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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
Antagonistic activity of Trichoderma sp. against pathogens in the leaves of Allium ascalonicum L. Maulana, Indra; Lubis, Syafrina S.; Harahap, Diannita; Arskadius, Nasyaya U.; Concepcion, Ronnie S.
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.v2i1.125

Abstract

Pathogenic fungi pose constraints and reduce shallot production. Trichoderma sp. is an antagonistic fungus capable of controlling pathogen growth in shallots. The aim of this study was to determine the characteristics of Trichoderma sp. and pathogens in shallots and to assess the antagonistic ability of Trichoderma sp. against shallot pathogens (Allium ascalonicum L.). Trichoderma sp. and shallot pathogens were isolated using a serial dilution agar plate method using potato dextrose agar medium with 7-day incubation. The antagonistic activity of Trichoderma sp. against shallot pathogens was evaluated based on the dual culture method. In this study, we successfully isolated Trichoderma harzianum from the shallot leaf and its root systems. Moreover, four morphologically distinctive pathogens from shallot roots and leaves were successfully isolated (l Aspergillus sp., Colletotrichum sp., Phytium sp. and Penicillium sp. T. harzianum was found to have the ability to inhibit 23.45% growth of Aspergillus sp, 26.19% growth of Colletotrichum sp., 75.40% growth of Phytium sp., and 40.38% growth of Penicillium sp. In conclusion, the isolated T. harzianum had a strong antagonistic activity against some pathogens in the shallot, but the activity was weak against some others.
Intensity and Prevalence of Ectoparasites in Mangrove Crabs (Scylla serrata) Desa Deah Raya Village, Syiah Kuala University, Banda Aceh City Nisa, Nurian; Akbar, Said A.; Perdana, Adli W.; Aleid, Layan KM.; Wikurendra, Edza A.
Narra X Vol. 2 No. 2 (2024): August 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v2i2.151

Abstract

Mangrove crab (Scylla serrata) is a fishery commodity that has high economic value. The supply of mangrove crabs in Indonesia is still dominated by wild catches. One of the places to catch mangrove crabs in Banda Aceh City is the Mangrove Area of ​​Deah Raya Village, Syiah Kuala District. Mud crabs are very susceptible to infestation by pathogens in their environment. Pathogens that are often found infesting mud crabs are parasites. Ectoparasite attacks are very dangerous for mud crabs because they can cause damage to the body organs of mud crabs. Therefore, this research was conducted to determine the level of intensity and prevalence of ectoparasites in mud crabs (Scylla serrata) caught by fishermen in Deah Raya Village. This research uses a survey method with a purposive sampling method. Ectoparasite examination is carried out using the smear method. This research was conducted at the Hatchery Laboratory of the Faculty of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries in May 2024. Mangrove crabs (Scylla serrata) were studied by 30 individuals. The results of the observations found types of ectoparasites from the protozoa phylum, namely Zoothamnium sp, Epistylis sp, Vorticella sp, and from the arthropod phylum Octolasmis sp. The prevalence value of the type of ectoparasite that infests Scylla serrata is Zoothamnium sp (50%) infection "very often" Epistylis sp (20%) infection "often" Vorticella sp (10%) infection "often" Octolasmis sp (10%) infection "often" The intensity value of the type of ectoparasite that infests Scylla serrata is Zoothamnium sp. (7.5 ind/head) "Medium" infection Epistylis sp. (5 ind/head) "Low" infection Vorticella sp.(2ind/head) "Low" infection and Octolasmis sp.(1 ind/head) "Low" infection ”
Low-cost and easy-to-use light spectroscopy can be used to monitor release behavior of essential oils Maisurah, Syakirullah S.; Dandekar, Vikrant D.; Dhaliwal, Ishleen K.; Al-Gunaid, Hala T.
Narra X Vol. 2 No. 2 (2024): August 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v2i2.155

