Practical Strategies Research Articles

Lipoprotein(a): Screening and Care of the High-Risk Cardiovascular Disease Patient

Despite rigorous efforts to mitigate comorbidities contributing to cardiovascular events, the prevalence of heart disease continues to rise. This report highlights the role of lipoprotein (Lp)(a) a low-density lipoprotein, as a causal risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The impact of Lp(a) on heart disease has been well established, and testing is widely available; yet, screening for Lp(a) continues to be underperformed. The role of Lp(a) in the development of cardiovascular diseases as well as the clinical guidelines for screening patients in primary and secondary prevention populations are reviewed. Finally, clinical practice strategies for patients with elevated Lp(a) are presented.

Revisiting factors influencing premature closure of small-scale miners: A case study of quarry mines

This study accentuates the significant contribution of small-scale mining (SM) to stimulating economic development, providing employment, and developing infrastructure. Nevertheless, the continuing premature shutdown of SM bodes ill for economic recovery. To get an idea of these underlying reasons, a systematic review of all articles published in the scientific literature was calculated using Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The application of Boolean operators guided the collection of key insights utilising the PRISMA protocol. Tools like ggplot2 (for graphs) and word clouds in RStudio helped us recognise patterns. Analysis was facilitated with ggplot2, showing boxplots and bar charts of quantitative variables between quarry types and geographical regions. At the same time, word clouds also gave us insights into the most common expressions and, thus, the main reasons behind quarry closures. Further, the research revealed a lack of subsurface geological data, which is needed to estimate mineral resources in SM accurately. It also identified a relation with under-exploration leading to early abandonment which in turn increases the chance of misclassification of mineral reserves. Consequently, the study advocates for further research to devise practical strategies for managing mineral resources effectively in small-scale mining operations.

Leading with Heart: The Importance of Emotional Intelligence for Effective 21st Century Leadership

Abstract: This article examines the importance of emotional intelligence for effective 21st century leadership. It defines emotional intelligence as having four key components - self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management - which allow leaders to connect with others, navigate social situations effectively, and make well-rounded decisions. A review of research finds strong correlations between higher emotional intelligence and stronger leadership abilities across industries, as emotionally intelligent leaders inspire higher employee engagement, make strategic choices considering both logic and emotions, and effectively develop talent through understanding others' perspectives. The article provides practical strategies for leaders to develop their emotional skills and illustrates real-world examples, arguing that focusing on emotional intelligence through self-reflection, active listening, role-playing, and soliciting regular feedback is crucial for leaders seeking to reach their full leadership potential and positively transform their organizations.

Comprehensive evaluation of clinical antimicrobial resistance using impedance-accelerated single-bacterium multiplex screening strategy

Rapid detection of bacterial antibiotic resistance is paramount in clinical settings to enable timely and effective therapeutic interventions. Traditional approaches such as disc diffusion and broth dilution are indeed dependable, however, they suffer from a notable drawback of long assay durations. This is attributed to the inherent delay caused by bacteria's macroscopic growth rate, which often necessitates measurement periods exceeding 20 hours, a timeframe incompatible with the clinical urgency. In this study, we demonstrate a comprehensive strategy on rapid bacterial antimicrobial resistance profiling and testing in clinical samples via a label-free impedance-accelerated single-bacterium screening. This system involves one newly developed parameter that is calculated from the two-dimensional kernel density values of different density regions in bacterial impedance spectra. By evaluating the changes in bacterial populations over a certain period using this new parameter, antimicrobial resistance of individual strains of bacteria can be determined within 20-minute antibiotics exposure. This high-throughput method rapidly and accurately determines the resistance profiles of five clinical Enterobacteriaceae strains against six antibiotic types. During the analysis of the impedance spectrum, we have also observed that antibiotics with different antimicrobial mechanisms have distinct effects on the bacterial impedance profile. This proposed method demonstrates excellent accuracy and rapid response time, providing a novel and practical strategy for next-generation antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) and antibiotic management.

