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Althea Medical Journal
ISSN : -     EISSN : 23374330     DOI : 10.15850/amj
Core Subject : Health,
Althea Medical Journal (AMJ) is a peer reviewed electronic scientific publication journal which is published every 3 months (March, June, September, and December). Althea Medical Journal publishes articles related to research in biomedical sciences, clinical medicine, family-community medicine, and public health.
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Articles 10 Documents
Search results for , issue "Vol 13, No 1 (2026)" : 10 Documents clear
Correlation between Nicotine Dependence and Cardiorespiratory Fitness within the Wellness Matrix Framework among University Students Ghafar, Muhammad Ikhsan Ghaifazzari; Lesmana, Ronny; Setiawan, Setiawan
Althea Medical Journal Vol 13, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v13n1.4505

Abstract

Background: The increasing use of tobacco and electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) among youth represents a significant public health concern. In Indonesia, nicotine use among university students may contribute to long-term health risks. This study evaluated the correlation between nicotine dependence, measured using the Hooked-on Nicotine Checklist (HONC), and cardiorespiratory fitness assessed through maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max) within the Wellness Matrix Framework.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 40 male undergraduate students aged 18–24 years at Universitas Padjadjaran who actively used cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or vape products. Participants were selected using purposive sampling. Nicotine dependence was assessed using a modified HONC questionnaire, whereas VO₂max was estimated using the YMCA 3-Minute Step Test. Descriptive statistics, the Shapiro-Wilk tests, and Pearson correlations analysis were applied (α=0.10).Results: Participants showed moderate nicotine dependence (mean HONC score: 5.6 ± 2.37) and moderate fitness (mean VO₂max: 44.31±3.86 mL/kg/min). A weak inverse correlation was found between HONC scores and VO₂Max (r=-0.275, p=0.085). Body mass index showed a strong negative correlation with VO₂max (r=-0.824, p<0.001). Subgroup analysis showed consistent negative trends between nicotine dependence and VO₂max across single, dual, and triple product users. Duration of nicotine use showed negligible correlation with VO₂max (r=0.041, p=0.802). Conclusion: Higher nicotine dependence is associated with lower cardiorespiratory fitness and affects multiple wellness dimensions. These findings underscore the importance of holistic interventions targeting physical and psychosocial wellness among young adults. 
Effects of Aloe Vera Extract on Basal Cell Thickness and Lymphocyte Infiltration at the Gastroesophageal Junction in a Rat Model of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Violita, Shella; Djuartina, Tena; Vetinly, Vetinly; Budianto, Iskandar Rahardjo
Althea Medical Journal Vol 13, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v13n1.4208

Abstract

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic gastrointestinal  disorder with increasing global prevalence. Aloe vera contains bioactive compounds with potential anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of Aloe vera extract in a Sprague-Dawley rat model of GERD.Methods: This experimental study included 32 male Sprague-Dawley rats randomly divided into eight groups: normal (N), negative control (NC), two positive controls receiving pantoprazole for 7 or 14 days (PCI and PCII), and four treatment groups receiving Aloe vera extract at doses of 250 or 500 mg/kg body weight for 7 or 14 days (DI–DIV). After treatment, the rats were euthanized and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) tissues were collected for histopathological analysis. Basal cell thickness and lymphocyte infiltration were assessed. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by post hoc testing.Results: Administration of Aloe vera extract at doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight significantly reduced basal cell thickness compared with the untreated GERD group (p<0.05). However, no significant reduction in lymphocyte infiltration  was observed (p>0.05).Conclusions: Aloe vera extract exhibits anti-inflammatory effects in GERD-induced rats by reducing basal cell thickness at the GEJ. These findings suggest its potential as a complementary therapeutic approach for GERD, although further studies are needed to evaluate long-term efficacy and safety.
Effects of Moderate-Intensity Treadmill Training on Cardiac Mitochondrial Mitophagy and Dynamics in Young and Aged Wistar Rats Gunadi, Julia Windi; Ramadhan, Difa Hidayat; Safira, Bernike Tirsa; Ramadhan, Andra Alifya; Wahyudianingsih, Roro; Limyati, Yenni; Goenawan, Hanna; Lesmana, Ronny
Althea Medical Journal Vol 13, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v13n1.4553

