bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water resource brand marketing strategy based on cloud computing
Authors: Wang Jin
Published: January 2025

In the context of the development of the digital era, cloud computing technology has gradually penetrated into many industry fields and has had a profound impact on its structure and operation mode. Especially in the field of water brand marketing, cloud computing provides a range of advanced tools and platforms to help companies implement marketing strategies more efficiently and flexibly. The purpose of this study is to deeply explore the water resource brand marketing strategy based on cloud computing and make a comparative analysis with traditional methods. After an exhaustive literature review, this study summarizes the basic definition, core characteristics, and application of cloud computing in the water resources market. In order to more systematically understand the actual effects of cloud computing in marketing strategies, this study designed an experiment to compare the effects of cloud-based marketing strategies with traditional methods in practical applications. After rigorous data collection and processing, further analysis showed that the cloud-based strategy had relatively high performance on several key metrics such as sales growth and customer satisfaction. Based on the research results, it can be concluded that the cloud-based water resource brand marketing strategy provides a new research direction and practice opportunity for this field. This study provides useful theoretical support and practical guidance for water resource enterprises that expect to adjust and optimize brand strategy in the contemporary market environment.
Design and application research of embedded graphic display software system for edge computing
Authors: Luo Jinqun
Published: January 2025

With the increase of data volume in edge device, the importance of edge computing is also gradually highlighted. The demand for edge device to complete data calculation is also gradually developing. Data generated in edge computing needs real-time interaction with users, and graphical display is the most intuitive way of data interaction, but the resources of edge devices are limited. In order to realize the graphic display in the limited resources and save the limited resources, a small embedded graphics display system solution for edge computing is innovatively developed. This solution includes the overall architecture design of the graphics display system, the implementation of functional logic, animation technology, and virtual machines. The study used Bezier curves to design oscilloscope controls involved in edge display systems. The study also adopted various interpolation algorithms and introduced a spring animation that simulates physics into the interpolation algorithm. In addition, the study also designed the execution mechanism of the program virtual machine and the processing flow of the encoder. Finally, the effectiveness of the system designed by the research is verified by comparing indicators such as power consumption and performance to power ratio. According to the findings, the performance of the system designed by the research institute is 127 million pixels per second. The power consumption is 65 megawatts. The performance to power ratio is 1.95. The memory is 1.52 KB. The startup speed is 1.64 milliseconds. The frequency is 167 MHz, and the process is 110 nanometers. The average smoothness and realism of the picture after introducing spring animation are 8.8 and 10 higher than those of the picture only introducing frame insertion algorithm, respectively. It can be seen that the embedded graphics display software system for edge computing designed by the research institute has good performance and effect. The research results can be applied in edge display systems to achieve data exchange within their limited resources and have good practical application significance.
Fuzzy association rule mining for Personalized English Language Teaching from higher education
Authors: Cai Jing , Li Yonglan
Published: January 2025

College students are expected to possess a higher level of education, and increasing numbers of job positions require higher proficiency in English. Students come from various wisdom, and their demands for learning, ways of thinking, and learning methods will vary. In higher education, Personalized English Language Teaching (PELT) is crucial for addressing the various requirements of students, boosting motivation with involvement, maximizing resource use, preparing them for future professions, and improving their learning outcomes. To provide students with personalized and effective training in higher education, Fuzzy associated Frequent Pattern-Growth (F2PG-PELT) has been proposed to discover personalized relationships and patterns in student data using fuzzy association rule mining. Secondly, the Frequent Pattern-Growth algorithm is used to identify frequent patterns in learner data that are pertinent and meaningful. The relationships and connections between language factors or student qualities are crucial to personalized education and can be identified using a candidate frequent pattern tree. Due to the diversity of teaching strategies, the fuzzy association rules are generated using minimum support and confidence measure. The proposed model develops high learning outcomes with self-assurance, improves language and communication skills, offers individualized learning opportunities, and fosters lifelong learning abilities. The experimental outcomes demonstrate that the suggested fuzzy association rule mining employed for the PELT model increases the student engagement ratio, teaching efficiency ratio, learning outcome ratio, and teacher involvement ratio compared to other state-of-the-art approaches.
Using big data to analyze the mental health status of college students
Authors: Xu Xiujia
Published: January 2025

In recent years, with the increase of the number of college students and the change of social pressure, the problem of students’ mental health has gradually been widely concerned by the society. The purpose of this study is to systematically evaluate and analyze the mental health status of college students and explore the core factors that affect their mental health. Using big data technology and SCL-90 scale, this study assessed the mental health of a sample of students within a certain range. The results show that academic pressure, interpersonal relationship, living habits, and personal experience are the main influencing factors of students’ mental health. Based on these findings, the study provides a series of specific mental health intervention recommendations and strategies for colleges and universities. This study not only provides targeted mental health strategy suggestions for colleges and universities but also provides a new research perspective and method for mental health research.
Fuzzy clustering algorithm-based teaching resource recommendation method for automotive engine overhaul
Authors: Huang Chaoqun
Published: January 2025

