bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of melatonin supplementation on oxidative stress, and inflammatory biomarkers in diabetic patients with chronic kidney disease: a double-blind, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sadeghi Sara , Nassiri Amirahmad , Hakemi Monir Sadat , Hosseini Fatemeh , Pourrezagholie Fatemeh , Naeini Fatemeh , Niri Aylar Nadiri , Imani Hossein , Mohammadi Hamed
Published: February 2025

Background and objectives

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive illness linked to higher rates of morbidity and death. One of the main causes of CKD is diabetes mellitus (DM), and oxidative stress is essential to the disease's development. It has been demonstrated that the natural antioxidant melatonin reduces inflammation and oxidative damage in renal tissues. Given the lack of robust evidence, this double-blind clinical trial sought to investigate the effects of melatonin supplementation on oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in diabetic CKD patients.

Materials and methods

This trial included 41 diabetic patients with CKD (stages 3–4) from Shariati Hospital, Tehran, Iran. For ten weeks, participants were randomized to receive either a placebo or 5 mg of melatonin twice a day. Baseline characteristics, dietary intake, physical activity, and anthropometric measurements were recorded. Oxidative stress (TAC, TOS, MDA) and inflammatory markers (IL-6, hs-CRP) were measured before and after the intervention. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results

The 10-week trial was completed by 41 participants in total, and no adverse effects were noted. Dietary intake, physical activity, and anthropometric parameters did not significantly differ between the melatonin and control groups in baseline characteristics. Melatonin supplementation decreased oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers, including hs-CRP, MDA, TOS, and IL-6. However, these changes were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Our study showed that melatonin supplementation did not significantly affect oxidative stress or inflammatory markers, including TAC, TOS, MDA, IL-6, and hs-CRP, in diabetic patients with CKD. Despite a decrement in TOS, MDA, IL-6, and hs-CRP levels after 10 weeks, this was not statistically significant. Further studies with larger sample sizes, greater dosages, and longer follow-up periods are recommended.
Comparing the Effects of Integrative Neuromuscular Training and Traditional Physical Fitness Training on Physical Performance Outcomes in Young Athletes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wan Ke-wen , Dai Zi-han , Wong Po-san , Ho Robin Sze-tak , Tam Bjorn T.
Published: February 2025

Background

Enhancing youth's physical fitness levels during childhood and adolescence through prior training programs can significantly optimize their athletic performance. The integrative neuromuscular training (INT) model is designed to improve neuromuscular function and prevent athletic injuries, and is superior to the traditional physical training method. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to compare the effects of INT versus traditional physical fitness training (PT) on physical performance-related outcomes in young athletes.

Methods

Six online databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, PsycINFO) searched from inception through 15 January 2024. Meta-analysis was performed when data were available from two or more trials. Physical performance-related outcomes were analyzed using standardized mean differences (SMDs) and mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The certainty of evidence and quality of the included studies were rated using the GRADE scale and the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool respectively.

Results

Seventeen randomized controlled trials with 649 young athletes were included in the systematic review. Of those, 1 study showed a low risk of bias, 1 showed a high risk, and 15 showed some concerns. Compared to the PT group, INT significantly improved dynamic balance (MD = 7.29%, 95%CI 3.31 to 11.28, p < 0.001, I2 = 64.7%), static balance (SMD = −0.54, 95%CI −0.84 to −0.24, p < 0.001, I2 = 0.0%), jumping performance (SMD = 0.53, 95%CI 0.32 to 0.73, p < 0.001, I2 = 0.0%), sprinting capacity (SMD = −0.76, 95%CI −1.13 to −0.39, p < 0.001, I2 = 57.6%) and maximal strength (SMD = 1.01, 95%CI 0.35 to 1.67, p = 0.002, I2 = 81.9%%). No significant between-group differences were identified for agility and flexibility.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that INT has the potential to be an effective training method to improve physical performance in young athletes. Moreover, further research is needed to determine the effects and associated doses for young athletes of different age groups.
Exploring small-scale optimization coupling learning approaches for enterprises’ financial health forecasts
Authors: Zhu Lin , Zhang Zhihua , Crabbe M. James C.
Published: February 2025

The financial health of leading enterprises has a significant impact on the sustainable development of the global economy. Most data-driven financial health forecasts are based on the direct use of small-scale machine learning. In this study, we proposed the idea of optimization coupling learning to improve these machine learning models in financial health forecasting. It not only revealed lagging, immediate, continuous impacts of various indicators in different fiscal year, but also had the same low computational cost and complexity as known small-scale machine learning models. We used our optimization coupling learning to investigate 3424 leading enterprises in China and revealed inner triggering mechanisms and differences of enterprises' financial health status from individual behavior to macro level.
The Tri-Lift suspension technique: a modified deep-plane lip lift for enhanced aesthetic outcomes—my personal approach
Authors: Mahmood Bayad Jaza
Published: February 2025

Background

The subnasal lip lift has emerged as a popular intervention for correcting an elongated upper lip, although postoperative scarring remains a topic of concern. Various techniques have been discussed in the literature, with the Tri-Lift suspension technique highlighted in this study offering to reduce such complications and to assess the impact of modification in the deep plane subnasal lip lift, which includes triple suspension sutures, on nasal and labial aesthetic parameters.

