bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peer-assisted telemedicine hepatitis-C treatment for people who use drugs in rural communities: a mixed methods study
Authors: Hoffman Kim , Leichtling Gillian , Shin Sarah , Seaman Andrew , Gailey Tonhi , Spencer Hunter C. , Korthuis P. Todd
Published: February 2025

Background

The increase in opioid use disorder among young, nonurban people has fueled sharp rises in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections. Innovative treatment models are needed that circumvent healthcare system barriers for people who use drugs (PWUD), particularly in rural areas. The Oregon HOPE TeleHCV study randomized PWUD living with HCV in rural Oregon to peer-facilitated and streamlined telemedicine HCV treatment (Peer TeleHCV) versus enhanced usual care (EUC) and assessed sustained virologic response at 12 weeks post treatment (SVR12). Peer Support Specialists (peers) conducted HCV screening in the community, facilitated pretreatment evaluation and linkage to telemedicine HCV treatment clinicians, and supported Peer TeleHCV study participants in HCV medication adherence. A qualitative investigation queried telemedicine clinicians and peers about their experiences with the implementation of the model and key drivers of implementation effectiveness.

Methods

Two remote audio/video recorded focus groups were conducted, one with the study’s clinicians and one with the peers. Participants were asked their views of key elements for successful implementation and outcomes of the Peer TeleHCV model. Group interviews lasted one hour. Recordings were professionally transcribed for thematic analysis with a mixed deductive and inductive framework, using Atlas.ti. Patients were surveyed about their interactions and satisfaction with peers.

Results

Quantitative data (n = 78) indicated patients had high levels of satisfaction with and support from the peers. Three themes were identified from the qualitative data (n = 12) including. (1) Key peer-level elements such as providing support during potentially difficult lab draws, creating a peer-facilitated “bubble of trust” between patients and clinicians, enabling technology access, conducting outreach to maintain contact and support treatment retention, and facilitating stabilizing wrap-around services (e.g., housing vouchers) (2) Key clinician-level factors such as capacity for unscheduled peer-facilitated appointments, having dedicated time for case consults with peers, and clinicians trained in working with PWUD and skilled in identifying related clinical concerns (3) Key systems-level elements such as standing lab orders, challenges related to specialty pharmacies and Medicaid managed care organizations, and streamlined communication strategies between peers and clinicians.

Conclusion

All participants reported that the Peer TeleHCV model built trust and eased barriers for PWUD initiating and remaining in HCV treatment. This low-barrier model makes space for PWUD to receive HCV treatment, regardless of drug use. Implementing support from peer specialists, telemedicine technology, and streamlined testing and treatment strategies may connect more rural PWUD living with HCV with the cure.
Refining α-synuclein seed amplification assays to distinguish Parkinson’s disease from multiple system atrophy
Authors: Wiseman James A. , Turner Clinton P. , Faull Richard L. M. , Halliday Glenda M. , Dieriks Birger Victor
Published: February 2025

Background

Parkinson’s disease (PD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA) are two distinct α-synucleinopathies traditionally differentiated through clinical symptoms. Early diagnosis of MSA is problematic, and seed amplification assays (SAAs), such as real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC), offer the potential to distinguish these diseases through their underlying α-synuclein (α-Syn) pathology and proteoforms. Currently, SAAs provide a binary result, signifying either the presence or absence of α-Syn seeds. To enhance the diagnostic potential and biological relevance of these assays, there is a pressing need to incorporate quantification and stratification of α-Syn proteoform-specific aggregation kinetics into current SAA pipelines.

Methods

Optimal RT-QuIC assay conditions for α-Syn seeds extracted from PD and MSA patient brains were determined, and assay kinetics were assessed for α-Syn seeds from different pathologically relevant brain regions (medulla, substantia nigra, hippocampus, middle temporal gyrus, and cerebellum). The conformational profiles of disease- and region-specific α-Syn proteoforms were determined by subjecting the amplified reaction products to concentration-dependent proteolytic digestion with proteinase K.

Results

Using our protocol, PD and MSA could be accurately delineated using proteoform-specific aggregation kinetics, including α-Syn aggregation rate, maximum relative fluorescence, the gradient of amplification, and core protofilament size. MSA cases yielded significantly higher values than PD cases across all four kinetic parameters in brain tissues, with the MSA-cerebellar phenotype having higher maximum relative fluorescence than the MSA-Parkinsonian phenotype. Statistical significance was maintained when the data were analysed regionally and when all regions were grouped.

