bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Engine Operational Parameters on the Auto-ignition Chemistry of n-Decane in a Compression Ignition Engine Environment
Authors:   , Li Yulei , Cernansky Nicholas Peter , Miller David Leslie
Published: July 2021

JP-8 is a jet fuel widely used by the U.S. military. The military has called for JP-8 to be used in all internal combustion applications, including compression ignition engines. To understand the combustion of JP-8 in these engines, an accepted procedure is to develop combustion models of simple mixtures of hydrocarbons, called surrogates, and their components. As part of a program to develop such models, the auto-ignition behavior of n-decane in a motored engine has been investigated. In-cylinder pressure was measured to indicate the overall reactivity behavior and quantify the effects of engine operational parameters on the auto-ignition of n-decane. Additionally, exhaust gas composition was analyzed by GC/MS to identify and measure stable intermediate species to deduce the key reaction pathways leading to auto-ignition. Furthermore, a new method that uses only pressure data was proposed and developed to identify the start of combustion. By applying this method, the in-cylinder conditions for pre-ignition point were used to predict the ignition of n-decane. Based on the in-cylinder conditions of pre-ignition point, a general pre-ignition limit line for n-decane was generated, taking dilution of residual gas, equivalence ratio, and compression ratio into account. This pre-ignition limit line will be useful for predicting the pre-ignition initiation during the oxidation of n-decane. Furthermore, it is a proof of the concept "pre-ignition limit line", which may be useful when generalized for all hydrocarbons. The measured species profiles from this study may be used in future work to develop detailed and reduced kinetic models for the auto-ignition and oxidation of JP-8 surrogate fuels.
The complex nature of cobalamin biosynthesis in the pathogenic bacterium Vibrio cholerae
Authors:   , Tyrell Breanna Kathryn , Ma Amy T. , Vaidya Akhil B.
Published: July 2021

Corrinoids are a group of compounds that are only synthesized de novo by a select group of bacteria and archaea. Vitamin B12, a necessary supplement for human health, belongs to the most prominent group of corrinoids, the cobalamins. Some prokaryotes contain partial cobalamin biosynthetic pathways, through which they can complete corrinoid intermediates (salvaging) or convert between variants (remodeling). Vibrio cholerae, the etiological agent responsible for the diarrheal disease cholera, lives in two environments with considerable access to variants of vitamin B12. We have previously shown that V. cholerae is capable of salvaging the intermediate cobinamide (Cbi) and selectively remodeling the variant pseudocobalamin (psCbl) without the canonical remodeling protein CbiZ. Cobalamin synthase (CobS) is an integral transmembrane protein responsible for the condensation reaction in cobalamin biosynthesis. We hypothesized that CobS may be recruiting an unknown remodeling protein or acting as a scaffolding protein for a remodeling complex. To further investigate CobS's role in this process, we assayed strains of V. cholerae carrying CobS point mutants or fluorescently tagged Cob proteins. Through corrinoid supplementation assays and liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis, we identified a residue that is required for the remodeling of psCbl but not the salvaging of Cbi. Utilizing fluorescent confocal microscopy, we were able to establish the localization patterns of CobS and three cytosolic Cob proteins in various backgrounds of V. cholerae. Our results suggest that V. cholerae's CobS is not acting as a scaffolding protein but may have an additional role in the remodeling pathway.
3-D Morphology of the Ankle Joint as Related to the Design of the Interfacing Surfaces of an Anatomically-Based Total Ankle Replacement
Authors:   , Masgai Joseph , Siegler Sorin
Published: July 2021

Ankle arthritis is a painful and debilitating condition caused by abnormal wear to the cartilage covering the talocrural joint. Initially, symptoms are treated conservatively. Use of specialized ankle braces, cortisone injections, and physical therapy are used to combat pain. Once these treatments no longer suffice, non-conservative treatment must be sought. Patients choose between an ankle fusion and total ankle replacement. Foot ankle ankle surgeons often prefer ankle fusion because of the unacceptably high revision rates in total ankle replacement. One of the most common reasons for revision surgery is loosening of the ankle joint. The stock surface geometry of commercially available total ankle replacements stands in stark contrast to the complex, nuanced morphology of the talar dome and tibial plafond. As a result, large amounts of bone are resected during surgery. This is problematic because the average cortical bone thickness of the talus and tiba is very thin. Therefore, most of the implant adhesion is achieved through pins inserted into soft, cancellous bone. The design of the interfacing surface of the total ankle replacement should be based on surface anatomy to mitigate the incidence of revision surgery. As a prerequisite to this endeavor, the surface morphology of the talar dome and tibial plafond must be quantitatively defined by a set of anatomical measurements. In this study, 44 anatomical parameters are measured on the tibia and talus with the intent that they will form the basis of a subject-specific, parameter-based interfacing surface of a total ankle replacement. Distance mapping validates the merit of this process, as average deviation between the engineered surface and the anatomical surface averaged less than 0.4 mm.
Effects of surgical misalignment of total ankle arthroplasty with anatomical surface morphology on ankle mechanics through a three-dimensional image based dynamic model of the ankle
Authors:   , Doner Sami , Siegler Sorin
Published: July 2021

