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Contact Name
Muhammad Iqhrammullah
Contact Email
m.iqhram@narraj.org
Phone
+62895600103052
Journal Mail Official
m.iqhram@narraj.org
Editorial Address
Jl. T. Tanoeh Abee, Durussalam, 23111, Banda Aceh
Location
Kota banda aceh,
Aceh
INDONESIA
Narra X
ISSN : -     EISSN : 29882990     DOI : DOI: https://doi.org/10.52225/narrax
Core Subject : Health, Science,
Narra X is a multidisciplinary journal, published three times in a year (April, August, and December). The journal aims to act as a platform for rapid scientific communication while upholding the highest integrity. Articles are published in a form of Original articles, Short Report, Case Reports, Methods articles, Review articles, and Letters to the Editor. All submitted articles are subjected to peer-review prior to their publication. As a multidisciplinary journal, Narra X welcomes articles from any subject field, depending on the editorial capacity. At the moment, Narra X is handled by section editors in the following fields: Health and medicine Chemistry Biology Mathematics Physics Narra X is online only journal and all articles do not have page numbers; instead, they are given a unique article number.
Arjuna Subject : -
Articles 90 Documents
Metal oxide/chitosan composite for organic pollutants removal: A comprehensive review with bibliometric analysis Khairunnas Ahmad; Williams Chiari
Narra X Vol. 1 No. 2 (2023): August 2023
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v1i2.91

Abstract

Organic pollutants are now a global concern because of their rapid increase following the rapid industrial growth. In tackling this problem, researchers have used chitosan that could act as adsorbing material. However, chitosan use in wastewater treatment requires further modification owing to its drawbacks of being susceptible to acidic environment and mechanically weak. Of many modifying approaches, metal-oxide embedment is perceived as promising because not only does it improve the chemical and physical properties of chitosan, but it also adds new features to the material such as being magnetic or photocatalytic. This present review describes the modification of chitosan through metal oxide embedment aiming to its utility in organic waste removal. Firstly, the definition of chitosan and the progress of its application in wastewater treatment are presented. Types of metal oxides, namely photocatalyst and magnetic iron oxide are also discussed. Embedment of metal oxides into chitosan could be done using methods such as sol-gel, high-energy ball milling, and spray-drying, where they affect the chemical and physical properties of the produced metal oxide/chitosan composites. Reported studies suggest a high percentage of organic pollutant removal, up to 100%. In addition to its removal ability, metal oxide/chitosan is also proven to be environmentally friendly and economical.
Acceptance, safety, and impact on quality of life of exergame for elderly patients with neurodegenerative diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis Tsurayya, Ghina; Duta, Teuku F.; Naufal, Muhammad A.; Alina, Meulu; Isitua, Chinwe C.; Ohanu, Ernest C.
Narra X Vol. 1 No. 3 (2023): December 2023
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v1i3.94

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy, safety, adherence, and acceptance of exergame in improving the quality of life (QoL) among elderly patients with neurodegenerative diseases. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase and Scopus for relevant studies up to 16 March 2023. Quality of the included studies were assessed using Cochrane’s Risk of Bias tool version 2.0. Meta-analysis using a random effect was conducted on outcomes reported at least by two studies to calculate the standard mean difference (SMD) and its 95% confidence interval (CI). The difference of influence between exergame and conventional therapy was judged based on Z- and p-values. Heterogeneity was determined by I2 score. As many as 15 studies were included (n=466 participants) published between 2013–2023. Nine studies had ‘high quality’ five studies had ‘some concerns’, and one had ‘high risk’. Results from meta-analyses suggests that the exergame does significantly not improve the QoL among patients with Parkinson’s diseases. Similarly, no statistically significant difference (p>0.05) of QoL improvement among Alzheimer’s disease patients receiving exergame intervention. No adverse effects were reported to be associated with the intervention, and in fact, the patients experienced reduced fatigue and fear of falling. Patients in intervention group showed high acceptance and adherence to the therapy, which could be attributed to exergame being enjoyable, easy-to-use, and motivational. In conclusion, despite exergame being highly acceptable and relatively safe, the intervention does not improve the QoL of the elderly patients.
Biochemical and Fe-resistant characteristics of indigene bacteria from a high iron concentration landfill in Indonesia Saputri, Purwati; Harahap, Diannita; Lubis , Syafrina S; Ilhami, Syarifa
Narra X Vol. 1 No. 3 (2023): December 2023
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v1i3.95