Framework for developing entrepreneurial business models: Theory and practical application

A framework for developing entrepreneurial business models is crucial for guiding entrepreneurs from conceptualization to practical application in a dynamic market environment. This review outlines a comprehensive framework that integrates theoretical concepts with practical approaches to help entrepreneurs create robust and adaptable business models. The framework is grounded in a synthesis of contemporary entrepreneurship theories and practical insights drawn from case studies of successful ventures. It begins with a theoretical exploration of foundational business model components, including value proposition, customer segments, revenue streams, and cost structures. By leveraging established models such as the Business Model Canvas and the Lean Startup methodology, the framework provides a structured approach for entrepreneurs to design and validate their business models. A key component of the framework is its emphasis on iterative development and validation. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to employ lean principles, such as rapid prototyping and customer feedback loops, to refine their business models. This iterative process helps in adapting to market changes and customer needs, reducing risk, and improving the likelihood of success. The framework also incorporates strategic analysis tools to evaluate market opportunities, competitive landscape, and potential challenges. Practical application is emphasized through detailed guidelines and tools for each stage of business model development. This includes methodologies for conducting market research, identifying key resources and partnerships, and establishing operational processes. Additionally, the framework addresses the importance of financial planning and risk management, offering practical advice on funding strategies and contingency planning. The paper also highlights the significance of contextual factors, such as industry trends, regulatory environment, and technological advancements, in shaping business models. By incorporating these elements, the framework provides a holistic approach to entrepreneurial business model development. In conclusion, the proposed framework serves as a valuable guide for entrepreneurs seeking to develop and implement effective business models. It combines theoretical insights with practical tools and strategies, enabling entrepreneurs to navigate the complexities of the business landscape and achieve sustainable success. This approach not only enhances the strategic planning process but also fosters innovation and adaptability in an ever-evolving market environment.

Identification of bioactive compounds in Amphipterygium adstringens branch bark

Background: Cuachalalate (Amphipterygium adstringens) is one of Mexico’s most commercialised medicinal plants, and its natural populations are mainly found in this country. The high demand for stem bark (SB) has risked its survival, making it necessary to develop sustainable strategies.Aim: This study aimed to identify bioactive compounds in branch bark (BB) and evaluate their antipathogenic and antivirulence capacities.Setting: The study was conducted in the low deciduous forest (LDF) of the State of Puebla, Mexico.Methods: Bioactive metabolites in BB were profiled by high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC). The chemical composition of aqueous bark extracts was scrutinised by high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-EM-SQ-TOF system) and molecular network analysis. The folk method’s antipathogenic capacity was determined in a burn model in mice infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Finally, the antivirulence properties of bark organic extracts were determined.Results: The BB contained masticadienoic, 3α-hydroxymasticadienoic and anacardic acids, also present in SB. The aqueous extracts showed the presence of flavonoids, catechins and saponins in both barks. The folk method using BB extracts significantly reduced mouse mortality and prevented sepsis development. This might be related to the capability of extracts to block the production of bacteria virulence factors.Conclusion: The similarity in bioactive metabolites and biological activity between SB and BB of cuachalalate suggests that using BB as a medicinal agent could be a practical and sustainable strategy. This approach could potentially prevent the overexploitation of cuachalalate’s SB, contributing to its conservation.Contribution: This study proposes a sustainable strategy for using cuachalalate as a medicinal agent using BB, a renewable source.

Maximizing and sustaining the efficacy of tick tubes for management of Ixodes scapularis through optimized deployment strategies.

