bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple factor analysis using water quality index scores and parameters as an approach for evaluating the environmental status of polluted lakes along the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria
Authors: Doychev Dimitar , Gartsiyanova Kristina , Yordanova Gratsiela , Taneva Lidiya
Published: February 2025

The moderately salty and lightly salty lakes and marshes near the Black Sea are specific in terms of their high degree of physical alteration; intensive hydromorphological pressure; and point-source and diffusive enrichment with biogenic, organic and inorganic compounds. Nutrients are among the most regularly measured variables in monitoring programs, providing the most complete information for long-term analysis and assessment. Nonetheless, their results need a final summary score, such as the water quality index, which assesses spatial and temporal conditions very well. In this study, we used all available data for Varna and Burgas Lakes from state monitoring for six years (2016–2021), using the parameters monitored with the greatest frequency. The aims were to trace temporal changes in the water quality parameters to determine which of the biogenic elements had the greatest significance for the variance in water quality while seeking the most contributing elements for the formation of the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment water quality index (CCME-WQI). The objectives were achieved via multiple factor analysis (MFA) loaded with the results for the environmental variables and the final scores of the CCME-WQI since this multivariate analysis allows simultaneous consideration of multiple data series while balancing the influence of each set of variables. MFA revealed that CCME-WQI scores were influenced solely by total phosphorus (TP) in Varna Lake, where TP was negatively correlated with total nitrogen. In Burgas Lake, TP had the greatest influence on the CCME-WQI, but in this slightly saline lake, pH and dissolved oxygen were also negatively correlated with the complex assessment scores. The approach developed in this study is simple to implement and provides information for the simultaneous use of both the CCME-WQI and the MFA, which could optimize monitoring programs by directing sampling efforts on fewer parameters that could be analyzed more often or from more sampling sites.
The mitochondrial genome of the threatened freshwater snail Aylacostoma chloroticum (Gastropoda, Hemisinidae) from the High Paraná River and the phylogenetic relationships of Cerithioidea
Authors: Forestello Emanuel , Beltramino Ariel A. , Peso Juana G. , Vogler Roberto E.
Published: February 2025

The family Hemisinidae consists exclusively of freshwater snails and has long been understudied, only recently recognized as a distinct evolutionary lineage among limnic cerithioideans. Most South American species of this family belong to the genus Aylacostoma, with limited information available beyond their original descriptions. Aylacostoma chloroticum, a threatened freshwater snail endemic to the High Paraná River between Argentina and Paraguay, is currently part of an ex-situ conservation program due to habitat alterations caused by the Yacyretá Binational Reservoir. Molecular data on this species are scarce, with only one prior study addressing the genetic composition of captive populations. In this study, next-generation sequencing was used to sequence the complete mitochondrial genome of A. chloroticum, marking the first mitogenome contribution for both Aylacostoma and Hemisinidae. The mitogenome is 15,740 bp long and contains the typical 37 genes found in animal mitogenomes, including 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNAs, and two ribosomal RNAs. Comparative analyses revealed a conserved gene order, high A+T content, and negative AT and GC skews, consistent with other Cerithioidea species. Secondary structure models for ribosomal and transfer RNAs were also generated, providing the first complete models for Aylacostoma and Hemisinidae. Phylogenetic analyses, based on protein-coding genes and complementary analyses using 16S-rRNA and 28S-rRNA genes, confirmed the monophyly of Hemisinidae and its close evolutionary relationship with the families Paludomidae and Thiaridae. This research enhances the understanding of the mitochondrial architecture of Cerithioidea and provides new insights into the evolutionary relationships of Neotropical hemisinids.
Le diagnostic de la leptospirose
Authors: Bourhy Pascale , Consigny Paul-Henri , Picardeau Mathieu
Published: February 2025

La leptospirose est une zoonose transmissible à l’Homme et responsable annuellement de plus d’un million de cas et de 60 000 morts dans le monde. En France métropolitaine, on dénombre plus de 600 cas humains par an, mais l’incidence de la maladie est beaucoup plus élevée dans les régions ultramarines comme les Antilles et les régions de l’océan Indien (Mayotte, La Réunion) et du Pacifique (Nouvelle-Calédonie et Polynésie française). La leptospirose humaine reste largement sous-estimée du fait d’une quasi-absence de sa surveillance épidémiologique dans la plupart des zones endémiques, d’un manque de sensibilisation de la communauté médicale et de la diversité de ses manifestations cliniques. Son spectre peut ainsi varier d’un état pseudo- grippal, pouvant être confondu avec le paludisme ou la dengue, à une atteinte multiviscérale aiguë hémorragique. Le diagnostic biologique de l’infection est établi principalement par la détection de l’ADN bactérien dans le sang (par PCR) lors de la première semaine suivant l’apparition des symptômes, ou bien, à partir de la deuxième semaine, par une analyse sérologique mettant en évidence l’apparition d’anticorps spécifiques. Un siècle après la découverte de son agent causal, cette zoonose reste un problème de santé publique dans de nombreux pays tropicaux et elle est émergente dans la plupart des pays, y compris ceux d’Europe.
Assessing the impact of time windows on last-mile sustainability: A scoreboard-based approach and case study analysis
Authors: González-Romero Iria , Bastero-Sellán Juan , Prado-Prado J. Carlos
Published: February 2025