Conclusions

Our RT-QuIC protocol and analysis pipeline can distinguish between PD and MSA, and between MSA phenotypes. MSA α-Syn seeds induce faster propagation and exhibit higher aggregation kinetics than PD α-Syn, mirroring the biological differences observed in brain tissue. With further validation of these quantitative parameters, we propose that SAAs could advance from a yes/no diagnostic to a theranostic biomarker that could be utilised in developing therapeutics.
The kinetics of maternal and self-developed Streptococcus suis-specific antibodies
Authors: Vreman Sandra , Jansen Rutger , Bastian Mikael , Beckers Patricia , van Riet Miriam , Fijten Helmi , Fledderus Jan , de Greeff Astrid , Winkelman Hélène , Stockhofe-Zurwieden Norbert , Fabà Lluís , Wisselink Henk J. , Vrieling Manouk
Published: February 2025

Background

Streptococcus suis (S. suis) infections are responsible for a large disease burden in piglets during the nursery phase, compromising animal welfare and increasing antibiotic use. The immune gap caused by decreased maternal-derived antibodies (MDA) and insufficient levels or functionality of acquired antibodies in weaned pigs could play a role in the increased susceptibility to S. suis infections. To better understand this, two studies were performed. Study I evaluated the associations between sow antibodies in colostrum and serum, birth parameters (e.g., birth weight, colostrum intake and piglet growth) and the levels of S. suis-specific (serotypes 2 and 9) antibodies in one-day-old piglets from four farms. Subsequently, study II used one of these farms to evaluate S. suis-specific and total antibody kinetics in piglets (10 litters with 6 selected piglets per litter, total n = 60) from birth until 10 weeks of age. Additionally, tonsil swabs from sows and piglets were taken to evaluate the S. suis tonsillar carrier status (serotypes 2 and 9) before and after weaning.

Results

High variability in serum and colostrum antibody levels was observed between and within the four farms (study I). In study II, there was a decrease in S. suis-specific MDA after 24 h of age, with the lowest level occurring at approximately 18/19 days of age. Afterwards, there was an increase in specific antibodies, most likely due to acquired immunity. Colostrum intake, birth weight and 24-h weight gain after birth were important parameters that were positively associated with S. suis antibody levels in piglets after birth but also affected these antibody levels at a later age. All the piglet tonsils were colonized with S. suis serotype 9 before weaning, while the prevalence of serotype 2 increased after weaning.

Conclusions

Total Ig against S. suis in serum declined after birth and the lowest level was detected just before weaning. Farmers and veterinarians should focus on piglets with low birth weights and late-born piglets because these parameters reduce both the S. suis-specific MDA preweaning and the specific antibodies acquired postweaning. Colostrum intake and 24 h-weight gain also affect the level of S. suis specific antibodies on day 1.
Black rice (Oryza sativa L.) and its anthocyanins: mechanisms, food applications, and clinical insights for postprandial glycemic and lipid regulation
Authors: Thilavech Thavaree , Suantawee Tanyawan , Chusak Charoonsri , Suklaew Phim On , Adisakwattana Sirichai
Published: February 2025

Postprandial hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia are key contributors to chronic metabolic disturbances, thereby promoting the onset and progression of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Current dietary interventions aim to effectively control postprandial glucose and lipid levels while ensuring adequate antioxidant intake. Black rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivations have gained attention for their resistant starch content and phytochemical compositions. Notably, black rice is rich in anthocyanins, known for their anti-diabetic and antioxidant effects. This review demonstrates the potential of black rice in regulating postprandial glycemic and lipid responses, thus extending its applications to the development of functional food products. Based on in vitro studies, black rice anthocyanins exhibit a variety of mechanisms, including the inhibition of carbohydrate and fat digestive enzymes, binding to bile acids, interference with cholesterol micellization, and the inhibition of glucose and cholesterol uptake in enterocytes. Utilizing black rice flour and its anthocyanin-rich extracts in food products enhances health benefits by suppressing starch digestibility and increasing phytochemical content and antioxidant capacity. Clinical studies support the potential of black rice and its food derivatives to effectively manage postprandial glycemic and lipidemic responses while increasing plasma antioxidant capacity. However, comprehensive, long-term investigations are crucial to delineate the optimal dosage and duration of black rice consumption and further elucidate its positive effects on metabolic responses.

Graphical Abstract
Impact of patient compliance with inhaler therapy on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease severity: a rural tertiary care perspective
Authors: S. Nandakishore K. , Ballal Preethiraj , Katipalla Anirudha , P. Shruthi Rai , T. Supreetha , T. Dixith , Srinivas Sanjay , Dhanusha Shree , Pujar Pramod , Sudeesh Sushmitha , M. Vignesh T.
Published: February 2025

Background

Inhaled medications have been the cornerstone of treatment for the exacerbations as well as stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) which is one of the leading cause of deaths in the recent times. Inadequate knowledge on handling of inhalers leads to noncompliance which in turn results in increased hospital visits limelighting the negative impact on the morbidity status. The aim of our study was to assess the compliance of inhalers and to correlate the level of compliance to the morbidity of COPD as assessed by number of hospital visits.

Methods

In our cross-sectional observational study conducted in the rural medical college hospital in Dakshina Kannada of Karnataka, 69 subjects with COPD were evaluated for the compliance of inhaler usage, and the morbidity related to the disease was assessed with number of hospital visits in the past 6 months. Appropriate statistical analysis was used in evaluation.

