cover
Contact Name
-
Contact Email
-
Phone
-
Journal Mail Official
chiefeditor.amj@gmail.com
Editorial Address
Gedung Rumah Sakit Pendidikan Unpad/Pamitran Unpad (Teaching Hospital Building) Faculty of Medicine Unpad, 3rd Floor Jl. Prof. Eyckman No. 38, Bandung, 40161, Indonesia
Location
Kota bandung,
Jawa barat
INDONESIA
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.
Arjuna Subject : -
Articles 1,068 Documents
Internet Usage and Its Utilization for Outpatient Treatment among Older Adults in Indonesia: Evidence from the 2020 National Socioeconomic Survey Rahardja, Mugia Bayu; Puspitasari, Mardiana Dwi; Surbakti, Indra Murty
Althea Medical Journal Vol 11, No 3 (2024)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v11n3.3404

Abstract

Background: Health insurance is essential for older adults to get healthcare services. Interestingly, only around half of older adults in Indonesia had used the health insurance for outpatient care. Recently, internet usage has increased and is considered a predisposing factor for seeking therapy. This study aimed to explore the internet use among older adults for outpatient therapy.Methods: The National Socioeconomic Survey (SUSENAS)-core 2020 had included 29,905 older adults who had poor self-rated health and were unable to work or carried out other daily activities. Regression analysis was performed to determine the factors that influence the outpatient treatment.Results: Outpatient treatment utilization was highly associated with all predisposing factors such as age, gender, marital status, and education (p<0.05). Older adults who did not use the internet were 1.4 times more likely not obtain outpatient care (OR 1.362; 95% CI (1.207–1.537)). Those without health insurance had a higher probability of not seeking outpatient care (OR 1.643; 95% CI (1.551–1.741)) than those who had health insurance. Enabling factors, such as household wealth and living arrangements, were significantly associated with outpatient treatment utilization (p<0.05).Conclusions: Although health insurance remains the most significant factor, internet use is emerging as a way to increase coverage of outpatient treatment for the older adults.
Recombinant Tissue Plasminogen Activator (rtPA) Affects Extremity Motor Progress in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients Ramadhani, Dhianty; Amalia, Nuri; Putri, Mirasari
Althea Medical Journal Vol 11, No 4 (2024)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v11n4.3364

Abstract

Background: Decreased motor function is the most common disorder caused by stroke, leading to disability. Early recanalization is the potential therapy for acute ischemic stroke, by using recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA). This study aimed to analyze the effectiveness of rtPA therapy on the motor progression of extremities in acute ischemic stroke patients.Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study using secondary data from medical records of 45 patients with acute ischemic stroke who received rtPA therapy in Al Islam Bandung Hospital, Indonesia in 2022. The limb motor progress was designated as an increase in strength motoric function skills of the left and right arms, as well as the left and right legs which were influenced by the neuroplasticity process. Marginal homogeneity test was used with significance at p<0.05.Results: Therapy of rtPA improved affected limb motor progress in patients (p=0.000). Before the administration of rtPA, all patients experienced muscle weakness. After 24 hours of rtPA therapy, patients experienced a decrease in muscle strength (9.5%), a steady state (28.6%), and increased in muscle strength (61.9%). After 72 hours, it was found that patients experienced a decrease in muscle strength (9.5%), a steady state (16.7%), and  increased in muscle strength (76.2%).Conclusion: Administration of rtPA significantly affects the progress of limb motor improvement in acute ischemic stroke patients. This study supports rtPA as a? primary therapeutic option for acute ischemic stroke patients and is expected to contribute to improving the management and recovery of stroke, a critical illness associated with aging.
Shallot-Peel Extract Supplementation Increases Glutathione Levels in Gastritis Rat Model Febianti, Zahrah; Utama, Bagas Wahyu; Handoko, Adelia
Althea Medical Journal Vol 11, No 3 (2024)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v11n3.3250

