Digital Commons Network^™

Regulation Of Zygotic Genome Activation By The Nucleocytoplasmic Ratio, Lily Acker, Hui Chen

Faculty Publications

During early development, embryos undergo the maternal-to-zygotic transition (MZT), when control of development shifts from maternal factors to the newly activated zygotic genome. Decades of studies in various model organisms suggest that the nucleocytoplasmic (N/C) ratio is a key regulator of zygotic genome activation (ZGA), though this relationship is more nuanced in some organisms than others. Changing the nuclear content, nucleus size or cell size has been shown to shift the timing of ZGA. Mechanistically, the N/C ratio is linked to fundamental cellular processes that regulate genome activities, including nuclear import, repressor titration, activator accumulation, cell cycle lengthening, and chromatin …

High-Power Dual-Channel Chamber For High-Frequency Magnetic Neuromodulation, Xiaoyang Tian, Hui Wang, Boshuo Wang, Jinshui Zhang, Dong Yan, Jeannette Ingabire, Samantha Coffler, Guillaume Duret, Quoc-Khanh Pham, Gang Bao, Junzhe Wang, Ashok Veeraraghavan, Jacob T Robinson, Stefan M Goetz, Angel V Peterchev

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Objective. Several novel methods, including magnetogenetics and magnetoelectric stimulation, use high frequency alternating magnetic fields to precisely manipulate neural activity. To quantify the behavioral effects of such interventions in a freely moving mouse, we developed a dual-channel magnetic chamber, specifically designed for rate-sensitive magnetothermal-genetic stimulation, and adaptable for other uses of alternating magnetic fields.

Approach. Through an optimized coil design, the system allows independent control of two spatially orthogonal uniform magnetic fields delivered at different frequencies within a 10 × 10 × 6 cm3 chamber suitable for mouse studies. The two channels have nominal frequencies of 50 and 550 kHz …

Toxicity, Chemistry, And Public Health Relevance Of Emerging Nicotine Analog Vapes, Pods, And Pouches., Rhea Raghu, Mohana Sengupta, Karen Lin, Felix Effah, Robert M. Strongin, Irfan Rahman

Chemistry Faculty Publications and Presentations

Electronic nicotine delivery system manufacturers, such as Charlie's Holdings Inc., ECBlend, Outlaw, and NicRiver, have recently introduced nicotine analogs, such as 6-methyl nicotine, 6-MN ("Metatine"), and nicotinamide, NA ("Nixamide," "Nixodine," or "Nixotin-free base and salt") in products to circumvent the U.S. FDA's premarket tobacco product application (PMTA) requirements. Marketed as "tobacco-free," "PMTA-exempt," or "FDA-approved," these compounds now appear in oral nicotine pouches and disposable bars/vapes from brands such as Outlaw Dip, Kumi-Six, SBX, Katchmi, and Spree Bar under proprietary labels including "NoNic6," "Metatine," or "NIC-SAFE." These products often mimic the appeal of conventional nicotine delivery systems, with extensive use of …

Chronic Post-Mastectomy Pain: Insights Into Mechanisms, Prevention, And Treatment Approaches, Abdulaziz H. Algain

Journal of Medical Rehabilitation Science

Chronic post-mastectomy pain (CPMP) is a prevalent and significant concern for many breast cancer surgery patients, affecting between 25% and 60% of females within the first year after surgery. This multifactorial condition arises from a combination of peripheral nerve injury, central sensitization, and immune-mediated inflammation. Although no single intervention can fully prevent CPMP, a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach that addresses the biological, psychological, and social aspects of pain is crucial for enhancing the quality of life for breast cancer survivors. It is often underrecognized by clinicians, who may attribute pain to the expected postoperative recovery process, while patients sometimes accept discomfort …

Prevalence And Association Between Major Depressive Disorder And Cognitive Impairment In Hemodialysis Patients At King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Faten N. Alzaben

Journal of Medical Rehabilitation Science

Objectives: Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing maintenance hemodialysis experience a substantial psychological and cognitive burden. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of major depressive disorder (MDD) and examine its association with cognitive impairment among patients receiving hemodialysis. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 30 consecutive patients aged 18–65 years undergoing maintenance hemodialysis at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Major depressive disorder was diagnosed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders (SCID-I). Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), with cognitive impairment defined as a MoCA score …

Defining The Palette Of Biodeterrence: Appreciating A Broader Toolkit, Diane Dieuliis, James Giordano