Abstract

Patchouli oil is considered a crucial ingredient for perfume, cosmetic, food and beverage manufacturing. Evaluating the volatility behavior of patchouli oil is important because it influences the aroma profile, quality, formulation, shelf life, therapeutic efficacy, and economic value of the oil. The aim of this study was to explore the ability of a low-cost and easy-to-use light-spectral triad sensor for the assessment of evaporation behavior of patchouli oil. We used a portable SparkFun Triad Spectroscopy Sensor comprised of three sensors including AS72651 (near-infrared range), AS72652 (visible range), and AS72653 (ultra-violet range). The sensor was connected to its Arduino-compatible microcontroller (SparkFun RedBoard) through Qwiic Connect System. The sensor's onboard microcontroller facilitated the collection of spectral data across 18 channels, encompassing wavelengths from 410 nm to 940 nm. The spectral data were observed qualitatively to determine the most optimum wavelength for analyzing the evaporation behavior. The data were modeled using AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA). Our findings revealed that the spectral intensity is distinguishable at λ=535 nm. The ARIMA modeling indicated that the crude essential oil follows an ARIMA (0,1,0) model with drift, characterized by a negative drift parameter of -1.35 (standard error=0.33; σ2=0.74). In contrast, the heavy fraction is best described by an ARIMA (0,0,0) model with a non-zero mean of 450.33 (SE=0.35; σ2=0.86). Ljung-Box test suggested the absence of significant autocorrelation for both crude (p=0.33) and heavy fraction patchouli oil (p=0.5). In conclusion, the light spectroscopy is potential for monitoring the evaporation behavior of patchouli oil, though optimization remains necessary.
Fabrication and characterization of SiO2-embedded castor oil-based membrane (Ricinus communis L) for aqueous Fe adsorption Nisah, Khairun; Khairi, Miratul; Sukandar , Redha; Nuzlia, Cut; Nasution, Reni S.; Ilhami, Syarifa; Chiari, Williams
Narra X Vol. 2 No. 2 (2024): August 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v2i2.158

Abstract

Castor seed oil (Ricinus communis L) can be utilized for the manufacturing of membranes reacted with toluene diisocyanate (TDI). The aim of this study was to examine the effect and membrane characteristics of castor seed oil with a combination of silica used as an adsorbent, with a combination of silica (SiO2) 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.5 mg, and 2 mg. The initial analysis of the membrane was carried out with a swelling test of 1.5 mg of silica variation to obtain the most ideal result of 200%. The best chemical resistance characterization occurred at a variation of 1.5 mg of silica. Further characterization, particularly the FTIR test, thermal test, mechanical test, and SEM test, showed that there were Si-O groups and amine groups (NH2), and on the membrane there were groups OH, C=O, and NH. The thermal characterization of the silica membrane (1.5 mg) gave the greatest residue concentration, measuring 3.2%. In mechanical terms, the silica membrane has a higher elongation value than the membrane. In SEM characterization, the silica membrane has holes and is solid. This study indicated that the highest drop in Fe metal occurred at an immersion period of 6 hours with a combination of silica with a flux value of 9.25 L/m2 hour and a rejection value of 0.098%.
Novel approach of determining the best absorbent for the quantification of aqueous analyte using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS): Zeolite versus bentonite Ahmad, Khairunnas; Prasetyo, Siswoyo; Zaitun, Zaitun; Hajashafira, Ceudah
Narra X Vol. 2 No. 2 (2024): August 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v2i2.159

Abstract

Heavy metal pollution, particularly from sources like lead (Pb), poses significant risks to human health and the environment. Monitoring heavy metal contamination is essential, and Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) is a promising technique for this purpose. However, matrix effects, particularly from adsorbent materials like zeolite and bentonite, can influence the accuracy of LIBS measurements. This study aims to investigate the matrix effects of zeolite and bentonite on the measurement of Pb using LIBS, focusing on how the physical and chemical properties of these materials impact the detection of Pb emission lines. Zeolite and bentonite samples were prepared by grinding and sieving to obtain powders with particle sizes less than 74 µm. These powders were then mixed with varying weights of lead nitrate (Pb(NO3)2) and pelletized to create uniform samples. The pellets were analyzed using LIBS, employing a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. The emitted plasma light was collected and transmitted to a spectrometer equipped with an intensified charge-coupled device (ICCD) camera. The spectral data were accumulated over 10 laser shots to ensure accuracy in detecting the elemental composition. The study found that the matrix effects from bentonite and zeolite significantly influenced the intensity and clarity of Pb emission lines. Bentonite showed a stronger influence on Pb detection, particularly due to the presence of Fe and Ti, which affected the Pb I lines at 405.8 nm and 368.3 nm. In contrast, zeolite exhibited fewer interferences, but the matrix effect was still evident. The matrix effects of zeolite and bentonite, derived from their physical and chemical properties, significantly impact Pb measurements using LIBS. Further research into different adsorbents and their matrix effects is warranted to improve the accuracy of LIBS in heavy metal analysis.
Relationship between urinary bisphenol A and age at menarche among adolescent girls: A study in Sumatera Utara Province, Indonesia Putri, Vriancha A.; Arto , Karina S.; Lubis , Aridamuriany D.; Dangana, Amos; Chiu, Yao-Hsuan
Narra X Vol. 2 No. 2 (2024): August 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v2i2.161

