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Contact Name
-
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
Factors associated with the incidence of young-onset colorectal cancer: A cross-sectional study Sianturi, Natallina; Dahlia, Debie; Edison, Chiyar
Narra J Vol. 5 No. 3 (2025): December 2025
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v5i3.2853

Abstract

The factors associated with the incidence of young-onset colorectal cancer (YO-CRC) remain uncertain and are continuously being studied. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors associated with the incidence of young-onset colorectal cancer. This cross-sectional study examined multiple factors (demographic status, medical comorbidities, smoking, alcohol intake, nighttime sleep duration, family history of cancer, sedentary behavior, daily consumption of fried foods, fast food, and processed meat) among 171 patients from two cancer referral hospitals in Jakarta, Indonesia. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the low-income group had a higher risk of YO-CRC compared to high-income group (p=0.004). Those with comorbid diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, or high cholesterol were more likely to develop YO-CRC compared to those without these conditions (p=0.002). Frequent consumption of processed meat (vs seldom) (p=0.003) and fried food (vs no consumption) (p=0.001) were associated with higher risk. Those with high sedentary behavior (vs low) (p=0.021) also had higher risk of YO-CRC. Notably, nighttime sleep emerged as the strongest predictor (odds ratio (OR): 10.462). These findings underscore the need for targeted public health interventions promoting adequate sleep, healthy diets, and active lifestyles, particularly among Indonesian youth and low-income groups. Further studies are recommended to investigate these associations in larger and more diverse populations across Indonesia.
Association between the CYP24A1 rs2762939 polymorphism and vascular calcification in Indonesian patients with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis Wendy, Wendy; Muzasti, Riri A.; Tarigan, Radar R.
Narra J Vol. 5 No. 3 (2025): December 2025
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v5i3.2874

Abstract

Vitamin D plays a key role in mineral metabolism, and its dysregulation contributes to vascular calcification, a major complication of chronic kidney disease–mineral and bone disorder (CKD–MBD) in patients undergoing hemodialysis with CKD. The CYP24A1 gene encodes 24-hydroxylase, the enzyme responsible for degrading active vitamin D metabolites and its polymorphisms, particularly rs2762939, have been linked to variability in vitamin D status and coronary artery calcification. The aim of this study was to assess the association between the rs2762939 polymorphism of CYP24A1 and vascular calcification in Indonesian patients with CKD undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. A case–control study was conducted in 92 hemodialysis patients, including 46 with vascular calcification and 46 without. Genotyping of the rs2762939 polymorphism was carried out using PCR–RFLP, and the amplified products were separated by electrophoresis on 4% agarose gel. The frequency of vascular calcification was found to be significantly higher in patients with diabetes mellitus than in the control group (19 (82.6%) vs 4 (17.4%)), whereas in non-diabetic patients the frequency of vascular calcification was lower compared with controls (27 (39.1%) vs 42 (60.9%)). A statistically significant association between CKD etiology and vascular calcification was observed (p=0.001). The prevalence of vascular calcification was lower among carriers of the mutant C allele (45%) compared with the G allele (51.4%), although this difference was not statistically significant (OR=0.77; 95%CI: 0.38–1.56; p=0.592). The rs2762939 polymorphism of the CYP24A1 gene was not significantly associated with vascular calcification in Indonesian patients with CKD undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. Further studies with larger, ethnically diverse cohorts and integration of vitamin D status are needed to clarify the genetic contribution of CYP24A1 and related pathways to vascular calcification.
Biomolecules derived from salivary exosomes encapsulated in chitosan for bone regeneration in alveolar osteitis: A systematic review Sulistiani, Silvia; Bachtiar, Endang W.; Bachtiar, Boy M.
Narra J Vol. 5 No. 3 (2025): December 2025
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v5i3.2877

