Narra J (Journal)
Not a member yet
500 research outputs found
Sort by
Post COVID-19 vaccination binding and neutralizing antibody with or without previous infection: An 18-month longitudinal study in Indonesia
Get PDFDue to the persisting development of SARS-CoV-2 variants, studies on the kinetics, duration, and function of antibodies are essential for vaccine development and long-term immunity prediction. This longitudinal study examined post-vaccination antibody responses in people after receiving CoronaVac or ChAdOx1 vaccines with or without a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Conducted in Indonesia between August 2021 and May 2023, this study involved 121 participants divided into two groups based on the received vaccine types and monitored for 18 months post-second dose vaccination by assessing the binding antibody (BAb) level and neutralizing antibody (NAb) inhibition rate at six time points. The study also documented the participants’ age, gender, and body mass index (BMI). Before the first dose vaccination, 85 (70.25%) participants were reactive BAb (defined by BAb level ≥50 AU/mL) indicating a history of infection. In the CoronaVac group, only 53.1% were reactive BAb. However, 100% of participants were positive NAb (defined by NAb inhibition rate ≥30%), which indicates a past history of infection with low initial or rapidly decreasing BAb levels. In the ChAdOx1 group, 81,9% of participants were reactive, while only 54.2% were positive NAb, suggesting a recent infection with a high BAb level but a relatively low NAb inhibition rate. During the 18 months post-second dose vaccination, the BAb levels fluctuated. However, 100% of participants were positive NAb. No significant difference in antibody response was documented among participants with or without infection history. Also, no significant impact was presented by the factors of sex, age, and BMI. The findings highlight the crucial of the vaccine in public health and how vaccination strategies could be optimized effectively during and after the post-pandemic
Does FOXP2 gene polymorphism affect the duration of orogastric tube use in moderate to late preterm neonates? A cross-sectional study in Indonesia
Get PDFPremature and low birth weight neonates often struggle with oral intake due to immaturity or respiratory distress. Forkhead box protein 2 gene (FOXP2) is predicted to influence oral feeding ability in newborns, but studies assessing the role of this gene in influencing oral feeding ability are limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of FOXP2 gene polymorphism, particularly single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs17137124, on the duration of orogastric tube (OGT) use in moderate to late preterm neonates. A multi-center cross-sectional study was conducted in Lhokseumawe, Aceh, Indonesia, from September 2021 to August 2023, involving neonates with 32–36 weeks gestational age. The DNA samples were isolated from the saliva, amplified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and the FOXP2 gene was sequenced. The associations between FOXP2 gene polymorphisms and other plausible factors on the duration of OGT use were determined using Chi-squared test, Fisher’s exact test or Pearson correlation as appropriate. Preterm neonates with the CC genotype had the longest OGT use, averaging 3 days (39.1%). TT genotype preterm neonates required OGT use for 4, 5, and 6 days (each 33.3%), while CT genotype neonates predominantly required it for 4 days (41.7%). No significant association was found between FOXP2 genotypes and OGT use duration (p=0.233). Similarly, neonates with C allele required OGT use for 3 and 4 days, while those with T allele mostly required between 4 and 6 days, with no significant association (p=0.110). Analysis using dominant (p=0.109) and recessive models (p=0.481) also showed no significant associations with OGT use duration. However, the study found significant associations between delivery mode (p=0.002) and gestational age (p=0.001) with duration of OGT use in preterm neonates. This study highlights that FOXP2 polymorphisms have limited association with the duration of OGT use among preterm neonates
Mesenchymal stem cells for immune modulation in systemic lupus erythematosus: From bench research to clinical applications