Results

A total of 193 female patients (mean age: 28 years) underwent the Tri-Lift suspension technique, while 50 female patients (mean age: 32.48 years) underwent the traditional lip lift (bullhorn technique). In the Tri-Lift group, 78.7% reported “very much improvement,” 20.2% “much improvement,” and 1% “no change,” compared to 43% “very much improvement,” 28.6% “much improvement,” 21.4% “improved,” and 7% “no change” in the traditional lip lift group. Quantitative measurements of philtral length, vermilion height, and dental show recorded preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively showed significant improvements in both groups. However, the Tri-Lift suspension technique achieved higher satisfaction rates, fewer adverse outcomes, and statistically significant differences in satisfaction levels (P < 0.05) compared with the traditional lip lift.

Conclusions

The Tri-Lift suspension technique offers a solution to the common issue of scarring in subnasal lip lifts, enhancing both nasal and lip aesthetics. It presents a promising alternative to the traditional method, providing higher patient satisfaction and better aesthetic outcomes with reduced scarring.

Graphical abstract
Inactivation of the CMAH gene and deficiency of Neu5Gc play a role in human brain evolution
Authors: Liu Yuxin , Li Jinhong , Liu Qicai
Published: February 2025

During human evolution, some genes were lost or silenced from the genome of hominins. These missing genes might be the key to the evolution of humans’ unique cognitive skills. An inactivation mutation in CMP-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase (CMAH) was the result of natural selection. The inactivation of CMAH protected our ancestors from some pathogens and reduced the level of N-glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc) in brain tissue. Interestingly, the low level of Neu5Gc promoted the development of brain tissue, which may have played a role in human evolution. As a xenoantigen, Neu5Gc may have been involved in brain evolution by affecting neural conduction, neuronal development, and aging.

Graphical Abstract

During human evolution, humans lost the ability to synthesize Neu5Gc after the inactivation mutation of the gene CMAH. Therefore, Neu5Gc in the human body is a xenoantigen. The inactivation of CMAH and the loss of endogenous Neu5Gc may have played a role in human brain evolution by affecting neural conduction, neuronal development, and aging.
A sustainable breakthrough in rodent pest control: laboratory validation of novel neem-andrographolide bait with dual toxic and contraceptive effects
Authors: Verma Meenu , Kaur Harjinder , Babbar Bhupinder Kaur
Published: February 2025

Background

Rattus rattus causes damage to physical infrastructure and spreads diseases under commensal conditions. They have a very high reproductive potential and quickly rebuild their population after management through chemical and mechanical methods. Therefore, a neem seed and andrographolide-based bait (NSA bait) with both toxic and sterilising effects was developed for their long-term management. To test the efficacy of the NSA bait, female black rats (R.
rattus) from groups I–V (n = 12 rats per group) were acclimatised. Rats in Group I were fed a control diet, while rats in Groups II–V were fed the formulated NSA bait for 15 days under two-choice conditions. Rats in Group II were necropsied immediately after the treatment period, while rats in Groups III and IV were necropsied after 15 and 30 days of treatment to assess the potential and sustainability of the antifertility effect of the NSA bait in female black rats. Group V rats were used to study mating behaviour and breeding potential immediately after and 30 days after treatment.

Results

Results revealed good palatability of NSA bait and 54.16% mortality in rats. Remaining live rats revealed significant reduction in the body weight, weight of reproductive organs, duration of estrous cycle, number of both normal and atretic follicles, and level of sex hormones in all the treated groups. Mating behaviour and reproductive success were also affected in all the treated groups. Results thus revealed irreversible antifertility effect of treated bait even after 15 and 30 days of treatment.

Conclusions

The plant-based approach for the management of Rattus rattus is to counterbalance the limitations associated with chemical rodenticide. The novel NSA bait was formulated to increase the palatability, bioavailability, and stability of secondary metabolites of the two bitter plants resulting in both toxic and irreversible antifertility effects. This NSA bait has implication in the instant and long-term management of black rats under real field conditions.

Graphical Abstract
Lumboperitoneal shunts in children: a retrospective study
Authors: Elbaroody Mohammad , Alhayen Basem Ismail , Eltoukhy Mohamed , Atallah Ahmed , Mostafa Hossam Eldin , Alselisly Ahmed Mohamed
Published: February 2025

Background

Lumboperitoneal shunts have been used as a valuable CSF diversion tool in the pediatric age group. This retrospective study reports the indications, outcomes, and possible complications of lumboperitoneal shunts placed in children.