Purpose: To ensure customer satisfaction, e-retailers have focused on providing a last-mile service that includes time windows. Due to the sustainable challenge this posed, the purpose of this article is to define a method that can be used to evaluate the impact of time windows on sustainability and to apply this method to a particular case study.Design/methodology/approach: Desk research allows us to identify and define this method (based on a scoreboard). Then, a case study is conducted to evaluate the applicability of the scoreboard and analyse the impact of time windows on sustainability.Findings: A method to evaluate the impact of time windows on the three pillars of sustainability is defined and implemented. Through this implementation, the negative impact time windows have on the last-mile sustainability is identified and defined. Thus, the use of time windows leads to a greater impact on the environmental and social pillars. Regarding the economic pillar, the impact is ambiguous. Time windows have a negative impact on delivery costs and vehicle utilisation, but a positive impact on service levels and customer satisfaction. In this sense, intermediate alternatives can largely maintain the benefits of time windows elimination without significantly affecting the service level.Originality/value: Retailers can use the findings as a guide to evaluate and set up sustainable last-mile strategies, deciding whether the use of time windows is necessary and sustainable. In contrast to previous research, this study integrates the three pillars of sustainability. With this integration, it is concluded that intermediate alternatives, such as offering a limited time window system based on historical data, could be the most sustainable solution.
Le cinéma en juge de l’histoire ? Le spectre de l’année 1938 dans le film Le Capitaine Volkonogov s’est échappé
Authors: Scagliusi Domenico
Published: February 2025

Cet article propose une analyse du film le Capitaine Volkonogov s’est échappé à la lumière du rapport que la Russie contemporaine entretient avec la mémoire de la Terreur stalinienne. Il se concentre, en particulier, sur la figure du revenant, spectre d’un passé refoulé qui resurgit à la conscience dans une quête de justice. La négociation de ce rapport conflictuel entre passé et présent prend son essor dans la mise en scène d’une déchirure essentielle entre droit et justice, produite par les crimes de l’État soviétique. Le film inscrit l’apaisement de cette mémoire douloureuse dans une perspective transcendante. Il s’articule ainsi comme un récit de rédemption, scellé par le repentir du protagoniste : un agent du NKVD devenu à son tour victime du système répressif. L’article interroge à la fois la dimension esthétique et éthique de cette représentation.
Comparison of Socio-Emotional Well-Being of Girls and Boys in a Traditional Sports Game and a Sport
Authors: Franchi Silvester , Prat Queralt , Pic Miguel
Published: February 2025

This chapter investigates the differences in socio-emotional well-being between girls and boys in two physical education contexts: the traditional game of Ten-Pass and the institutionalised sport of Handball by comparing these games with different internal logics, the motor interactions and emotional intensities of participants. From a descriptive-observational study, the motor behaviours and motor conduct of the participants in the games were analysed, using a ludogram that tracked the ball for game observation and the application of the Games and Emotions Scale (GES-II). Results show that boys tend to experience more intense emotions in handball, while girls report higher levels of joy in Ten-Pass. Additionally, differences in the number of passes and completions were noted, with boys exhibiting a greater prevalence of motor interactions. This study emphasises the importance of adapting motor practices in physical education to promote equitable socio-emotional well-being aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, fostering greater cooperation and reducing gender stereotypes.
Optimizing Data Privacy and Scalability in Health Monitoring
Authors: Kothai G. , Harish P. , Mugesh kannan S. , Ajinesh D. , Sathyanarayanan V.
Published: February 2025

In an era, health monitoring technologies are increasingly powered by smart devices and applications, ensuring the privacy and security of sensitive health data is a critical challenge. The chapter begins with an introduction to precise health monitoring, highlighting the importance of smart devices and mobile applications in tracking patient health. The chapter delves into the key challenges posed by the volume, sensitivity, and complexity of health data, examining privacy during data collection and sharing. The challenges is addressed by optimizing data security in health monitoring, such as data encryption techniques to protect patient identities. Blockchain technology is used for secure health data sharing. Authentication and access control mechanisms are explored to protect health data. As healthcare systems handle increasing volumes of data, the chapter discusses the role of cloud computing to achieve scalability. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of balancing cloud computing to optimize both scalability and efficiency in health monitoring applications
Optimizing Working Capital in E-Commerce Supply Chains
Authors: Mai Wenzhen , Ambashe Mohamud Saeed , Ohueri Chukwuka Christian
Published: February 2025

This research aims to develop a comprehensive, data-driven financial model for optimizing working capital to enhance operational efficiency and competitiveness in the supply chains of e-commerce companies. Questionnaire data from 280 stakeholders operating within the e-commerce supply chains across the globe were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis to explore the complex interrelations between the variables that optimize working capital in e-commerce supply chains. The findings from SEM analysis reveal that technology integration, such as sensors and AI-driven inventory management systems; market responsiveness through adaptive pricing strategies; and supplier relationship management via ethical and transparent transactions, have a direct positive influence on working capital efficiency in e-commerce supply chains. Furthermore, collaborative planning, via the use of emerging technologies and efficient practices, emerged as the key mediator, amplifying the positive influence of technology integration and supplier relationship management.
Field Work Practicum: A Fundamental Base of Social Work Education
Authors: Shankar Kumbhar Pankaj Kamal
Published: February 2025

