstract

A comprehensive approach to managing frailty is required due to the increasing number of elderly. Physical frailty, associated with inflammatory processes and a loss of muscle mass, can significantly impair health status. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of Moringa oleifera Lam. leaf extract on frailty in geriatric mice model. An experimental study was conducted using a post-test-only control group design using  Mus musculus Balb/C mice aged eight weeks. The animals were divided into five groups: negative control group received intraperitoneal injections of normal saline (0.5 cc/day) for eight weeks, positive control group received D-galactose (150 mg/kg body weight (BW)/day) only, and three treatment groups treated with 150 mg/kg of D-galactose intraperitoneally for eight weeks followed by 100 mg/kg BW, 200 mg/kg BW, and 400 mg/kg BW of M. oleifera leaf extract orally for five weeks. At the end of the study, the blood levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and caspase-3, as well as caspase-3 expression in skeletal muscle, skeletal muscle mass fibrosis, and physical endurance were measured. The results showed that a dose of 400 mg/kg/day of M. oleifera leaf extract had the most significant effect on lowering MDA, TGF-β, and caspase-3 expression in skeletal muscle tissue, skeletal muscle fibrosis, and improved physical endurance compared to other groups (p<0.001). This study highlights that M. oleifera leaf extract reduced frailty in geriatric mice model-induced using D-galactose by reducing inflammaging factors, thereby improving physical endurance.
Improved sanitation and co-occurrence of anemia and stunting in Indonesian children: A retrospective cohort study Meiyetriani, Eflita; Utomo, Budi
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.v5i1.2070

Abstract

Anemia and stunting are major public health concerns in low- and middle-income countries, including Indonesia, with significant impacts on child development, morbidity, and mortality. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of improved sanitation on the co-occurrence of anemia and stunting (CAS) in Indonesian children using pooled data from the Indonesian Family Life Survey (IFLS) across three waves, from IFLS 3 in 2000, IFLS 4 in 2007, and IFLS 5 in 2014. The sample included 839 children aged 1–5 years with complete anthropometric and hemoglobin data, measured in 2000 as the baseline cohort and followed across subsequent waves. The main independent variable was improved sanitation, and other covariates included maternal and child characteristics, parental factors, and socio-economic status. Multinomial logistic regression was used to assess the impact of sanitation over time. The prevalence of CAS was 30.75% in 2000, 6.08% in 2007, and 4.29% in 2014. Stunting-only prevalence increased from 16.21% in 2000 to 27.41% in 2007 but decreased to 19.31% in 2014. Anemia-only prevalence decreased from 31.23% in 2000 to 10.25% in 2007 and slightly rose to 16.92% in 2014. The analysis found that children with unimproved sanitation were at significantly higher risk of CAS (crude relative risk ratio (RRR): 2.49; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.92–3.23), which decreased after adjusting for confounding factors (adjusted RRR: 1.55; 95%CI: 1.12–2.14). Similarly, the risk for anemia was higher in children with unimproved sanitation (adjusted RRR: 1.43; 95%CI: 1.07–1.90). However, the risk for stunting was not statistically significant after adjustment. This study underscores the importance of improved sanitation in reducing anemia and stunting but also highlights the need to address other factors, such as nutrition, maternal health, and socioeconomic inequalities, through comprehensive public health policies.
Adherence to mass drug administration and environmental factors related to lymphatic filariasis incidence: A case-control study in endemic area, Papua, Indonesia Wayangkau, Erich C.; Budiyono, Budiyono; Raharjo, Mursid; Martini, Martini
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.v5i1.2143