Results

A total of 19 patients are included in our study. 12 children were males (63.2%) and 7 were females (36.8%). The mean age at LP shunt placement was 5.7 years (6 months–12 years), and most of the children were in the school-age group 11 (57.9%). Idiopathic intracranial hypertension was the most identifiable cause in 9 cases (47.4%), and headache was the most common presenting symptom in 6 patients. The mean follow-up was 36.1 months (17–61 months). Two patients underwent shunt revision due to catheter migration, and three patients (15.8%) developed acquired Chiari malformation for whom the lumboperitoneal shunt was removed and replaced with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt; all the patients are doing well till the last follow-up.

Conclusion

Lumboperitoneal shunt insertion is a safe and valuable CSF diversion tool in children for various indications on the top of it is idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Long-term follow-up is required for the possibility of acquired Chiari malformation, and the presence of a horizontal–vertical valve could avoid this possible problem.
CSF shunts as conduits for metastasis: is there a discrepancy between retrograde and antegrade spread?
Authors: Cuschieri Andrea , Pisani Robert , Agius Shawn
Published: February 2025

Background

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunting refers to the surgical drainage of excess CSF, which arises due to outflow obstruction or a reduction in absorption. Although rare, the dissemination of neoplastic cells along ventriculoperitoneal shunts is well documented, a gap in knowledge exists regarding differences in the direction of neoplastic dissemination along CSF shunts. The aim of this systematic review was to comparatively assess the nature of antegrade and retrograde metastatic spread along CSF shunts.

Methodology

A dual systematic review in six major databases was conducted for articles until June 15, 2023, without language restrictions following PRISMA 2020 guidelines and the Cochrane Handbook for Interventional Systematic Reviews. The study focused on the metastasis of both CNS malignancy to extra-neural sites and the retrograde metastasis of extra-neural tumours to the CNS along CSF shunts. Inclusion criteria were case reports with patient characteristics and clinical outcomes. Data were extracted using a standardised table and qualitatively analysed. The JBI case report critical appraisal tool assessed reporting quality. Grey literature was not included.

Results

A total of 106 reports of antegrade metastasis were identified representing 121 cases. Patients were most commonly children, with the primary tumour and shunt type being germinomas. Six reports detailing retrograde metastasis met our inclusion criteria with an overall high quality of reporting. All primary tumours were in the abdomen or pelvic cavity with treatment from metastasis depending on patient characteristics. Generally, the prognosis was poor, with one patient succumbing to peritonitis, four cases showing residual disease, and one patient receiving palliative care.

Discussion and Conclusion

This updated systematic review noted similar demographic trends regarding the metastasis of CNS malignancy to extra-neural sites through CSF shunts reported by Xu et al. (2018); yet, due to data inaccessibility, updated statistics could not be inferred. Germinomas remained the most common tumour pathology, warranting increased vigilance in patients with germinomas and a CSF shunt. Moreover, this review identified that extra-neural malignancy retrograde CSF shunt metastasis is extremely rare. This study proposes standardised nomenclature for classifying metastasis through CSF shunts for easier clinical identification.
Percutaneous Closure Device Controlled INCRAFT Stentgraft Implantation Registry (PUCCINI)
Authors: Engelen T. , Hoogervorst R. , DeLoose K. , van Dijk L. C. , van Eps R. S. , van Tongeren R. B. , Veger H. T. , Maene L. , Stomp W. , Wikkeling O. R. , Klink S. J. C. , van den Eynde W. , Wever J. J. , van Overhagen H.
Published: February 2025

Background

Percutaneous endovascular repair (PEVAR) of infra-renal abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) is increasingly being performed due to the development of low profile endografts and the use of percutaneous closure devices. The feasibility and safety of the use of the INCRAFT AAA Stentgraft System and the ProGlide vascular closure system was assessed.

Methods

The PUCCINI trial prospectively enrolled patients undergoing elective repair of infrarenal AAA at 3 centres in the Netherlands and 3 centres in Belgium. Patients underwent PEVAR with endograft implantation followed by closure using the ProGlide closure device. Procedural success rates, complications and 30-day follow-up outcomes were collected.

Results

A total of 93 patients, 87% male, were enrolled. The mean aneurysmal diameter was 53.9 ± 10.2 mm. Successful ProGlide placement was achieved in 97.2% in the right and 89.8% in the left groin. Successful closure was achieved in 92.4% of right and 90% of left groins. One patient required surgical access and two surgical closure. Average blood loss was 155.6 ± 175.5ml. Blood transfusion was not required. Average length of hospital stay was 2.1 ± 1.3 days. Post-implantation endoleaks were present in 37 (40.2%) patients (type 1: 12, type 2: 25). At 30-days there was no aneurysmal growth and no deaths. Follow-up imaging showed endoleaks in 39 (41.9%) patients. (type 1:8, type 2:29, type 3:2).