Social Work Globally, education has been a professional and scientific field of study in higher education for more than a century, and it has experienced remarkable growth in recent decades. Mumbai-based "Sir Dorabji Tata Graduate School of Social Work (currently the Tata Institute of Social Sciences) established formal social work education""in India in 1936. Indian educational system social work has been practiced for 88 years. However, issues regarding the professional standing of social work education have persisted since beginning in current environment. Social work is a practice-based human services profession" utilizing Micro, Mezzo, & Macro levels of practice for handling significant requirements at the individual, group, & community levels.To resolve societal challenges in a scientific with professional manner, social work education must be crucial to comprehending reality and complexity of Indian society, as well as the impending socioeconomic & political trends including their effects on society. Human rights, peace, harmony, social justice, & equity are the main issues affecting the social work profession. Fieldwork practicums are essential in field knowledge wisdom development in social work education since they permit theoretical information to be applied to practical issues. For social work students to learn and develop during their field practicum, social work teachers requires forcomprehendinghow social work students might apply theory to practice. Developing competent and resourceful social workers that might employ array of methods in social service sector is fieldwork objective in social work education.Students can build a positive attitude, knowledge, and skill set, as well as a productive professional cadre of social workers, by integrating the conceptual framework into their practice through the Field Work Practicum. Field Work Practicum allows thinking critically and acting analytically and makes aware about variety of realities on the field around the phenomenon. Every social work student must adopt scientific base for practices by using principles and values that are essential to serve human community. The subject of this paper attempts to advance a deeper conversation and consideration "of social work training & practice in Indian context. Current paper explains fieldwork practicum value in social work education"conceptually. Current research establishes the foundation for future contributions to the global body of knowledge on social work practice in addition to offering suggestions regarding methods for enhancing social work practice & education in Indian contexts.
Long-Term Outcome of Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Drug-Resistant Epilepsy
Authors: Patil Anuja , Jayalakshmi Sita , Somayajula Shanmukhi , Shah Dhrumil , Vooturi Sudhindra , Panigrahi Manas
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives:

In this study, we aimed to assess the long-term outcome of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE).

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of outcome data of 24 patients with DRE, who had been implanted with VNS and had at least 5 years of post-surgery follow-up was performed. The seizure outcome at the latest follow-up was classified as class I–V as proposed by John C. McHugh. The cognitive, psychiatric, and behavioral outcomes were recorded using standardized tests.

Results:

Mean age at the time of VNS implantation was 18.7 (6–38) years; nine (37.5%) of the patients were females. Mean duration of epilepsy was 13.6 years (range: 2.5–35 years); 18 (75%) patients had multiple (≥2) seizure types and 15 (62.5%) had daily seizures. The most common etiology was perinatal hypoxic injury (15, 62.5%). More than 50% seizure reduction (class 1 and 2) was noted in 54.2% of patients at 1 year, which increased to 75% at ≥5 years follow-up. A significantly higher number of patients with other etiologies had >50% reduction in seizures at the latest follow-up, when compared to those with hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy (53.3% vs. 100%, P = 0.0024). The average intelligence quotient (IQ; 71.17 ± 28.92 vs. 64.65 ± 29.61, P = 0.014) and quality of life (66.64 ± 14.63 vs. 64.65 ± 29.61, P < 0.001) scores were significantly higher in patients post-VNS implantation, when compared to their baseline scores. Furthermore, significant number of patients had improvement in psychiatric diagnosis (29.2% vs. 4.2%, P = 0.047) and behavioral problems (50% vs. 4.2%, P < 0.001) post-VNS implantation.

Conclusions:

The present study shows >50% seizure reduction in 75% of patients after VNS implantation at long-term follow-up, with improvement in IQ, quality of life, psychiatric and behavioral problems.
Impact of Oral Health Education Programme on Oral Health Status and Dental Hygiene Practices among 12–15-year-old Saudi Schoolchildren: An Observational Study
Authors: Alzahrani Abdullah Ali H
Published: February 2025

Introduction:

Oral health education (OHE) plays a vital role in maintaining and positively influencing oral health and dental hygiene. This study aims to examine the effects of the OHE programme on the oral health status and dental hygiene practices of schoolchildren aged 12–15 years in the Al-Baha region, Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods:

An observational cross-sectional study was conducted across three schools in the Al-Baha region of Saudi Arabia. The study participants were Saudi male schoolchildren aged 12–15 years who received the OHE programme. Pre-designed questionnaires were distributed to cover oral hygiene practices. Oral examinations were conducted using the dental missed filled teeth (DMFT), Oral Hygiene Simplified Index (OHI-S) and Gingival Index (GI) at baseline and after 6 months. The data were analysed descriptively and inferentially using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 21 (SPSS).

Results:

A total of 384 male Saudi schoolchildren aged 12–15 participated in this study. The mean DMFT score did not change significantly from the first visit to the follow-up visit (P = 0.431). The overall mean OHI-S and GI scores changed significantly from the first visit to the follow-up visit (P = 0.001 and P = 0.001, respectively). The frequency of tooth brushing and the direction of tooth brushing showed significant improvement from baseline to the follow-up visit (P = 0.042 and P = 0.011, respectively). Using toothpaste and brushing twice a day revealed a significant impact on the oral health and dental hygiene of the participants (P = 0.012 and P = 0.022, respectively).