At present, the traditional teaching resource recommendation algorithm mainly constructs the evaluation matrix of teaching resources and determines the recommendation order according to the evaluation value, which lacks the grasp of user preferences and leads to poor recommendation effect. Therefore, a method of recommending teaching resources for automobile engine overhaul based on fuzzy clustering algorithm is proposed. This paper constructs the algorithm flow of automobile engine overhaul teaching resources recommendation, describes the K-means clustering algorithm and the improved K-means clustering algorithm, analyzes the user characteristics by using the clustering fuzzy algorithm, calculates the similarity between user interests and resources, and completes the recommendation of automobile engine overhaul teaching resources. Experiments verify the recommendation accuracy of this method, and the results show that this method has low MAE value and high recommendation accuracy when it is used to recommend teaching resources.
Occlusion target recognition algorithm based on improved YOLOv4
Authors: Jia Fengguang
Published: January 2025

With the development of deep learning, recognition algorithms are increasingly widely used in various fields, and face recognition is a technological embodiment of recognition algorithms in real life. Due to the limited recognition range, the face may be occluded, so it is necessary to design an occluded target recognition algorithm model. This article aims to optimize the “You Only Look Once Version 4” algorithm and propose an improved occlusion target recognition algorithm model by introducing separable convolutional optimization and embedding attention mechanism. This paper designed relevant experiments to verify the model performance and compared the facial recognition model designed by MM Goyani. The experiment shows that the median accuracy of this algorithm and the comparison algorithm are 0.97 and 0.92, respectively, with a distinction of 0.05, and the average values are 0.962 and 0.902, with a discrepancy of 0.060. About the accuracy, the improved algorithm is higher than that unimproved algorithm, with a difference of 16% and an average accuracy difference of 7.5%. Therefore, the constructed algorithm has effectiveness and feasibility, and to a certain extent has good development potential and reference value.
Optimization study on valve seating characteristics of hydraulic variable valve system
Authors: Xu Yuliang
Published: January 2025

Variable valve technologies, as an advanced category aimed at enhancing internal combustion engine thermal efficiency and emission performance, are highly favored within the automotive industry. This paper proposes a hydraulic variable valve system that can achieve continuous variation in valve phase and lift while maintaining a simple structure. Pre-tests show that at higher engine speeds, the valve seating characteristics are not stable enough. This study believes that in addition to considering the lower seating velocity, the valve seating characteristics also needs to take into account the timeliness of the valve seating and the permissible requirements of hydraulic oil pressure. In order to improve the valve seating performance of the system at higher speed, we first built a simulation model, analyzed the valve seating influencing factors, and then established an optimization model of valve seating characteristics, optimized the parameters of the buffer mechanism and carried out verification tests using a physical platform. The results show that under the premise of meeting the allowable oil pressure, the maximum valve seating velocity is decreased from by 60% from 1.33 m/s to 0.52 m/s, and the seating phase delay is only 3.3°, realizing the smooth seating and effectively increases the applicable speed of the hydraulic variable valve system by 28.5% to above 4500 r/min.
Theoretical reconstruction and practical dimension of labor education in digital age
Authors: Qi Guifen
Published: January 2025

With the rapid development of digital technology, the field of modern education is undergoing profound changes, among which labor education, as an important part of training students’ practical skills, is also facing many new challenges and opportunities. The purpose of this study is to explore the theoretical and practical application of labor education in the digital age. Through comprehensive literature review, questionnaire survey and comparative experiment, this study evaluated the differences between traditional labor education methods and digital methods in terms of educational effect and student satisfaction. The results show that digital labor education methods have significant advantages in improving students’ skills and conceptual gain. But at the same time, the study also highlights the importance of combining traditional and digital methods to achieve the best educational results. Given the rapid evolution of technological and social environments, future research should further explore how to respond to these changes and provide strong support for the development of labor education in the digital age.
The role of cloud computing in supporting the internationalization of higher education
Authors: Lv Huangyan , Yu Su
Published: January 2025

With the advancement of globalization and the rapid development of technology, higher education is facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities. Cloud computing, as the core of modern technology, has brought earth-shaking changes to college education. This study explores in depth how cloud computing can play its potential role in supporting the internationalization of higher education. Through empirical research and model analysis, the study found that hybrid cloud computing strategies perform well in improving the utilization of educational resources and providing flexible and efficient learning and teaching experiences for students and teachers. At the same time, the mixed teaching model is particularly effective under the support of cloud computing. However, this comes with data security and privacy challenges. To this end, this study proposes targeted improvement strategies and provides valuable suggestions for educational institutions and technology providers. In general, cloud computing has not only brought great opportunities for higher education but also presented new challenges, requiring the education and technology communities to work together and deepen cooperation.
A hybrid online and offline teaching effectiveness evaluation method for literary theory courses
Authors: Liu Xiaoping , Liu Zhen
Published: January 2025