Conclusion

The results from the PUCCINI trial demonstrate that the use of a low profile endoprosthesis for treatment of infrarenal AAA with percutaneous closure has a high rate of technical success and low rates of periprocedural complication.
Speedup signing: pre-rejection sampling towards dilithium
Authors: Yan Lianglin , Luo Ming , Wang Mingsheng
Published: February 2025

Security and efficiency have always been two critical factors in the development of post-quantum digital signatures. As the best-known scheme, (Ducas et al., TCHES 2018) is SUF-CMA in QROM and has a relatively fast efficiency with many untrivial optimizations. The goal of this paper is to propose some techniques that can promote signing speed without sacrificing security. We first propose the pre-rejection sampling technique in stage to reduce the rejections of the fourth condition, consequently resulting in some speedup in stage. To prove security, we propose the c-selected MLWE problem, a variant of MLWE that can offer the equivalent security as original MLWE. Applying these two techniques to , we obtain an advanced signature scheme with better efficiency, and without any other losses except some pre-computations. Security reduction demonstrates that our scheme is also SUF-CMA in QROM. The experimental results show that pre-rejection sampling achieves a

$$47\%$$

47
%

,

$$22\%$$

22
%

, and

$$17\%$$

17
%

reduction in the rejection probability of the fourth condition over scheme when the parameter set corresponds to NIST’s security levels 2, 3 and 5, respectively. This type of reduction increases signing speed by approximately

$$1\%$$

1
%

under the parameter set 2 of .
A Smart Intelligence System for Hen Breed and Disease classification using Extra Tree classifier-based Ensemble Technique
Authors: Himel Galib Muhammad Shahriar , Islam Md. Masudul
Published: February 2025

This research paper probes into the vital importance of poultry farming, specifically focusing on hens, which play a vibrant role in meeting the global demand for both eggs and meat. Identifying hen breeds and recognizing diseases pose significant challenges in poultry management, necessitating innovative solutions to enhance the efficiency of farming practices. The experimental efforts of this study were centered around classifying ten distinct hen breeds and recognizing four prevalent hen diseases through the implementation of an ensemble method. Utilizing a stacking-based ensemble approach, we achieved remarkable success, achieving a test accuracy of 99.94% for both hen breeds and 99.01% for disease classification based on feces images. In this study, we employed the self-collected dataset named ‘GalliformeSpectra’ for hen breed recognition, alongside a publicly accessible dataset of feces images to identify diseases. Additionally, to facilitate practical application, we have developed a smartphone application seamlessly incorporating our model, enabling real-time hen breed and disease classification. The findings of this study represent a groundbreaking accomplishment in the realm of hen breed classification using machine learning, distinguishing this study as both state-of-the-art and pioneering. By addressing critical challenges in poultry farming, this research contributes not only to academic progress but also provides practical solutions to enhance efficiency and sustainability in the poultry industry resulting in ease the farmers to be able to plan their farming business efficiently and to take measures in the correct time in case of diseases outbreak thus contributing to farmers, communities, and researchers.
A randomized controlled trial to study the efficacy of 1% vs. 2% lignocaine in topical airway anesthesia in routine bronchoscopy procedures
Authors: Prasad Danny , James Prince , Gupta Richa
Published: February 2025

Background

Bronchoscopists worldwide still prefer to use 2% lignocaine as the preferred topical airway anesthetic. The minimum concentration of lignocaine used during flexible bronchoscopy to prevent uncontrolled coughing is still unclear. This double-blinded, randomized controlled trial compared the efficacy of 1% and 2% lignocaine solutions for topical anesthesia during routine flexible bronchoscopy procedures.

Five hundred patients were randomized to receive either 1% or 2% lignocaine. For topical airway anaesthesia, lignocaine was administered in aliquots of 2 ml each in a spray-as-you-go technique. The study’s primary outcome was the assessment of cough objectively by the consultant proceduralist, respiratory nurse, and assisting respiratory therapist. The subjective cough evaluation was taken from the patient using the cough visual analog score (VAS). The key secondary outcomes investigated were the total lignocaine dose, complications due to lignocaine administration, overall procedure satisfaction assessed by bronchoscopist (VAS), and patient (VAS) pain score.