The number of tick-borne disease cases continues to rise in the United States, with Lyme disease the most frequently reported vector-borne disease nationally. Practical and effective tick control tools and strategies are needed to reduce tick encounters and tick-borne disease risk. Tick management tubes have shown varying efficacy when used as part of a tick management plan. To evaluate factors contributing to the efficacy of tick management tubes, this study assessed changes in tick tube deployment on tick burden on wild-caught Peromyscus mice, a primary reservoir for the bacterium causing Lyme disease, in Pennsylvania from 2021 to 2023. Over 2 years, tick tubes were deployed starting at different times of the year, with cotton removal from the tubes assessed every 2 weeks from April to November and tick burden on wild-caught mice assessed every 2 months from April to October of each year. The effect of distance between tick management tubes was assessed in year 3 of this study, with mouse tick burden assessed pre- and post-treatment with tick tubes at varying intervals in a field setting. There was a significant reduction in mouse tick burden between treated and control transects, and pre- and post-treatment transects. Tick tube distance did not affect cotton removal or tick burden on mice. Still, cotton removal was highest in September-October, and amount removed increased the longer tick tubes were deployed in the field, highlighting the long-term benefits of using tick tubes as part of an integrated tick management plan. Future investigations to evaluate the impact of tick management tubes on tick nymph density and infection would be valuable for assessing the effectiveness of tick management tubes in reducing tick bite risk.

Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality: A New Way of Seeing the World

Technologies such as (AR) Augmented Reality &(VR) Virtual Reality, which provide immersive digital experiences, interactive environments, simulation, and engagement, have completely changed how we approach learning. However, in order to meet the huge demand in education, these technologies which are still in the emerging stage need to be heavily customized and heavily invested in. This thorough analysis seeks to contextualize the last few years of development of Virtual and Augmented Reality in the Education. For additional study, a total one thousand five hundred and thirty-six articles are chosen using text mining and theme analysis techniques. Based on earlier research on AR and VR in education, hypotheses were developed and are currently being processed and analysed to reveal the current development in literature via Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality, applications, benefits, and future directions. The findings show that wearable technology has contributed significantly to the exponential expansion in the use of Virtual and Augmented Reality in education in recent years. Results also highlight the need for faster adoption and customization of these technologies in educational institutions, based on secondary data. An increasing number of educational applications for the learning process are emerging as Virtual and Augmented Realityexp and quickly. It is advised that researchers stay up to date on the gaps in AR and VR’s Changeover to education &develop practical adaptation strategies to maximize the benefits of these technological development with significant developments in high-speed transmission and processing, AR &VR are developing as Display Platforms for Next Generation for more intimate human-digital interactions. Nonetheless, matching the extraordinary Human Vision Performance while keeping Near the Eye Display module tiny and lightweight presents unprecedented hurdles for optical engineering. Fortunately, new advances in Holographic Optical Elements HOEs and Lithography Enable Devices present novel approaches to overcoming these challenges in Virtual and Augmented Reality which would otherwise be problematic with traditional optics

A Qualitative Meta-Synthesis on Drug Addicts Recovery Based on a Transtheoretical Model

Purpose: This study aimed to synthesize and integrate findings from qualitative studies on the recovery experiences of Korean drug addicts using the Transtheoretical Model.Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across nine databases (CINAHL, EMBASE, PubMed, KMBASE, KISS, RISS, KNBASE, Science On, DBpia) to identify studies exploring the recovery experiences of drug addicts. The selected studies were synthesized through meta-synthesis, as proposed by Butler, Hall, and Copnell.Results: The overarching theme identified in the recovery process is "A journey of escaping the pit by weaving a new life with a gold rope," with five sub-themes: “Falling into a bottomless pit,” “Being broken because of a rotten rope,” “Struggling to get out of the pit,” “Weaving a gold rope by oneself,” and “Climbing the gold rope into a new life.” Recovery is portrayed as a transformative journey that extends beyond merely stopping drug use, emphasizing social connections and personal growth.Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the recovery experiences of Korean drug addicts, offering guidance for practical recovery strategies. The findings support the development of tailored intervention programs and policies for different stages of drug addiction recovery.