Strategic Insights

Biological threats present unique challenges to traditional deterrence models due to their dual-use nature, difficulties in attribution, and rapidly evolving scientific landscape. In this commentary, the authors argue that deterrence by denial, while essential, is insufficient on its own to address contemporary biothreats. They propose a broader framework that integrates deterrence by disruption and capability diminishment to interfere with and reduce adversaries’ ability to develop and employ biological weapons. This approach emphasizes coordinated efforts across scientific, technological, economic, intelligence, and policy domains, as well as collaboration with public health and international partners. By shaping the conditions under which biological weapons …

Determining A Likely Mechanism Of Missingness In Repeated Measures Sleep Data From Wearable Fitness Trackers: Longitudinal Analysis, Kate Mobley, Kevin B. Gittner, Karen Nielsen, Lauren Matheny, Gita Taasoobshirazi, Charles Natuhamya, Monica H. Swahn

Faculty Articles

Background: Wearable fitness trackers have become a valuable tool in public health research due to their ability to collect large-scale, individual-level data at a low cost. Because of this, wearables have the potential to mitigate the urgent need for health research in low-resource settings. However, their use has been largely limited to high-income settings, and a major challenge remains: high rates of missing data. This problem may be exacerbated in low-resource environments where logistical and operational barriers further complicate data collection. Wearable sleep data collected in an urban informal settlement in Uganda during The Onward Project on Well-being and Adversity …

From Reclamation To Restoration: Remaking Nature On Portland's Peninsula, Theus Richards

University Honors Theses

This environmental history of the North Portland Peninsula is a critical case study of a landscape in transition, where new "natures" have been constructed through shifting projects of reclamation and restoration. The Port of Portland, who controlled the Peninsula, transformed the marshy bottomlands near the confluence of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers to accommodate greater networks of industrial infrastructure and expand their capacity for global trade. Beginning in 1967, the Port began dredging operations to fill Ramsey Lake to make way for the construction of Rivergate Industrial District. Through this process, Smith & Bybee Lakes were set aside as a …

Evaluating Forearm Strength Variability In Collegiate Tennis Players Over The Course Of A Competitive Season, Jeffrey Williams, Payton Jensen, Kevin Laudner

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

The muscles of the forearm undergo routine, forceful, and repetitive contractions while playing tennis and may experience adaptive changes that can precede injury. An understanding of forearm strength profiles of tennis players following a competitive season would assist clinicians’ evidence-based management of the forearm’s readiness for training, competition, and return-to-sport participation. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the effects of a competitive tennis season on forearm strength among collegiate tennis athletes. A prospective, case-series design was used to examine a convenience sample of 15 asymptomatic NCAA Division I tennis players (males = 10, height = 182.88 [SD …

A Randomized Study Of Digital Versus Genetic Counselor Return Of Actionable Genetic Research Results To Biobank Participants (Respect3 Study), Anuja Rajendra Godbole, Elisabeth Wood, Brian Egleston, Lily Hoffman-Andrews, Sarah Brown, Sarah Howe, Sanjana Shastri, Rajia Mim, Justin Feng, Anjali Owens, Susan Domchek, Reed Pyeritz, Bryson Katona, Staci Kallish, Giorgio Sirugo, Joellen Weaver, Linda Fleisher, Kuang-Yi Wen, Elena Elkin, Katherine Nathanson, Daniel Rader, Angela Bradbury

Department of Medical Oncology Faculty Papers

BACKGROUND: There is consensus that research participants should be informed about plans for return of genetic research results. However, best practices for return of results in large biobank and cohort studies do not exist currently, and how best to communicate actionable genetic research results remains unclear. While having genetic counselors disclose these results may be ideal to ensure understanding, minimize distress, and optimize medical follow-up, genetic counselor (GC) workforce shortages and costs are barriers. The RESPECT3 study evaluates whether digital delivery alternatives for pre-disclosure education and return of actionable genetic research results is non-inferior to remote telehealth disclosure by a …

Prescribed Aerobic Exercise And Sport-Related Concussion Recovery: A Validation Case Series, Lacy L. Chapel, Tamara C. Valovich Mcleod

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Active rehabilitation, including prescribed sub-symptom threshold aerobic exercise implemented during the acute phase of recovery after sport-related concussion, has been shown to facilitate recovery and reduce the risk of persisting postconcussion symptoms. The purpose of this validation case series was to evaluate currently available external evidence regarding the effects of prescribed aerobic exercise interventions on recovery after sport-related concussion. For this study, the patient population included college athletes diagnosed with a sport-related concussion who participated in at least 5 days per week of supervised, prescribed aerobic exercise, based on graded aerobic exercise testing and heart rate threshold. Our study findings …