At present, the conventional hybrid teaching effect evaluation method is limited by the teaching means and teaching contents, which leads to the low efficiency of teaching effect evaluation, in this regard, the online and offline hybrid teaching effect evaluation method of literature theory course is proposed. Firstly, the multi-index evaluation system is constructed, the weight values of evaluation indexes are calculated, the affiliation function of evaluation indexes is constructed, and finally the multi-index evaluation model is used to evaluate the online and offline hybrid teaching effect of literature theory courses. In the experiment, the evaluation efficiency of the proposed method is verified. The analysis of the experimental results shows that when the proposed method is used to evaluate the teaching effect, the evaluation method takes less time to run and has high evaluation efficiency.
Study on freeze-thaw damage mechanism of coal gangue-based concrete
Authors: Shi Haonan , Xi Liqiang , Guan Xiao , Liang Yuzhao , Xu Liang
Published: January 2025

Coal gangue is a hazardous solid waste associated with the coal production process that is rich in silica and aluminum phase and has potential cementing properties. To promote the application of activated coal gangue materials in concrete engineering in cold regions, this paper uses mechanical grinding and microwave irradiation to active the coal gangue powder. The time-dependent evolution law of the macroscopic properties of concrete under freeze-thaw cycles (FTCs) was used as indicators to study the frost resistance of CGBC (coal gangue-based concrete) with mass substitution rates of 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%. The damage mechanism of CGBC under FTCs was also revealed. The results show that activated coal gangue powder (ACGP) can enhance the frost resistance of concrete. The 10% and 20% content of ACGP significantly increased the compressive strength, splitting tensile strength. Microscopic experimental results show that the filling effect and secondary hydration of ACGP can improve the pore structure of concrete by refining harmful macropores and reducing pore connectivity to the greatest extent, and can also reduce the thickness and enhance the microhardness of the interfacial transition zone (ITZ).
Study on defect detection in lightweight insulators based on improved YOLOv8
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Liu Zhe , Cheng Xinyun , Tang Ming , Li Yaqiao
Published: January 2025

Aiming at the problems of insulator detection such as low recognition accuracy for small targets and the algorithm model is too large and difficult to be deployed to the edge devices. In this paper, a lightweight YOLOv8-ASF-P2 insulator defect detection model is designed. The model introduces the ASF and P2 detection layer, and at the same time according to the idea of ASF to add the P2 detection layer, the new network structure is trained and then pruned. After pruning, the mAP of this algorithm is 89.5%, the model size is 2.1 MB, and the detection speed is 144.9FPS. 1.7% improvement in mAP, 64.7% reduction in model size, and 40% improvement in detection speed compared with the YOLOv8 algorithm, which verifies the effectiveness of the improved method.
Addressing Barriers to Racial Health Disparity Policy Change Advocacy: Exploring White Defensiveness Strategies
Authors: Deline Mary Beth , Katreeb Mary , Mason Emily ‘MJ’ , Rickard Laura N. , Godinez Ertemisa , Dalrymple Kajsa E.
Published: January 2025

Efforts to effect racial health disparity (RHD) policy change are urgent, necessary, and subject to a key barrier: defensiveness among White privileged audiences. Within the literature to date, such defensiveness is under-investigated, and when examined, is typically conceived of as an individual cognitive outcome—a message effect—rather than a communication interaction. Yet policy change advocacy efforts, ranging from community organizing to change campaigns, necessitate communication interactions between advocates and privileged policy change audiences, such as neighborhood groups or policymakers themselves. This defensiveness conceptualization, focused on individual cognitions, therefore limits our understanding of interactive communication barriers in RHD policy advocacy processes. To address this limitation, our research conceives of defensiveness using the privileged identity exploration (PIE) model, developed by Watt in 2007, which posits that defensiveness strategies are used as part of an interactive communication process when people are asked to reflect on their own privilege. Defensiveness strategies, as described by Watt and colleagues in 2021 and 2023, are normal communicative reactions to protect one’s self-identity from threatening information; the PIE models eight such strategies. RHD information invokes racial privilege, therefore eliciting defensiveness. Using a thematic analysis of semi-structured qualitative interviews with White young adults from the Chicago (U.S.) area (N = 27), we identify defensiveness strategies relative to COVID-19 RHDs. Using the PIE as a lens to understand the data, we find some strategies lacking, some similar but differently nuanced, and identify a novel strategy among our participants, suggesting message tailoring opportunities. We describe implications for future research and practice.
Shared Use to Promote Physical Activity and Healthy Eating in Rural South Carolina United Methodist Churches: Opportunities and Pastor Beliefs
Authors: Day Kelsey R. , Wilcox Sara , Parker-Brown Jasmin , Kaczynski Andrew T. , Pellegrini Christine , Armstrong Bridget
Published: January 2025