Conclusion:

The OHE programme has proven effective in improving oral health and dental hygiene practices among the studied population. The OHE programme could be essential for maintaining schoolchildren’s oral health and dental hygiene practices. Future research with a randomised control trial design and larger sample sizes might also be recommended.
Body fat distribution and semen quality in 4304 Chinese sperm donors
Authors: Liang Si-Han , Wang Qi-Ling , Li Dan , Ye Gui-Fang , Li Ying-Xin , Zhou Wei , Xu Rui-Jun , Deng Xin-Yi , Luo Lu , Wang Si-Rong , Zhang Xin-Zong , Liu Yue-Wei
Published: February 2025

Extensive studies have identified potential adverse effects on semen quality of obesity, based on body mass index, but the association between body fat distribution, a more relevant indicator for obesity, and semen quality remains less clear. We conducted a longitudinal study of 4304 sperm donors from the Guangdong Provincial Human Sperm Bank (Guangzhou, China) during 2017–2021. A body composition analyzer was used to measure total and local body fat percentage for each participant. Generalized estimating equations were employed to assess the association between body fat percentage and sperm count, motility, and morphology. We estimated that each 10% increase in total body fat percentage (estimated change [95% confidence interval, 95% CI]) was significantly associated with a 0.18 × 106 (0.09 × 106–0.27 × 106) ml and 12.21 × 106 (4.52 × 106–19.91 × 106) reduction in semen volume and total sperm count, respectively. Categorical analyses and exposure-response curves showed that the association of body fat distribution with semen volume and total sperm count was stronger at higher body fat percentages. In addition, the association still held among normal weight and overweight participants. We observed similar associations for upper limb, trunk, and lower limb body fact distributions. In conclusion, we found that a higher body fat distribution was significantly associated with lower semen quality (especially semen volume) even in men with a normal weight. These findings provide useful clues in exploring body fat as a risk factor for semen quality decline and add to evidence for improving semen quality for those who are expected to conceive.
Efficacy and safety of levodopa in secondary dystonia due to neurological Wilson disease (LIDWID)
Authors: Kalita Jayantee , Ahamed Faim , Mahajan Roopali , Gupta Archana
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:

Dystonia is the most prevalent movement disorder in neurologic Wilson disease (NWD). While levodopa has demonstrated efficacy in certain forms of primary dystonia, its effectiveness in NWD has not been evaluated. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of levodopa compared to placebo in patients with dystonia associated with NWD through an open-label, randomized controlled trial.

METHODS:

Patients diagnosed with NWD and a Burke–Fahn–Marsden Dystonia Rating (BFMDR) score greater than 20 were included, provided that other potential causes of dystonia were excluded. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either levodopa–carbidopa (LCD) or placebo, using a 1:1 randomization protocol. The LCD (100 mg + 10 mg) was initially administered in a dose of half tablet thrice daily, with the dosage increasing every week to 2 tablets thrice daily. The placebo group received saccharine tablets. The outcome was assessed at 3 months. The primary outcome was an improvement in the BFMDR score by more than 50%. Secondary outcomes included the Neurological Severity Grade (NSG), Dysphagia Outcome and Severity Scale (DOSS), Neuropsychiatric inventory (NPI), and the incidence of side effects.

RESULTS:

Fifteen patients were randomized to receive either LCD or placebo. Only one patient in each group achieved the primary outcome. At 3 months, both the LCD and placebo groups showed improvements in the BFMRD, NSG, and DOSS scores. However, the improvements in the BFMDRS (P = 0.36), NPI (P = 0.20), DOSS score (P = 0.92), and NSG (P = 0.84) were not significantly different between the levodopa and placebo groups. Four patients in the LCD group and one in the placebo group experienced minor side effects.

CONCLUSION:

LCD is safe and well-tolerated in NWD. Although patients in both the LCD and placebo groups showed improvements at 3 months, LCD did not demonstrate a significant advantage over placebo in reducing dystonia.
Evaluating the Impact of Virtual Reality on Cognitive Recovery in Stroke Patients: A Comparative Single-centered Study in the Indian Context
Authors: Kumar Sanyal , Pandey Sanjay Kumar , Kumar Anjani , Kumar Ranjeet , Kumar Niraj , Kumar Siddharth , Kumar Amresh
Published: February 2025

Objective:

Strokes frequently result in post-stroke cognitive impairment; however, this can take many different clinical forms. Deficits exist in a number of cognitive domains, including language, executive function, memory, and visuospatial abilities. This study explores the feasibility and scalability of virtual reality (VR)-based rehabilitation interventions within the Indian healthcare setting, considering factors such as accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and cultural appropriateness.

Materials and Methods:

This study employed a randomized controlled trial design to compare the impact of VR integration with conventional therapy on cognitive recovery in stroke patients. The study was conducted at tertiary care rehabilitation centers in the eastern region of India. Thirty patients were enrolled, with 15 patients allocated to each group. Patients were assessed at 1-month and 3-month follow-up visits following the interventions, during which their Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA), memory span (MSPAN), SCWT, and FTT scores were recorded.

Results:

The results indicate that the VR group exhibited significantly greater improvements in MMSE and MOCA scores compared to the conventional therapy group. In addition, the VR group demonstrated a smaller decline in MSPAN scores. However, there were no significant differences between the groups in terms of changes in FTT and SCWT scores. These findings underscore the specific cognitive domains in which stroke patients undergoing VR rehabilitation may experience more significant improvements compared to those undergoing conventional therapy.

