Digital Commons Network^™

Expression Of Pfkfb Isoenzymes During In Vitro Differentiation Of Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells Into Insulin-Producing Cells, Sai̇me Güzel, Abdullah Yalçin, Yunus Gürpinar, Sabi̇re Güler

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Background/aim: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is caused by the autoimmune-mediated destruction of insulin-producing cells (IPCs) and still has no effective cure. Better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the differentiation of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) into IPCs may help us improve the therapeutic strategies for treating T1DM. 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6- bisphosphatases (Pfkfb1-4) are key regulators of glucose metabolism. Although Pfkfb3 has been shown to be required for the growth of early differentiated mouse ESCs (mESCs), more studies are needed to further assess the roles of Pfkfb isoenzymes in embryonic development and differentiation, particularly into specific cell types. In this study, …

The Diamond, December 12, 2023, Dordt University

Dordt Diamond

• Front Page: Dordt Begins Construction on Townhome Style Housing; Dordt Alumni Elected as Mayor of Sioux Center; Morality and Policy Collide at Feenstra's Faith and Family Event
• News: Voters Prepare for Iowa's January Caucus; Finals Shift Away from Traditional Exams; MOSAIC Club, Students Without Borders Hosts Christmas Around the World; Iowa Corn Includes College Agriculture Students
• Feature: Student-Led Short Films Showcase Talents; Zamboni Breaks the Ice at Dordt Hockey; Escaping War and Finding a Home in Sioux County; Dordt Dads Lend a Hand by Washing Dishes; Developing Your Career at Dordt
• Arts & Entertainment: Student-Directed One …

The Aesthetics Of Social Innovation: The Body As The Site Of Change, Amy Phillips

Masters Projects

Social innovation scholarship often prioritizes tangible, product-based answers to questions of societal justice without examining the catalyst for change. Exploring the potential of the body to serve as a site of social innovation may complement the goals of emerging paradigms of social innovation that embrace new forms of knowing. The sensory knowledge developed through methods such as Augusto Boal’s Theatre of the Oppressed is systematized in the multidisciplinary field of somaesthetics, which looks closely at the disciplined cultivation of the body. This research project tracked the perceived body awareness and self-growth of formerly incarcerated individuals following four applied theatre workshops. …

Association Of Chlamydia Trachomatis Burden With The Vaginal Microbiota, Bacterial Vaginosis, And Metronidazole Treatment, Caleb M. Ardizzone, Christopher M. Taylor, Evelyn Toh, Rebecca A. Lillis, Jacob H. Elnaggar, John W. Lammons, Patricia Dehon Mott, Emily L. Duffy, Li Shen, Alison J. Quayle

School of Graduate Studies Faculty Publications

Bacterial vaginosis (BV), a dysbiosis of the vaginal microbiota, is a common coinfection with Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct), and BV-associated bacteria (BVAB) and their products have been implicated in aiding Ct evade natural immunity. Here, we determined if a non-optimal vaginal microbiota was associated with a higher genital Ct burden and if metronidazole, a standard treatment for BV, would reduce Ct burden or aid in natural clearance of Ct infection. Cervicovaginal samples were collected from women at enrollment and, if testing positive for Ct infection, at a follow-up visit approximately one week later. Cervical Ct burden was assessed by inclusion forming …

Different Roles Of Endothelial Cell-Derived Fibronectin And Plasma Fibronectin In Endothelial Dysfunction, Xiaoxin Luo, Weixiong Jian

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

MDABackground/ aim: Atherosclerosis is significantly influenced by endothelial cell activation and dysfunction. Studies have demonstrated the substantial presence of fibronectin (Fn) within atherosclerotic plaques, promoting endothelial inflammation and activation. However, cellular Fn (cFn) secreted by various cell types, including endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells, and plasma Fn (pFn) produced by hepatocytes. They are distinct forms of Fn that differ in both structure and function. The specific contribution of different types of Fn in promoting endothelial cell activation and dysfunction remain uncertain. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the respective roles of pFn and endothelial cell-derived Fn (FnEC) in promoting …

Characterizing Quirky Signals, Joshua D. Forsyth

Theses and Dissertations

Large collider facilities such as the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) employ a variety of search methods in hopes of finding new particles. It may be that new physics beyond the SM is waiting to be discovered at energies accessible to the LHC. Quirks are particles charged under a new confining gauge group with masses much larger than their confinement scale. This project details the dynamics of quirks, as well as the production and decay of electrically charged bound states of scalar quirks. The cross section for these states is compared to existing Wγ resonance searches at the LHC. Such a …

The State Of Active Blended Learning In Construction Education: Reviewing Research And Current Perspectives, Shandon Miles Gubler

Theses and Dissertations

STEM educators have shown a particular interest in active blended learning. Construction management education, a discipline within STEM education, has naturally considered blended instruction to engage students in the learning process. Documented efforts of construction management educators implementing blended instruction have mostly been recorded in conference proceedings. These recorded efforts often take the form of anecdotal case studies—a current review of how construction management faculty are implementing blended instruction and active learning in their blended courses was not found. In this study, we reviewed the literature for active blended instruction in construction management education. We surveyed construction management faculty about …