Abstract

Background: Mefenamic acid can cause gastritis. Glutathione is one of the oxidative stress defense mechanisms and nutrient supplementation containing high antioxidants. Peel of shallot (Allium cepa var. Ascalonicum) contains higher antioxidant compounds and may increase glutathione levels. This study aimed to analyze the effect of shallot peel extract supplementation on gastric glutathione (GSH) levels in gastritis rats model.Methods: This was an experimental study using 24 male Wistar rats which were divided into 4 groups, namely  group K0 (given 2 ml of aquadest for 14 days); group K1 (given mefenamic acid 23.25 mg/day for the first 7 days, then Na-CMC 2 ml/day for the next 7 days), group P1 and P2 (given mefenamic acid 23.25 mg/day for the first 7 days, then given shallot peel extract for the next 7 days at dose of 600 mg/kgBW/day or 1200 mg/kgBW/day). Gastric GSH levels were determined by the Ellman method. The data was analyzed by ANOVA and post hoc test.Results: The shallot peel extract supplementation at a dose of 600 mg/kgBW and 1200 mg/kgBW significantly increased gastric GSH levels in gastritis rats (p<0.05), however, GSH levels did not reach normal conditions. Linear regression analysis showed an R coefficient of 0.751.Conclusion: Shallot peel extract supplementation increases gastric GSH levels in gastritis rats model in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting an effective dose of shallot peel extract. Further study to develop shallot peel extract into phytopharmaca is imperative.
Development and Optimization of SARS-CoV-2-Specific Primers for Accurate Diagnosis: A Case Study in West Sumatra - Indonesia Aulia, Ony Nattasha; Putri, Dwi Hilda; Faizal, Irvan
Althea Medical Journal Vol 11, No 4 (2024)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v11n4.3348

Abstract

Background: In 2022, new cases of Covid-19 emerged, including the Omicron variant which is classified as a variant of concern (VOC). West Sumatra is one of the top ten provinces with the highest number of cases in Indonesia. This study aimed to design specific primers and optimize the PCR method that can be used for accurate detection, specifically for SARS-CoV-2 circulating in West Sumatra.Methods: This study used an in silico approach, using whole genome sequencing (WGS) data available at the global initiative on sharing avian influenza data (GISAID), and employing the Geneious Prime application which confirmed samples collected from Padang, West Sumatra, and from Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, Bekasi (Jabodetabek) serving as comparative sample tests. Technology development was supported by bioinformatics testing, laboratory testing, and validation methods, involving gene mining, sequence alignment, and primer design. Laboratory tests and validation included viral genomes extraction and cDNA synthesis, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, and results analysis. Results: Three sets of optimal primer candidates amplified the coveted target gene was discovered, specifically, the S gene of the receptor binding domain (RBD) region.Conclusions: The primers designed through a consensus between the complete genome of the SARS-CoV-2 isolate Wuhan-Hu-1 and the WGS of the Omicron variant in Padang, West Sumatra, have successfully detected the SARS-CoV-2 virus variant in the region. The most effective temperature optimization results were achieved by testing three primer products on samples from Padang and Jabodetabek. It has significance as a valuable diagnostic tool in the primer form.
Relationship between Emotional Distress and Workplace Influence on Depressive Symptoms among Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers Merijanti, Lie Tanu; Hairunisa, Nany; Ridwan, Alvin Muhamad; Pusparini, Pusparini; Meiyanti, Meiyanti; Tjahjadi, Muljadi; Isahak, Marzuki bin
Althea Medical Journal Vol 11, No 4 (2024)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v11n4.3417

Abstract

Background: The rise of online motorcycle taxi services, driven by the demand for transportation and new technologies, has created a new landscape for drivers. However, despite the benefits, these drivers are not considered employees and are therefore vulnerable to psychosocial risks. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between psychosocial hazards and depressive symptoms among online motorcycle taxi drivers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 218 online motorcycle taxi drivers in Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, and Tangerang from September to December 2022. The Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire version III was used to assess psychosocial hazards in the workplace and the likelihood of developing depressive symptoms. A multiple linear regression test was used, with a significance level set of p < 0.05.Results: Most respondents were male, and many had worked for over five years, with the majority working more than 8 hours a day. Emotional burden and workplace influences were positively correlated with depressive symptoms (p = 0.017; β = 0.154; and p = 0.002; β = 0.166, respectively). In contrast, the meaning of work and clarity of roles were negatively correlated with depressive symptoms (p = 0.009; β = -0.161; and p = 0.024; β = -0.195, respectively).Conclusion: This study highlights that emotional stress and workplace influence can exacerbate depressive symptoms, while a clear and meaningful work environment have a positive impact. Healthy lifestyle habits are one of the stress management solutions to improve emotional wellness.
Suicide among Older Adults in Gunungkidul, Indonesia Nurdiyanto, F A; Wulandari, Ririn Mamiek; Primasari, Ardi; Harjanti, Enggar Putri
Althea Medical Journal Vol 11, No 3 (2024)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v11n3.3330