Conclusion:

The findings from this study contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the integration of VR technology in stroke rehabilitation programs, offering new avenues for improving cognitive outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for individuals recovering from stroke-related cognitive impairments.
Tetanus in a Child Due to Otogenic Source: A Case Report with Review of Literature
Authors: Vikram Anupama , Viagulam J. Christy Maria , Varadharajan Poovazhagi
Published: February 2025

Background:

In adults, tetanus typically follows trauma, while in children, it often results from ear infection.

Clinical Description:

A 7-year-old boy presented with difficulty opening his mouth and generalized rigidity, developing over 10 days. He had a history of left ear discharge for a month, but no associated headache, vomiting, and abnormal movements. He was unvaccinated except for the birth dose. On examination, he was conscious and afebrile, but presented with generalized stiffness, risus sardonicus, and tachycardia, maintaining oxygen saturation.

Management and Outcome:

Tetanus was suspected clinically, and the child was kept in a sound-proof, dark isolation room. Equine immunoglobulin 10,000 IU and tetanus toxoid vaccine along with intravenous antibiotics were administered. Muscle spasms were managed with diazepam, chlorpromazine, and phenobarbitone. Clostridium tetani was confirmed from an ear swab culture. The child’s muscle rigidity and spasms gradually decreased after 3 weeks, with improved oral intake. Intravenous sedation was transitioned to oral antispasmodics and he was discharged in a normal neurological status with no residual spasms.

Conclusion:

Tetanus in children is not obsolete, and needs to be kept in mind in case of chronic suppurative otitis media.
Giant Axonal Neuropathy in a Child with Stop-Gain Variant in GAN Gene
Authors: Srinivasan Varunvenkat M. , Manisha Rani , Nilay Mayank , Bhakhri Bhanu Kiran , Singh Dharmendra Kumar
Published: February 2025

Background:

Giant axonal neuropathy (GAN) type 1 is a rare autosomal recessive, progressive neuro-degenerative disorder, caused by biallelic variants in Gigaxonin (GAN) gene.

Clinical Description:

An 11-year-old boy born out of consanguineous marriage presented with features of regression of milestones, initially motor, followed by cognitive and speech abnormality, associated with seizures and hearing impairment progressing over past 2–3 years. On examination, he had kinky hair, nystagmus, with diffuse muscle atrophy, absent tendon reflexes, positive cerebellar signs as well as impairment of higher mental functions.

Management and Outcome:

Laboratory investigations were largely normal, with magnetic resonance imaging showing features of diffuse white matter abnormality with signal changes noted in the dentate nuclei. Exome sequencing identified a homozygous likely pathogenic stop-gain variant in GAN gene. Parents were counselled and child was provided supportive care.

Conclusion:

The case creates awareness among pediatricians regarding the rare disorder of GAN. A thorough neurological assessment with careful physical examination along with a knowledge of this disorder will help in making an early diagnosis.
Allgrove Syndrome with Absent Adrenal Gland in a Child: A Case Report
Authors: Mittal Medha , Agrawal Ishani , Rai Anuradha , Singh Gulab , Prasad Priyanka , Gulati Parveen
Published: February 2025

Background:

Allgrove syndrome is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutation in AAAS gene and characterized by alacrimia, achalasia, and adrenal insufficiency. Subtle clinical features may be the only findings and need good workup.

Clinical Description:

A 5-year-old boy, product of third-degree consanguineous marriage, presented with diffuse hyperpigmentation of the skin for the past 2 years, along with difficulty in swallowing and absence of tears. He was conscious, with average built, stable vitals, and a normal neurological examination. There was marked hyperpigmentation of the skin, lips, and nails. Rest of the examination was noncontributory.

Management and Outcome:

Investigations revealed normal hemogram, renal and liver functions with normal electrolytes. There was marked cortisol deficiency and high adrenocorticotrophic hormone with low normal serum aldosterone. Barium studies suggested achalasia, confirmed on esophagoscopy and manometry. The contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the abdomen revealed a complete absence of adrenals. Clinical exome sequencing revealed a pathogenic homozygous missense mutation in AAAS gene confirming the diagnosis of Allgrove syndrome. The child was started on oral hydrocortisone supplementation with low-dose fludrocortisone, along with lubricating eye drops. Endoscopic myotomy has been planned for achalasia.

Conclusion:

Allgrove syndrome, a rare disorder, needs keen clinical suspicion to detect and prevent devastating complications.
Analysis of Vitamin K1 levels in several types of vegetables consumed by warfarin-used patients
Authors: Putriana Norisca Aliza , Rusdiana Taofik , Joan Gabriella , Rahayu Driyanti , Saputri Febrina Amelia
Published: February 2025