Access to facilities that could promote physical activity (PA) and healthy eating (HE) is limited in rural areas. Shared use agreements with churches may be a promising strategy for enhancing rural community access to facilities. The goals of this qualitative study were to (a) examine rural pastors’ views on the role of faith-based organizations in improving PA and HE in rural communities; (b) describe the availability of church facilities that could be used for PA and HE; (c) understand pastors’ opinions on shared use of church facilities for community health promotion. A purposeful sampling strategy was used to recruit pastors in rural South Carolina. Thirteen United Methodist Church (UMC) pastors (46% female; 54% predominantly African American congregations) participated in phone interviews. Interviews were transcribed and coded using grounded theory and analyzed with NVIVO. Most pastors reported that their churches had a kitchen (88%), classrooms (82%), and open field space (71%). Nine churches (53%) said they had shared use agreements in place although only two agreements (12%) were related to PA promotion and none related to HE activities. Most pastors did not have concerns about shared use, and many believed that sharing the church’s space with the community was an important aspect of outreach. These results demonstrate that rural churches have facilities to support shared use agreements for PA and HE activities and that pastors are open to sharing church space. Future studies should engage rural churches in establishing shared use agreements for health promotion.
Maya Shavit and the Efroni Choir: A Creative Musical-Pedagogical Model for Working with Youth Choirs
Authors: Isaacson Atara
Published: January 2025

Maya Shavit (1935–2021) was the founder, director, and conductor of the Efroni Girls’ Choir in Emek Hefer, Israel for thirty-three years. Under her guidance, the choir attained success both in Israel and globally, a result of Shavit’s unique interdisciplinary method for teaching music. Indeed, her method and influence changed the musical landscape for choirs in Israel. The current study is a historical account of Shavit’s life focusing on evidence from first-person accounts: testimonies from Shavit herself and from those who worked with or were influenced by her, including this author. Altogether, they reveal Shavit’s background and cultural history and offer insight into her vision, teaching philosophies, methods, and principles for creative work with youth choirs. They also reveal the many innovative projects she established and details of how she raised the quality of Israeli choir directors of youth choirs to international standards.
Quantifying performance in racket sports: The need for greater context
Authors: Tan Julian Quah Jian , Robertson Sam , Komar John
Published: January 2025

In racket sports, the alternating action sequences offer players equal opportunities to impose their strategy, dictate the flow, and outmanoeuvre the opponent in a relentless ‘ push-and-pull’ battle. The complexity of these interactions gives rise to a vast array of behavioural patterns, reflecting the nuanced dynamics of the sport. Existing literature has primarily focused on describing behavioural differences between expertise groups, often overlooking the broader circumstances that shape these patterns. These circumstances, or “context”, encompass factors such as match conditions (i.e., phases of plays) and players’ tendencies (i.e., preferred patterns of plays). This review examines the integration of contextual information in performance analysis within racket sports, focusing on the methodologies employed, data collection strategies, and analytical approaches. Through a systematic search of 105 studies, the predominant reliance on action-related data (93.3%) and traditional observational methods were identified. Only 10.5% of the studies incorporated contextual elements, such as match conditions and player tendencies, in their analysis. This review highlights the significant gap in contextual considerations, which are crucial for a comprehensive understanding of performance. Our findings suggest that a shift towards a contextually rich, data-driven approach is essential to fully understand these dynamic patterns. To address this, this review further advocates for a paradigm shift toward non-linear analytical approaches grounded in ecological dynamics, emphasising functional variability as an essential metric for performance. This approach could revolutionise performance analysis by providing deeper insights into the tactical nuances that drive success in racket sports, thus advancing both research methodologies and coaching practices.
Innovative approaches in colorectal cancer screening: advances in detection methods and the role of artificial intelligence
Authors: Duan Changwei , Sheng Jianqiu , Ma Xianzong
Published: January 2025

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent cancer globally and poses a significant health threat, making early detection crucial. This review paper explored emerging detection methods for early screening of CRC, including gut microbiota, metabolites, genetic markers, and artificial intelligence (AI)-based technologies. Current screening methods have their respective advantages and limitations, particularly in detecting precursors. First, the importance of the gut microbiome in CRC progression is discussed, highlighting how specific microbial alterations can serve as biomarkers for early detection, potentially enhancing diagnostic accuracy when combined with traditional screening methods. Next, research on metabolic reprogramming illustrates the relationship between metabolic changes and CRC, with studies developing metabolite-based detection models that show good sensitivity for early diagnosis. In terms of genetic markers, methylated DNA markers like SEPTIN9 have demonstrated high sensitivity, although further validation across diverse populations is necessary. Lastly, AI technology has shown immense potential in improving adenoma detection rates, significantly enhancing the quality of colonoscopic examinations through image recognition techniques. This review aims to provide a comprehensive perspective on new strategies for CRC screening, emphasizing the potential of noninvasive detection technologies and the prospects of AI and genomics in clinical applications. Despite several challenges, this review advocates for future large-scale prospective studies to validate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of these new screening methods while promoting the implementation of screening protocols tailored to individual characteristics.
Anti-programmed death-1 inhibitors and nimotuzumab in combination with induction chemotherapy for locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma: a propensity score-matched analysis
Authors: Zhang Ya-Ni , Chen Yu-Pei , OuYang Pu-Yun , Lu Tai-Xiang , Xie Fang-Yun , Han Fei , Chen Chun-Yan
Published: January 2025