Results

The cough VAS scores, as assessed by patients in both groups (2% vs. 1%), were similar (28.4 vs. 28.0 [p − 0.997]). The cough VAS scores evaluated by the bronchoscopist (31.4 vs. 34.5 [p − 0.116]), respiratory nurse (31.3 vs. 34.3 [p − 0.182]), and therapist (31.7 vs. 34.3 [p − 0.209]) were slightly higher in the 1% arm. The pain ratings by the patient were similar between the two groups (0.82 vs. 0.92 [p − 0.135]). The overall satisfaction of bronchoscopists was slightly higher in the 1% arm (35.01) vs. 2% arm (32.18) [p − 0.167]. The cumulative dose in the 1% lignocaine arm was 253 mg compared to 490 mg in the 2% lignocaine arm. There was no adverse event related to lignocaine overdose in either arm.

Conclusions

One percent of lignocaine was found to be as effective as 2% lignocaine for topical anesthesia during routine flexible bronchoscopy procedures, and it was achieved at a significantly lower dose of lignocaine in the 1% arm. So, in flexible bronchoscopy, we suggest 1% lignocaine as the preferred topical airway anesthetic agent over 2% lignocaine.
Monitoring the Development of Strength Qualities in 9th Grade Female Students by Means of Athletic Gymnastics in Physical Education Classes
Authors: Kremneva Victoria , Zabrovskaya M.
Published: February 2025

Purpose of the study: to develop a methodology for developing strength qualities in 9th grade girls using athletic gymnastics in physical education lessons. Objectives of the study: to determine and evaluate the initial level of physical fitness (development of strength qualities) in girls of basic school; determine the existing experience of strength exercises among 9th grade girls; to develop a methodology for increasing strength qualities in 9th grade girls using athletic gymnastics, test it in practice and evaluate its effectiveness. As a result of monitoring pedagogical testing, we saw that the use of athletic gymnastics complexes developed by us in physical education lessons led to a statistically significant increase in results in all selected motor tests.
Research of Current Technological Tools Used by High School Students When Choosing a Profession
Authors: Neustupov A. , Zenkina S.
Published: February 2025

This article discusses what technological tools are currently most popular among high school students when choosing a future profession. The analysis of various aspects of using technological tools, such as search engines, social networks, specialized platforms and video hosting services, is carried out. Factors influencing the choice of a particular profession by schoolchildren are determined. The effectiveness of the means under consideration by schoolchildren is analyzed.
The relevance of the study is due to the need to understand how information technologies affect the professional self-determination of schoolchildren. At the end of the study, recommendations are given for teachers and parents to improve the effectiveness of career guidance activities using modern technologies, and the prospects for such research are considered from the point of view of contributing to pedagogical science.
The Role of Physical Education in the Fight Against Overwork and Low Working Capacity in a Modern University
Authors: Odincova E. , MUKHAMETDINOVA S. , Shamis V.
Published: February 2025

This article presents the results of the analysis of the student questionnaire, the purpose of which was to identify the role of physical culture as a means of combating overwork. 189 students of the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation (Omsk branch) and Omsk State Technical University took part in the sociological survey.
More than half (56%) of respondents believe that physical education is identical to a healthy lifestyle, but only a fifth of respondents regularly devote time to physical exercise in addition to university classes. 88% of students suffer from overwork and decreased working capacity to varying degrees, while 74% of the survey participants feel a decrease in mental fatigue after physical exertion. Among the main reasons why students do not regularly engage in physical education, the most often mentioned were: lack of time and lack of habit of playing sports.
Therefore, one of the most important tasks of the discipline "Physical culture" in a modern university is the development of motivation and the formation of the need to regularly engage in physical education, not only in order to combat fatigue, but to maintain health throughout life. The most important direction of solving this problem is the development and implementation of individual educational routes in the educational process based on a comprehensive analysis of the level of physical fitness and personal preferences of students.
The results of the conducted research can be used in the development of educational programs and individual educational routes in the discipline "Physical culture" in universities.
Study of the Effectiveness of Loads of Different Intensities on the Development of Strength in Senior Schoolchildren
Authors: Kiselev V.
Published: February 2025

Abstract
The issues of scientifically-based determination of intensity and volume of strength loads in the process of strength training of the younger generation have been raised for a long time. The purpose of the present study was to experimentally test the loads of low (40–50% of PM) and medium (70% of PM) intensity in the process of strength training of young men of 15–17 years old.
Two groups of 10th grade students participated in the study. The first group consisted of 17 schoolchildren aged 16 years, and the second group consisted of 15 people. The duration of the pedagogical experiment was 1 year. At the same time, all students already had experience in athletic gymnastics for at least 1 year.
According to the results of the natural pedagogical experiment, it can be stated that both proposed approaches to determining the intensity and volume of strength loads have shown their effectiveness, in particular:
- the results of the first experimental group showed high efficiency of applying loads of medium intensity, not exceeding 70% of the PM. At the same time, it is enough to use 2–3 approaches for 10–12 repetitions to ensure the growth of strength indices;
- on the basis of EG-2 results it is possible to prove the high efficiency of low-intensity strength loads, not exceeding 50% of the maximum permissible value, if 3–4 approaches for 10–15 repetitions are applied in the training process.
The results of the natural pedagogical experiment clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method of training young men of 15–17 years old. The data of the conducted research allow us to conclude that the scientifically-based training method, taking into account the physical development and age characteristics of high school students, contributes to the intensive development of their strength abilities.
Monitoring the Development of Physical Education and Student Sports in Educational Institutions of Secondary Vocational Education in the Moscow Region
Authors: Ryahimova E. , Grechnikova I. , Shishov Sergey
Published: February 2025