Vitamin K consumption needs to be monitored in people taking warfarin since it can impact the anticoagulation response. Vegetables are the primary nutritional source of Vitamin K1, in the form of Vitamin K1. The aim of this study was to measure the level of Vitamin K1 in various vegetables that were commercially sold in three major Bandung markets and were ingested by patients using warfarin at Hasan Sadikin Central General Hospital Bandung. High-performance liquid chromatography with an ultraviolet detector set at 245 nm was the analytical technique. One hundred percent methanol was used as the mobile phase, and it was isocratically eluted at a flow rate of 0.6 mL/min with a T3 column maintained at 25°C. The results indicated that the following Vitamin K1 levels were found in lettuce: 38.4391 ± 15.2650–64.4419 ± 19.0315 µg/100 g, in napa cabbage: 56.7445 ± 0.1569–273.2828 ± 8.3061 µg/100 g, in cabbage: 27.9531 ± 1.7487–217.0457 ± 7.2201 µg/100 g, and in spinach: 305.2868 ± 3.3058–970.7098 ± 14.1167 µg/100 g. The highest Vitamin K1 level was in spinach and the lowest was in lettuce.
Cytotoxic activity of Cyrtostachys renda extracts and fractions against MCF-7 and HeLa cancer cells through cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction mechanism
Authors: Syamsurizal  , Sutrisno  , Utami Diah Tri
Published: February 2025

In traditional medicine, Cyrtostachys renda has been used for its many bioactive components that are good for people’s health. This research assessed the cytotoxic effects of extracts and fractions against Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7) and Henrietta Lacks (HeLa) cell lines. The extracts and fractions of root and fruit assess cytotoxic activities and inhibitory mechanisms against the MCF-7 and HeLa cancer cell lines, respectively. The fruit and roots of C. renda were extracted using the liquid-liquid method. The sample concentrations evaluated included extracts 31.5-1000 μg/mL, fractions 15.625-500 μg/mL, and doxorubicin 2-0.0625 μg/mL. Cytotoxicity was evaluated on MCF-7 and HeLa cells using an MTT assay. Morphological alterations were subsequently discovered utilizing an inverted microscope. Flow cytometry was utilized to find out the cell cycle’s distribution and the apoptosis characteristics. The different parts and extracts showed cytotoxic effects on HeLa and MCF-7 cells, with IC50 values ranging from 30.69 ± 0.47 to 787.89 ± 1.77 µg/mL. Cell cycle studies showed that fraction A4 inhibited the cell cycle in MCF-7 cells at the G1 phase followed by the G2/M and S phases, while fraction B5 inhibited the cell cycle in HeLa cells at the G2/M phase. Both fractions showed the ability to induce apoptosis against MCF-7 and HeLa cells. The results showed that the fractions A4 and B5 showed cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 and HeLa cells by cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction.
Factors associated with the endothelial cell density of the donor corneas
Authors: Torres-Parada Laura S. , Tello Alejandro , Díaz-Martínez Luis A. , Carreño Néstor I. , Calderón-Gutiérrez Heidy C. , Galvis Virgilio
Published: February 2025

PURPOSE:

Identify the factors associated with endothelial cell density in donor corneas.

METHODS:

A cross-sectional analytical study of the records of 269 corneas procured between December 2016 and September 2021 in an eye bank of an ophthalmological institute in Colombia.

RESULTS:

The median age of the 269 donors was 47 years (range: 18–72 years). A negative correlation was identified between donor age and endothelial cell density. On average, for each additional year of age, the median density decreased by 15.44 cells/mm2
(95% confidence interval: 11.14–19.74). No significant difference was found in endothelial cell density based on the sex of the donor or the time between death and preservation (within 12 h). There was no clear association between endothelial cell density and the cause of death. Differences in endothelial cell density were observed based on the site of corneal procurement and the technician responsible for the procedure. A history of diabetes was associated with a lower endothelial count.

CONCLUSION:

The primary factor affecting the endothelial cell density of the corneas was the age of the donor. The data indicated a negative correlation with the presence of diabetes. Density levels differed depending on the procurement site and the individual responsible for the procedure.
Primes in tuples and Romanoff's theorem
Authors: Radomskii Artyom Olegovich
Published: February 2025

A lower bound for the number of primes in tuples
is obtained. As an application, a lower bound for the Romanoff type representation functions
is given.
On stability of weighted spanning tree degree enumerators
Authors: Prozorov Pavel Konstantinovich , Cherkashin Danila Dmitrievich
Published: February 2025

In [1] it was shown that the degree (vertex) spanning tree enumerator polynomial
of a connected graph $G$ is a real stable polynomial (that is, it does not vanish if all the
variables have positive imaginary parts) if and only if $G$ is a distance-hereditary graph.
We prove a similar characterization for weighted graphs.
With the help of this generalization, define the class of weighted distance-hereditary graphs.
Toric geometry and the standard conjecture for a compactification of the Néron model of Abelian variety
over $1$-dimensional function field
Authors: Tankeev Sergey Gennadievich
Published: February 2025