Background:

The poor prognosis of locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (LANPC) due to the high incidence of metastasis necessitates effective treatment strategies. Synergistic effects have been observed when anti-programmed death-1 (PD-1) inhibitors are combined with chemotherapy or targeted therapy.

Objectives:

To compare the efficacy and safety of induction chemotherapy in combination with nimotuzumab with or without anti-PD-1 inhibitors for LANPC.

Design:

Retrospective study.

Methods:

In total, 319 patients with LANPC were retrospectively enrolled between December 2017 and November 2022. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). Propensity score matching was performed to adjust for potential confounders.

Results:

Overall, 150 patients were included after propensity score matching. The immunotherapy + nimotuzumab + chemotherapy (INC) group ( n = 50) had a higher 3-year PFS rate (96.6% (95% confidence interval (CI): 93.2–100.0)) than the nimotuzumab + chemotherapy (NC) group ( n = 100) (79.8% (95% CI: 75.6–84.0)). The INC group had a hazard ratio of 0.16 (95% CI: 0.02–1.22; p = 0.04). The objective response rates were 100% and 99% for the INC and NC groups, respectively. Grade ⩾3 treatment-related adverse events were reported in eight (5.3%) patients, and hyponatremia (2.0%) was the most common. Grade ⩾3 immune-related adverse events (rash and reactive capillary proliferation) were reported in two (4.0%) patients.

Conclusion:

INC demonstrated remarkable anti-tumor activity with acceptable safety for LANPC.
In Vitro Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity of an Arthrospira platensis (Syn.: Spirulina platensis) Extract
Authors: Pianta Elisa , Günnewich Nils , Zimmermann Christian , Günther Patrick , Petrini Orlando , Diaz-Miyar Juan , Fragoso-Corti Cristina
Published: January 2025

Objective: To assess the antibacterial and antifungal activity in vitro of a patented Spirulina extract on sensitive and multidrug-resistant bacteria, yeasts, and filamentous fungi commonly causing skin infections. Methods: The antimicrobial activity was tested using the drop dilution assay on the Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (wildtype), a methicillin resistant S. aureus, S. epidermidis, S. haemolyticus, Streptococcus pyogenes, the Gram-negative multidrug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the yeasts Candida albicans and C. tropicalis, and the dermatophytes Trichophyton rubrum and Microsporum gypseum. Results: A concentration of 4 g of Spirulina extract per 100 mL of Mueller Hinton agar completely inhibited the growth of all tested bacteria and yeasts, and suppressed dermatophytes growth by 5 log10 units. Conclusion: The Spirulina extract tested could be used as an effective natural, broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent, with potential applications in the therapy of bacterial and fungal infectious diseases.
The Physical and Chemical Properties of Carbon-supported Biosynthesized ZnO Nanostructure for High-performance Super-capacitor Applications
Authors: Gungure Abel Saka , Jule Leta Tesfaye , Nagaprasad N. , Ramaswamy Krishnaraj
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This research focuses on the green synthesis of ZnO nanostructures using P. macrosolen L. leaf extract and investigates the effects of calcination temperatures on their structural, morphological, optical, and electrochemical properties.

Methods

ZnO nanostructures were synthesized via a green, eco-friendly, and time-effective method. Characterizations included P-XRD for phase and crystallite size determination, FTIR spectroscopy for functional group analysis, FIB-SEM and HR-TEM for surface morphology, UV-Vis spectroscopy for optical properties, and electrochemical tests for evaluating super capacitor performance.

Results

XRD analysis confirmed the tetragonal Wurtzite hexagonal phase of ZnO nanostructures, with an average crystallite size of 35 nm calculated using the Debye-Scherrer equation. FTIR confirmed the formation of ZnO, while FIB-SEM and HR-TEM revealed a spongy, agglomerated surface morphology. UV-Vis analysis showed a reduction in the energy band gap with increasing calcination temperatures. Electrochemical analysis demonstrated that ZnO nanostructures calcinated at 580 °C exhibited superior charge/discharge capacities, cycling stability, and nearly 100% coulombic efficiency for up to 1000 cycles at a current density of 5 A/g, outperforming those prepared at 280 °C and 480 °C.