Abstract

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine-disrupting chemical widely used in various consumer products. Due to its estrogenic properties, BPA exposure is suspected to influence reproductive development, particularly the timing of menarche in adolescent girls. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between urinary BPA levels and the age at menarche among adolescent girls in Sumatera Utara Province, Indonesia. A cross-sectional study was conducted in January 2023 involving 30 adolescent girls aged 9–14 years attending junior high school in Sumatera Utara. Data on age, body weight, height, and body mass index (BMI) were collected. Urinary BPA levels were detected using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The Mann-Whitney U test was employed to determine the association between BPA detection and age at menarche. BPA was detected in the urine of 3 out of 30 participants. The median age at menarche for girls with detectable BPA was 11 years, while those without detectable BPA had a median age of 11 (ranging from 10 to 12 years). The difference in age at menarche between the two groups was not statistically significant (p=0.646). In conclusion, this study did not find a significant association between urinary BPA levels and the timing of menarche among adolescent girls in Sumatera Utara Province. Further research with a larger sample size and consideration of additional confounding factors is recommended to better understand the potential impact of BPA on pubertal development.
Hydroxyurea therapy for children with sickle cell anemia: A systematic review and meta-analysis Khansa, Firyal; Ghifari, Muhammad H.; Daffa, Muhammad B.; Nasywa, Fiola; Enitan, Seyi S.; Eleojo , Itodo G.; Ali, Mazen EI.
Narra X Vol. 2 No. 2 (2024): August 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v2i2.164

Abstract

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a major global health issue, particularly among pediatric population, influenced by factors such as malaria susceptibility and genetic distribution. On the other hand, hydroxyurea therapy has been a well-established and accepted treatment for SCA, with over 25 years of clinical experience. It has been proven to be safe and effective in preventing vaso-occlusive events and chronic organ damage. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of hydroxyurea in alleviating pediatric SCA. This study was comprised of a systematic literature search and meta-analysis in accordance with the PRISMA and the Cochrane Handbook guidelines. A systematic search was performed on PubMed, Cochrane, and ScienceDirect databases for relevant literature published as of January 2024. Placebo-controlled clinical trials reporting the efficacy of hydroxyurea in managing SCA among pediatric patients were included in the systematic review. The eligible studies were further assessed for its reporting quality using Risk of Bias 2.0. Pooled analysis was carried out using a random effect model, where the effect size was calculated based on the mean difference (MD) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI). Three randomized clinical trials comprised of 423 participants were included in the studies. Among patients receiving hydroxyurea, significant improvement was observed in fetal hemoglobin (HbF) with MD of 9.45% (95%CI: 2.15–16.75), but not in mean corpuscular volume (MCV) (MD=8.77 fL (95%CI: -28.85–46.39). Hydroxyurea also significantly reduced white blood cell (WBC) (MD=-4.21 cells/mm3; 95%CI: -5.68–-2.93), absolute neutrophil count (ANC) (MD=-1.43 cells/mm3; 95%CI: -2.11–-0.74), absolute reticulocyte count (ARC) (MD=-141.85 cells/mm3; 95%CI; -172.77–-110.94), and platelet count (MD=-74.92 cells/mm3; 95%CI: -117.05–-32.78). In conclusion, hydroxyurea is efficacious in treating pediatric SCA, as observed in the HbF, WBC, ANC, ARC, and platelet count.
Factors associated with feeding problems in children with cerebral palsy: A cross-sectional study from Indonesia Maulidia, Dwi S.; Sembiring, Tiangsa; Dimyati, Yazid; Tanjung, Ika CD.; Wahyuni, Arlinda S.; Pratita, Winra; Nasution, Halida R.; Alharbi, Olayan; Pasaribu, Ayodhia P.
Narra X Vol. 2 No. 3 (2024): December 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v2i3.163