It is proved that if
$\mathcal M\to C$ is the Néron minimal model of a principally polarized $(d-1)$-dimensional Abelian variety
$\mathcal M_\eta$ over the field $\kappa(\eta)$ of rational functions of a smooth projective curve $C$,
$$
\operatorname{End}_{\overline{\kappa(\eta)}} (\mathcal M_\eta\otimes_{\kappa(\eta)}\overline{\kappa(\eta)})=\mathbb Z,
$$
the complexification of the Lie algebra of the Hodge group
$\operatorname{Hg}(M_\eta\otimes_{\kappa(\eta)}\mathbb {C})$ is a simple Lie algebra of type $C_{d-1}$, all bad reductions of the Abelian variety
$\mathcal M_\eta$ are semi-stable,
for any places $\delta,\delta'$ of bad reductions
the $\mathbb Q$-space of Hodge cycles on the product
$\operatorname{Alb}(\overline{\mathcal M_\delta^0}) \times \operatorname{Alb}(\overline{\mathcal M_{\delta'}^0})$ of Albanese varieties
is generated by classes of algebraic cycles,
then
there exists a finite ramified covering $\widetilde{C}\to C$ such that, for any Künnemann compactification $\widetilde{X}$
of the Néron minimal model of the Abelian variety $\mathcal M_\eta\otimes_{\kappa(\eta)}\kappa(\widetilde{\eta})$,
the Grothendieck standard conjecture $B(\widetilde{X})$ of Lefschetz type is true.
Influence of Co-feeding Methanol-sorbitol Ratio on Production of Human Insulin Precursor Expressed by Mut+ Pichia pastoris
Authors: Puspitasari Dian Japany , Mahsunah Anis Herliyati , Nurdiani Dini , Astuti Rika Indri , Meryandini Anja
Published: February 2025

An increasing number of diabetic patients and the demand for insulin encourage the development of recombinant insulin production on a large scale. Human insulin precursor (HIP) expressed by Mut+ Pichia pastoris using methanol as an inducer was developed. However, methanol above 5% (w/v) or 1.56 M is toxic for the host. Sorbitol was introduced as a co-substrate with methanol. To our knowledge, the study of methanol/sorbitol co-feeding on human insulin precursor (HIP) expression by Mut+ Pichia pastoris in a bioreactor has yet to be reported. This study aimed to investigate the influence of the methanol-sorbitol co-feeding ratio on the expression of HIP expressed by P. pastoris X33 Mut+. The study was conducted by comparing the cultivation of P. pastoris/pD902-IP Mut+ in a 10-liter bioreactor under three conditions: feeding 100% methanol, mass ratio of MeOH:sorbitol 12:1 and 3:1. The oxygen consumption of methanol/sorbitol is less than the methanol feeding. The mass ratio of MeOH:sorbitol 12:1 produced the highest HIP titer (1326.5 mg/L), 1.5 times higher than methanol feeding, the lowest specific growth rate, but the highest specific productivity at the induction phase. MeOH:sorbitol mass ratio 3:1 produced the highest dry cell weight (DCW) amount (96 g/L). These results suggested that an appropriate ratio of sorbitol-methanol can be a choice to replace methanol feeding in a Mut+ P. pastoris.
Characteristics of Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria Isolated from the Rhizosphere at Kaolin Lake, Belitung, Indonesia
Authors: Nurhakiki  , Rusmana Iman , Astuti Rika Indri
Published: February 2025

Former kaolin mining has poor physical and chemical properties for plants. The low nutrient content makes difficult for plants to grow. Nitrogen (N2) is an important macronutrient for plants, but it can only be absorbed in the form of ammonium ions (NH4+) or nitrate ions (NO3-­). Therefore, it is necessary to transform nitrogen, which is able to change the molecular form so that it can be absorbed by plants. The strategy that can be done is using nitrogen-fixing bacteria. This study aimed to explore and analyze the diversity of nitrogen-fixing bacteria based on 16S rRNA and nifH gene from the rhizosphere of the Kaolin Lake area. The method started with bacterial isolation from rhizosphere soil samples. Selected isolates were tested for ammonium content to determine the ability of isolates to fix nitrogen. In this study, 13 isolates had the ability to fix nitrogen, two of which had a high ammonium concentration, namely RBN 5.6, and RBA 2.3. The highest ammonium concentration was produced by isolate RBN5.6 amounting to 7.55 μg/ml. Based on 16S rRNA gene identification, isolate RBN5.6 was similar to Burkholderia cepacia and isolate RBA2.3 was similar to Bacillus aquimaris. Based on the detection of the nifH gene, isolate RBN5.6 was identified as a protein-encoding dinitrogenase reductase gene group cluster from the Stutzerimonas stutzeri.
Soil Symbiosis Reimagined: Rhizobium and Mycorrhiza Influence on Soybean Performance in Early Oil Palm Ecosystems
Authors: Anugraeni Rahman Reski , Weny Respatie Dyah , Tarwaca Susila Putra Eka , Laurenze Reynaldi
Published: February 2025

The high demand for soybeans in Indonesia is not in line with national soybean production due to the harvest area decreasing every year. To increase national soybean production, the area of IOP (Immature Oil Plantation) one year has potential for soybean development. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Rhizobium spp. and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation on the physiological capacity, growth, and yield of the soybean plant planted between rows of IOP one-year-old. This research was carried out at PT Perkebunan Nusantara IV (PTPN IV), Adolina Afdeling 1, Serdang Bedagai Regency, North Sumatra, from March 2023 to June 2023. A two-factor Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications for all treatments was conducted in a field experiment. Experimental treatments include: 1) non-inoculated Rhizobium spp. + non-inoculated AMF (R0M0) (Control), 2) non-inoculated Rhizobium spp. + inoculation AMF (R0M1), 3) inoculation Rhizobium spp. + non-inoculated AMF (R1M0) and 4) inoculation Rhizobium spp. + inoculation AMF (R1M1). The results showed that the single arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation treatment significantly enhanced soybean physiology, growth, and yield including relative water content (85.87%), nitrate reductase activity (8.98 µmol NO2-g BS-1 hour-1), stomatal density (775.16 mm), proline (17.76 µmol proline g BS-1), and ascorbate peroxidase (0.0068 U/min/mg).
Exploring the α-Amylase Inhibitory Potential of Peronema canescens Jack: An In Vitro and In Silico Study
Authors: Rahardhian Muhammad Ryan Radix , Aryanti Ninda , Susilawati Yasmiwar , Sumiwi Sri Adi , Putri Chintiana Nindya , Ramonah Dewi , Suharsanti Ririn
Published: February 2025