Evaluating The Efficacy Of A Thermoresponsive Hydrogel For Delivering Anti-Collagen Antibodies To Reduce Posttraumatic Scarring In Orthopedic Tissues., Andrzej Steplewski, Jolanta Fertala, Lan Cheng, Mark Wang, Michael Rivlin, Pedro K Beredjiklian, Andrzej Fertala

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Faculty Papers

Excessive posttraumatic scarring in orthopedic tissues, such as joint capsules, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and peripheral nerves, presents a significant medical problem, resulting in pain, restricted joint mobility, and impaired musculoskeletal function. Current treatments for excessive scarring are often ineffective and require the surgical removal of fibrotic tissue, which can aggravate the problem. The primary component of orthopedic scars is collagen I-rich fibrils. Our research team has developed a monoclonal anti-collagen antibody (ACA) that alleviates posttraumatic scarring by inhibiting collagen fibril formation. We previously established the safety and efficacy of ACA in a rabbit-based arthrofibrosis model. In this study, we evaluate …

A Human Rights And Legal Analysis Of The Understanding Our Roots Report, Naiomi Metallic, Cheryl Simon

Reports & Public Policy Documents

In October 2023, the University released Understanding Our Roots - Nstikuk tan wtapeksikw Report written by the Task Force on Settler Misappropriation of Indigenous Identity. The Report recommends the creation of a Standing Committee who would verify claims to Indigenous identity by students, faculty and staff seeking to benefit from any opportunity at the University that prioritizes access for Indigenous peoples, as well as investigate and recommend sanction in cases of suspected academic fraud whereby an individual assumes an Indigenous identity. The Report does not address or respond to potential legal issues and rights violations arising from its recommendation. To …

Oral Small Molecule Agents In Management Of Ulcerative Colitis: Fact Or Fancy, Benan Kasapoğlu, Ati̇lla Ertan

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic, immune-mediated disease characterized by recurring episodes of mucosal inflammation in the colon and rectum. The primary pathogenic mechanism of ulcerative colitis is the dysregulation of the mucosal immune response. The disease follows a relapsing-remitting course, and the goal of management is to successfully induce and then maintain remission. Effectively managing this chronic disease requires addressing all aspects of it. Currently, we have various antitumor necrosis factor agents and novel biologics available for treating ulcerative colitis patients with moderate-to-severe disease. However, none of the existing treatments are considered entirely satisfactory or ideal in these cases. After …

Characterizing Cutaneous Leishmaniasis In A Conflict-Affected Region: A Study From North Waziristan, Pakistan, Zahid Ullah, Fazeelat Samad, Rahila Bano, Sarah Arif, Sher Zamir, Nighat Aziz, Hassan Khan

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Background/aim: Cutaneous leishmaniasis is an emerging tropical disease that remains a serious public health issue in Pakistan, particularly in North Waziristan. The current research was carried out to investigate the presence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in this region. Materials and methods: This prospective observational study was conducted from October 2018 to December 2020 at District Head Quarter Hospital Miranshah in North Waziristan with the collaboration of the Pathology Department of Gomal Medical College Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Needle aspirates were used for the microscopic Giemsa-stained slides. SPSS was used for data analysis. Results: Of the 5406 clinically-suspected cases, 2603(48.2%) were …

Relationship Between Positive Body Image And Selective Visual Self-Presentation On Social Networking Sites: Moderating Role Of Gender, Asharf Sadat Ahadzadeh, Fon Sim Ong, Saeed Pahlevan Sharif

Makara Human Behavior Studies in Asia

This study examines the association between positive body image and selective visual self-presentation behaviors on social networking sites, while also considering the moderating influence of gender. We conducted a cross-sectional survey involving 282 undergraduate students in Malaysia (Mage = 20.85, SD = 1.81). The results reveal a negative correlation between positive body image and behaviors such as posing in pictures and editing photos. However, no significant relationship was found between positive body image and photo selection. Gender differences were evident, with females exhibiting higher engagement in posing in pictures, editing, and photo selection compared to males. The findings also …

Planas V Dougherty

All Decisions

No abstract provided.

Guidelines For Sustainable Use Of Mobile Instant Messaging Apps In Higher Education: A South African Case Study, Bronwyn C. Swartz, Sweta Patnaik

Higher Learning Research Communications

Objective: The purpose of the study was to propose guidelines to facilitate the sustainable and successful use of mobile instant messaging apps for learning and teaching based on a review of the literature and perceptions of educators. Fraser’s model of redistribution, recognition, and representation served as the theoretical framework. This study provides a mechanism for the development of a socially just and inclusive online classroom environment.