Abstract

Background: Older adults are vulnerable to suicidal crises due to decreased cognitive, health and psychosocial functions. Gunungkidul is a regency in Indonesia that has a demographic structure with an increasing older population and a high prevalence of suicide. This study aimed to determine the characteristics of suicide among older adults in Gunungkidul, Indonesia, from 2012 to 2022.Methods: This was a retrospective analytical descriptive study examining forensic reports of suicide from the Gunungkidul Resort Police, Indonesia, from 2012 to 2022. A total of 388 suicide reports were included, with 186 of them pertaining to older adult suicides. Demographic data and suicide methods were collected using descriptive statistics, and Chi-square analysis was performed to examine any associations or differences in the data.Results: Suicide cases in older adults were more dominant (55.03%) in all suicide cases in Gunungkidul. Hanging was the most prevalent method of suicide (96.2%) among older adults, and there was no difference in suicide methods between males and females (p=0.35). Furthermore, the older adults consisting of males (n=120) were more dominant than females (n=66), however, there was no significant difference across the age group in the youngest-old (60–69 years), the middle-old (70–79 years), and the oldest-old (≥80 years) age group (p>0.01).Conclusions: The prevalence of suicide in older adults in Gunungkidul exceeds other productive age groups, mostly males, and hanging is the most predominant method. Addressing suicide among older adults in Gunungkidul requires a holistic approach by considering individual and societal factors, which necessitates immediate attention to their health, psychological, and socio-economic needs through targeted interventions.
Concordance between Isothermal Amplification-Real Time Fluorescence Assay and Reverse Transcriptase Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction for Detecting SARS-CoV-2 Irawati, Indri; Turbawaty, Dewi Kartika; Suraya, Nida
Althea Medical Journal Vol 11, No 4 (2024)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v11n4.3441

Abstract

Background: There are various nucleic-acid-based diagnostic tests used to detect SARS-CoV-2 in COVID-19 patients such as reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and isothermal amplification real time fluorescence assay (IARTFA), with the first-mentioned is considered as the gold standard. The IARTFA is an alternative method using cross priming amplification (CPA) technique under constant temperature, with a simpler procedure and faster result. This study aimed to determine the concordance between IARTFA and RT-PCR in detecting SARS-CoV-2.Methods: This was an observational cross-sectional study with a random sampling method, conducted from August-October 2021 in Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung. Data on patients was obtained from medical records. Cohen's kappa test was used to determine concordance between both methods.Results: A total of 30 subjects were collected, including subjects with positive result on RT-PCR and IARTFA (n=15), negative result on both methods (n=5), and with positive result on RT-PCR but negative on IARTFA (n=10). There were discrepancies between both methods in subjects with cycle threshold (CT) values ≥35. However, there was a significant concordance between both methods (Cohen’s kappa coefficient of 1, p = 0.006).Conclusion: In addition to RT-PCR, IARTFA is an alternative method for detecting SARS-CoV-2 with advantages and excellent concordance. In communicable diseases such as COVID-19, along with healthy lifestyles such as isolation and wearing masks, early diagnosis is important to prevent and manage the spread of the disease.
Expression Levels of Intestinal Toll-Like Receptors 2 and 4 in Acute Inflammation Caused by Intestinal Candidiasis: An Experimental Study in Wistar Rats Tania, Putu Oky Ari; Masfufatun, Masfufatun; Baktir, Afaf
Althea Medical Journal Vol 11, No 3 (2024)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v11n3.3345