Abstract

Background: Cardiac aging is closely associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired quality control mechanism. Exercise has been shown to modulate mitochondrial homeostasis, however, its effects on cardiac mitophagy and mitochondrial dynamics during aging remain unclear. This study investigated the effects of moderate-intensity treadmill training on mitochondrial maintenance-related gene expression in the hearts of young and aged Wistar rats.Methods: Young and aged rats were divided into four groups: young control, young exercise, aged control, and aged exercise (n=6 per group). Exercise groups performed treadmill running at 20 m/min for 30 minutes/day, 5 days/week for 8 weeks. Cardiac gene expression levels of Pink1, Parkin, Mfn1, Mfn2, Opa1, Drp1, and Fis1 were analyzed using semi-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA or Kruskal–Wallis test followed by appropriate post hoc analyses.Results: Exercise significantly increased Mfn2 expression in aged exercise rats compared with aged controls (p=0.029), suggesting partial restoration of age-related decline. Expression of Mfn1 and Drp1 varied among groups but showed no significant pairwise differences. Expression levels of Opa1, Fis1, Pink1, and Parkin remained unchanged. These results indicate that moderate exercise selectively enhances mitochondrial fusion capacity while maintaining balanced fission and basal mitophagy activity.Conclusion: Moderate-intensity treadmill training promotes mitochondrial  fusion-related adaptation in aging cardiac tissue. Regular moderate exercise may represent a potential non-pharmacological strategy to support mitochondrial function and mitigate cardiovascular aging.  
Physical Activity Levels Based on Indonesian Population Characteristics: Evidence from the Indonesian Family Life Survey-5 Felicia, Givana; Kurniawan, Felicia; Astiarani, Yunisa; Kristian, Kevin; Santi, Bryany Titi
Althea Medical Journal Vol 13, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v13n1.4273

Abstract

Background:  According to the World Health Organization, approximately 80% of the global population is physically inactive. Sedentary behavior is a major contributor to the increasing risk of chronic diseases. This study aimed to describe physical activity levels among the Indonesian population and examine their associations with sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. Methods:  This cross-sectional study was conducted from March to November 2024 using secondary data from the Indonesian Family Life Survey-5 (IFLS-5). Variables analyzed included age, gender, ethnicity, marital status, body mass index (BMI), perceived health status, occupation, education level, residence, sleep quality, smoking status, and physical activity level. A total of 4,156 respondents were included. Associations between population characteristics and physical activity levels were examined using the chi-square test.Results:  Nearly half of the respondents engaged in light physical activity (47.8%), followed by moderate (28.0%) and vigorous physical activity (24.2%). Significant associations were found between physical activity levels and age (p=0.015), gender (p<0.001), ethnicity (p=0.006), occupation (p<0.001), education level (p<0.001), residence (p<0.001), sleep quality (p<0.001), and smoking status (p<0.001). Agricultural workers (46.7%) and individuals with severe sleep disturbances (40.0%) were more likely to engage in vigorous physical activity.Conclusion: Most Indonesians engage predominantly in light physical activity. Several sociodemographic and lifestyle factors are significantly associated with physical activity levels, underscoring the importance of promoting healthier and more active lifestyles. 
Early Metabolic Alterations and Predictors of Obesity Among Young Adults in Indonesia: Focus on Lipid Abnormalities and Cardiometabolic Risk Putri, Mirasari; Indrasari, Eva Rianti; Heriady, Yafma Femin Helta; Prawiradilaga, Rizky Suganda
Althea Medical Journal Vol 13, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v13n1.4378