Abstract

Alveolar osteitis (dry socket) is a common complication after tooth extraction that delays bone healing and causes significant pain. Conventional treatments are largely palliative and do not actively promote regeneration. Salivary exosomes, rich in bioactive molecules, and chitosan, a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer, might offer a promising combined approach for targeted bone regeneration. The aim of this systematic review was to systematically evaluate the regenerative potential of salivary exosomes encapsulated in chitosan for the treatment of alveolar osteitis. The systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines and the PICO framework. Comprehensive searches were performed across PubMed, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar for English-language articles published between 2021 and 2025. Eligible studies included in vitro, in vivo, and preclinical research assessing chitosan-encapsulated salivary exosomes for bone regeneration. Data were extracted on study design, interventions, outcome measures, and therapeutic effects. From 524 retrieved records, 10 full-text articles were assessed, and two met the eligibility criteria. Both studies demonstrated that chitosan encapsulation improved the stability and delivery efficiency of salivary exosomes. Outcomes included increased osteogenic gene expression (ALP, BMP-2, osteocalcin, RUNX2), enhanced angiogenesis, reduced inflammation, and histological evidence of accelerated bone regeneration compared with conventional treatment. In conclusion, current evidence suggests that salivary exosomes encapsulated in chitosan have strong therapeutic potential for alveolar osteitis by promoting osteogenesis, reducing inflammation, and enhancing bone healing. However, further preclinical validation and controlled human trials are required before clinical translation.
Comparison of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG seropositivity among vaccinated, unvaccinated, and COVID-19 survivor individuals: A cross-sectional study in Palembang, Indonesia Retnaningsih, Ekowati; Nuryanto, Nuryanto; Oktarina, Reni; Komalasari, Oom; Maryani, Sri; Larasti, Veny; Fertilita, Soilia
Narra J Vol. 5 No. 3 (2025): December 2025
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v5i3.2890

Abstract

Measurement of anti–severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody levels provides evidence of prior infection or vaccination. Persistent vaccine hesitancy underscores the importance of robust, evidence-based data to inform policy decisions. The aim of this study was to compare anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG seropositivity among vaccinated individuals, unvaccinated individuals, and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) survivors in the community during the pandemic. In this cross-sectional study, 517 participants were enrolled, including 167 vaccinated individuals, 97 COVID-19 survivors, and 253 unvaccinated individuals, selected through multistage cluster sampling of 40 clusters. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG seropositivity was defined as ≥50 AU/mL. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to evaluate associations between group type and seropositivity, adjusting for demographic factors, COVID-19 symptoms, hypertension, and body mass index (BMI). Vaccinated individuals demonstrated significantly higher odds of seropositivity compared with unvaccinated participants (odds ratio (OR)=5.60; 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.36–13.27). Covariates independently associated with seropositivity (p<0.05) included the presence of COVID-19 symptoms, hypertension, and BMI. Vaccination was strongly associated with increased anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG seropositivity in the community, independent of clinical and demographic factors. These findings support ongoing vaccination campaigns and highlight the relevance of comorbidities and symptomatic history in shaping humoral immune responses.
Antimicrobial resistance and empirical antibiotic use in diabetic foot infections: A retrospective study from Indonesia Tarigan, Menang B.; Saragih, Rama M.; Tarigan, Kevin A.; Ginting, Franciscus
Narra J Vol. 5 No. 3 (2025): December 2025
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v5i3.2895

Abstract

Diabetic foot infection (DFI) represents a major complication of diabetes mellitus with significant morbidity, frequently leading to amputation if not optimally managed. The aim of this study was to analyze clinical, microbiological, and antibiotic susceptibility data from patients with type 2 diabetes who presented with foot infections in Indonesia. The retrospective study, conducted at St. Elisabeth Hospital in North Sumatra, Indonesia, predominantly comprised male farmers with a mean diabetes duration of 8.6 years, most of whom exhibited advanced ulcer severity (64.5% at Wagner grade III). Surgical debridement was performed in 79.0% cases, and amputation in 21.0% of cases. Laboratory investigations revealed poor glycemic control (mean HbA1c 10.12%) and biochemical markers indicative of systemic inflammation and renal impairment. Microbial cultures identified a predominance of Gram-negative bacteria (58.1%), primarily Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, and Escherichia coli, whereas Gram-positive isolates (41.9%) were dominated by Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant strains. Empirical outpatient and inpatient antibiotic regimens commonly included amoxicillin, ciprofloxacin, metronidazole, and ceftriaxone; however, in vitro susceptibility testing demonstrated limited efficacy of β-lactams such as ampicillin and amoxicillin (<10% sensitivity). In contrast, linezolid, amikacin, vancomycin, carbapenems, and fosfomycin exhibited superior activity against the isolated pathogens. These findings emphasize the critical need for empirical antibiotic guidelines tailored to local microbial ecology and resistance profiles, integrated with early surgical management, stringent glycemic control, and multidisciplinary care. This comprehensive approach is essential to reduce the risk of amputation and improve clinical outcomes in tropical, resource-limited settings.
SARS-CoV-2 lineages and naso-oropharyngeal bacterial communities in COVID-19 reinfection: A study in West Java, Indonesia Sativa, Alvira R.; Asyifa, Isnaini Z.; Adzdzakiy, Muhammad M.; Iryanto, Syam B.; Nugroho, Herjuno A.; Wulandari, Ari S.; Yanthi, Nova D.; Nasrulloh, Mukh F.; Rahmawati, Ema; Alamanda, Cut NC.; Ristandi, Ryan B.; Rachman, Rifky W.; Robiani, Rini; Agustiyani, Dian F.; Wisnuwardhani, Popi H.; Wardiana, Andri; Ningrum, Ratih A.; Dharmayanthi, Anik B.; Prasetyoputri, Anggia; Fibriani, Azzania; Saputra, Sugiyono
Narra J Vol. 5 No. 3 (2025): December 2025
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v5i3.2901