Method: We conducted two focus groups (n = 4 and n = 3) in November 2021 at a university of technology in South Africa to explore the perceptions of educators on using mobile …

Prevalence Of Missed Opportunities For Immunization And Its Associated Factors Among Children Below Two Years Old Attending Primary Healthcare Centers In Baghdad/Al-Karkh, Baraka Safaa’ Mustafa, Jalil Ibrahim Saleh

Muthanna Medical Journal

Immunization is an effective means for preventing illness and reducing the burden of various infectious diseases. Incomplete or partial immunization poses a serious threat to the health of children in many developing countries, including Iraq. The objectives are to investigate the prevalence of missed opportunities for immunization (MOI) and its associated factors among children aged below two years old attending primary health care centers (PHCCs) in Baghdad/Al-Karkh. A cross-sectional study involving 500 children’s companions attending PHCCs in Baghdad/Al-Karkh from the 1st of September 2022 to the 1st of July 2023. The respondents were enrolled using a systematic random sample technique …

Mixed Method Study On Community College Instruction In Blended Social Science Courses, Andrea L. B. Eggenberger

LSU Doctoral Dissertations

Community colleges have teaching faculty whose primary focus is educating their students and providing service to their institution. Community college teaching research has focused on innovation, students’ expectations, and the use of active learning techniques to foster student success. Research on blended courses has focused on instructional practices, learner engagement, and the benefits of blended learning for the community college student population. This study explores the relationship between student’s perceptions of the work in a blended developmental psychology course at two community colleges in Louisiana and their professors’ instructional decisions for their blended courses. The multiple-case study uses a convergent …

How Are Oregon's Rural Indigenous Communities Overcoming Water Access Issues?, Tyren John Thompson

Dissertations and Theses

This study investigates how water insecurity affects Indigenous communities in Grand Ronde, Warm Springs, and Umatilla, Oregon, through loss of clean drinking water, access to culturally significant foods, and exposure to pollution. Each community offers innovative solutions drawing on their Indigenous knowledge to overcome water supply challenges. Communities with more resources are better equipped to cope with water insecurity and environmental degradation.

The Intersection Of Foreign Influence And Democratization: A Case Study Of Eurasian Powers Influence On Belarus’ Democratic Movement Since 2020, Dalton Xavier Maggs

Undergraduate Honors Theses

In 2020, the world took notice of Belarus’ dictator, Alexander Lukashenko’s brutal repression of the Belarusian people, demonstrating their wish to topple his hybrid authoritarian regime to make way for a liberated and democratic Belarus. While that wish has yet to be achieved, the question of “How do the regional powers of Eurasia influence the internal democratization struggle of Belarus?” has been vital to understanding geopolitics over the past three years. Through analysis of government reports, statements, and interviews with experts in the Eurasian region, I showcase the foreign policies of the U.S., EU, Russia, and China relating to Belarus. …

A Patterned Human Primitive Heart Organoid Model Generated By Pluripotent Stem Cell Self-Organization, Brett Volmert, Chao Zhou, Et Al.

2020-Current year OA Pubs

Pluripotent stem cell-derived organoids can recapitulate significant features of organ development in vitro. We hypothesized that creating human heart organoids by mimicking aspects of in utero gestation (e.g., addition of metabolic and hormonal factors) would lead to higher physiological and anatomical relevance. We find that heart organoids produced using this self-organization-driven developmental induction strategy are remarkably similar transcriptionally and morphologically to age-matched human embryonic hearts. We also show that they recapitulate several aspects of cardiac development, including large atrial and ventricular chambers, proepicardial organ formation, and retinoic acid-mediated anterior-posterior patterning, mimicking the developmental processes found in the post-heart tube stage …

In The Hot Seat: Acquiring Kernel Density Heat Map Design Guidance Through Delphi And Survey Methods, Lauren Eileen Mckinney-Wise

Dissertations and Theses

Kernel density heat maps have emerged as a new, popular thematic map type. Yet, unlike other thematic map types, little if any published guidance exists for effective heat map design. This is significant because maps are highly persuasive objects that are often utilized to communicate important information, but maps can also be misleading and misunderstood. Therefore, proper guidance for heat map creation is critical for cartographers to create maps that convey geographic information successfully.

To address this literature gap, I used a modified Delphi method and an online survey to investigate several questions, including understanding what cartographic experts think are …

Strategies Small Business Owners In North Carolina Use To Sustain Their Business, Curtis Delbert Mccullough

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

No abstract provided.

Vol. 21 Entire Issue

The Journal of Economics and Politics

No abstract provided.

Vol. 19 Entire Issue

The Journal of Economics and Politics

No abstract provided.

Field Notes, Simon Perkins, David A. Sibley, Richard S. Heil, Mark Daley

Bird Observer

No abstract provided.

Fall 2003 Migration Of Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds In New England, Sharon Stichter

Bird Observer

No abstract provided.

Bird Sightings: July-August 2003, Seth Kellogg, Marjorie Rines, Robert H. Stymeist

Bird Observer

No abstract provided.

Bird Sightings: November-December 2002, Robert Stymeist

Bird Observer

No abstract provided.

Doing The "Write-Up", Mark Lynch

Bird Observer

No abstract provided.

Birding Mount Agamenticus, Scott Cronenweth

Bird Observer

No abstract provided.

About The Cover: Least Sandpiper, William E. Davis Jr.

Bird Observer

No abstract provided.