Pakistan-US relations: examining sustainable bilateral cooperation via civil society collaboration

Pakistan and the United States (US) have struggled to form mutually beneficial foreign policies that withstand volatile political phases. In the current global context, there is an urgent need for innovative and practical approaches to enrich the field of international relations, allowing policymakers to overcome diplomatic deadlocks. This research examines the potential role of a sustainable development approach with civil society organisations (CSOs) as the implementing instrument of foreign policies. Through case studies of successful CSO initiatives across economic, social, and environmental pillars, specifically covering SDGs 3, 8, 13 and 17, the study observes and empirically examines the multisectoral operations of US-based civil society in Pakistan, highlighting its comprehensive impact on the people as well as uncovering the resilient nature of civil society-led cooperation between states. The research finds that integrating civil society into foreign policy can create resilient and sustainable development-oriented bilateral relations, offering a practical strategy for enhancing collaboration and achieving sustainability. This model presents a pathway for countries to transcend transactional ties and establish lasting, mutually beneficial partnerships. The study also opens doors for further research in IR to welcome the sustainable development paradigm in bilateral studies.

Navigating the Maze: A Systematic Review of Empirical Studies on Tax Avoidance and Its Influence Factors

There is a wealth of research on the factors influencing tax avoidance, and it has gradually become a global topic of interest. However, few studies systematically identify which factors influence corporate tax avoidance and how they do so. Many studies on similar topics show significant differences in conclusions across countries. Therefore, a systematic review of the relevant literature on tax avoidance is necessary, as it will help us understand the current state of research and offer insights and directions for future exploration of the reasons behind these discrepancies and the discovery of new factors influencing tax avoidance. This study analyzes 97 empirical studies on tax avoidance, aiming to clarify influencing factors by categorizing themes and summarizing findings. Literature was sourced via Scopus and divided into three sections: Factors influencing tax avoidance in Western countries, factors in China, and future research prospects. Tax avoidance is a complex issue vital to firms’ high-quality development. The study underscores that differing methodologies may lead to varying conclusions, systematizing the literature and drawing comparisons among various perspectives. By enhancing understanding of tax avoidance, the effort provides a foundation for future investigations into practical strategies for firms, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of tax avoidance and emphasizing the importance of a coordinated approach among stakeholders.

Multicomponent Approaches to Reduce Multidrug-Resistant Organisms in Critical Care: Determining the Ideal Strategy.

Although there is ample proof of the advantages of infection prevention and Control (IPC) in acute-care hospitals, there is still some questions about the efficacy of IPC interventions for multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs), and there is a need for the development of evidence-based practices. No healthcare facility has found a single effective technique to reduce MDRO. However, a multicomponent intervention that included improved barrier protection, chlorhexidine bathing, microbiological monitoring, and staff involvement significantly decreased the likelihood of infection in the patient surroundings with multidrug-resistant organisms. A practical strategy suited to reducing the burden of MDROs and their transmission potential in the critical care unit must be established in light of the global development of AMR. In this review, we summarize key findings of a multicomponent approaches to reduce MDROs in critical care units.

Advancing chemical safety protocols in small and medium enterprises: A comprehensive guide

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) face significant challenges in managing chemical safety, often due to limited resources, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of awareness about regulatory requirements. As chemical safety becomes increasingly critical for protecting workers, communities, and the environment, it is essential to develop tailored safety protocols for SMEs that address their unique needs. This review presents a comprehensive guide on advancing chemical safety protocols in SMEs, focusing on risk assessment, proper storage and handling of chemicals, personal protective equipment (PPE), spill prevention, and waste management. The integration of modern technologies, such as digital risk management tools, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, and AI-driven predictive analytics, offers SMEs cost-effective solutions to enhance chemical safety. These technologies enable real-time monitoring, early warning systems for chemical hazards, and the automation of safety audits, which can significantly reduce risks and improve compliance. Additionally, fostering a strong chemical safety culture within SMEs is vital, requiring leadership commitment, employee training, and effective hazard reporting systems. Navigating regulatory frameworks and achieving compliance with limited resources presents another key challenge for SMEs. This guide highlights practical strategies for meeting safety standards, including leveraging external resources and simplifying documentation processes. Case studies showcase successful implementations of safety protocols and technologies in various SME sectors, providing insights into best practices and lessons learned. As technological advancements continue to evolve, SMEs must stay ahead by adopting innovations such as robotics, wearable safety technologies, and digital twins for chemical safety planning. This review emphasizes that a holistic approach—combining technology, policy, and workplace culture is essential for advancing chemical safety in SMEs, ensuring long-term sustainability, and safeguarding the health and well-being of workers.