Get PDFSystemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prevalent autoimmune disease affecting multiple organ systems. Disease progression is inevitable as part of its natural course, necessitating aggressive therapeutic strategies, particularly with the use of immunosuppressants. Long-term use of steroids and other immunosuppressants is associated with significant adverse effects. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been shown to modulate the immune response, leading to immunosuppressive effects against self-antigens. MSCs have demonstrated the ability to modulate several immune cell populations, contributing to favorable outcomes in controlling immune and inflammatory conditions. Recent evidence has shown an increase in Treg and Breg cell subsets following MSC administration, along with modulation of other immune cells, including dendritic cells, B cells, and T cells. However, the balance between MSC pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory phenotypic activation remains a critical factor in determining therapeutic outcomes. Various covariates also influence the efficacy of MSC therapy. The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive overview of the utilization of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in SLE treatment, leveraging their immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive capabilities. Understanding the fundamental preclinical effects of MSCs and recent findings from clinical studies may enhance the potential of MSC therapy in the management of SLE patients
Undernutrition-induced stunting-like phenotype in Drosophila melanogaster
Get PDFStunting resulting from undernutrition is a significant global health challenge, particularly in developing countries, yet its underlying mechanisms and consequences remain inadequately understood. This study utilizes Drosophila melanogaster as an in vivo model to investigate the molecular basis of stunting. Due to the conserved nature of signaling pathways between Drosophila and vertebrates, this organism serves as an effective model for studying growth disorders. The aim of this study was to establish a Drosophila model exhibiting a stunting-like phenotype and to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying this condition. The stunting phenotype was induced through dietary manipulation, involving a standard nutrient-rich diet (100%) and treatment diets with reduced concentrations of sucrose, glucose, yeast, and cornmeal at 50%, 25%, and 12.5%. Phenotypic assessments included measurements of larval body size, fecundity, survival rates, and locomotor activity, alongside molecular analyses of gene expression related to metabolism, cell proliferation, and survival, using RT-qPCR. Results demonstrated that undernutrition profoundly affected D. melanogaster, causing growth retardation, reduced larval body size, diminished fecundity, and lower survival rates, though locomotor function remained unaffected. Molecular analysis revealed a significant decrease in the expression of the totA gene and notable increases in the expression of dilp5, srl, and indy genes, with no significant changes observed in the expression of the pepck gene. These findings indicate that undernutrition induces a stunting-like phenotype, likely driven by alterations in the expression of genes associated with metabolism, cell proliferation, and survival. Overall, this study establishes D. melanogaster as a valuable in vivo model for studying stunting-like phenotypes resulting from nutritional deficiencies and provides insights into the molecular pathways involved in growth impairment
Feasibility and pilot study of Indonesia’s first telehealth support program for gynecological cancer survivors undergoing chemotherapy
Get PDFMost Indonesian gynecological cancer survivors experience chemotherapy side effects on their physical and mental health as they face unmet needs of supportive care, which increases the likelihood of discontinuing treatment. Interventions in telehealth assist survivors in resolving these issues. The aim of this pilot study was to determine the feasibility of fighting distress, self-efficacy, health effects, and sexual (FoRSHE-X) interventions and evaluate their potential impact on distress level, side effects knowledge and management, self-efficacy, and sexual quality of life. The study involved gynecological cancer survivors who underwent chemotherapy and participated in ten weeks of individual social media-based education, tele-coaching, and teleconsultations, from September 2023 to June 2024. The study feasibility and pilot outcomes were evaluated using descriptive statistics and qualitative thematic analysis. Of the twelve women recruited, six (50%) completed the study, filled out pre- and post-intervention questionnaires, and participated in interviews. Fifty-four virtual education, coaching, and consultation sessions were performed individually. The statistical results indicated that participants were highly satisfied with the telehealth program, which significantly increased their knowledge (p=0.02), health practices (p=0.04), and self-efficacy (p=0.01). The qualitative analysis highlighted participants' and coaches' perspectives on the study’s acceptance, barriers, and recommendations. In conclusion, this pilot study suggests that a definitive trial to assess the FoRSHE-X interventions is feasible, acceptable, and can be applied not only to gynecological cancer survivors but also to other types of cancer, thereby broadening the potential impact of the study
Health promotion model in the utilization of health services for Indonesian social security agency for health participants