Misalignment was identified as a cause for failure of total ankle replacement (TAR) [1,2]. The presumed mechanism leading to this failure is altered mechanical properties leading to elevated and concentrated contact pressure [1] and increased in micro-motion [2]. In this study we use image-based, three-dimensional (3D) musculoskeletal models to identify the changes in ankle mechanics due to TAR misalignment. Previously developed and validated 3D musculoskeletal models of the ankle complex were used to identify the effect of TAR misalignment on joint mechanics. A generic TAR with cylindrical articular surfaces replaced the natural surfaces of the ankles. The tibial and talar components were first inserted in an optimal fashion with the surfaces parallel to each other. A misalignment was then produced by translating (2 mm Elevation/Depression, 3 mm Anterior/Posterior) and rotating (10° Dorsi/Plantar Flexion, 10° Inversion/Eversion, 10° Internal/External Rotation) the tibial component. Simulations, conducted in ADAMSTM consisted of loading the model in all three planes while recording the applied loads, the displacements produced and the forces in the ligaments. From these results the following parameters were derived: surface-to-surface distance maps at the ankle, Range of Motion (ROM), stiffness, ligament forces, ligament strains, and kinematic couplings. Misalignment of the tibial component of TAR produces changes in the stiffness of the ankle joint complex, changes in the surface to surface interaction at the ankle joint and affects the forces and strains developed in the surrounding ligaments. Knowledge of the effect of misalignment of TAR is clinically relevant since it indicates the sensitivity of the mechanical behavior of the joint to component misalignment [3]. As such, this technique can be used as a predictive tool to indicate the most sensitive direction in which misalignment is critical.
Intersectionality, Body Image, & Self-Esteem
Authors:   , Nicholson Breana Marie , Grayson Angela , Furcron Charné
Published: July 2021

This thesis project examines the topics of body image, self-esteem, and dance/movement therapy (DMT) in the context of the self-experiences of young African American women. A critical review of the literature suggests that intersectionality is a link that connects these topics and brings an important lens to understanding and practicing with diverse clients. Body image and self-esteem are variously impacted by the oppression experienced by minority clients who may hold multiple intersecting identities. Movement repertoire, a key focus in the practice of DMT, is in turn impacted by these body image and self-esteem experiences. This thesis suggests strategies to help dance/movement therapists understand body image and self-esteem when working with young African American women. The project also proposes that DMT may be an effective approach in this work because dance serves as a healing mechanism in the African American community.
Exploring Chemical Optimization Pathways for HIV-1 Env-Targeting Entry Inhibitors
Authors:   , Haftl Ann R. , Ji Haifeng , Schweitzer-Stenner Reinhard
Published: July 2021

Entry of HIV-1 virus into human CD4 positive cells is a critical step for infection1. Preventing this entry process is key for therapeutic intervention. Despite advances in AIDS treatment, shortcomings in current Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy (HAART) exist, such as emergent viral resistance and low patient compliance. To date, an anti-HIV-1 vaccine has not been attained. We have previously demonstrated that peptide triazoles (PTs) and their cyclic counterparts (cPTs) effectively compete for human CD4 and co-receptor binding, thus preventing infection2-3. Additionally, cPT derivatives irreversibly inactivate3 HIV-1 virions and are non-cytotoxic2. While previous optimization studies have been performed on lead cPT compounds2, enhancement of potency has been unable to yield IC50 values below 0.1[mu]M (100nM) thus far. In this study, the examination of two chemical routes for improvement of cPT potency against HIV-1 infection were investigated. Changes to the stereochemistry of the peptide backbone were tested in many sequences to yield information about structural tolerance to cPT stereochemistry. Previously, linear PTs were covalently linked4 to a co-receptor inhibitor (coRi) compound developed by collaborators5 to form a potent and synergistic chimera. Thus, the covalent attachment of a cPT to this coRi was attempted via microwave assisted solid phase peptide synthesis. Both pathways presented unique synthetic challenges which were overcome and gave much insight to the process of the solid phase synthesis technique. Neither chemical route resulted in a new lead compound with enhanced potency over the previous generation. Obtaining crystallographic data in future studies would help facilitate interpretation of these results to guide future experiments and syntheses.
Municipal Responses to Small Batch Manufacturing in New York City and Philadelphia
Authors:   , Thomas Alyssa Leigh , Zitcer Andrew
Published: July 2021