Conclusion

The biosynthesized ZnO nanostructures, especially those calcinated at 580 °C, show excellent potential as electrode materials for high-performance super capacitors due to their enhanced electrochemical performance and long-term cycling stability.
Nutritional Composition and Bioactive Properties of Salicornia brachiata: A Comparison of Drying Methods
Authors: Jayasundara Yashodha , Herath Nimashi , Buddhipala Anupama , Bandara Mithila D. , Jayasinghe Lalith , Attanayake Renuka , Perera Dinum , Paranagama Priyani
Published: January 2025

Objective

Salicornia brachiata, an euhalophyte thriving in saline environments, can be processed into a dried powder (termed bio-salt) from its tender aerial parts. This study aimed to evaluate how three distinct drying methods; freeze-drying (FD), microwave-vacuum drying (MVD) as low temperature drying methods, and heat pump oven drying (HPOD) as a high temperature drying method, affect nutritional composition and bioactivities of S. brachiata. Ultimately, this research aims to identify the most suitable drying approach that retains bioactive and nutritional properties to preserve the health benefits of bio-salt.

Methods

The aerial parts of S. brachiata were washed, air-dried overnight, and then subjected to various drying methods. The proximate composition, colour measurements, mineral composition, and microbial quality of the dried powders were evaluated. The lipid extracts were analyzed using GC-MS and the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of the resulting powders were assessed.

Results

Among the methods, FD best preserved the plant's color and yielded the highest levels of carbohydrates (42.64%), crude fat (0.88%), and dietary fibers (29.72%). Methanolic extracts of FD powders exhibited the highest phenolic content (43.68 ± 0.04 mg GAE/g DW) and superior antioxidant activity, with IC50 values of 8.72 ± 0.50 µg/mL for the DPPH assay and 19.49 ± 0.76 µg/mL for the ABTS assay, outperforming both MVD and HPOD. The FD extracts contained a higher proportion of unsaturated fatty acids compared to saturated fatty acids. In vitro antibacterial assays revealed that the FD extract at 100 mg/mL demonstrated the strongest inhibition against test bacteria. In an anti-inflammatory assay, FD was identified as the most effective drying method, yielding the lowest IC50 value of 314.78 ± 1.55 µg/mL.

Conclusion

These results suggest that freeze-drying is the most suitable drying method for preserving the bioactive properties and health benefits of bio-salt derived from the aerial parts of S. brachiata.
Nephroprotective Potential of Rhamnazin Against Cadmium-Induced Kidney Damages via Activation of Nrf2/Keap1 Pathway
Authors: Anjum Mahnoor , Ehsan Nazia , Tahir Arfa , Batool Moazama , Hamdi Hamida , Ijaz Muhammad Umar
Published: January 2025

Background/Objective

Cadmium (Cd) is an extremely toxic heavy metal and environmental toxicant, which leads to renal damage by causing oxidative stress. Rhamnazin (RAM) is a novel flavonoid, which possesses multiple pharmacological activities. Therefore, the present study was planned to determine the nephroprotective effects of RAM against Cd-prompted renal toxicity in rats.

Methodology

In this investigation, 24 male albino rats were distributed into four equal groups, i.e., control, CdCl2-intoxicated group (2 mgkg−1), CdCl2 + RAM-treated group (2 mgkg−1 + 20 mgkg−1), and RAM-only treated group (20 mgkg−1). After oral dose administration for 30 days, the alterations in the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway, Cd concentration, antioxidant profile, oxidative stress markers, renal function markers, inflammatory markers, apoptotic markers, and kidney histology were analyzed.

Result

The results of the current study revealed that Cd exposure significantly ( P < .05) increased Keap1 expression, while decreasing the expressions of Nrf2 and antioxidant genes and level of total antioxidant status (TAS). Additionally, it decreased the activities of antioxidant enzymes. Whereas, the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and total oxidant status (TOS) were increased. Cd exposure increased Cd concentration in tissues. Additionally, it increased the levels of renal function markers, such as urea, urobilinogen, urinary proteins, creatinine, kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL). On the contrary, Cd exposure reduced albumin and creatinine clearance. Furthermore, it increased the levels of inflammatory markers in the kidneys. Besides, Cd significantly increased the levels of Bax, caspase-3, and caspase-9, whereas lessened Bcl-2 level. Moreover, adverse histoarchitectural changes were observed following the Cd exposure. However, treatment with RAM significantly restored all the damage in the kidneys of the rats.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the potential of RAM as a valuable therapeutic candidate against heavy metal-induced kidney damage.
Perceived Academic Satisfaction of Fourth-Year Pre-Service Teachers
Authors: Soliba Bernadette L. , Rivera Maria Le Ann D. , Marquez Aireena Joyce M. , Marquez Alyssa Mae B. , Ocumen Julia P. , Ottao Brechelle B. , Pedro Rochelle B. , Posot Manuel T. , Ramos Kyneschi E. , Rivera Gail Rhea E.
Published: January 2025