Abstract

Bacteria isolated from leachate with high heavy metal concentration mostly have potential for bioremediation. The aim of this study was to isolate bacteria from leachate of a landfill containing high concentration of Fe. The leachate sample was collected from Gampong Jawa Landfill, Aceh, Indonesia and used to isolate the bacteria by spread method. The purification of the isolates was carried out through four quadrant plate method. Pure isolates were characterized based on the microscopic or macroscopic appearance and biochemical tests. Fe-resistance was tested by disc diffusion method and constructing the growth curve based on the optical density of broth culture media. A total of 27 pure isolates were obtained and identified, representing eight different genera: Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Neisseria, Micrococcus, Staphylococcus, Proteus, Acinetobacter, and Escherichia. Of eight isolates (each genus was represented by a single isolate), Pseudomonas sp. and Bacillus sp. were considered resistant to Fe exposure (15 ppm) with inhibition zones of 1.00 and 0.81 mm, respectively. At Fe concentration of 20 ppm the inhibition zones exceeded 1 mm, but Bacillus sp. had smaller inhibition zone than that of Pseudomonas sp. (1.15 mm versus 2.86 mm). Growth inhibition of Bacillus sp. was concentration-dependent on Fe exposure but could survive at Fe exposure up to 20 ppm. In conclusion, Bacillus sp. had a resistance against Fe exposure and its bioremediation potential is subjected for future studies.
Vitamin D supplementation improves foot ulcers among diabetic patients: Pooled analysis of randomized controlled trials Putra, Muhammad IA.; Gusti , Naufal; Duta, Teuku F.; Alina, Meulu; Qanita, Intan; Naufal, Muhammad A.; Henira, Najlaika; Tsurayya, Ghina; Amirah, Shakira
Narra X Vol. 1 No. 3 (2023): December 2023
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v1i3.104

Abstract

Serum vitamin D level is associated with the development of diabetic foot ulcer (DFU), and it is intriguing to determine if the vitamin supplementation could reverse the diabetic complication. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in DFU management through qualitative and quantitative systematic review. A systematic search was conducted to screen the records identified in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Scillit, Sci-Finder, LILACS, EuropePMC, medRxiv, bioRvix, Google Scholar, Semantic Scholar, and Garuda databases as of 10 March 2023. Studies investigating the efficacy of a single dose supplementation of vitamin D in DFU management were included. Quality of the included studies was appraised by Cochrane ‘Risk of Bias’ 2.0. Random-effects-based pooled analysis using Cohen’s d was performed on the wound healing progress as the primary outcome. A sensitivity test with leave-one-out method and meta-regression were also conducted to analyze the effect of heterogenous data. Five studies with a total of 245 patients (123 versus 122 for experimental and control groups, respectively) were finally included in the qualitative and quantitative analysis. The pooled estimate suggested that administering vitamin D to DFU patients could reduce the wound area or depth significantly as compared to control group (p<0.001; Cohen’s d: 2.72; 95% CI: 1.02 to 4.42). The value remained positive throughout the leave-one-out analysis. Vitamin D supplementation significantly contributed to the increased level of serum vitamin D (p=0.026, Cohen’s d: -0.719; 95% CI: -1.35 to -0.09). Elevation of high-density lipoprotein was observed in pooled estimate with p=0.016 and Cohen’d: 1.34 (95% CI: 0.25 to 2.44). Qualitatively, significant reduction of HbA1C, total cholesterol, and C-reactive protein were reported in at least two trials. Significantly improved quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) and decreased malondialdehyde, fructosamine, and fasting blood glucose were reported in at least one trial each. There were conflicting results on the change of low-density lipoprotein level. This study highlights that vitamin D supplementation promotes wound healing process among DFU patients; however, it is too premature to draw solid conclusions as the efficacy could be affected by multiple factors. Therefore, clinical trials from various demographics and ethnicities by using a high- versus low-dose model are needed.
Willingness-to-pay for urban green space: A meta-analysis of surveys across China Wikurendra, Edza A.; Aulia, Aulia; Fauzi, Muhammad L.; Fahmi, Iqbal; Amri, Ikhwan
Narra X Vol. 1 No. 3 (2023): December 2023
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v1i3.105