Lactic acid bacteria fermentation-induced egg white protein structure deformation influencing gelling properties, with membrane concentration as a strategy to improve texture.

Egg white (EW), a rich protein source, holds promise for creating a high-protein, low-fat gel product. However, browning issues during heating and sterilization have hindered its wider application. In this study, lactic acid bacteria fermentation was employed to eliminate reducing sugar in EW, and its impact on the molecular structure and gelling properties was explored. The results revealed that fermentation would trigger protein structural unfolding and aggregation, evident from higher fluorescence intensity and enlarged protein particle diameters, resulting in the decrease in gelling hardness. In comparison, Streptococcus thermophilus-fermented EW (under 6×108CFU/mL incubation rate, fermented for 6h) exhibited the highest gel hardness, ascribed to the relatively weaker structure transformation, with high water holding capacity and stronger intermolecular hydrophobic interaction. To further enhance the gelling properties of fermented EW, membrane concentration treatment was applied, exhibiting superior characteristics in appearance, aroma, and taste. In summary, lactic acid bacteria fermentation and concentration are feasible solutions to improve appearance and texture of EW gels simultaneously. The research findings offer eco-friendly and practical strategies for enhancing the quality of EW gels, providing valuable theoretical insights for the development of innovative, texture-rich, and healthy nutritional foods.

Inferior Vena Cava Filter in Cancer-Associated Thrombosis: A Vade Mecum for the Treating Physicians: A Narrative Review.

Cancer is a remarkable prothrombotic disease, and cancer-associated thrombosis acts as a dreadful omen for poor prognosis. The cornerstone of venous thromboembolism therapy is anticoagulation; however, in patients with venous thromboembolism who are not suitable for anticoagulation (contraindication, failure, or complication), the inferior vena cava filter appears a valuable option in the therapeutic arsenal. The recently heightened trend of steady rise in filter placement mirrors the spread of retrievable devices, together with improvements in physicians' insertion ability, medico-legal issue, and novel and fewer thrombogenic materials. Nevertheless, the exact role of the inferior vena cava filter in cancer has yet to be endorsed due to a dearth of robust evidence. Indeed, data that support the inferior vena cava filter are weak and even controversial, resulting in discrepancies in the interpretation and application of guidelines in daily practice. In this narrative review, we aim at clarifying the state of the art on inferior vena cava filter use in malignancies. Furthermore, we provide a feasible, conclusive 4-step algorithm for the treating physicians in order to offer a practical strategy to successfully employ the inferior vena cava filter as a priceless device in the current armamentarium against cancer.

Digital Skills Improvement for MSMEs in Rural Areas for Online Marketing

This Community Service (PKM) aims to improve the digital skills of MSME actors in rural areas, especially in online marketing, through online training using the Zoom platform. This activity is motivated by the low digital skills of MSMEs in rural areas, which limits their access to the digital market. The method used is participatory action research (PAR), involving 30 MSME actors who are selected by purposive sampling. The training lasts four weeks and includes two weekly sessions, covering material on digital marketing, the use of social media, e-commerce, and marketing performance monitoring. The results showed a significant improvement in participants' digital skills, with an average pre-test score of 45 increasing to 80 on the post-test. Implementing the skills learned also resulted in an increase in engagement on social media by 40% and an increase in online transactions by 20%-30%. Participants gave positive feedback regarding the relevance of the training and the application of the skills taught. This activity fills the gap in previous research by focusing on practical strategies adapted to the conditions of MSMEs in rural areas. The main obstacle faced is the problem of internet connectivity, which needs to be considered in the next training. Overall, this activity has succeeded in increasing the competitiveness of MSMEs in the digital market

Enhancing Supply Chain Resilience through Emerging Technologies: A Holistic Approach to Digital Transformation