The present study aimed to determine the academic satisfaction of fourth-year pre-service teachers at Saint Louis University. It elaborates on the different satisfaction levels and factors regarding the student’s academic performance. The study utilized a mixed-method design, a questionnaire, and an interview for data collection. Through the sampling method, 72 4th-year Education Students enrolled at Saint Louis University, Baguio City, for the first semester of the academic year 2022 to 2023 were the respondents of the study. Specifically, the School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (STELA) was involved in the study. The findings of this study have important implications for teacher education programs. With the use of the mixed method, the researchers were able to determine two notable factors that ranked first on the satisfaction of the pre-service teachers. The results imply that the majority of pre-service teachers were satisfied with their academic experience. They were satisfied with the teaching quality and the resources offered to help them learn.
Exploring Factors and Challenges Influencing Employee Well-being: Insights From HR Practitioners
Authors: Singh Priti , Bajaj Badri
Published: January 2025

In contemporary workplaces, prioritising employee well-being is of paramount importance. This exploratory study explored various factors and challenges that influence employee well-being from the perspective of human resource (HR) practitioners. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 HR practitioners from different organisations in India. The data were analysed through thematic coding, revealing three pivotal themes of factors influencing employee well-being: macro-factors (government policies, geographic location, social factors, and national culture); organisational factors (organisational culture, organisational behaviour, organisational structure, and organisational brand image); and contextual factors (HR practices, leadership, and job characteristics). The findings also indicated that HR practitioners face several challenges at the individual, team, institutional, and macro levels. By understanding these factors and the challenges faced by HR practitioners in enhancing employee well-being, organisations may reevaluate their strategies for employee well-being.
Successful Endoscopic Management of Oxyntic Gland Adenoma: A Case Report
Authors: Ramachandran Rajarajeshwari , Grantham Tyler , Loeffler Jeffrey , Reddy Madhavi , Gaduputi Vinaya
Published: January 2025

Oxyntic gland adenomas (OGAs) are benign gastric neoplasms composed of gland-forming epithelial cells with predominantly chief cell differentiation resembling oxyntic glands confined to the mucosa. If the tumor has submucosal invasion, it should be classified as gastric adenocarcinoma of fundic gland type. The OGAs can pose a diagnostic challenge, as they can resemble aggressive gastric neoplasms. There are no current guidelines on the management of OGA. Due to the relatively small size and low malignant potential, these lesions are typically managed endoscopically. In this case, we are reporting a 22-year-old woman who was diagnosed with OGA during evaluation of iron deficiency anemia and underwent successful endoscopic resection.
Etiologies of rapidly progressive dementias: A systematic review and meta-analysis of causes in worldwide and Latin America
Authors: Cubas Guillen Jonathan Fernando , Cristalli Carolina Agata Ardohain , Berrios Waleska , Deschle Florencia , Dorman Guido , Boccazzi Julian Fernandez , Flores Ignacio , Graviotto Héctor Gastón , Isaac Cristian Flavio , Rojas Galeno , Román Karen Daniela , Scribano Parada Maria de la Paz , Sorbara Marcos , Allegri Ricardo F. , Calandri Ismael Luis
Published: January 2025

Background

Rapidly progressive dementia (RPD) is a group of neurological diseases, where three etiologies are particularly relevant: neurodegenerative, prion and autoimmune encephalitis (AIE) diseases.

Objective

The aim of this study is to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the frequency of these etiologies causing RPD in worldwide and Latin America (LatAm).

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted. A bibliographic search of publications related to the etiologies of RPD was done. The etiologies, the timeframe definition (<1 year versus <2 years) and the study's place of origin were analyzed.

Results

A total of 10 articles were selected for the analysis in this study (n = 1006 patients). Three studies were originated in LatAm cohorts (two from Argentina and one from Brazil). The global prevalence of RPD due to neurodegenerative disease was 23% CI95% [11%; 42%]; prion diseases, 16% CI95% [9%; 28%]; and AIE, 12% CI95% [6%; 22%]. Comparing each overall proportion of etiologies of LatAm versus non-LatAm there were statistically significant differences for AIE (25% versus 8%, respectively, p < 0.01). In the case of timeframe definitions, the comparison of the etiological percentage did not show statistically significant differences.

Conclusions

From our results, approximately a half of the causes of RPD were due to neurodegenerative, prion, and AIE diseases. Future studies will be needed to analyze this issue both globally and regionally.
Sex-specific effects of dietary salt intake on circulating Alzheimer's disease-related biomarkers in aged rats
Authors: Sun Fen , Wang Qiu-Xiang , Zhao Lu-Ping , Jin Qi , Jin Shi-Han , Xu Jun-Tao , Yin Meng-Jia , Jin Chao , Wang Jing-Hua
Published: January 2025