Quality Of Athletic Training Services For Lower Extremity Injuries, Katie Sniffen, Michael Rozier, Katherine Stamatakis, Paula Buchanan, Janet E. Simon, Leslie Hinyard

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

The use of patient-reported outcomes in athletic training is inconsistent, limiting the ability to communicate service quality and value to key stakeholders. The objective of this study is to calculate meaningful quality outcome measures for athletic training services for lower extremity injuries in high school student-athletes. Data were collected from a subset of the National Athletic Treatment, Injury and Outcomes Network Surveillance Program and a convenience sample of high school student-athletes with patient-reported outcome measures for lower extremity time-loss injuries. Failure-toprogress proportions (FTPPs) were calculated using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) for knee/thigh injuries and the Foot …

Comfort Level Of Collegiate Student-Athletes In Opposite And Same-Gender Patient/Provider Relationships In Athletic Training, Samantha Dickie, Yashu Tang, Sydney Nelson, Emily Madrak

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Gender-based comfort in patient-provider relationships is a vital aspect of athletic training care. As the profession continues to evolve—particularly with a growing number of women athletic trainers (ATs) and progression of athletic training curriculum—it is essential to understand how gender dynamics influence the comfort of collegiate athletes when receiving care. This cross-sectional survey study examined how athlete comfort varies when treated by same- versus opposite-gender ATs in general patient care and in pathology-based scenarios. Ninety-six collegiate student-athletes (62.5% female) with the mean age of 20.26 (SD 1.7) years from NCAA and NAIA institutions completed the Gender Comfort with Athletic Trainer …

Acute Management Of A Hamate Fracture In A Collegiate Baseball Player: A Disablement Model Case Study, Kayleigh A. De Koker, Cory E. Barton, Lindsey E. Eberman

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

The purpose of this disablement model case study was to outline a collegiate baseball player with an isolated hamate fracture including the injury evaluation, diagnosis, and acute management. During a tournament game, the collegiate career of the patient ended abruptly following an injury sustained while at bat. The patient attempted to bat again but encountered significant difficulty due to the increasing pain in his hand. Consequently, the athletic trainer was called out for an on-field examination. The patient presented with no edema or ecchymosis but severe pain in the hypothenar eminence. This patient also presented with decreased grip strength with …

Suture Augmentation With Ucl Repairs In Baseball Pitchers As An Alternate To Reconstructions: An Evidence-To-Practice Review, Kayleigh A. De Koker, Kenneth E. Games

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

An injury to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is sustained through repetitive valgus motions, increasing in prevalence across all levels of baseball due to the increasing workload demands placed on the medial elbow in pitching. Traditionally, UCL tears have been managed through reconstructions followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. In recent years, the UCL repair with suture augmentation has gained favor given the enhanced patient and clinician outcomes in return-to-play timelines, decreased medial gapping, improved Kerlan Jobe Orthopedic Clinic (KJOC) scores, and long-term functionality. Utilizing 4 databases (MEDLINE, Embase Cochrane library, Science Direct, and Scopus), literature was obtained addressing the …

The Effectiveness Of Psychoeducation And Mind Mapping In Preventing Early Marriages In Central Java, Indonesia, Eviyati Aini Muriana, Mardiyono Mardiyono, Lanny Sunarjo, Melyana Nurul Widyawati

Jurnal Keperawatan Indonesia

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of early marriages increased. Early marriage causes biological and psychological problems in the mother and her baby. The combination of psychoeducation and mind mapping emerged as a preventive effort against early marriage. The aim of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of this combination in preventing early marriage in Central Java, Indonesia by influencing adolescents’ knowledge and intentions. This study was conducted using a convergent mixed-methods design. For the quantitative phase, the pre-test – post-test control group experimental design was used, while in the qualitative phase, a thematic analysis was performed using focus …

Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections In An Elite Level Diver: A Disablement Model Case Study, Matt O'Sullivan, Dominique M. Stevens, Lindsey E. Eberman

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

This article presents a case of complicated and recurrent pyelonephritis, an infection of 1 or both kidneys, in an elitelevel diver. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common outpatient infections in the United States; most are uncomplicated and resolve without significant mortality or morbidity. However, UTIs have the potential to present significant clinical challenges if the UTI becomes complicated or recurrent. Additionally, recurrent UTIs can carry a significant burden to both the individual patients and the larger healthcare system. The current paper reviews the epidemiological literature surrounding UTIs, the significant impact they have on a patient’s health-related quality …

Comparison Of Vibrating And Non-Vibrating Foam Roller On Hamstring Range Of Motion, Rakhoon Sung, Portia B. Resnick, Karen G. Roos, Mimi Nakajima