Abstract

Sustainable ecosystem services are increasingly recognized amid rapid regional transformation. While the rate of urbanization in China continues to rise, there is an urgent need to evaluate public preferences and their associated economic values concerning urban green space (UGS). The aim of this study was to calculate the overall willingness-to-pay (WTP) for UGS across China. Literature search was performed systematically on Scopus, Scilit, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases on 11 November 2023. Studies reporting the WTP in China were included in the analysis. Quality of the included studies were appraised by using Q-SSP tool consisting of 20-item quality of survey studies in psychology. To calculate the overall willing to pay rate and WTP, a meta-analysis was performed using restricted maximum-likelihood model on raw proportions. A total of nine studies were included comprised of 9381 valid responses with high quality according to Q-SSP (score: 70–90%). Findings from the meta-analysis indicated that the rate of willing to pay for UGS was 70.8% (95%CI: 60%, 82%; p-Het<0.001, I2= 99.37%). The rate was not affected by sample size, age, gender, and education (p>0.05). Among mainland Chinese population alone, the average minimum WTP was 2.97 USD/month, and increased to 3.36 USD/month if combined with Hong Kong population. A majority of over 70% Chinese population were willing to pay for UGS. Nevertheless, high heterogeneity in the pooled estimates suggest the importance of addressing contextual variables and presence of regional disparities.
Trends in publication and collaboration of health-themed systematic reviews before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: A bibliometric study Chiari, Williams; Amirah, Shakira; Lemu, Yohannes K.; Subbaram, Kannan; Edwards, Robert J.; Kretchy, James-Paul; Vento, Sandro; Khader, Yousef; Rademaker, Marius
Narra X Vol. 2 No. 1 (2024): April 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v2i1.106

Abstract

The presence of global threats such as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic could potentially affect the research landscape, particularly that of systematic reviews. The aim of this study was to examine disparities between countries and the role of funding availability in the publication of health-themed systematic reviews. Metadata of published literature was collected from the Scopus database as of June 30, 2023. The dataset was divided into ‘pre-COVID-19 (2017–2019)’ and ‘during COVID-19 (2020–2022)’ by utilizing filter feature of the Scopus search engine. Network visualization of co-authorship was carried out on VoSviewer to identify collaborative patterns between countries. Our results suggest that most of the systematic reviews were published by authors from the United States of America (USA), both in pre-COVID-19 (n=29,463; Total link strength, TLS=32,832) and during COVID-19 (n=35,520; TLS=45,616). During COVID-19, the trend was not much different with the USA (14.6%), the UK (8.8%), and Australia (5%) in the top position among high-income countries. China (12.3%) and Iran (2.4%) topped the upper-middle-income and low-income countries groups. Publications by those who were from low-income countries were in a concerning low number; Ethiopia ranked first in this group only occupied 0.4% of the total publications (n=1,047). Furthermore, the number of publications was proportional to the number of funded studies (as observed in the top countries). However, during COVID-19 pandemic, the proportionality between funded publications and total publications was observed less. Taken altogether, our findings stress the importance of capacity building and providing more funds for on-desk research to close the disparity among countries.
Soya-maize-sorghum ready-to-use therapeutic food (SMS-RUTF) for the management of severe acute malnutrition among children: A systematic review and meta-analysis Tsurayya, Ghina; Nazhifah, Cut A.; Pirwanja, Muhammad R.; Lemu, Yohannes K.
Narra X Vol. 1 No. 3 (2023): December 2023
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v1i3.111