For decades, the United States has been experiencing a loss of manufacturing firms and employment. This has been particularly true for cities like New York and Philadelphia. This paper explores ways that New York and Philadelphia municipal governments play a role in the continued deindustrialization of their cities. Through historical trends, and current sector data, as well as business surveys and interviews with municipal and associated organization leaders, this paper identifies the key impediments to small batch urban manufacturing today. Industrial land protection, building stock, financial products, and workforce are key concerns for industrial sectors in both cities. This paper finds the lack of proactive municipal policy and programming in the industry is only exacerbating the loss of manufacturing firms and employees. The paper concludes with six policy recommendations addressing the industrial zoning code, workforce, external communications strategies, and urban production capabilities.
Incorporating Textual Information with Recommender Systems
Authors:   , Ping Qing , Chen Chaomei
Published: July 2021

Collaborative filtering-based approaches typically use structured signals, such as likes, clicks, and ratings, and predict such signals via matrix factorizations. Collaborative filtering-based approaches have shown great performance with large datasets, but also suffer from the "cold-start" problem with small datasets, and are not easily interpretable and explainable. In the Meanwhile, more and more unstructured textual information becomes available nowadays, such as reviews, comments, and tags. How to incorporate textual information into collaborative filtering-based recommender systems is a non-trivial research question, presenting new opportunities and challenges. This thesis focuses on the overarching research question concerning how to incorporate textual information into recommender systems to improve system performance and enhance model explainability. More specifically, this thesis addresses four specific research questions to answer the overarching research question. The four research questions center around the effects of using (1) textual information alone; (2) structured textual information and ratings; (3) unstructured textual information and ratings, to improve recommendation performance. The fourth research question subsequently focuses on how visualization tools can assist in gaining insights and intuitions for recommendation tasks. Three recommendation frameworks are developed to tackle the first three research questions respectively. The first framework casts the problem as a joint-ranking problem between emotion and topic concentration in text streams. The second framework uses uncertainty signals extracted from text context as additional supervised signals for link prediction. The third framework uses both quantum-like language models and a mutual-attention layer to boost the performance of rating prediction. Extensive experiments show that proposed frameworks outperform corresponding baselines.
Balancing walk-ins and scheduled appointments in a direct primary care setting
Authors:   , Leser Megan , Gallagher Gordon Mary , Zuzelo Patti Rager
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Walk-in patients are a frequent problem that can be a significant barrier in providers staying on schedule. Although increasing access to care is a major focus in health care and offering walk-in appointments would help this balancing the two items is cumbersome task. Methods: Using the Rapid Cycle Improvement model, a quality improvement project implemented a new schedule method that factored in walk-in patients. The study was conducted at direct primary care (DPC) office and a total of 603 visits were evaluated. The dependent variable, wait times, was measured and analyzed based on baseline and post intervention, scheduled versus unscheduled, and day of the week. Results: Independent T-test comparing means showed a significant (p=0.001) reduction in wait time post intervention. Additional significant relationship was seen between wait time and day of the week (p=0.000). Conclusion: Adjusting schedule system to accommodate walk-in patients can reduce wait times and allow for increased access for same-day patient needs.
How New Hope, Pennsylvania and Lambertville, New Jersey Emerged as Art Destinations
Authors:   , Pritchard Colleen , Brody Jean
Published: July 2021