Hyperglycemia in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus is primarily driven by the rapid hydrolysis of starch by the enzyme α-amylase in the pancreas and the breakdown of oligosaccharides by α-glucosidase in the intestine. Peronema canescens Jack. (PC) has shown promise as a potential antidiabetic agent. This study aimed to evaluate the total flavonoid, phenolic, and α-amylase inhibitory activity of extracts and fractions derived from PC leaves using both in vitro and in silico approaches. The ethanol extract of PC leaves was fractionated through liquid-liquid extraction using n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and water as solvents. Preliminary phytochemical screening of the extracts and fractions identified the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and steroids/triterpenoids. The n-hexane fraction exhibited the highest total flavonoid content, averaging 203.37±4.38 mg QE/gram, while the ethyl acetate fraction demonstrated the highest total phenolic content, averaging 147.04±0.79 mg GAE/gram. Furthermore, the ethyl acetate fraction showed the strongest α-amylase inhibitory activity, with an average inhibition rate of 70.38±1.26%. In silico analysis, combined with GC-MS identification, suggested that three compounds, bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, myristyl oleate, and 14 beta H-pregna may contribute to the observed α-amylase inhibitory activity. These findings highlight the potential of PC as a source of natural antidiabetic agents.
Comprehensive Characterization of Phospholipase C and D Families in Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.): Identification, Phylogenetics, Gene Structure, and Transcriptomic Insights
Authors: Nguyen Quy Phuong , Tran Huyen Thi Thanh , Nguyen Huong Thi Thanh , Dong Gioi Huy , Ha Quyen Thi , Vu Quyen Thi Xuan , Le Chi Toan , Cao Phi Bang , Chu Ha Duc
Published: February 2025

This study provides a detailed investigation of the phospholipase C (PLC) and phospholipase D (PLD) gene families in cocoa (Theobroma cacao), focusing on their identification, characterization, and expression patterns. A total of 10 PLC and 12 PLD genes was identified and systematically annotated based on their sequence homology, conserved domains, and functional classification, adhering to established nomenclature. Analysis of physicochemical properties revealed diversity in molecular weights, isoelectric points, and stability parameters, reflecting their structural and functional variability. Phylogenetic analysis classified the genes into distinct subfamilies and highlighted their evolutionary relationships with homologs in Arabidopsis thaliana and rice (Oryza sativa). Gene structure analysis demonstrated significant variation in exon-intron organization, indicating functional specialization and regulatory complexity within these gene families. Expression profiling during cocoa embryo development showed that certain genes, such as TcNPC2, TcPI-PLC5, and TcPLDα1, were highly expressed, while others exhibited stage-specific activity. In response to Phytophthora megakarya infection, several PLC and PLD genes displayed significant changes in expression across different time points and genotypes, including the upregulation of TcPI-PLC2, TcPLDα5, and TcPLDζ2, suggesting their roles in cocoa's stress responses and defense mechanisms. These findings offer new insights into the biological roles of PLC and PLD gene families in cocoa, particularly in growth, development, and stress adaptation, providing a solid foundation for further functional research and potential applications in cocoa improvement programs.
The Ureolytic Soil Bacteria Bacillus albus, a potential Agent for Biocement
Authors: Linda Tetty Marta , Rahmani Syauqi Susana , Wati Andini Saras , Febriarti Bernadeta Leni , Futra Dedi , Olivia Monita , Juliantari Erwina
Published: February 2025

Concrete is a common building material and is very vulnerable to cracking caused by unstable temperature/humidity. Concrete crack repair can be done by using microorganism substitution that can produce CaCO3 (calcite) compounds that can be used as an environmentally friendly method in improving structural formation and increasing the strength and durability of concrete, one of which is using ureolytic bacteria. This study aimed to isolate and characterize ureolytic bacteria isolates and then to assess the calcite precipitation potential of ureolytic bacteria isolates from landfills. The ureolytic bacterial isolates were grown on NB-U/Ca and tap water medium. Analysis of Calcite Structure using Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR), and molecular identification using 16S rRNA gene sequences. Bacterial isolate SP. 48 were able to grow and produce calcite in both media, especially in tap water medium. FTIR results showed that the precipitates produced by bacterial isolates on both mediums had strong absorption peaks, which were detected to be calcite. Molecular identification using the 16S rRNA gene sequence showed that the isolate is Bacillus albus. B. albus is a proteolytic bacterium collected from landfills that was proven to be a calcite-producing bacterium, a new finding in this study. B. albus can grow and produce calcite in a tap water medium with low pH. This finding can be used as an alternative to overcome concrete cracks and increase the strength and durability of concrete. This bacterial isolate could be developed as a biocement candidate.