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) is rising among young adults, contributing to early cardiometabolic risk amid lifestyle transitions in Indonesia. This study examined the associations between obesity, MetS components, and body composition among Indonesian young adults.Methods: A total of 99 participants were classified based on body mass index (BMI) into normoweight (n=51) and obese (n=48) groups. Anthropometric measurements, body composition, blood pressure, and lipid profiles were assessed. MetS was defined according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III) criteria. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors independently associated with obesity. Results: Obesity was significantly associated with several MetS components. Abdominal obesity was observed only in the obese group (33.3%). Hypertriglyceridemia and low HDL cholesterol were more prevalent among obese participants compared with normoweight individuals (27.1% vs. 5.9% and 51.0% vs. 31.4%, respectively). MetS (≥3 NCEP ATP III criteria) was identified in 12.5% of obese participants and was absent in the normoweight group. Multivariable analysis identified family history of hypertension (adjusted OR 2.82; 95% CI 1.06–7.48) and elevated triglyceride levels (adjusted OR 4.78; 95% CI 1.13–20.22) as independent predictors of obesity.Conclusions: Obese young adults exhibit early metabolic abnormality, particularly abdominal obesity, low HDL cholesterol, and hypertriglyceridemia. Early metabolic screening and targeted preventive strategies are important to reduce future cardiometabolic risk. 
Reduced Left Ventricular Global Longitudinal Strain in Obese Adolescents Febrianda, Rilda Dwi; Hafsah, Tisnasari; Rahayuningsih, Sri Endah; Hakim, Dzulfikar Djalil Lukamnul; Kuswiyanto, Rahmat Budi; Apandi, Putria Rayani; Gurnida, Dida Akhmad
Althea Medical Journal Vol 13, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v13n1.4342

Abstract

Background: Obesity in adolescents is associated with early cardiac structural and functional alterations that may progress to ventricular dysfunction later in life. Two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (2D STE) enables early identification of subclinical ventricular dysfunction. Nevertheless, its application in the adolescents remains limited. This study aimed to assess differences in left ventricular (LV) function among well-nourished, overweight, and obese adolescents using 2D STE.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adolescents aged 15–18 years from five senior high schools in Bandung, Indonesia between June and August 2023. Participants were randomly categorized into well-nourished, overweight, and obese groups. Transthoracic echocardiographic using M-mode and 2DSTE was performed to evaluate LV function, particularly global longitudinal strain (GLS). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS with significance defined as p<0.05.Results: Sixty adolescents were included, 65% were male with a mean age of 16.4±0.6 years. Conventional echocardiography showed no significant differences in systolic or diastolic function among groups. However, obese adolescents demonstrated significantly greater LV posterior wall thickness and larger LV and right ventricular basal volumes compared with other groups. GLS analysis revealed significantly reduced LV deformation in obese group compared with overweight and well-nourished groups (–20.0±1.9 vs. –22.3±1.4 vs. –22.7±1.9, respectively; p<0.001).Conclusion: Reduced LV GLS detected by 2D STE indicates early subclinical myocardial dysfunction in obese adolescents despite normal conventional echocardiographic findings. Early cardiovascular screening and lifestyle interventions, including balanced nutrition and regular physical activity, may help reduce future cardiometabolic risk.
Insomnia as a Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Disease Among Adults in Eastern Indonesia Heltty, Heltty; Firman, Firman; Elmukhsinur, Elmukhsinur; Zoharia, Wa Ode Aisya; Noviati, Noviati
Althea Medical Journal Vol 13, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v13n1.4420

Abstract

Background: Insomnia is a common sleep disorder with increasing prevalence among adults and has been linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study aimed to investigate the association between insomnia severity and CVD risk among adults.Methods: This correlational study with a cross-sectional design involved adults aged 30–59 years with insomnia. Participants were recruited using convenience sampling, at Kota Hospital and Bahteramas Hospital, Kendari, Indonesia, between November 2023 and April 2024. Insomnia severity was measured using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and CVD risk was assessed using the Framingham Risk Score. Data were analyzed using the Pearson chi-square and multinomial logistic regression analysis. Results: Of the 144 respondents, the majority were female (59.0%), aged >50 years (62.5%) with a mean age of 49.63±10.08 years. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) was the most common comorbidity (39.6%), and 57.6% were smokers. Most respondents had moderate insomnia (87%) and low CVD risk (66%). Severe insomnia was more frequently observed among participants with moderate and high CVD risk. A significant positive relationship was found between insomnia severity and CVD risk (p=0.000, r=0.669), with insomnia explaining 50.2% of the variance in CVD risk.Conclusion: Insomnia is significantly associated with cardiovascular risk and may represent a modifiable lifestyle-related risk factor. Improving sleep quality may contribute to healthier lifestyles and reduced CVD risk. 
Evaluation of Urinary hsa-miR-21-5p Expression as a Non-Invasive Biomarker for Prostate Cancer Mandariska, Resa Paksi; Rodliya, Adzka Fahma
Althea Medical Journal Vol 13, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v13n1.4388