Abstract

Papua has the highest number of lymphatic filariasis cases in Indonesia. Despite the implementation of mass drug administration (MDA), adherence to MDA remains low in this region. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of adherence to MDA and environmental factors on the incidence of lymphatic filariasis. The study was conducted in 11 areas in Sarmi Regency, Papua, in 2024. This case-control study included 135 respondents (45 cases and 90 controls) selected through a proportional random sampling method. Data were collected via structured interviews, observations, and medical record reviews. Data analysis was performed using logistic regression with the backward likelihood ratio method to identify risk factors. The study revealed that male (aOR: 4.88; 95%CI: 1.39–17.06; p=0.013), age ≥40 years (aOR: 4.65; 95%CI: 2.26–7.00; p=0.002), low education level (aOR: 0.24; 95%CI: 0.07–0.84; p=0.025), and income below the regional minimum wage (aOR: 15.66; 95%CI: 1.84–30.26; p=0.012) were significant risk factors for lymphatic filariasis incidence. Non-consumption of complete antifilarial drugs (aOR: 3.24; 95%CI: 1.00–10.50; p=0.050), not taking antifilarial drugs at the recommended time (aOR: 7.36; 95%CI: 1.99–27.23; p=0.003), and delayed consumption of antifilarial drugs (aOR: 3.73; 95%CI: 1.09–12.73; p=0.036) were adherence-related factors associated with an increased risk. Furthermore, not wearing long-sleeved clothing at night (aOR: 6.73; 95%CI: 1.81–24.94; p=0.004) was significantly associated with lymphatic filariasis incidence. The dimensions of MDA medication adherence, including the consumption of preventive antifilarial drugs, night-time dosing, and immediate consumption of antifilarial drugs after distribution, were associated with lymphatic filariasis incidence in Papua. This study suggests that MDA programs against filariasis in endemic areas need to be supported by adherence-focused interventions to enhance the effectiveness of prevention efforts.
Evaluation of an E. coli-expressed spike protein-based in-house ELISA system for assessment of antibody responses after COVID-19 infection and vaccination Nurisyah, Sitti; Iyori, Mitsuhiro; Hasyim, Ammar A.; Amru, Khaeriah; Itani, Kei; Nakamura, Kurumi; Zainal, Kartika H.; Halik, Handayani; Djaharuddin, Irawaty; Bukhari, Agussalim; Asih, Puji BS.; Syafruddin, Din; Yoshida, Shigeto; Idris, Irfan; Yusuf, Yenni
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.v5i1.1250

Abstract

Evaluating long-term immunity after COVID-19 infection and vaccination is critical for managing potential outbreaks. The aim of this study was to develop a cost-effective in-house enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) based on Escherichia coli-expressed SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (E-S1) for antibody detection and to evaluate its performance. The system was validated by comparing the in-house ELISA results with those obtained using a commercial ELISA with HEK293-expressed spike protein (H-S1). Recombinant SARS-CoV-2 spike protein was produced in E. coli, purified, and validated for antigenicity via ELISA. Indirect ELISAs with both E-S1 and H-S1 antigens were performed on 386 serum samples from COVID-19 survivors, vaccinated individuals, and pre-pandemic controls collected at different time points. The E-S1 ELISA showed a statistically significant but weak correlation with H-S1 ELISA across all samples (r=0.205; p=0.0001). Stronger correlations were observed among vaccinated individuals with prior infection on day 90 (r=0.6017; p<0.001) and in naïve vaccine recipients on day 30 (r=0.5361; p=0.0003). Pre-pandemic sera from a rural population in Sumba Island exhibited high background reactivity in E-S1 ELISA, likely due to anti-E. coli antibodies, while urban pre-pandemic sera from Jakarta showed a stronger correlation with H-S1 ELISA. This suggests potential regional or immune background differences influencing assay performance. Although E-S1 retained antigenic properties, its diagnostic utility is limited by non-specific reactivity and reduced sensitivity compared to H-S1. In conclusion, E. coli expression systems may not be ideal for producing spike protein-based ELISA antigens specific to SARS-CoV-2. Alternative expression systems, such as human or baculovirus, could enhance diagnostic accuracy and specificity for COVID-19 antibody detection.
Exploring the potential of Laportea decumana extract compounds as COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitors: An in silico study Simaremare, Eva S.; Kurniawan, Fransiska; Hartati, Rika; Tjahjono, Daryono H.
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/narraj.v5i1.1627