Abstract

Children with cerebral palsy are at high risk for feeding difficulties and malnutrition due to motor impairments and associated conditions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and types of feeding problems and their association with malnutrition in children with cerebral palsy. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 54 children under five years old with cerebral palsy. Participants were classified into spastic cerebral palsy subtypes such as quadriplegic, hemiplegic, diplegic, or triplegic. Feeding problems were categorized as inappropriate feeding practices, reduced food intake, parental misperception, and food preferences using the Pediatric Symptom Checklist-17. Nutritional status was assessed using weight-for-age percentiles based on WHO growth charts. History of constipation and dysphagia were also recorded. Data analysis included Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests. Among the participants, 38.9% had hemiplegia, 33.3% diplegia, and 25.9% quadriplegia. Feeding problems were prevalent, with inappropriate feeding practices being the most common (70.4%). Malnutrition was identified in 59.3% of the children. However, no significant associations were observed between CP subtype or demographic variables and the types of feeding problems. Similarly, the type of feeding problem was not significantly associated with malnutrition. Constipation and dysphagia were reported in 31.5% and 37.0% of participants, respectively, and were significantly associated with nutritional status (p<0.001). In conclusion, feeding problems and malnutrition are common in children with cerebral palsy, with inappropriate feeding practices being the most prevalent issue. Although no significant associations were found between CP subtypes or the types of feeding problems and malnutrition, the findings emphasize the multifactorial nature of feeding challenges.
Association of functional levels and serum vitamin D among children with cerebral palsy Yusnita, Afni; Saing, Johannes H.; Hobani, Alhassan H.; Aziz, Abdul; Nasution, Badai B.
Narra X Vol. 2 No. 3 (2024): December 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v2i3.167

Abstract

Children with cerebral palsy are more susceptible to deficiency of vitamin D due to less sunlight exposure, poor dietary intake, and long-term use of anti-epileptic drugs, which disrupt their metabolism, resulting in changes in bone mineral density, osteopenia, and rickets. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between gross motor functional levels and vitamin D status in cerebral palsy children. A cross-sectional study was conducted among cerebral palsy patients aged 2–6 years at Haji Adam Malik Hospital, Medan, Indonesia, from November 2022 to April 2023. The levels of the gross motor function classification system (GMFCS) were classified into two groups: ambulatory (GMFCS I, II, III) and non-ambulatory (GMFCS IV, V). Vitamin D status was classified based on serum 25(OH)D levels as normal (30–100 ng/mL), insufficiency (21–29 ng/mL), and deficiency (<20 ng/mL). A total of 85 children with cerebral palsy were included in this study, categorized as ambulatory (n=28, 32.9%) and non-ambulatory (n=57, 67%). The mean serum vitamin D level was 21.92±9.07 ng/L. As many as 54.1% (n=46) of the total children were categorized as vitamin D deficient, followed by insufficient (n=25, 29.4%) and normal vitamin D level (n=14, 16.5%). Age (p=0.310), sex (p=0.590), nutritional status (p=0.269), and types of cerebral palsy (p=0.271) were not associated with vitamin D status. However, there was a significant association between GMFCS levels and circulating vitamin D levels (p<0.001). In a logistic regression model, children classified as ambulatory were more likely to have better vitamin D status, with odds ratios of 12.30 (95%CI: 3.61–41.90) for deficient versus insufficient and 10.93 (95%CI: 2.67–44.69) for deficient versus normal. In conclusion, there was a significant association between functional levels and vitamin D status among children with cerebral palsy.
Hypoxic mesenchymal stem cell secretome upregulates IL-10 and STAT3 gene expressions in mice model with polycystic ovary syndrome Lusiana, Lusiana; Darlan, Dewi M.; Trisnadi, Setyo; Putra, Agung; Amalina, Nur D.; Husain, Sofian A.
Narra X Vol. 2 No. 3 (2024): December 2024
Publisher : Narra Sains Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52225/narrax.v2i3.176

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition characterized by chronic anovulation and hyperandrogenism, which often leads to infertility. It is closely associated with chronic inflammation triggered by glucose and saturated fat, contributing to hyperandrogenism and negatively impacting a patient’s quality of life. Effective therapeutic approaches are essential to address these issues. The secretome of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have demonstrated the ability to suppress pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion and regulate growth factors. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of hypoxic mesenchymal stem cell secretome (MHSSCs) on the expression of interleukin-10 (IL-10) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) genes in a PCOS-induced mouse model. An in vivo experimental study was conducted using a post-test-only control group design. A total of 24 female C57BL/6 mice were divided into four groups: healthy control, negative control (PCOS mice injected with 0.9% NaCl), T1 (PCOS mice administered 200 μL of MHSSCs), and T2 (PCOS mice administered 400 μL of MHSSCs) for 33 days. Gene expression of IL-10 and STAT3 were quantified using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), normalized to the expression of the housekeeping β-actin gene. Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA followed by the least significant difference (LSD) post-hoc test was then performed. The results showed a significant increase in IL-10 expression in the T2 group compared to the negative control group (p<0.001). STAT3 expression was also significantly higher in the T2 group compared to the negative control group (p=0.035). A dose-dependent effect was observed, with the T2 group demonstrating the highest upregulation of both IL-10 and STAT3 expression levels. The study highlights that the administration of MHSSCs effectively increased IL-10 and STAT3 gene expression, suggesting their potential as a therapeutic strategy to alleviate inflammation in PCOS.