Abstract

Background: Prostate cancer is one of the most common malignancies among men worldwide. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and prostate biopsy are commonly used for diagnosis. However, these methods may be invasive and can lead to delayed detection in some cases. This study aimed to evaluate the expression of hsa-miR-21-5p in urine samples from prostate cancer patients compared with healthy individuals to assess its potential as a non-invasive biomarker.Methods: This observational study used a cross-sectional design and was conducted in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, between October and December 2018. Expression profiling of hsa-miR-21-5p was performed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in urine samples obtained from 16 prostate cancer patients and four healthy controls. Relative expression levels were analyzed using GenEx software and calculated using the Livak (2^−ΔΔCt) method.Results: A slight decrease in hsa-miR-21-5p expression was observed in  urine samples from prostate cancer patients compared with healthy controls (fold change=0.7; p>0.05).Conclusion: Expression of hsa-miR-21-5p shows a tendency toward downregulation in urine samples of prostate cancer patients, however, no statistically significant difference is identified. Further studies with larger sample sizes are required to clarify its potential role as a non-invasive biomarker for  prostate cancer detection. 
Relationship between Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels and Cardiovascular Disease Risk among Road Sanitations Workers Wartono, Magdalena; Samara, Tjam Diana; Kosasih, Adrianus; Mediana, Dian
Althea Medical Journal Vol 13, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v13n1.4570

Abstract

Background: Road sanitation workers are frequently exposed to sunlight during outdoor work, which may influence vitamin D status. Although several studies suggest that outdoor workers have a lower risk of vitamin D deficiency than indoor workers, evidence regarding the association between 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25-(OH)D] levels and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk among sanitation workers remains limited. This study aimed to examine the relationship between serum 25(OH)D levels and CVD risk among road sanitation workers. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study included 105 road sanitation workers in West Cengkareng District, Jakarta, Indonesia selected using consecutive random. The 10-year cardiovascular risk was calculated using the World Health Organization/International Society of Hypertension (WHO/ISH) risk charts. Serum 25-(OH)D levels were measured from peripheral venous blood samples. Data were analyzed using the chi-Square test and Fisher's exact test, with statistical significance defined as p<0.05.Results: Vitamin D deficiency was observed in 59.05% of participants, whereas 85.7% had low-to-moderate CVD risk.  No significant association was found between 25(OH)D levels and CVD risk (p=0.582). However, significant associations were identified between age (p=0.001), body mass index (p=0.003), blood pressure (p=0.037), smoking status (p=0.037) and cardiovascular disease risk.Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency is not associated with increased CVD risk among road sanitation workers. However, regular monitoring of vitamin D status may support occupational health and overall well-being.
Effect of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) Extract Cream on Aquaporin-3 and Hyaluronic Acid Levels in Wistar Rats with Xerosis Cutis Suparwi, Ajeng Destian; Harlisa, Pasid; Zulaikhah, Siti Thomas
Althea Medical Journal Vol 13, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v13n1.4576

Abstract

Background: Xerosis cutis is characterized by impaired barrier function and reduced hydration markers, including Aquaporin-3 (AQP3) and hyaluronic acid (HA).  Cucumber extract (Cucumis sativus) contains antioxidants and humectants compounds that may improve skin hydration. This study investigated the effects of cucumber extract cream on AQP3 and HA levels in female Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) with grade II xerosis cutis.Methods:  This in vivo experimental study used a post-test-only control group design. Twenty-five female Wistar rats were randomly assigned into five groups: healthy control, xerosis control, positive control (10% ceramide), and treatment groups receiving 3% and 5% cucumber extract cream. Xerosis was induced by topical application of 70% acetone followed by 100% ethanol for 5–7 days until grade II xerosis developed.  The creams were then applied topically for 14 days. AQP3 and HA levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).Results: HA levels differed significantly among groups (p=0.016). The 5% cucumber extract cream maintained HA levels comparable to healthy controls (611.25±248.61 vs. 685.26±194.95 ng/L; p=0.394). In contrast, ceramide and 3% cucumber treatments showed lower HA levels relative to healthy controls. AQP3 levels showed no statistically significant differences among groups (p=0.131), although descriptively higher expression was observed in the 5% cucumber-treated group.Conclusion: Cucumber extract cream at 5% concentration helps maintain HA levels and shows a tendency to increase AQP3 expression, suggesting potential benefits for improving skin hydration in xerosis cutis and supporting skin health associated with aging. 

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