The article presents the results of a study of the development of physical education and student sports in educational institutions of the SPO of the Moscow region. Problems have been identified: the time that young people spend on gadget screens increases; motivation for regular physical education decreases; the number and depth of stress increases; unhealthy eating habits; insufficient accessibility of attractive sports events; lack of due attention to psychological health; in modern society, the value of career growth and material well-being often prevails. The results of a comprehensive survey of the entire system of state educational institutions in the Moscow region in 2023–2024 are presented. Based on the results of the study, a set of proposals has been developed to improve the student sports system as part of the development of a strategy for the development of physical culture and sports work, including: proposals for the formulation of long-term goals and objectives; the creation of a system for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of physical culture and sports work; creation of a feedback system: organization of regular meetings with representatives of the student council to discuss suggestions and comments; strategy correction: annual updating of plans and programs based on the data obtained; improvement of the material and technical base: attracting investments in sports infrastructure; staff development: organization of continuous training and retraining of physical education teachers; motivation of students to engage in sports: introduction of a motivation system (for example, benefits for active student-athletes, certificates, diplomas, financial incentives and the creation of rating systems); development of extracurricular physical education and sports activities: organization of sports events, tournaments and competitions; development and implementation of an information campaign: information campaigns aimed at promoting healthy lifestyle and the importance of physical education among students (raising students' awareness of the benefits of sports and a healthy lifestyle). The implementation of the proposed measures will significantly improve physical culture and sports work in educational institutions of secondary vocational education in the Moscow region.
Synthesis, Phase Development, and the Mechanism for Negative Thermal Expansion in Aluminum Tungstate
Authors:   , Rose Kyle
Published: February 2025

An in-depth study of Al2W3O12 negative thermal expansion (NTE) ceramic was performed, focused on synthesis, phase mappings, and the underlying mechanisms shown to be responsible for NTE. Review of the literature has shown inconsistencies in reported values of the dilatometry measured coefficients of thermal expansion, and the temperature for the known monoclinic to orthorhombic phase transition. Two synthesis techniques are introduced: an ionic-liquid non-hydrolytic sol-gel synthesis route; and a low temperature solid state reaction synthesis for Al2W3O12. X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) were used to verify the techniques. Two differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) experiments (high and low temperature) were performed on the material showing the transition between -5 and -20 °C and no other phase changes until a reported degradation above 1100 °C. Extensive dilatometry on the material led to the discovery of elastic transitions occurring in the polycrystalline sample capable of explaining the inconsistencies in reported dilatometry results. This is further developed into a proposed model defining the regions between these transitions. Each region has a different thermal expansion as well as a direct effect on the reaction of the material upon cooling. This proposed model may allow more consistent reporting of dilatometry results for NTE materials. Raman spectroscopy was performed from 25-725 °C on the material showing both a joining in the tungsten-oxygen bending modes as well as a broadening in the tungsten-oxygen stretching modes. This is consistent with Al-O-W angle changes along the same temperature range reported in literature as well as the transverse vibrational modes responsible for NTE.
Privacy Preserving Machine Learning as a Service
Authors:   , Hesamifard Ehsan
Published: February 2025

Machine learning algorithms based on neural networks have achieved remarkable results and are being extensively used in different domains. However, the machine learning algorithms requires access to raw data which is often privacy sensitive. To address this issue, we develop new techniques to provide solutions for running deep neural networks over encrypted data. In this paper, we develop new techniques to adopt deep neural networks within the practical limitation of current homomorphic encryption schemes. We focus on training and classification of the well-known neural networks and convolutional neural networks. First, we design methods for approximation of the activation functions commonly used in CNNs (i.e. ReLU, Sigmoid, and Tanh) with low degree polynomials which is essential for efficient homomorphic encryption schemes. Then, we train neural networks with the approximation polynomials instead of original activation functions and analyze the performance of the models. Finally, we implement neural networks and convolutional neural networks over encrypted data and measure performance of the models.
Self-Reported Feelings of Shame and Fear of Failure among High Ability Undergraduates
Authors:   , Nyikos Tara
Published: February 2025