Abstract

In managing severe acute malnutrition (SAM) among children, the World Health Organization has endorsed the use of ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTF), especially the peanut and milk-based (PM-RUTF), which has been proven for its efficacy. Unfortunately, the distribution of PM-RUTF is challenged by high financial cost and reliance on imports for milk and peanuts. Researchers explore the Soy-Maize-Sorghum (SMS)-RUTF as the alternative, in which the formulation has two types; milk-free soya-maize-sorghum (FSMS)-RUTF and low milk content SMS (MSMS)-RUTF. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and acceptance of SMS-RUTFs in the management of SAM among children as compared with PM-RUTF. Eligible studies were searched through PubMed, Scopus, and Embase up to July 14, 2023. Studies reporting the effects of SMS-RUTF, FSMS-RUTF, or MSMS-RUTF intake on SAM with PM-RUTF as the control were considered eligible. The included randomized controlled trials were then assessed for the risk of bias using Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0. Odds Ratio (OR) and mean difference (MD) were calculated using a random-effects meta-analysis. The analysis focused on investigating the recovery, mortality, weight gain, and hemoglobin levels. Five randomized controlled trials involving a total of 5,513 children were incorporated in this review. Of which, four studies were included in the statistical analysis. Those receiving SMS-RUTF was 0.77 times less likely to recover from SAM as compared to control (95% CI: 0.66–0.90, p<0.01). The SMS-RUTF group had 1 kg lower weight gain as compared to control (95% CI: -1.25–0.75, p<0.01). However, the SMS-RUTF group had significantly higher increase of hemoglobin level than control (MD: 0.80 g/dL [95% CI: 0.68–0.93], p<0.01). Adverse effects were observed similar in both SMS-RUFT and control groups. SMS-RUFT received low acceptance from the participants suspected to be caused by poor packaging. In conclusion, SMS-RUTF is less effective than PM-RUTF in managing SAM among children but can be used to improve anemia as indicated by increased hemoglobin levels.
Targeting phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase enzyme using ginger compounds to suppress thyroid cancer progression Rahman, Faris I.; Zulfa, Putri O.; Beočanin, Anđelija; Faisal, Ibraheem M.; Louca, Nicolas; Carstoiu, Maria I.; Zufry, Hendra
Narra X Vol. 2 No. 1 (2024): April 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v2i1.112

Abstract

Recent studies have recognized the potential of inhibiting phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase (PHGDH) enzyme as a therapeutic strategy for treating papillary thyroid cancer. However, research on the efficacy of herbal compounds in inhibiting the PHGDH enzyme that have been reported to possess anticancer activities, including those found in ginger (Zingiber officinale), remains limited. The aim of this study was to examine the potential of ginger compounds in inhibiting PHGDH enzyme and to identify its potential use in the treatment of papillary thyroid cancer. The study employed computational methods to identify ginger-derived compounds that inhibit the PHGDH and impede papillary thyroid cancer progression. Crystallized protein structures were obtained from the Protein Data Bank, and Discovery Studio software was utilized to remove water molecules, double chains, and ligands. The receptor was modified by adding polar hydrogen, and AutodockTools4 software was employed to establish an accurate binding site based on the position of the previous ligand. Molecular docking experiments were conducted with 125 ginger-derived phytochemicals retrieved from the PubChem database. The results revealed nine active compounds found in ginger (galanolactone, myricetin, quercetin, cyanin, kaempferol, chlorogenic acid, delphinidin, alpha-cadinol, and curcumin) with strong binding affinities to PHGDH (minimum score threshold <-7 kcal/mol), indicating their potential for drug development. Galanolactone, myricetin, and quercetin were the top three compounds with the strongest binding affinity (-8.2, -7.9, and -7.9 kcal/mol, respectively), involving multiple bonds in the ligand-protein complex interaction. Notably, myricetin and quercetin formed three hydrogen bonds each, contributing to strong and stable bonds with the pocket region of PHGDH. In conclusion, ginger-derived compounds show promise in inhibiting PHGDH for the treatment of papillary thyroid cancer. However, further research is needed to validate the efficacy of these compounds and their interactions with the PHGDH in the context of thyroid cancer therapy.
Can smartphone-based diabetes control apps improve cardiovascular risk among patients with diabetes? A systematic review and meta-analysis Refin, Randa Y.; Andika, Fina F.; Abudurrahman, Muhammad F.; Maidar, Maidar; Yufika, Amanda; Mulya, Intan C.; Parperis, Konstantinos; Abdeen, Ziad
Narra X Vol. 2 No. 1 (2024): April 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v2i1.123