Abstract

Background: Candida albicans grows in the gastrointestinal tract as a normal microflora that may cause intestinal candidiasis, characterized by formation of biofilm and inflammation. Candida is recognized by toll-like receptors (TLRs). This study aimed to explore the relationship between intestinal TLR 2 and TLR 4 expression levels in candidiasis at each phase of inflammation.Methods: An experimental study was performed using a simple randomized sampling on 30 male Wistar rats divided into a control and a treatment group. Each group was inoculated with Candida albicans. Dysbiosis conditions were designed in the treatment group using multiple antibiotics and on day 5 the rats were injected with subcutaneous cortisone acetate. The groups were terminated in five different times (days 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35). On the termination day, intestinal tissue was isolated and the TLR 2 and TLR 4 expression were analyzed by immunohistochemistry. The data were analyzed by parametric test with SPSS (p<0.05) and completed by post-hoc test Least Significance Difference (LSD) to compare pairs of groups.Results: The expression of TLR 2 and TLR 4 between control and treatment groups showed significant differences (p=0.005). In the treatment group, there was a gradual increase in the TLR2 and TLR 4 expressions.  Positive expression of TLR appeared more in the submucosal or basal area than apical surface. The treatment group showed the highest expression of both TLR2 (82.37%) and TLR4 (87.40%) on termination day 35.Conclusions: Inflammation caused by intestinal candidiasis can result in increased expression of intestinal TLR2 and 4 contributing to an increased risk of biofilm formation.
Blood Pressure Reduction in Patients with Hypertension Through Soursop Leaf Tea Consumption Siagian, Masryna; Hulu, Victor Trismanjaya; Ginting, Rapael; Manalu, Putranto; Sijabat, Vina Helsa Laora; Tarigan, Nita Kastrina
Althea Medical Journal Vol 11, No 4 (2024)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v11n4.3342

Abstract

Background: Controlling hypertension through pharmacological treatment is effective but can potentially lead to long-term side effects. Thus, more patients with hypertension have turned to herbal plants for treatment. The objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of soursop leaf tea in reducing blood pressure in patients with hypertension.Methods: This study employed a quasi-experimental approach with a non-randomized pretest-posttest control group design, involving 30 participants in the intervention group and 30 participants in the control group. Data was analyzed using the Wilcoxon test to assess the disparity in mean blood pressure levels before and after consumption of soursop leaf tea. The Mann-Whitney test was used to examine the distinction in mean blood pressure between the intervention group and the control group.Results: In the intervention and control groups, most respondents were aged 56–65 years (60% and 66.7%), male (70% and 56.7%) and had suffered from hypertension for more than 5 years (70% and 56.7%). There was a significant difference in systolic blood pressure (p<0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (p<0.001) before and after the administration of soursop leaf tea. The mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure in the intervention group decreased significantly compared to the control group (p<0.001).Conclusions: Consumption of soursop leaf tea can reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure, suggesting that this local herb has a potential effect on individuals diagnosed with hypertension.
Distribution of Hypertension Cases Based on Primary Health Care 2017–2021 in Malang, Indonesia: Spatial Analysis Imtinani, Alifia Irbah; Qurniyawati, Eny
Althea Medical Journal Vol 11, No 3 (2024)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v11n3.3291

Abstract

Background: Malang Regency is one of the cities in East Java, Indonesia that has a high trend of hypertension cases. The study aimed to describe the distribution of hypertension cases at the primary health care level in Malang Regency, Indonesia using spatial analysis.Methods: This was a descriptive analysis study using secondary data obtained from the Health Profile of Malang Regency from 2017 to 2021. The total sampling method was used.  Data on hypertension cases from 16 primary health cares was collected. Quantum geographic information system (QGIS) was used to visualize the distribution of cases. Data was presented in the tables and a map with different coloring based on the high-low categories of hypertension cases in a region.Results: There was a tendency for an increase in hypertension cases every year in 3 of 16 primary health care. Primary Health Cares with an increased prevalence of cases during 2017–2021 were Arjowinangun (7.65% to 24.24%), Mojolangu (17.20% to 31.57%), and Kendalsari (8.84% to 27.29%). However, cases decreased from 2017 to 2018, and experienced a very high increase from 2018 to 2019.Conclusion: The distribution of hypertension cases in Malang Regency from 2017 to 2021 tends to fluctuate from year to year. An education program for the community about a healthy lifestyle and the importance of conducting regular health checks is needed to decrease hypertension cases.