This article investigates the critical role of domain knowledge in enhancing the effectiveness and accuracy of data analysis across various industries. Through a comprehensive examination of case studies in finance, healthcare, and retail sectors, we demonstrate how industry-specific expertise significantly improves data interpretation, metric selection, and the derivation of actionable insights. The article highlights the synergistic relationship between technical, analytical skills and a deep understanding of industry contexts, revealing that domain experts are better positioned to identify meaningful patterns, develop accurate predictive models, and generate more relevant insights for stakeholders. We provide practical strategies for data analysts to acquire and integrate domain knowledge into their analytical practices, including collaboration with subject matter experts, targeted industry research, and participation in sector-specific training. The article also explores challenges such as potential biases, balancing generalist and specialist skills, and keeping pace with rapidly evolving industries. Furthermore, we examine future directions, including the role of AI and machine learning in augmenting domain expertise and the emergence of new interdisciplinary approaches and industry-specific tools. Our findings have significant implications for both aspiring data analysts seeking to specialize in specific industries and organizations aiming to optimize their analytical capabilities in an increasingly complex data landscape.

Assessment of Women's Online Shopping Behavior in India: Model Design and Analysis

The exponential increase in internet usage in India has driven the swift growth of e-commerce, with women playing a crucial role in this expanding digital economy. This research presents a thorough literature analysis and framework to examine the factors affecting the online purchasing behaviour of women in India. The study specifically attempts to examine the influence of psychological, social, cultural, economic, privacy and security, and technological aspects on the purchasing decisions of female consumers. This research underscores the difficulties women encounter in online purchasing, especially in apparel and cosmetics, providing a gender-specific perspective frequently overlooked in existing studies. This study's originality stems from its integrative methodology, synthesising findings from established consumer behaviour theories and applying them to the context of women's online buying practices in India, an area that has been insufficiently explored. By addressing these gaps, the study enhances the theoretical comprehension of women’s digital consumer behaviour and establishes a foundation for future practical strategies that businesses, marketers, and policymakers can utilise to improve the online shopping experience for Indian women.

THE STUDENTS’ PERCEPTIONS OF USING SOCIAL MEDIA (INSTAGRAM) AS A WRITING TOOL IN EFL CLASSROOM

The purpose of this study is to explore and understand how students perceive social media as a writing tool within classroom settings, with a particular focus on English language acquisition. In today's digital age, social media platforms have become ubiquitous, influencing not only personal communication but also educational practices. Special emphasis is placed on how these digital tools can aid in the development of English language skills. The literature review underscores the increasing integration of technology in education and delves into the potential benefits and challenges associated with incorporating social media into traditional learning environments. Among the various platforms, Instagram stands out due to its visual format and capacity to foster creativity and engagement, making it a promising tool for enhancing English language learning. This research seeks to provide a nuanced understanding of the advantages and limitations of using social media as a pedagogical tool, particularly in relation to student engagement and language skill development. By gaining insights into students' attitudes and approaches to using social media as a writing tool, this study aims to equip educators with practical strategies for effectively integrating these platforms into language learning curricula. The ultimate goal is to enhance the educational experience, making it more relevant to students' everyday lives while preparing them for success in an increasingly digital world.

Mastering the Basics: A Guide to Research Methodology for Effective Writing and Publication

Mastering the basics of research methodology is essential for effective writing and publication, enabling researchers to produce valid, reliable, reproducible and worthy of peer review and validation. This guide offers a comprehensive guide to research methodology, focusing on essential topics such as literature reviews, data collection and analysis, and ethical considerations. It emphasizes the importance of a well-structured research design, offering practical strategies for formulating research questions, selecting appropriate methodologies, and interpreting findings. The article also explores the art of effective writing, highlighting techniques for organizing ideas, crafting compelling narratives and ensuring clarity and coherence. It addresses common challenges faced by writers, such as overcoming writer's block and maintaining objectivity, and guides the publication process, from manuscript preparation to peer review responses. The guide underscores the significance of research methodology in various fields and its role in advancing knowledge and informing decision-making. In conclusion, adhering to best practices can improve work quality and credibility and contribute to knowledge advancement