Results

Out of 69 patients, 24 patients visited the health care facility at least 3 times or more. Of these 24 patients, 20 (83.33%) of them were not compliant with inhalers. Among the 45 patients who visited the health care facility less than 2 times, 28 (62.22%) patients were compliant with inhalers. This relationship was found to be statistically significant proving that the higher the number of visits, the lesser the compliance and vice versa.

Conclusions

Our study highlights the importance of patient education about compliance to inhalers which is an economical and effective modality which has significant impact on reduction of exacerbations and morbidity.
Different audiometric findings with different symptoms for diagnosing superior semicircular canal dehiscence symptoms: a retrospective study of 12 cases
Authors: Başöz Behmen Meliha , Tuğrul Selahattin , Konukseven Ozlem
Published: February 2025

Background

Due to the patients with no symptoms for dehiscence but having audiological different findings who came to clinic, this study aims to evaluate the audiological characteristics of 12 cases diagnosed with superior semicircular canal dehiscence and to compare the findings with the literature.

Methods

We evaluated a case-series of 12 cases aged 11–59 years with a pre-diagnosis of semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) by clinical history and audiological evaluation between 2019 and 2022 and a final diagnosis by high-resolution computed tomography. Audiological evaluation includes air-bone conduction and speech audiometry, tympanometry, and acoustic reflex test.

Results

Unilateral dehiscence was observed in 6 cases, and bilateral dehiscence was observed in the other 6. Considering types of hearing loss, we observed 5 normal hearing, 1 mixed type, 2 conductive type, and 4 sensorineural type. Also, numerous clinical characteristics were observed: vestibular complaints (9/12), chronic imbalance (9/12), Tullio phenomenon (6/12), Hennebert sign (6/12), and tinnitus (5/12). Patients with symptoms no audiological findings and patients with audiological findings no symptoms were seen with dehiscence diagnosis.

Conclusion

Various symptoms and findings were observed in patients with semicircular canal dehiscence. While patients with no symptoms for diagnosing dehiscence are presented, audiological findings with low-frequency hearing loss and air–bone gap can be landmark. In addition, patients with SSCD symptoms, even if they do not have audiometric findings, should be further evaluated with radiological evaluation.
Fracture characteristics of slag-based geopolymer mortars with recycled aggregates under mode I and mode II Loading
Authors: Rohit Poleboyana , Rao T. D. Gunneswara , Chandrasekhar M.
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the fracture characteristics of slag-based geopolymer mortars (SGPM) incorporating recycled fine aggregates (RFA) from construction demolition waste. The research examines both tensile (mode I) and shear (mode II) fracture behaviors, analyzing the effects of different notch-to-depth ratios (0.20, 0.25, 0.30) and varying RFA replacement levels (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%). The experimental results reveal that increasing notch-to-depth ratios leads to increased brittleness, reducing fracture energy in both modes. Higher RFA levels further decrease overall strength and fracture energy, with a more significant impact on mode II. Mode II fracture energy is notably higher, approximately 23 times greater than mode I. The findings highlight the importance of balancing notch-to-depth ratios and RFA content to optimize SGPM’s mechanical performance for sustainable construction applications. This study concludes that while SGPM with RFA offers environmental benefits, careful consideration of RFA proportions and notch-to-depth ratios is crucial to maintain desired structural properties.
Impact of Setmelanotide on Metabolic Syndrome Risk in Patients With Bardet-Biedl Syndrome
Authors: Haqq Andrea M , Poitou Christine , Chung Wendy K , Forsythe Elizabeth , Conroy Rushika , Dollfus Hélène , Malhotra Sonali , Touchot Nicolas , Okorie Uzoma , Beales Philip , Clément Karine , Argente Jesús
Published: February 2025

Context

Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a rare genetic disease associated with disruptions in melanocortin-4 receptor pathway signaling that can contribute to increased risk for metabolic syndrome and obesity-related comorbidities.

Objective

Here, MetS-Z-BMI scores, a continuous measure based on body mass index (BMI), were calculated to determine metabolic syndrome severity and response to treatment with the melanocortin-4 receptor agonist setmelanotide in BBS.

Methods

All patients from a phase 3 study (NCT03746522) of setmelanotide with data required for the calculation of MetS-Z-BMI scores were included. Mean MetS-Z-BMI score was determined at baseline and Week 52; subgroup analyses were conducted by sex, age, genotype, and response to setmelanotide.

Results

MetS-Z-BMI scores were evaluable for 22 of 32 patients enrolled. Baseline mean (SD) MetS-Z-BMI score across patients was 1.1 (0.5); baseline mean (SD) odds ratios of future cardiovascular disease or type 2 diabetes were 3.1 (1.5) and 3.7 (1.7), respectively, for adults and 10.2 (4.7) and 2.8 (1.3), respectively, for pediatric patients. Overall, mean (SD) MetS-Z-BMI score at Week 52 was reduced by 0.34 (0.62). Mean (SD) MetS-Z-BMI scores significantly differed depending on achievement of predetermined weight-based thresholds of ≥10% weight loss (patients aged ≥18 years) or ≥0.3-point reduction in BMI Z score (patients aged <18 years) at Week 52 (achievers, −0.64 [0.54]; nonachievers, 0.08 [0.47]; P = .0043). No significant difference was observed with other subgroup comparisons.