Abstract

Laportea decumana (Roxb.) Wedd., known as itchy leaves, is traditionally used for pain relief due to its bioactive compounds. However, previous studies were limited by resource-intensive in vivo methods and a lack of mechanistic insights into cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2 binding. The aim of this study was to identify compounds in the n-hexane and ethyl acetate extracts of L. decumana with potential as COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitors and to predict their binding affinity and stability within the binding pocket through molecular dynamics simulations. Leaves collected from Arso, Keerom Regency, Papua, Indonesia, were dried, sieved into simplicia, and macerated with n-hexane to obtain a n-hexane extract. The residual simplicia was further macerated with ethyl acetate to produce an ethyl acetate extract. N-hexane extract compounds were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and ethyl acetate extract compounds by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Identified chemicals were used in in silico evaluations targeting COX-1 and COX-2. This study identified ten compounds with high performance in docking analysis, which were further evaluated by molecular dynamics. The n-hexane extract contained 31 compounds, while the ethyl acetate extract contained 27. Among these, 4,8,12,16-tetramethylheptadecan-4-olide from the n-hexane extract demonstrated the strongest affinity for both COX-1 and COX-2, with binding free energies of -41.62±1.03 kcal/mol and -33.05±0.11 kcal/mol, respectively. Its interactions were comparable to those of native ligands, with superior binding free energy. In the ethyl acetate extract, pseudosantonim demonstrated the highest affinity for COX-1 (-24.41±1.32 kcal/mol), while arteamisinine showed strong potential as a COX-2 inhibitor (-23.53±0.30 kcal/mol). In conclusion, 4,8,12,16-tetramethylheptadecan-4-olide was the most potent COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitor, pseudosantonim was the most effective COX-1 inhibitor, and arteamisinine demonstrated COX-2 inhibitory potential. Further validation through in vitro or in vivo studies is recommended.
Comprehensive investigation of Litsea cubeba antibacterial and antifungal activities across solid, liquid, and vapor phases against key human pathogens Sreepian, Preeyaporn M.; Popruk, Supaluk; Rattanasinganchan, Panthip; Sreepian, Apichai
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.v5i1.1685

Abstract

The escalating global incidence of antimicrobial resistance poses a significant public health challenge. In response, exploring alternative antimicrobial agents, particularly derived from plants, becomes crucial to alleviate the selective pressure exerted by conventional antibiotics. The aim of this study was to characterize the composition of essential oil extracted from Litsea cubeba fruits and to evaluate its antimicrobial potential, along with its major compound, across solid, liquid, and vapor phases. The antimicrobial activity was assessed against a diverse range of human pathogenic Gram-positive bacteria (n=8), Gram-negative bacteria (n=34), filamentous fungi (n=2), and yeast (n=1). Disk diffusion, broth macrodilution, and vapor-phase diffusion methods were employed. This study found that all phases of L. cubeba essential oil and purified limonene exhibited broad-spectrum bactericidal and fungicidal activities (solid-phase: inhibition zone diameter (IZD) 19 mm vs 14 mm; liquid-phase: minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) 2.0 mg/mL vs 4.0 mg/mL; vapor-phase: IZD 90 mm vs 45 mm), with superior efficacy against filamentous fungi and yeast compared to bacteria (solid-phase: IZD 90 mm vs 17.5 mm; liquid-phase: MIC 2.0 mg/mL vs 0.06 mg/mL; vapor-phase: IZD 90 mm vs 12.5 mm; all p-values<0.05). Among bacteria, solid-phase L. cubeba essential oil demonstrated increased activity against Staphylococcus saprophyticus and Acinetobacter lwoffii whereas liquid-phase L. cubeba essential oil had optimal activity against Streptococcus agalactiae and Elizabethkingia meningoceptica. Notably, Trichophyton rubrum, Nannizzia gypsea, and Candida albicans displayed high susceptibility to all phases of L. cubeba essential oil. These findings highlight the potential activity of L. cubeba essential oil, across its various phases, as a promising alternative antimicrobial agent against medically significant pathogens, providing essential baseline information for further exploration and development of L. cubeba essential oil in the pursuit of combating antimicrobial resistance.
Therapeutic potential of thymoquinone in regulating p63, claudin, and periostin in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps: An animal model study Ulfa, Loriana; Munir, Delfitri; Rambe, Andrina YM.; Farhat, Farhat; Wardani, Retno S.; Amin, Mustafa M.; Zahara, Devira; Ardinata, Dedi
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.v5i1.1728