Understanding how emotions influence motivation among students is critical to the talent development process. Research shows that certain emotions elicit an approach motive while other emotions elicit an avoidance motive. This study explored emotional disposition and fear of failure among undergraduates enrolled in honors college (n = 63) compared to undergraduates enrolled in regular college courses (n = 296). Results suggest that dispositional shame is positively correlated with fear of failure; however, neither gender nor enrollment in honors college predict fear of failure beyond dispositional shame. Students enrolled in honors college do not differ on measurements of shame and fear of failure compared to students not enrolled in honors college. In general, female undergraduates were more likely to report experiences of shame, guilt, fear of shame and embarrassment, and fear of devaluing one's self-estimate than their male peers. The findings are discussed in light of a need to understand high-ability college students.
Women in Wrestling Arenas: How Globalization, Socially Produced Spaces, and Commodification Impact their Portrayal and Empowerment Post Women's Revolution
Authors:   , Kohlmeyer Collin
Published: February 2025

The Women's Revolution in 2015 has led to a drastic shift in the ways women are portrayed in professional wrestling. The Women's Revolution came as a result of the social unrest over the lack of time women were receiving on the televised shows. Where women's storylines had centered on their sexuality, they are now presented as equal to their male counterparts after the Women's Revolution. Through an exploration of concepts in globalization, commodification, and socially produced spaces, this research seeks to understand and contextualize the Women's Revolution, the degree to which the portrayed women's equality has been achieved, and the resulting impacts of the female superstars overall. I argue that that this "equality" has been achieved through inscribing the traditionally masculine qualities of wrestling to women, has resulted in an unequal distribution of opportunities to particular female superstars rather than equality for all women on the shows, and that phallocentric objectification of the female superstars still occurs in certain aspects of professional wrestling.
"Digital Tap Dance": Tap Dance as Medium for Composition
Authors:   , Thiede Jacob
Published: February 2025

This dissertation investigates the process of collaboration and the application of both notational and technological schemes to integrate elements of contemporary composition and tap dance as a consolidated art form. Overall, this document gives an overview of choreographer/composer collaborations in Western classical music; movement notation; and ultimately analyzes my original music—a live set for tap dancer, live musicians and electronics—entitled Digital Tap Dance. Altogether, this project represents the culmination of music and dance as a compelling intermedia collaboration. By (1) researching different practices of composer-choreographer collaborations, (2) notating rudiments for tap dance, (3) creating software for tap dancers, and (4) composing original music for tap dancers, this dissertation will create options for composers and choreographers alike in composition and improvisation.
Institutional Pluralism and the Organization's Response: A Case Study of Chinese Women's Ice Hockey
Authors:   , Li Hongxin
Published: February 2025

In recent years, the sport of women's ice hockey is growing fast worldwide. Upon winning the bid to host the 2022 Winter Olympics, women's ice hockey in China started to develop rapidly. However, the development of women's ice hockey in China has encountered numerous challenges. These challenges include addressing traditional Chinese culture, gender norms, and the process of sport reform. This study used a qualitative case study methodology to examine the perspectives of Chinese women ice hockey players, coaches, club administrators, government administrators, and the parents of youth hockey players to understand how women's ice hockey navigated itself within the institutional complexity to gain legitimacy, and how the different institutional logics impacted the identities of organizations within women's ice hockey in China. An abductive grounded theory approach was used to analyze the transcriptions and archived documents. Findings indicated that there were challenges for the development of women's ice hockey in China at macro level, meso level, and micro level. Actors such as hockey administrations, professional clubs, and ice hockey coaches and players at different levels adopted multiple forms of institutional work to find out ways to incorporate institutional structures that mitigated the fact that there were multiple logics. In addition, influenced by competing logics, the organizations created collective identities to balance those logics. This study provides insights into how the actors within sport organizations create a more satisfactory environment to gain legitimacy.
Teacher Certification Program Types and Their Impact on Teacher Self-Efficacy
Authors:   , Muhammad Gerald
Published: February 2025

The overarching purpose of the study was specifically designed to examine how teacher preparation programs contributed to novice teachers' sense of self-efficacy. The significance of this study related to how well teachers were prepared, based upon their preparation program. This qualitative methods study incorporated a research design consisting of phenomenological research. Eleven thematic findings derived based upon the participants' input after several series of data analysis and reduction, using a general deductive approach. Results showed many implications of how teacher preparation programs contributed to the participants' sense of self-efficacy. Major implications for teacher preparation programs and their impact on novice teachers are discussed, such as improvement measures for preparation programs, and opportunities to increase teacher effectiveness.
Principal Leadership Behaviors that Affect Teacher Collective Efficacy
Authors:   , Prusak Kyla J
Published: February 2025