Abstract

Despite being the most prevalent complication, cardiovascular risk factors such as blood pressure, weight, and lipid profile have been less considered in digital health studies. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to gather evidence regarding the impact of digital health applications on cardiovascular risk factors in patients with diabetes. Literature search was conducted following the PRISMA guideline on September 4, 2023, using databases including PubMed, Scilit, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science, with a pre-planned combination of keywords. Selected studies were original research reporting the influence of smartphone applications on cardiovascular risk factors in diabetic patients. Standardized mean differences (SMD) between the intervention and control groups were analyzed using fixed or random-effects models. Eighteen studies met the criteria, consisting of 1152 patients in the intervention group and 1072 patients in the control group. The results of the meta-analysis showed that the smartphone applications significantly controlled systolic blood pressure (SMD: -5.03 mmHg; 95%CI: -7.018, -3.041, p<0.001). There was no significance effect on weight, body mass index, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) and diastolic blood pressure. In the subgroup analysis, triglycerides were lower in the intervention group compared to the control group (SMD: -0.459%; 95%CI: -0.787, -0.132, p=0.006). Publication bias and the limited number of studies suggest that the evidence from this study is in moderate level. In conclusion, smartphone apps are not only effective in aiding blood sugar control but also in preventing cardiovascular issues in diabetic patients. Further research is still needed to confirm these findings.
Efficacy of acetazolamide and loop diuretics combinatorial therapy in congestive heart failure: A meta-analysis Duta , Teuku F.; Zulfa , Putri O.; Alina, Meulu; Henira, Najlaika; Tsurayya, Ghina; Fakri, Fajar; Acharya, Yogesh
Narra X Vol. 2 No. 1 (2024): April 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v2i1.124

Abstract

Acetazolamide, one of the carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, has been known to improve the efficacy of diuretic therapy in patients with in congestion heart failure. The aim this study was to investigate the effectiveness of acetazolamide when combined with loop diuretics in ameliorating diuresis and natriuresis in congestive heart failure using systematic review and meta-analysis. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies were searched on PubMed, Scopus, and Embase on March 7, 2023, by using combinations of ‘acetazolamide’, ‘heart failure’ and along with their respective synonyms. The protocol had been registered on PROSPERO (CRD42023409864). The studies must investigate the effect of oral acetazolamide as the add-on to loop diuretic therapy to be included. Successful decongestion, natriuresis, and diuresis were set as the primary outcomes. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for RCTs and Newcastle Ottawa Scale for observational studies. We identified 1176 titles in the initial search, and further reduced to five studies (three RCTs and two cohort studies) after in-depth screening. A total of 625 patients were recruited in the included studies published from 2015 to 2022. Results from meta-analysis revealed that acetazolamide and loop diuretics combination therapy ameliorated natriuresis (n=4; standardized means difference (SMD)=0.65; 95%CI: 0.07–1.24; p=0.03) and diuresis (n=2; SMD=0.29; 95%CI: 0.12–0.46; p=0.0009) when compared to loop diuretics alone. Acetazolamide and loop diuretics combinatorial therapy is efficacious in alleviating congestion in heart failure patients.