Conclusion

MetS-Z-BMI score reductions were observed after 52 weeks of treatment, suggesting that setmelanotide may decrease metabolic syndrome severity and risk of future obesity-related comorbidities in those with BBS.
The Impact of Program and Geographic Signaling on Anesthesia Residency Applications, Interviews, and the Match
Authors: Dutoit Andrea P. , Teeter Emily G. , Wolpaw Jed T. , Martin Timothy W. , Manohar Crystal M. , Long Timothy R. , Abramowicz A. Elisabeth , Stahl David L. , Shostrom Valerie K. , Hoffman Julie T. , Martinelli Susan M.
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:

Increased specialty competitiveness, alongside the inception of virtual interviews, has increased the number of applications submitted to the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) in anesthesiology. ERAS introduced signals to provide applicants with a means to demonstrate interest in a select group of residency programs. In the 2023 to 2024 application cycle, anesthesiology applicants had the opportunity to send 5 gold and 10 silver signals in a tiered system.

METHODS:

This multicenter, cross-sectional (exempt) research survey was created by members of the executive council of the Association of Anesthesiology Core Program Directors (AACPD) and housed and distributed through REDCap and the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Publicly available contact information of anesthesiology core program directors was obtained from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) website and membership roster of the AACPD. In total, 174 anesthesiology programs were identified. A survey invitation was distributed on March 12, 2024, to all programs via e-mail with reminders. The survey closed on April 30, 2024. Survey responses were collected anonymously, with instructions to provide 1 response per program. All statistical summaries and analyses were performed using SAS 9.3 (SAS Institute).

RESULTS:

The survey was sent to all 174 identified programs, with a response rate of 48.9%. Small programs were defined as having <44 residents, medium 44 to 62 residents, and large >62 residents. Small programs received significantly fewer applications (median 1255) than medium (1420) and large (1558) programs (P = .0005). There was a statistically significant difference in the number of gold signals received based on program size, with large programs receiving significantly more than medium (169 vs 116, P = .0238) or small programs (168 vs 71, P < .0001). Applicants sending gold signals were more likely to receive an interview compared to those who sent silver signals (56.7% vs 31%, P ≤ .0001). Of the those interviewed, applicants who sent gold signals comprised 42% (28.7%–52.6%), whereas applicants who sent silver signals comprised 45.5% (33%–54.7%). Applicants who did not send a program signal but signaled geographically made up a smaller portion of the interview group at 3% (0%–15.4%). The percentage of matched residents sending gold signals made up 66.7% (47.1%–82.4%) of a program’s match list, whereas those sending silver signals were 25% (11.1%–33.3%) of the matched cohort.

CONCLUSIONS:

Anesthesiology applicants who sent program signals were selected for a large majority of available interview positions, and interviewed applicants who submitted gold and silver signals comprised the vast majority of matched resident cohorts.
Maternal, Clinical, and Radiographic Outcomes: A Retrospective Analysis of Anesthesia and Delivery Modality in Chiari I Malformation
Authors: Pulido Sonia , Huang Jesse , Mendoza-Elias Nasya , Das Paramita
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

The traditional management of pregnant patients with Chiari I malformation (CM-I) heavily favors cesarean section and general anesthesia to limit the perceived risk of maternal neurological complications attributed to vaginal delivery and neuraxial anesthesia. The aim of this study was to compare reported neurological symptoms and radiographic presentations before and after childbirth performed by patients with CM-I, with and without associated syrinx.

METHODS:

Neurological symptoms, mode of delivery, administered anesthesia, extent of cerebellar tonsillar descent, and syrinx diameter and length were recorded before and after delivery from electronic medical records of 36 patients with CM-I who delivered between January 2008 and August 2022. Data were analyzed using paired Student t-tests.

RESULTS:

Thirty two vaginal deliveries and 44 cesarean sections performed on 36 mothers were included. 60 deliveries used neuraxial anesthesia. Average tonsillar descent prepartum and postpartum was 9.3 ± 4.28 mm and 9.4 ± 4.81 mm, respectively (P = .215). Average syrinx diameter prepartum and postpartum was 5.2 ± 2.72 mm and 5.2 ± 2.31 mm, respectively (P = .611). There was no significant difference between prepartum and postpartum average tonsillar descent measurements among cesarean sections (P = .115) or vaginal deliveries (P = .620). There was no significant difference in syrinx diameter or length between prepartum and postpartum in cesarean section patients or in vaginal deliveries. Of the 76 deliveries, 2.6% of patients had worsened Chiari symptoms postoperatively, both are cesarean deliveries. Logistic regression demonstrated no significant worsening of Chiari-related symptoms, regardless of delivery or anesthesia type.