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Tightness in the distal hamstring is a common complaint among active individuals. While a foam roller is used to release muscle tension, there are limited studies about the effect using a vibrating foam roller (VFR) on hamstring flexibility and knee range of motion (ROM). For this reason, the purpose of the research was to compare the effect of a VFR and nonvibrating foam roller (NVFR) on hamstring flexibility and knee ROM in active college students. It was hypothesized that there would be more improvement in hamstring flexibility and knee ROM with a VFR than an NVFR. A randomized controlled trial …

The Representation Of Bisexuality In Avatar: The Rise Of Kyoshi By F. C. Yee, Abdurrafi Nugraha Putra, Mochamad Ilham, Supiastutik Supiastutik

Journal of Language, Literature, and Arts

LGBT identities are often perceived as deviant within society; however, their representation has increasingly appeared across various media, including films, novels, and music. This study examines the representation of bisexuality in Avatar: The Rise of Kyoshi by F. C. Yee*. The data are drawn from narrative elements that reflect bisexual themes and are analyzed using Stuart Hall’s theory of representation, supported by Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick’s concept of homosocial desire. The findings show that bisexuality is represented through Kyoshi’s relationships with two characters: Yun (male) and Rangi (female). These relationships develop through three phases: heterosexual, homosocial, and homosexual. The interaction between …

Exploration Of Radiotherapy-Related Insufficiency Fractures In Gynaecological Cancer: A Service Evaluation Report, Vicki Hands

South West Clinical School Journal

No abstract provided.

Weekly Fluctuations Of Plasma Amyloid-Beta In Alzheimer’S Disease: Implications For Biomarker Reliability, Andy Delgado, Kanisa Davidson, Danitra Parker, Jaleesa Bryant, Vicki Winstead, Mustafa Yildiz, Carolyn E Z Pickering, Andrew M Pickering

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

No abstract provided.

Breast Cancer-Derived Extracellular Vesicle Mir-425-5p (Mir-425) Promotes Brain Metastasis Via Activating Astrocytes Through The Novel Mir-425-Znf24-Ccl8 Signaling Axis, Grace L Wong, Munazza S Khan, Sara Manore, Shivani Bindal, Ravi Singh, Hui-Wen Lo

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

Mechanisms underlying breast cancer brain metastasis (BCBM) are still not well understood. Here, we identified that BCBM patient serum contained extracellular vesicles (EVs) with high levels of microRNAs (miRNAs)-107 and -425. Levels of miR-107 and miR-425 were elevated in brain metastases, and the elevation was associated with poor patient prognoses. Ectopic expression of miR-107 and miR-425 promoted mammospheres; however, the inhibition of miR-425, but not miR-107, suppressed breast cancer mammosphere formation. We further observed that EVs from miR-425-overexpressing breast cancer cells strongly activated astrocytes whereas their inhibitors abrogated the effect. Conditioned media from miR-425-activated astrocytes promoted mammospheres. To elucidate how …

Factors Associated With Stunting Among Children Aged 6 – 59 Months Attending Integrated Health Post (Posyandu) In Selapajang And Kedaung Wetan Villages, Neglasari Sub-District, Tangerang City: A Matched Case-Control Study, Michael Alexander Solang, Joue Abraham Trixie, Gloria Semula, Tiona Simamora, Conny Tanjung

Jurnal Epidemiologi Kesehatan Indonesia

Stunting is a problem in Indonesia. In 2022, Kedaung Wetan and Selapajang Villages in Neglasari sub-district, Tangerang City, were identified as a priority. This study aimed to identify factors associated with stunting among children (6 – 59 months) in these villages. A matched case-control study consisting of 214 children (107 cases and 107 controls) was conducted, with individual matching based on age, sex, and prematurity at birth. Cases were children with height-for-age (H/A) measurement less than -2SD (according to WHO standard), while controls were children with H/A equal to or greater than -2SD. Conditional logistic regression was used for the …

A Review Of Mentorship And Recruitment Strategies For Minority Athletic Training Students, Dariana M. Brown

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

The underrepresentation of minority athletic trainers remains a critical issue, affecting both the profession and the quality of patient care. While patient demographics continue to diversify, the athletic training workforce has not kept pace, leading to potential communication barriers, mistrust, and inadequate culturally competent care. This review examines whether culturally tailored mentorship programs and targeted recruitment initiatives improve retention, career satisfaction, and diversity in athletic training compared to standard methods. By analyzing studies on underrepresented minority students in athletic training, the review highlights key institutional barriers and systemic factors impacting recruitment and retention. Findings suggest that tailored mentorship and supportive …