Research continues to support the positive link between teacher collective efficacy and student achievement. The purpose of this study was to better understand how principal leadership behaviors affect teacher collective efficacy beliefs. The study was designed around Goddard, Hoy, and Hoy's construct of teacher collective efficacy, which is grounded on Bandura's efficacy constructs. The sequential mixed-methods study was designed to examine the perceptions of teacher participants from one Texas Title I middle school regarding principal leadership behaviors. A case study approach was used to construct meaning from teachers' perceptions about the effects of principal behaviors on teachers' beliefs regarding the components of collective efficacy. The quantitative portion of the study (a survey) examined teacher perceptions of their collective efficacy beliefs regarding various facets of the school organization. The qualitative portion (focus group and individual interviews) centered on what teachers perceive to be the impact of principal leadership behaviors on their teacher collective efficacy. Findings from the quantitative portion of the study suggest that teachers perceive their levels of collective efficacy to be higher when reflecting on factors that are primarily connected to school, like learning, motivating students, and handling student discipline issues. Findings from the qualitative portion of the study suggest that when principals exhibit collaboration, empowerment, relationship building, and trust, teachers perceive the leader to be effective. The study was limited to one Title I middle school so an extension to the study which would include other middle or additional high schools is recommended.
A Study on Usability of Mobile Software Targeted at Elderly People in China
Authors:   , Jiang Jingfu
Published: February 2025

With the rapid development of mobile device technology, smartphones are now not only the tool for young people but also for elderly people. However, the complicated steps of interacting with smartphones are stopping them from having a good user experience. One of the reasons is that application designers do not take consideration of the user group of elderly people. Our pilot survey shows that most elderly people lack the skills required to use a smartphone without obstacles, like typing. We also conducted an experiment with 8 participants that targeting on the usability of a daily used application, Contact List (CL), and based on a Chinese language system. We developed an android application that proposed a new method of showing the contact list according to the language usage of Chinese for this study. By asking participants to finish the same tasks on the traditional CL applications on their phones or on our application and observing their operations, we obtained useful feedback in terms of usability issues. Our experiment also tried to find out whether the method we proposed in the new application can lead to a better user experience for elderly people.
The Differences in Mental Effort and Task Difficulty between Veterans and Non-Veterans in Bachelor of Applied Arts and Science Degree Programs at Texas Public Universities
Authors:   , Turner Arielle
Published: February 2025

This dissertation seeks to determine the differences between veteran and non-veteran students' mental effort and task difficulty within undergraduate online courses in Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences (BAAS) programs at three public Texas universities. The BAAS program is geared toward non-traditional students, which includes veterans. The courses are delivered in flexible formats, including online courses, face-to-face courses, and blended courses, which use a combination of online and face-to-face courses. After reviewing literature and utilizing both the cognitive theory of multimedia learning and the cognitive learning theory, a survey was conducted using undergraduate students enrolled in BAAS programs at three public Texas universities. The data was analyzed by conducting a factorial ANOVA and Pearson correlation to determine if there was a difference between veterans and non-veteran students' mental effort and task difficulty within online courses within the BAAS programs. The results indicated that that all three hypotheses failed to reject the null hypotheses that: (1) there is no difference in mental effort of students who had military service, versus those who did not have military service, (2) there is no difference in mental effort of students who had military service, versus those who did not have military service, and (3) there is no difference in the correlation between successful completion of distance learning courses of students who had military services versus those who did not have military service.
Role of Arabidopsis thaliana WRKY45 in Response to Green Peach Aphid Infestation, Drought, and Salinity Stresses
Authors:   , Patel Monika A
Published: February 2025

This study shows that Arabidopsis thaliana WRKY45 gene has an important role in limiting green peach aphid (GPA; Myzus persicae Sülzer) infestation. WRKY45 belongs to the WRKY family of transcription factors, which is one of the largest transcription factor family in plants. In response to GPA infestation, expression of WRKY45 was systemically upregulated in leaves and roots, with highest expression in the vascular tissues, which are the site of aphid feeding. GPA colonization was better on the wrky45 mutant compared to the wild-type (WT) plant. In contrast, GPA poorly colonized plants that were overexpressing (OE) WRKY45, thus confirming an important role for WRKY45 in plant defense to the GPA. A WRKY45-dependent process adversely impacted the reproductive rate of GPA and feeding from the sieve elements. RNA-seq experiments indicated a major impact of WRKY45 overexpression on expression of genes associated with dehydration and abscisic acid biosynthesis and signaling. In agreement with the RNA-seq data, ABA content was also higher in WRKY45-OE plants. However, genetic studies with an ABA-insensitive mutant (abi2-2) indicates that the WRKY45-OE conferred resistance to GPA is mediated through an ABA-independent mechanism. WRKY45-OE plants showed enhanced tolerance to drought and salt stresses. Genetic studies indicate that ABA signaling is critical for WRKY45's involvement in promoting plant tolerance to drought. Taken together, these results demonstrate that WRKY45 acts as a positive regulator of plant responses to GPA infestation, and drought and salt stress responses.