CONCLUSION:

Our findings suggest that patients with CM-I may deliver vaginally and receive neuraxial anesthesia with low risk of neurological complications or radiographic worsening. As these patients were not prospectively selected, limitations exist, and it remains important to consider the severity of the patient's clinical and radiographic presentation when selecting anesthetic and delivery modality.
Autonomous function of Antennapedia in adult muscle precursors directly connects Hox genes to adult muscle development
Authors: Singh Aakriti , van den Burgh Meike , Boopathy Vigneshwarr , van Nierop Y Sanchez Patrick , Bageritz Josephine , Lohmann Ingrid , Domsch Katrin
Published: February 2025

The evolutionarily conserved Hox genes define segment identities along the anterior-posterior axis and are expressed in most cell types within each segment, performing specific functions tailored to cellular needs. It has been suggested previously that Drosophila adult flight muscles in the second thoracic segment (T2) develop without direct Hox gene input, relying instead on ectodermal signals to shape their identity. However, our research, leveraging single-cell transcriptomics of Drosophila wing discs and Hox perturbation experiments using CRISPR technology and gain-of-function assays, unveiled a more intricate regulatory landscape. We found that the Hox protein Antennapedia (Antp) is essential for adult flight muscle development, acting in two crucial ways: by regulating the cell cycle rate of adult muscle precursors (AMPs) through repression of proliferation genes, and by guiding flight muscle fate via regulation of Hedgehog (Hh) signalling during cell fate establishment. Antp, along with its co-factor Apterous (Ap), directly interacts with the patched (ptc) locus to control its expression in AMPs. These findings challenge the notion of T2 as a ‘Hox-free’ zone, highlighting the indispensable role of low-level Antp expression in adult muscle development.
Impact of yoga on the central and peripheral vascular function among desk-based workers: A single-centered trial study
Authors: Shruthi P Poovitha , Kamath Koustubh , K Vaishali , K N Shivashankar , Sugumar Suresh , Ravichandran Sneha , David Leena R , Hogg Peter , V Guruprasad , K R Banumathe , Saha Shovan , Kadavigere Rajagopal
Published: February 2025

Background The aim of this study was to observe and analyze vascular function in ‘prolonged sitting’, followed by a yoga asana routine and pranayama intervention. Participants in this study include those who work from desks in offices. The study required the participants to attend on three separate days at random, and they had to finish a computerized test on each day. On the first day, participants were required to complete a computer test while sitting still for four hours (with the exception of washroom breaks). The next day, they underwent a computerized test along with a pranayama intervention. Finally, on the last day, they underwent a computerized test along with a yoga asana intervention. At the start of the study and after two and four hours, we measured the diameter and velocity of the common carotid artery (CCA) and superficial femoral artery (SFA). Methods The study was a within-subjects prospective single-center trial conducted in the Department of Radio-Diagnosis and Imaging, Kasturba Medical Hospital, Manipal, India, between September 2022 and January 2023. Participants were asked to do one of the following ‘activities’ over successive weeks: Week 1 – Prolonged sitting; Week 2 – Pranayama intervention; and Week 3 – Yoga asana intervention during prolonged sitting. The baseline and follow-up variables of pulse velocity, endothelial thickness, and shear rate were assessed for normality through a Shapiro-Wilk Test. Results Our sample included 11 participants with moderate physical activity, five with high physical activity and one with low physical activity. Yoga asana intervention comprised participants sitting continuously for four hours, with a yoga asana intervention being provided every hour, lasting for 10 minutes. Conclusions Yoga asana improves vascular functions in prolonged sitting conditions. This routine can promote the concept of interrupted sitting and ways to reduce it with efficient yoga asana practice without changing the work culture and provide better physical relief. Trial registration Clinical Trials Registry – India ( CTRI/2022/09/045628), date of registration: 19/09/2022(CTRI/2022/9/045628)https://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/main1.php?EncHid=16349.27799,
Detecting Atrial Fibrillation Using Smartwatches
Authors: Kulczycka-Rowicka Agnieszka , Podolec Julianna , Ciraolo Silvia , Wojda Joanna , Sobiński Adam , Kościuszko Zuzanna , Kurza Katarzyna , Czerwonka Matylda , Lesiczka-Fedoryj Katarzyna , Walczak Anna
Published: February 2025

The purpose of research:
Atrial fibrillation is a globally widespread medical issue. In many cases, atrial fibrillation is paroxysmal, which makes its detection challenging and can delay the implementation of appropriate treatment. The aim of this review is to analyze the latest information on the use of smartwatches in detecting atrial fibrillation.
 
Research materials and methods:
This review draws on data sourced from the current literature and clinical reports from various sources. The search involved the use of keywords like “atrial fibrillation”, "smartwatch," "cardiac arrhythmia, "detecting arrhythmias”, “arrhythmia” and "wearable devices”.
 
Basic results:
The findings indicate that the detection of atrial fibrillation (AF) using commercially available smartwatches demonstrates a very high level of diagnostic accuracy but still has room for improvement.
 