Get PDFHealth promotion models are essential for enhancing community health and facilitating access to quality health services. Understanding the effects of these models on the utilization of health services among participants of the Indonesian Social Security Agency for Health (Badan Penyelenggara Jaminan Sosial Kesehatan/BPJS) provides valuable insights for developing effective health promotion strategies. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of health promotion on the utilization of health services among BPJS health participants, focusing on the mediating roles of perception, self-efficacy, expected results, and social support, using structural equation modeling (SEM). A descriptive, quantitative research design was employed, involving 160 BPJS health participants at Prof. Dr. Margono Soekarjo Hospital, Purwokerto, Indonesia. Data was collected using structured questionnaires, with participants selected through purposive sampling. SEM analysis, performed using AMOS software, was utilized to examine the relationships among health promotion, perception, self-efficacy, social support, expected outcomes, and health service utilization behavior. The SEM analysis revealed that health promotion significantly influenced health service utilization behavior directly (critical ratio (CR)=2.741; p=0.011). Furthermore, health promotion had a significant effect on perception through self-efficacy (CR=2.500; p=0.012). Perception also significantly influenced behavior through self-efficacy (CR=3.789, p<0.001), while its indirect effect on behavior through outcome expectations was not significant (CR=0.908; p=0.958). Social support directly affected behavior (CR=2.267; p=0.023) and exerted both direct and indirect effects on behavior through self-efficacy (CR=3.789; p<0.001) and outcome expectations via self-efficacy (CR=6.267; p<0.001). However, self-efficacy did not significantly influence the behavior of utilizing BPJS health services through outcome expectations (CR=0.237; p=0.185). The findings indicate that health promotion significantly enhances the utilization of health services among BPJS health participants by improving perceptions and self-efficacy. Social support emerges as a critical factor in influencing health service utilization behavior and shaping outcome expectations through perception. In conclusion, future health promotion strategies should prioritize strengthening perceptions, enhancing self-efficacy, and leveraging social support to improve health service outcomes effectively
Comparative analysis between PUMA and CAPTURE questionnaires for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) screening in smokers
Get PDFChronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) presents a significant global challenge, impacting health systems, economies, and societies. Its prevalence is anticipated to rise owing to an aging demographic. Although the PUMA and CAPTURE questionnaires are available for COPD screening, their comparative effectiveness has not been studied in Indonesia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the PUMA and CAPTURE questionnaires as screening tools for COPD among smokers. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Universitas Sumatera Utara Hospital and H. Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia, from December 2022 to February 2023. Smokers aged over 40 or above with a history of smoking more than 100 cigarettes in their lifetime and no previous COPD diagnosis were included in the study. To collect the responses to PUMA and CAPTURE questionnaire, face-to-face interviews were conducted, followed by a spirometry test. A total of 76 smokers were included in the study; the predominant age group was 51–60 years (36.8%), with the majority being male (81.6%). Most participants began smoking at ages 15−20 years (65.8%) and had been smoking for 20–30 years (36.8%) at a moderate intensity (44.8%). Spirometry tests indicated obstructive patterns in 50 participants, with 17 classified as severe obstruction. At a cut-off score of ≥6, the PUMA questionnaire yielded a sensitivity of 72.55% and a specificity of 84%. In contrast, the CAPTURE questionnaire, with a cut-off score of ≥4, exhibited a sensitivity of 70.83% and a specificity of 64.29%. These results imply that the PUMA questionnaire could be more efficient in COPD screening compared to the CAPTURE questionnaire
Exploring perinatal mental health in Indonesia: A mixed-method study in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara
Get PDFA significant number of postpartum mothers are at risk of experiencing perinatal mental health (PMH) due to various factors. The aim of this study was to investigate risk factors for PMH issues and explore the current implementation of early screening for PMH in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. A mixed-method study, cross-sectional and ethnographic approach, was conducted at Babakan Public Health Center, Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, from July to August 2023. A cross-sectional study involved 33 postpartum mothers and analyzed seven potential risk factors: age, parity, age at marriage, type of childbirth, type of family, history of adolescent mental disorder, and history of mental disorder during pregnancy. An ethnographic approach, using in-depth interviews, was utilized to gain insights regarding the implementation of PMH screening, included seven healthcare workers: six midwives and one nurse. Among the seven risk factors analyzed, only a history of adolescent mental disorder acted as risk for high PMH with an odds ratio (OR) 1.17 and p=0.03. In-depth interviews revealed a consistent lack of understanding among all healthcare workers regarding PMH screening implementation: absence of early screening, lack of knowledge regarding PMH and how to identify them, reliance solely on subjective assessments for early screening, and a lack of standardized adequate PMH management. In conclusion, the history of adolescent mental disorder could lead to the development of PMH in postpartum mothers. Current screening implementation is still lacking among healthcare workers and public health centers. Therefore, integrating various stakeholders in early PMH screening is crucial to prevent future PMH in mothers and babies
Effects of metformin and silodosin as supplementary treatments to abiraterone on human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) level in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) cells: An in vitro study
Get PDFThe antiproliferative properties of metformin and silodosin have been observed in prostate cancer. Furthermore, it is hypothesized that the molecular pathways related to these drugs may impact the levels of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) in prostate cancer cells. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of metformin and silodosin on the levels of hTERT in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) cells. The present study employed an experimental design with a post-test-only control group. This study utilized the PC3 cell line as a model for mCRPC. A viability experiment was conducted using the CCK-8 method to determine the inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of metformin, silodosin, and abiraterone acetate (AA) after a 72-hour incubation period of PC3 cells. In order to investigate the levels of hTERT, PC3 cells were divided into two control groups: a negative control and a standard therapy with AA. Additionally, three experimental combination groups were added: metformin with AA; silodosin with AA; and metformin, silodosin and AA. The level of hTERT was measured using sandwich ELISA technique. The difference in hTERT levels was assessed using ANOVA followed by a post hoc test. The IC50 values for metformin, silodosin, and AA were 17.7 mM, 44.162 mM, and 66.9 μM, respectively. Our data indicated that the combination of metformin with AA and the combination of metformin, silodosin and AA decreased the hTERT levels when compared to control, AA, and silodosin with AA. The administration of metformin resulted in a reduction of hTERT levels in the PC3 cell line, but the impact of silodosin on hTERT levels was not statistically significant compared to AA group
Relationship between interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels and chest X-ray severity scoring in COVID-19 patients
Get PDFThe severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may be measured by interleukin-6 (IL-6) and chest X-rays. Brixia score of the chest radiographs is usually used to monitor COVID-19 patients’ lung problems. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the relationship between IL-6 levels and chest radiographs (Brixia score) that represent COVID-19 severity. A retrospective cohort study was conducted among COVID-19 patients who had a chest X-ray and examination of IL-6 levels at H. Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia. A multinomial logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the association between IL-6 levels and the severity of the chest radiograph. A total of 76 COVID-19 patients were included in the study and 39.5% of them were 60–69 years old, with more than half were female (52.6%). A total of 17.1%, 48.7%, and 34.2% had IL-6 level of <7 pg/mL, 7–50 pg/mL and >50 pg/mL, respectively. There were 39.5%, 36.8% and 23.7% of the patients had mild, moderate and severe chest X-rays based on Brixia score, respectively. Statistics analysis revealed that moderate (OR: 1.77; 95% CI: 1.05–3.32) and severe (OR: 1.33; 95% CI: 1.03–3.35) lung conditions in the chest X-rays were significantly associated with IL-6 levels of 7–50 pg/mL. IL-6 more than 50 pg/mL was associated with severe chest X-ray condition (OR: 1.97; 95% CI: 1.15–3.34). In conclusion, high IL-6 levels significantly reflected COVID-19 severity through chest X-rays in COVID-19 patients