Abstract

High recurrence rate and the necessity for repeated surgical interventions contribute to the chronicity and treatment-resistant nature of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). Thymoquinone, known for its protective effects on epithelial integrity, has not been previously explored in CRSwNP. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic potential of thymoquinone to restore epithelial integrity by assessing p63 transcription factor and claudin protein expressions, as well as periostin mRNA expression in an animal model. An in vivo study using post-test-only control group design was conducted in which male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to three groups, each consisting of 10 animals: healthy group, CRSwNP group, and thymoquinone-treated group for three weeks. Immunohistochemistry was used to analyze the p63 and claudin protein expressions, while periostin mRNA expression was quantified using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). This study found that thymoquinone significantly reduced p63 transcription factor expression compared to the untreated CRSwNP group (p=0.009). Claudin protein expression was significantly higher in thymoquinone-treated group compared to CRSwNP group (p=0.007), indicating improved epithelial barrier function. Periostin mRNA expression showed no significant difference between healthy and thymoquinone-treated groups (p=0.564), but a significant decrease was observed in CRSwNP group compared to thymoquinone-treated group (p=0.000) and between the healthy and CRSwNP groups (p=0.002), suggesting attenuation of tissue remodeling and inflammation. In conclusion, thymoquinone could enhance sinonasal epithelial barrier integrity in CRSwNP by downregulating p63 transcription factor, upregulating claudin protein expression, and reducing periostin mRNA expression. These findings emphasize the potential of thymoquinone as a therapeutic agent to mitigate inflammation and tissue remodeling in CRSwNP, warranting further investigation as a novel treatment option.
Effect of hemp seed oil on accelerating wound healing: Evaluation of wound size reduction, epithelialization, granulation tissue formation, and vascularization in murine models Rahman, Safrizal; A. Rivai, Mohammad; Dasrul, Dasrul; Ayu, Onarisa
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/narraj.v5i1.1878

Abstract

Essential oils have gained interest in wound management, with prior studies exploring combinations of hemp seed oil (Cannabis sativa) and other oils. However, single-oil strategies may offer simpler formulation, reducing the risk of interactions while preserving therapeutic benefits. The aim of this study was to explore the effect of hemp seed oil on accelerating wound healing, focusing on wound size reduction, epithelialization, granulation tissue formation, and vascularization in murine models. An in vivo with a post-test-only control group was conducted using 36 male Mus musculus mice (3−4 months, 150–250 grams) which were divided into three groups: negative control (NC), positive control (PC, treated with chloramphenicol ointment twice daily), and treatment group (TG, treated with hemp seed oil 400,000 mg/mL twice daily). Mice were euthanized on day 3, 7, 14, and 21 for wound healing assessment, including macroscopic evaluation (visual observation, wound size, and wound healing rate) and microscopic evaluation (epithelialization, granulation tissue formation, and vascularization). The present study found that the TG group demonstrated smaller wound sizes on day 14 (p<0.001) and day 21 (p<0.001). This group also enhanced wound healing rates observed on day 14 (p<0.001) and day 21 (p=0.001) compared to PC and NC groups. Epithelialization was significantly higher in the TG group compared to PC and NC groups on day 14 (p=0.007), while granulation tissue formation showed significant improvement on day 3 (p=0.045), day 14 (p=0.028), and day 21 (p=0.003). Additionally, TG group showed significantly greater new blood vessel formation on day 21 (p=0.001) compared to the PC and NC groups. In conclusion, hemp seed oil demonstrated significant potential in accelerating wound healing processes suggesting a superior effect compared to chloramphenicol ointment. Therefore, hemp seed oil may serve as a promising natural and cost-effective adjunct for wound management.
Seroepidemiological investigation of SARS-CoV-2 infection and risk factors in Indonesia before mass COVID-19 vaccination Wahyono, Tri YM.; Mahkota, Renti; Nurcandra, Fajaria; Ansariadi, Ansariadi; Hidajah, Atik C.; Helda, Helda; Syahrul, Fariani; Dwinata, Indra; Kawi, Nurhayati
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.v5i1.1957