Abstract

Continuous emergence of new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants may influence viral transmission dynamics and alter interactions with the respiratory microbiota, potentially increasing the risks of reinfection. This study investigated cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) reinfection in West Java, Indonesia, with the aim of identifying the SARS-CoV-2 variants involved, characterizing their genomic mutations, and profiling the nasal and oropharyngeal microbiota associated with reinfection. Naso-oropharyngeal swab samples were collected from 42 COVID-19 reinfection cases and nine new infection cases. Whole genome sequencing was performed using Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) MinION Mk1C and variant analysis was conducted using ARTIC workflow. Nexstrain and PANGOLIN were used to determine the lineages. Phylogenetic trees were constructed using IQ-tree and FigTree. Key mutations were identified by Cov-GLUE. Additionally, 16s rRNA amplicon sequencing was conducted on nine samples from each group to analyze bacterial communities using EPI2ME and MicrobiomeAnalyst. All identified SARS-CoV-2 strains in this study were Delta variant (B.1.617.2), predominantly lineage AY.23 (n=46, 90%), followed by AY.24 (n=3) and AY.109 (n=2). No differences in SARS-CoV-2 lineages were observed between reinfection and new infection cases. Unique hotspot mutations found only in COVID-19 reinfections included NSP3, V220A, S_T676I, ORF7a_V82A, and ORF7a_TI20I. Bacterial community analysis revealed no significant diversity differences (alpha and beta) between the two groups. While the most dominant phylum remained Terrabacteria in both groups, Streptococcus was dominant in COVID-19 reinfections, whereas Prevotella was dominant in new infection cases. Notably, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Fusobacterium periodonticum, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Leptotrichia buccalis had significant increases in reinfection cases. Despite the similarity in SARS-CoV-2 lineages causing both COVID-19 reinfection and new infection cases, the presence of distinct key mutations and bacterial species suggest their potential as biomarkers within this group.
Nutritional composition and action mechanism of Channa striata meat in wound healing: A systematic review Hapsari, Riani; Tjandrawinata, Raymond
Narra J Vol. 5 No. 3 (2025): December 2025
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v5i3.2903

Abstract

Wound healing is a complex biological process requiring adequate nutritional support, particularly proteins, amino acids, fatty acids, and essential minerals. Snakehead fish (Channa striata) has been traditionally consumed in Southeast Asia to accelerate recovery after surgery and childbirth. Emerging evidence suggests that its nutritional composition plays a pivotal role in tissue repair. The aim of this systematic review was to consolidate evidence on the nutritional composition of C. striata and elucidate its mechanisms of action in wound healing based on preclinical and clinical studies. A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, and Google Scholar for studies published between 2000 and 2023, following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Eligible studies included biochemical analyses, in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies, and clinical trials assessing the wound-healing effects of C. striata. Data extraction covered nutrient composition, study design, wound-healing parameters, and mechanistic pathways. Out of 2898 identified studies, 22 of them met the inclusion criteria: ten biochemical composition studies, nine preclinical investigations, and four clinical trials. C. striata extract demonstrated high levels of albumin (0.76–10.73 g/100 g), essential and non-essential amino acids (notably glutamic acid, arginine, and glycine), fatty acids (palmitic, arachidonic, linoleic), and minerals such as zinc and copper. Preclinical models consistently showed enhanced fibroblast proliferation, epithelialization, tensile strength, and collagen deposition. Clinical studies in post-cesarean patients reported significant improvements in wound healing scores, uterine involution, pain reduction, and biomarker modulation (VEGF, IL-6, MMP-9). In conclusion, C. striata exhibits promising wound-healing potential attributable to its rich nutrient profile and multi-pathway mechanisms involving collagen synthesis, angiogenesis, and immunomodulation. However, the limited number of clinical trials underscores the need for larger, well-designed studies to confirm its translational efficacy in human wound care.
Salt intake- related knowledge, attitudes, and practices among Jordanian adults Majeed, Zeina A.; Barham, Rawhieh; Al-Jawaldeh, Ayoub; Ahmad, Nada; Khader, Yousef
Narra J Vol. 5 No. 3 (2025): December 2025
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v5i3.1021

