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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
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.
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 infesting Indonesian mangrove crabs (Scylla serrata): A study in Banda Aceh, Indonesia 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 is in the Mangrove Area of ​​Deah Raya Village, Syiah Kuala District, Banda Aceh, Indonesia. 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 damage the body organs of mud crabs. Therefore, this research was conducted to determine the level of intensity and prevalence of ectoparasites in mud crabs (S. 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. Thirty crabs (S. serrata) were randomly sampled from the mangrove area in ​​Deah Raya Village, Syiah Kuala District, and observed for the presence of ectoparasites. The observations revealed that the crabs were infested by ectoparasites from the protozoa phylum (such as Zoothamnium sp., Epistylis sp., and Vorticella sp.) and from the arthropod phylum (Octolasmis sp.). Infestation by Zoothamnium sp. was found as the most prevalent (n=15, 50%), followed by Epistylis sp. (n=6, 20%), Vorticella sp (n=3, 10%), and Octolasmis sp (n=3, 10%). The infestation intensity for Zoothamnium was 7.5 individuals per crab, Epistylis sp. 5.0 individuals per crab, Vorticella sp. 2 individuals per crab, and Octolasmis sp. 1 individual per crab. Considering the high prevalence and intensity of Zoothamnium sp. in the mangrove crabs, the mitigating efforts can be focused on this ectoparasite.
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 (SE): 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. It is 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 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 the matrix effects from bentonite and zeolite have significant influence on the intensity and clarity of Pb emission lines. Matrix effects on bentonite indicated a stronger influence on Pb detection compare to zeolite. It mainly due to the presence of Fe and Ti, which is 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 obvious. These matrix effects-derived interreferences can be associated with the physical and chemical properties of the adsorbents. 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.