Conclusions:
Atrial fibrillation is a very common problem among patients and the number of sick people increases every year. Detecting these arrhythmias is therefore extremely important to counteract potential, dangerous complications and implement appropriate prevention. Smartwatches are a promising tool supporting the diagnosis of cardiac arrhythmias and monitoring already diagnosed diseases. Further research and continuous improvement of technologies are needed so that it is possible to use them in everyday medical practice.
Usefulness of the osteocutaneous lateral arm free flap for small to moderate-sized bone and soft tissue defects of the hand: a report of two cases
Authors: Kim Yongwhan , Park Hyunsik , Whang Jongick , Kim Sangwoo
Published: February 2025

Reconstructive options for multidigit or soft tissue defects of the hand are varied, yet complex hand defects remain particularly challenging. These cases often necessitate microvascular reconstruction using osteocutaneous free flaps to achieve functional limb salvage. This paper presents two cases of osteocutaneous lateral arm free flap surgery performed at our institution, demonstrating the efficacy of this technique in managing complex hand defects. One case involved a severe crushing injury on an index finger with only the ulnar neurovascular bundle remaining, and the other involved a crushing injury on the first web space with severe comminution of the first metacarpal bone. After an emergency simple debridement, reconstructive surgery using the osteocutaneous lateral arm free flap was performed a few days later. Both cases healed without necrosis. Although both patients lost interphalangeal joint function, they were able to maintain grasping function and finger length without amputation. The osteocutaneous lateral arm free flap is an effective reconstruction method for addressing small to moderate-sized segmental bone and soft tissue defects of the hand caused by trauma. This procedure can be conveniently performed in a single session under regional anesthesia.
Entrepreneurial Orientation: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Public Entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia
Authors:   , Alzomia Abdullah
Published: February 2025

The increasing demands of efficiency and effectiveness in the public sector encourage political leaders and policy makers to adopt and apply advanced techniques and solutions to overcome flaws in public organizational performance. Entrepreneurship was introduced in several Western countries as a way to improve their processes and management through adopting private sector management principles and market-oriented techniques. In 2015, Saudi Arabia announced its 2030 vision, which introduced hundreds of innovative and creative initiatives aiming to overcome issues of the turbulent environment, future oil depletion, budgetary pressures, and public demands for efficiency and effectiveness. Building on interdisciplinary perspectives, this study investigates entrepreneurial orientation among Saudi public employees from all administrative regions across the country. Building on McClelland's theory of motivation, this study hypothesizes that the motives of need for achievement, need for affiliation, and need for power are positively associated with entrepreneurial behavior. It also hypothesizes that excessive organizational hierarchy, formalization, and lack of autonomy constrain employees' entrepreneurial activities. Moreover, this study adopts a sociological perspective in proposing solutions for facilitating entrepreneurial orientation among public employees by hypothesizing that human and social capital promote an entrepreneurial orientation. Multiple regression analysis reveals that Saudi public employees with a higher level of need for achievement and need for power tend to be more entrepreneurial, while need for affiliation fails to predict entrepreneurial orientation. Furthermore, the findings suggest that a high level of hierarchy and formalization in public organizations is negatively associated to entrepreneurial orientation, while a high level of autonomy is positively associated with entrepreneurial orientation. Finally, the study finds that employees with a high level of breadth and depth of experience (human capital) are more likely to be entrepreneurial, while a high level of bonding social capital and bridging social capital promote a negative and a positive entrepreneurial orientation, respectively.
The Ecological Importance and Population Structure of Magellanic Woodpeckers (Campephilus magellanicus) in the World's Southernmost Forests
Authors:   , Wynia Amy Lynn
Published: February 2025

The Magellanic woodpecker (Campephilus magellanicus), the largest woodpecker in Central and South America, is declining throughout its range. Notably, limited research has been conducted on the Campephilus genus, especially for island populations. Mostly during austral summers 2015-2017, I explored the ecological importance and population structure of Magellanic woodpeckers on Navarino Island, Chile (55°04′S, 67°40′W). First, I assessed how coleopteran larval density and distribution within trees may influence Magellanic woodpecker foraging behavior. Second, I designed an experiment to determine which of three detection methods would best elicit a woodpecker detection. Third, I conducted a population genetics study to elucidate trends within and among Magellanic woodpecker populations to better inform management decisions. I identified two coleopteran species: one lucanid (Erichius femoralis) and one cerambycid (Microplophorus magellanicus) within two lenga (Nothofagus pumilio) trees foraged on by Magellanic woodpeckers. Maximum woodpecker excavation depths were 71-90 mm; most larval gallery depths were 51-70 mm. The drumming device most effectively influenced the likelihood of a woodpecker detection. The odds of a woodpecker responding were 2.14 times more likely than responding to either a playback or control. On Navarino Island, I observed a pattern of isolation by distance among sampled woodpeckers, slight female sex-biased dispersal, and family groups likely consisted of nuclear families with partner replacement. Genetic diversity estimates were lower for Navarino woodpeckers than for mainland populations. Future research should build upon these results to better understand Magellanic woodpecker life history characteristics and its role in the ecosystem.
Read to Me: The Impacts of Participation in United Through Reading on Military Members, Children, and Spouses
Authors:   , Hawvermale Erica M
Published: February 2025