Abstract

High salt consumption is a worldwide public health problem, and its magnitude varies considerably among different communities. This study aimed to assess Jordanian adults’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to salt intake and to examine how these domains differed between genders. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted using a multi-stage sampling technique to select a representative sample from the population of Amman, Jordan. Data were collected through a structured, validated questionnaire administered by trained interviewers between November and December 2021. The findings indicate that the majority of participants (70.8%) did not know the maximum recommended daily salt intake and reported not reading food labels when purchasing food. Almost half of the participants (48.2%) reported always adding salt while cooking, and 14.6% reported always adding table salt after cooking. The most commonly reported practices to reduce salt intake included using spices other than salt while cooking (67.2%) and avoiding or reducing the consumption of salt-rich foods. Significant gender differences were observed in knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward salt intake. Females demonstrated greater awareness of recommended salt intake and associated health risks, and were more likely to engage in practices aimed at reducing salt consumption, such as avoiding high-salt foods and using alternatives in cooking. In contrast, males were more likely to report misconceptions, limited use of food labels, and higher engagement in unhealthy practices such as daily smoking and lower awareness of low-salt alternatives. In conclusion, this study showed that Jordanian adults have relatively limited knowledge about salt intake, and their practices regarding salt consumption are inappropriate. Therefore, there is a need to adopt long-term strategies to reduce salt intake among the Jordanian population and mitigate its negative impacts on community health.
Integrated analysis of dengue transmission risk and insecticide resistance in Aedes aegypti from Vichada, Colombia Mejia-Jaramillo, Ana M.; Cantillo-Barraza, Omar; Medina, Cesil S.; Jaimes-Dueñez, Jeiczon; Triana-Chavez, Omar
Narra J Vol. 5 No. 3 (2025): December 2025
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v5i3.2795

Abstract

Dengue is the primary arbovirus transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Effective management of dengue demands a multidisciplinary approach. The aim of this study was to conduct an integrated analysis of dengue transmission, focusing on its vector mosquitoes, to establish a baseline for dengue control and prevention in an endemic region of Colombia. The study was conducted from 2015 to 2018 across four municipalities in the Vichada department near the Venezuelan border. Five complementary approaches were employed: (1) determining the natural infection rate and circulation of various dengue virus serotypes in mosquitoes; (2) evaluating the insecticide susceptibility status and examining mosquito genotypes for three knockdown (kdr) mutations linked to insecticide resistance; (3) performing a phylogenetic analysis to identify the lineage of Ae. aegypti; (4) creating risk maps for dengue transmission based on predictive models in two municipalities in the department; and (5) empowering the community. Molecular analysis using RT-PCR indicated dengue virus infections in all municipalities of the Vichada department. Eleven positive pools for serotypes DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4 were detected. The highest minimum infection rate (MIR) was found in Cumaribo, followed by La Primavera, which showed the greatest diversity of dengue virus serotypes. Mosquitoes from all three populations showed susceptibility to malathion and lambda-cyhalothrin pyrethroid, except for mosquitoes from Puerto Carreño, which presented moderate resistance to lambda-cyhalothrin (resistance ratio of 8). Importantly, all mosquitoes had the F1534C mutation, while the V1016I and V419L mutations were found at lower frequencies. Risk classification maps for Puerto Carreño and La Primavera showed neighborhoods with high risk, indicating potential hotspots for intervention and vector control. This study established a necessary baseline for the ongoing monitoring and improvement of the early warning system for all municipalities in the Vichada department. The integrative approach employed in this study highlights the importance of incorporating these methodologies into dengue epidemiological surveillance in endemic regions.
Role of adult attachment and spiritual attachment on meaning in life among religious minorities in Thailand: Insights for mental health promotion Wongratanamajcha, Suriwong; DeMaranville, Justin; Wongpakaran, Tinakon; Permsuwan, Unchalee; Worland, Shirley
Narra J Vol. 5 No. 3 (2025): December 2025
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narra.v5i3.2958

Abstract

Attachment theory suggests that secure relationships are foundational to meaning in life, but less is known about the role of spiritual attachment, especially among religious minorities. This study examined whether attachment to God mediates the relationship between insecure human attachment and the presence of meaning in life among Thai Protestant Christians. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with Thai Protestant Christians, assessing insecure human attachment (avoidant and anxious), attachment to God, and the presence of meaning in life using validated self-report measures. Mediation analysis was used to test the indirect effect of insecure attachment on meaning via attachment to God. The results showed that attachment to God fully mediated the negative relationship between insecure human attachment and the presence of meaning in life. Participants with higher insecure attachment reported lower meaning in life, but those with a secure attachment to God did not display this deficit. Attachment to God serves as a central psychological resource, a positive figure for humans, and enhances meaning in life, particularly in the minority context of Thai Protestant Christians. These findings highlight the importance of spiritual interventions for individuals experiencing relational or social marginalization.