This study collected plasma samples from aged male and female Sprague Dawley rats (22–24 months old) with varying long-term dietary salt intake (low, 0.1% NaCl; normal, 0.4% NaCl; or clinically relevant high salt, 1% NaCl; for twelve weeks). Dementia-related biomarkers in the plasma, including amyloid-β peptide 1–42, tau protein, and glial fibrillary acidic protein, were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. The primary outcome revealed sex differences in the impact of dietary salt on these biomarkers.
Prenatal Diagnosis and Staged Reconstruction of a Large Oropharyngeal Teratoma: A Longitudinal Case Report
Authors: Morales Carrie Z. , Blum Jessica , Saikali Linda M. , Low David W. , Javia Luv R. , Hedrick Holly L. , Jackson Oksana
Published: January 2025

Introduction: An oropharyngeal teratoma, or epignathus, is a congenital tumor, most commonly found in neonates, that is believed to result from abnormal migration of primordial cells in the mediastinum or hypothalamic regions. Although benign, a feared complication of an epignathus is neonatal airway obstruction, thereby necessitating aggressive airway management and thorough resection. Methods: We report the case of a 19 week and 2 day old fetus prenatally diagnosed with an oropharyngeal teratoma. We describe this patient’s surgical trajectory from birth through the most recent stages of oropharyngeal reconstruction. Post-surgical outcomes, including feeding, speech, and facial growth, were monitored longitudinally. Results: Prenatal imaging was utilized to monitor and diagnose the mass, guide prenatal counseling, and enable preoperative planning. The patient was delivered via ex utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) procedure at 35w5d due to concern for airway obstruction. Surgical management began with an immediate tracheostomy followed by resection of the 260 mL tumor. Staged reconstructive surgeries, including palate repair via two buccal flaps, a Furlow Z-plasty, and a posterior pharyngeal flap, were performed to address right-sided hard and soft palate defects. The patient required specialized, multidisciplinary care which included orthodontic interventions, bilateral myringotomy with tubes, gastric tube placement, and ongoing speech behavioral health therapy. Surgical management spanned 3.5 years and the length of follow-up was 8.13 years. Conclusion: This case demonstrates the importance of early diagnosis, the utility of local tissue rearrangement in hemipalate lesions, and the need for a multidisciplinary approach in managing oropharyngeal teratomas. Longitudinal care requires coordinated efforts guided by facial growth and milestones to ensure optimal functional outcomes.
A Venous Pseudoaneurysm With an Unconventional Respirophasic Spectral Doppler Waveform in the Neck of the Pseudoaneurysm: Case Report
Authors: Noh Cassey Young
Published: January 2025

A pseudoaneurysm is a vascular complication, often resulting from an injury or an invasive procedure, caused by the puncture of a vessel wall. The identification of a pseudoaneurysm can be confirmed by recognition of the bidirectional “to-and-fro” spectral Doppler waveform in the neck and the internal “Yin-Yang” color Doppler. This case study illustrates that this confirmation applies only to an arterial pseudoaneurysm, a pseudoaneurysm arising from a vein with a pulsatile Doppler waveform, such as a jugular vein or an arteriovenous fistula for hemodialysis. This case study introduces a venous pseudoaneurysm arising from the distal femoral vein without any history of a prior injury or an invasive procedure. It also differentiates it from one arising from an artery or a vein that exhibits pulsatile Doppler waveform.
Validation of the German Glasgow Sensory Questionnaire in autistic adults
Authors: Jakob Isabel Marie , Roessner Veit , Ring Melanie
Published: January 2025

Background

We validated the German version of the Glasgow Sensory Questionnaire (GSQ), a self-report questionnaire for adults assessing the processing of stimuli regarding hypo- and hypersensitivity in seven sensory modalities. Since the GSQ is intended for the use in autistic adults, we aimed to complement our previous study on students with high and low Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ; Zeisel et al., BMC Psychiatry 23:426, 2023), by surveying groups of autistic and non-autistic adults, to present the sensory processing profiles of the two groups, to identify the factor structure of the questionnaire in a group of autistic individuals and to identify the diagnostic value of a cut-off score for heightened sensory sensitivity in German autistic adults.

Methods

A sample of autistic and non-autistic adults (each n = 86) completed the same German version of the GSQ as used in Zeisel et al. (BMC Psychiatry 23:426, 2023), the AQ and the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised. Factor analyses were applied.

Results

The German GSQ showed good to excellent reliability. While the factor structure could not be confirmed, main findings of other validation studies were replicated: AQ and GSQ scores were moderately to strongly associated, with higher AQ and GSQ scores for autistic than for non-autistic individuals. Autistic individuals also showed more consistency in their sensitivity across sensory modalities. A third of the autistic participants had heightened sensory sensitivity, when a cut-off was set at the 95th percentile of the non-autism group. Conclusions: Overall, this German version of the GSQ can be considered a validated self-report questionnaire assessing sensory sensitivity particularly in autistic individuals. It can be used to assess sensory sensitivity in the diagnostic process of autism spectrum disorder and to assess an individual's sensory needs and strengths for best possible support. Further studies are required, especially to assess the internal structure of the GSQ.