United Through Reading (UTR) is a non-profit organization that provides the tools for military service members to take videos of themselves reading books so that when they must leave their family for training, deployment, temporary duty (TDY), or other military induced separations, their family gets a copy of the video recording and a copy of the book. Although UTR developed their program supported by research about the academic benefits of being read aloud to as a child, the importance of developing a love of reading, the impacts of deployment on military youth, and the impacts of service on children's academics before this research began, they had not yet conducted an evaluation of their specific program. To this end, this research sought to understand how participation in UTR impacts 1) a child's love of reading, 2) child behavior, 3) morale and stress levels for service members and caregivers, and 4) service members' retention or re-enlistment in the military. To address these questions this study utilized a mixed methodological approach, combining participant observation at UTR recording events, interviews (n = 19), and surveys (n = 58). UTR was found to improve and reinforce children's love of reading, improve child behavior, increase morale and decrease stress for service members and caregivers, and indirectly impact retention and re-enlistment in the military. This research is positioned to help UTR advertise their program to more effectively reach service members and their families, frame their work when talking to beneficiaries and funders, and be more competitive when applying for grants to fund their continued operations.
Does Gender Representation Matter? Gender, Descriptive and Substantive Representation, and Women-Friendly Districts
Authors:   , Friesenhahn Amy
Published: February 2025

This dissertation considers how district-level demographic factors favorable to women congressional candidates facilitate substantive representation of women's interests. I contribute to the existing research by linking the literature on women candidate emergence and electoral success with that on descriptive and substantive representation. Beyond simply asking whether and how women in Congress represent women's interests, I argue that the demographic characteristics of districts in which women are more likely to run and win public office also put women representing those districts in Congress in better position to cultivate feminist homestyles and substantively represent women's interests through legislative behavior. I examine whether women representatives in women-friendly districts are more likely than men representing similar districts, or women in less women-friendly districts, to sponsor legislation in women's issue areas, sponsors women's issue earmarks, and defect from party in women's issue roll-call votes. Overall, I find general support for my theory that district-level factors contribute to observed gender differences in legislative behavior in women's issue areas.
Pedagogical Use of Plainchant for Trombone: Its Application in Legato Studies and Ensemble Playing
Authors:   , Hinman Daniel
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this research is to explore the benefits of chant music and its pedagogical applications for the individual trombonist or ensemble member. Several common method books are examined and categorized as either musical exercise or lyrical etude. Through this analysis I highlight a gap between the two method types that can be bridged through practice of chant. I support this claim through an analysis of chant characteristics that make it an ideal candidate to encourage pure sound production and connection in a performable work. Practice of chant in trombone chamber or choir ensembles will also encourage the development of skills necessary to play as a member of a group. I propose regular practice of this music will aid the ensemble in blend and balance, intonation, articulation, and slide coordination. The final chapter of the research provides the reader with a brief summary of the works refenced to promote further study as one chooses.
Navigating Polyamory and the Law
Authors:   , Carnes Emma
Published: February 2025

My research explores what laws, such as laws surrounding immigration, child custody, and divorce, negatively affect polyamorous individuals in the U.S. and how people's perceptions of barriers differ along lines of gender-sexual-racial-class identities. My applied research is conducted for my client, a CNM-friendly attorney in D.C. I investigate the experience of polyamorous people that use lawyers they perceive as consensually non-monogamous (CNM)-friendly. I probe what it means to be "CNM-friendly," how one promotes oneself as a CNM-friendly lawyer to potential clients and the world at large, and the relationship between being a CNM-friendly lawyer and activism.
The Influences of a Topographically and Functionally Unrelated Operant on Response Allocation under Concurrent Continuous Reinforcement Schedules
Authors:   , Davidson Alex J
Published: February 2025

In the experimental analysis of behavior, response allocation is typically studied under concurrent interval schedules, with two response alternatives, in a static environment. The natural environment of the unfettered organism, however, is dynamic insofar as even frequently visited environments are rarely identical from encounter to encounter. Additionally, natural environments usually offer more than two concurrently available behaviors that are often scheduled for reinforcement contingent on rate of responding. The purpose of this study was to determine how the addition or removal of a third response alternative affected response allocation between two topographically dissimilar operants on independent concurrent ratio schedules in a dynamic environment. Results indicate that the addition of the third operant served to temporarily suppress response rates of the first two operants but had no or only minor and inconsistent effects on relative allocation. The reintroduction of the third operant in a new location again suppressed response rates in three of four subjects and slightly shifted response allocation for one subject. Highly individual anecdotal patterns could be seen in tangential observations of each of 4 subjects. The results suggest the possibility that new alternatives have temporary effects on response bias, and that these effects may be variable and dependent on details of individual history and stimulus control.
Field Research at Tūwāneh and Da’jāniya, South Jordan: Season 2022
Authors: Bodzek Jarosław , Kopij Kamil , Ćwiąkała Paweł , Puniach Edyta , Babucic Nikola , Sochacki Grzegorz , Bator Kaja , Krupa Maksymilian , Miszk Łukasz
Published: February 2025