The Role Of Health Workers In Interprofessional Collaboration For Cancer Patient Navigators: A Scoping Review, Agung Subakti Nuzulullail, Aulia Diah Rahayu, Rury Nindya Taluphyta, Ika Arif Lidiyana, Mohamad Rusdiyansyah, Petrus Paris Rumsori, Riyati Riyati, Suci Wahyu Hariyanto, Wa Ode Umi Kalsum, Sri Hartini

Jurnal Keperawatan Indonesia

Cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide. The complexity of cancer care demands strong interprofessional collaboration (IPC), particularly within cancer patient navigator (CPN) programmes. However, research examining IPC in the context of CPN implementation is still limited. This scoping review aims to explore the various roles of healthcare workers in the IPC process within cancer navigator programme interventions. The review was conducted using four databases: PubMed, Clinical Key, EBSCOhost, and ScienceDirect. The Arksey and O'Malley framework was used to address the research question: “What is the role of health workers in interprofessional collaboration within cancer patient navigation?” Study selection …

Relationship Between Immune Profile And Respiratory Parameters In Down Syndrome Children With Acute Pneumonia: Pre-Intervention Analysis, Shehab M. Abd El-Kader, Tamer M. El-Saeed, Marwa M. I. Ismaeel, Mohamed F. El-Banna, Ahmed M. Aboeleneen, Amany G. Atiaa, Fatma A Hegazy, Mona M. Abdelkhalek

Journal of Medical Rehabilitation Science

Background: Children with Down Syndrome (DS) exhibit immune dysregulation and increased susceptibility to severe pneumonia. While associations between immune status and infection risk are known, the relationship between specific baseline immune markers and respiratory parameters at the initial presentation of acute pneumonia in this population is unclear. Objective: To investigate the correlation between baseline serum immunoglobulin levels, white blood cell count (WBCs), and baseline respiratory parameters (respiratory rate and arterial oxygen saturation) in children with DS presenting with acute pneumonia. Material and methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study analyzed baseline data from 40 children with DS and acute pneumonia enrolled prior …

Predictive Role Of Mindset And Neuroplasticity Knowledge On Epistemological Beliefs Among Academic Doctors, Fahad A Somaa

Journal of Medical Rehabilitation Science

Background: Neuroplasticity the brain's capacity for structural and functional reorganization, plays a central role in learning, adaptation, and professional development. Educators' understanding of neuroplasticity, together with their mindset, may influence their epistemological beliefs and teaching practices. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine the extent to which mindset and neuroplasticity knowledge predict epistemological beliefs among academic doctors working in medical and rehabilitation education. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was undertaken among the 309 academic doctors working in medical colleges and teaching hospitals. Demographics, neuroplasticity knowledge, mindset and epistemological beliefs were the primary outcome measures and collected data. …

Cigarettes Versus Electronic Cigarettes: The Effects On The Oral Cavity, Paolo Boffano, Muhammad Ruslin, Andrea Melle

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Objectives: To date, there is a large amount of scientific evidence on the effects of smoke-free products on oral health, highlighting their potential in reducing the risk of causing and progressing smoking-related diseases. In contrast to the last statement, other studies confirm the cytotoxic and tissue effects of nicotine-containing e-cigarette liquid. The purpose of this study was to review the literature and to evaluate the damage caused by cigarette smoking in comparison with that caused by e-cigarettes.

Methods: Our study considered the consultation of the bibliographic databases “Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System”. The research was carried out by using …

On Fibonacci Ensembles: An Alternative Approach To Ensemble Learning Inspired By The Timeless Architecture Of The Golden Ratio, Ernest Fokoue

Articles

Nature rarely reveals her secrets bluntly, yet in the Fibonacci sequence she grants us a glimpse of her quiet architecture of growth, harmony, and recursive stability \citep{Koshy2001Fibonacci, Livio2002GoldenRatio}. From spiral galaxies to the unfolding of leaves, this humble sequence reflects a universal grammar of balance. In this work, we introduce \emph{Fibonacci Ensembles}, a mathematically principled yet philosophically inspired framework for ensemble learning that complements and extends classical aggregation schemes such as bagging, boosting, and random forests \citep{Breiman1996Bagging, Breiman2001RandomForests, Friedman2001GBM, Zhou2012Ensemble, HastieTibshiraniFriedman2009ESL}. Two intertwined formulations unfold: (1) the use of normalized Fibonacci weights -- tempered through orthogonalization and Rao--Blackwell optimization -- …

Annual Faculty Research Symposium 2026, Elaine Vanterpool

Proceedings

No abstract provided.