Abstract

At the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Indonesia, surveillance focused on finding and treating symptomatic cases. However, emerging evidence indicated that asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic individuals significantly contributed to viral transmission. This highlights the need for comprehensive surveillance to understand better the actual spread of SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in the general population across Indonesia and identify risk factors associated with infection at the beginning of the pandemic. A cross-sectional survey was conducted across 17 provinces, 69 districts/cities, and 1,020 villages in Indonesia from December 22, 2020, to February 15, 2021. A multistage random sampling technique was employed. Serological testing using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed to detect anti-SARS-CoV-2. Complex sample analysis, adjusted for weights, was utilized to estimate the national seroprevalence and a generalized linear model with a binomial distribution was applied to identify risk factors. A total of 10,161 individuals were included in the final analysis, with the national seroprevalence being 14.8% (95% confidence interval (CI): 14.2–18.5). The prevalence was higher in females (16.8%; 95%CI: 12.5–22.3), individuals aged 46–59 years (18.6%; 95%CI: 14.2–24.0), and in urban areas (20.1%; 95%CI: 15.0–26.2). The highest prevalence was observed in North Maluku (35.6%; 95%CI: 29.3–42.5). Notably, 54.2% of seropositive individuals were asymptomatic, while 7.5% reported hypertension as a comorbidity. Factors associated with higher seroprevalence were being married (adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR): 1.47; 95%CI: 1.02–2.12), widow (aPR: 1.74, 95%CI: 1.01–3.00), and close contact with confirmed cases (aPR: 2.04; 95%CI: 1.52–2.73). This study revealed a COVID-19 prevalence significantly higher than official estimate in Indonesia, underscoring the need for improved surveillance system to more accurately track disease spread and to inform timely public health responses in the future.
Blood lead levels and their association with children’s factors, nutritional status, and daily dietary intake in used lead-acid battery (ULAB) recycling area Machmud, Putri B.; Prihartono, Indira; Prihartono, Nurhayati A.
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.v5i1.2059

Abstract

Evidence has shown that unregulated lead battery recycling is a significant contributor to lead exposure in many countries. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors associated with blood lead levels (BLLs) among children aged 1 to 5 who reside within 250 meters of used lead-acid battery recycling areas in three metropolitan neighborhoods in Indonesia. Using a cross-sectional approach, data was collected through in-person household visitations. The assessed risk factors included socio-demographic data, nutritional status, immunization, breastfeeding status, and daily food intake. BLLs were measured using the LeadCare II portable device and confirmed with plasma mass spectrometry, then classified based on the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). A multivariate multinomial logistic regression was used to analyze the association between children’s characteristics and daily eating habits as predictors of BLLs. Out of a total of 433 eligible children, 361 were included in this study. High monthly household income (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 0.16; 95% confidence interval (95%CI): 0.04–0.67), child’s age (aOR: 0.21; 95%CI: 0.07–0.64), and being boy (aOR: 2.19; 95%CI: 1.17–4.10) were associated with medium BLLs in comparison to low BLLs. In addition, high fruit consumption (AOR: 1.91; 95%CI: 0.99–3.66) and high dairy consumption (aOR: 0.42; 95%CI: 0.27–0.76) were associated with medium BLLs in comparison to low BLLs. Our study also indicated that being a boy (aOR: 5.53; 95%CI: 1.68–18.25), completed breastfeeding history (aOR: 3.47; 95%CI: 1.18–10.23), short outdoor activity duration (aOR: 0.30; 95%CI: 0.09–0.97), high heme-rich iron consumption (aOR: 0.32; 95%CI: 0.10–1.00), and high dairy consumption (aOR: 0.13; 95%CI: 0.04–0.44) were associated with high BLLs in comparison to low BLLs. This study highlights the necessity for further investigation into the impact of various dietary groups on the BLLs of children living around used lead-acid battery recycling areas.