This report summarises the results of field research conducted in October 2022 as part of the ArTu-DTu – The Archaeological Study of Da’jāniya & Tūwāneh, South Jordan project. The project focused on the sites of Tūwāneh and Da’jāniya, where a research team from the Jagiellonian University and AGH University of Kraków conducted excavations, geophysical surveys and analysis of looting damage. In Tūwāneh, excavations were carried out in the bath complex, documenting the architectural remains and stratigraphy associated with the site’s use and abandonment. Additionally, geophysical prospection was performed in selected areas adjacent to the so-called “caravanserai”, uncovering subsurface structures potentially linked to the complex. The team also systematically recorded Arabic graffiti on the walls of the caravanserai, preserving contemporary marks of local cultural heritage. In Da’jāniya, geophysical surveys aimed to locate remnants of a vicus surrounding the Roman fort, potentially shedding light on civilian settlement patterns near military installations. The report provides insights into the stratigraphy, architectural elements and temporal analysis of looting activity at the site, contributing valuable data on settlement dynamics and heritage conservation challenges in the region.
Hunters Before ‘Diana’: examining pre-protohistoric lithic artifacts at the sanctuary of ‘Diana nemorensis’ (Lake Nemi, central Italy) as an indicator of human-environmental interaction
Authors: Altamura Flavio , Diosono Francesca
Published: February 2025

The excavations of the Temple of Diana at Nemi (Lake Nemi, central Italy) from 2009 to 2021 yielded pre-protohistoric lithic artifacts. This information, combined with available geoarchaeological and palaeoenvironmental data, enables a reconstruction of lake level changes as well as human socio-economic and cultural activities in the area from the end of the Pleistocene to the Mid-Late Holocene. The results suggest that Epigravettian hunters occasionally exploited the basin area during the Final Palaeolithic. In the Early-Middle Holocene, rising water levels, reaching approximately 360 m above sea level, potentially hindered human occupation. However, during the Mid-Late Holocene, decreasing water levels allowed late prehistoric and protohistoric groups to engage in diverse activities in the basin, leaving traces that may hold early symbolic significance. The geomorphological setting and early occupation dynamics influenced the palaeoenvironmental conditions and the patterns of human presence and utilization of the area during the Iron Age and historical times.
A Newly Discovered “Bull Head Amulet” from Tell El-Farkha, Egypt
Authors: Dębowska-Ludwin Joanna
Published: February 2025

In 2022, a new object fitting the so-called “bull head amulets” category was discovered at Tell el-Farkha in layers related to the late Predynastic period (Naqada IID2-IIIA, hereafter abbreviated as NIID2-NIIIA). Although the object displays all the typical features of the “amulets”, it also possesses some unique characteristics, such as its unusual size and lack of perforation, suggesting its use as a figurine rather than a pendant. Furthermore, the Tell el-Farkha item was discovered in a well-recorded settlement context, proving that such “amulets” do not necessarily belong to burial activities. Apart from the presentation of the find and its place of origin, a more general discussion on this interesting type of early Egyptian item raises various questions about their actual function, significance or interpretation.
Text-image Iconicity in Assurnasirpal II’s Northwest Palace
Authors: Baker Robin
Published: February 2025

Among the most celebrated archaeological discoveries and the most debated expressions of Assyrian art is the bas-relief that stood behind the throne in Assurnasirpal II’s Northwest Palace in Nimrud. Most attempts to interpret the panel have focused on specific elements of its iconography, particularly the tree and the figure in the winged disk above it. Many scholars have sought to decipher the image by comparing it with series of panels from elsewhere in the palace. Some studies have also explored the relief’s relationship to its inscription. Despite the extensive literature on the artifact, its meaning has remained elusive. This study approaches the conundrum from a different angle. It considers the relief’s text-image iconicity through the lens of Assurnasirpal’s theology, since both express theological conceptions. It investigates the theological relationship between the image and the placement of the cuneiform signs carved on it, thereby shedding light on the meaning of the imagery.
Christian Iconography Adorning Corinthian Capitals in Syria
Authors: Dawa Ahmad
Published: February 2025

This article explores the additional decorative elements incorporated by Christians onto Corinthian capitals found in various museums in the Syrian Arab Republic, dating back to the Byzantine era (4th–7th centuries). It outlines the symbolic significance of these elements, tracing their historical and religious contexts. The study highlights the diverse forms of crosses present on the capitals, ranging from the equal-armed cross encircled by various frames to Latin crosses and crosses formed by the contiguous folioles of acanthus leaves. Garlands, with various interpretations, emerged in Christian art and are depicted as leafy swags on the Corinthian capitals, featuring different designs. Additionally, the rare representation of grapevines, which held significant importance in Christian symbolism, connects them to biblical narratives and theological concepts. Overall, these elements could aid in dating unidentified Corinthian capitals in the area of study when analyzed alongside other components of the capital.