Many artists and area residents believe that the New Hope Impressionists moved into the area due to the beauty of the Delaware River Valley and a desire to live and create in such an environment. Since many artists prefer to work in groups the artists continued to attract other artists creating a domino effect. This paper examines the question of how New Hope, Pennsylvania, and Lambertville, New Jersey, emerged as an arts destination by studying the history of the arts and artists who lived and worked in the area. After several interviews with area artists and gallery owners, it was evident that the primary reasons were that the artists were poor and the real estate in the area was relatively cheap and in close proximity to New York City and Philadelphia. Also large spaces for studios were available because the area had once been industrial. As a result, the area gentrified because of the artists moving here and creating a desirable community. Ultimately, the authentic artists and true identity of New Hope and Lambertville have been lost due to gentrification.
Substance Use and Misuse Among Nursing Students
Authors:   , Rattner Ilene Robin , Phillips Joy C.
Published: July 2021

Substance use among nurses and nursing students creates a dangerous environment for the delivery of safe and effective patient care. This qualitative study used a phenomenological research design to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of nursing students about substance use and the factors that can influence behaviors and decisions that nursing students make with respect to using drugs and seeking help. Gatekeeping Theory (Lewin, 1947) and Deterrence Theory (Haack & Yocom, 2002) provided the framework and guidance to answer the following research questions 1) What do nursing students perceive as factors that contribute to substance use disorders among nursing students? a.) What do recent nursing student graduates perceive as factors that contribute to substance use disorders among nursing students? 2) What do lived experiences of nursing students reveal about how nursing students with substance use disorders seek help? a.) What do lived experiences of recent nursing student graduates reveal about how nursing students with substance use disorders seek help? 3) Based on the lived experiences of nursing students, what types of strategies are found to be effective in managing substance use among nursing students? a.) Based on the lived experiences of recent nursing student graduates, what types of strategies are found to be effective in managing substance use among nursing students? Findings revealed six themes: a) mental health related issues b) stressors as contributing factors to substance use and misuse, c) fears and reservations d) stigma, e) seeking help, and f) awareness. The results and conclusions became the foundation for the final recommendations focused on strategies to address contributing factors that may influence a student's decision to use drugs. The four recommendations are a) identify an administrator or faculty member as a confidential resource for seeking help b) identify nursing students at risk for developing substance use disorders, c) incorporate substance use and misuse within the nursing profession into the undergraduate curriculum, and d) develop a universal manual describing substance use policies and resources for seeking help.
Exploring Structural Identification as a Tool for Characterization of Bridge Substructures
Authors:   , Mao Qiang , Bartoli Ivan , Aktan Ahmet Emin
Published: July 2021

Insufficient information on existing bridge substructures and foundations poses significant challenges for structural condition evaluation and can cause significant uncertainties for the safety and serviceability of bridges. Characterization and condition evaluation of bridges substructures and foundations will not only help to decrease the vulnerability to natural hazards, but it could also provide opportunities for their reuse with considerable benefits. In this thesis, the feasibility of leveraging structural identification techniques to characterize bridge substructures and foundations is studied. The challenges and limitations of implementing structural identification on bridge substructure characterization are also explored. In addition, the counter measurements for these challenges are also investigated. A 3-span simply supported bridge located in Mossy, WV is used as a case study. Multi-Reference Impact Testing is applied to this bridge with two different sensor layouts designed to investigate different unknowns of the bridge substructure, and to increase spatial information to be leveraged in the following study. Modal analysis and finite element model updating techniques are used to comprehend the uncertainties and conditions of the substructure. An updated finite element model for this structure provides valuable information for bridge condition assessment and proves how structural identification is a viable tool for the case considered. Several difficulties of implementing structural identification on this bridge substructure is also discussed including: (a) identifying substructure modes from Experimental Modal Analysis results; (b) identifying unknown variables with parameter coupling effect (between foundation depth and SSI); (c) mode pairing during automated FEM calibration process. A physical scaled bridge model is designed and studied to provide more flexibility to explore the application of structural identification on the bridge substructures. The scaled bridge model is designed as a scaled phenomenological model considering similitude requirements and distortions. Three experimentation cases are designed for EMA on the scaled bridge model: a case where aluminum bearings are installed with bolts to connect superstructure and substructure, a case where rubber bearings are installed with bolts and a case where rubber bearings are installed with epoxy. Based on the study on the scaled bridge model, structural identification shows the potential to characterize bridge substructures. The counter measurements for the major challenges met in the WV bridge study are explored and verified in the study for the scaled bridge model. In addition, recommendations for the application of structural identification on real bridge substructures are given based on the results presented in this thesis.
Communication Impressions
Authors:   , Gotthold Julia Burton , Gavin Kimberly , Carlton Natalie
Published: July 2021

The development of this method investigated how printmaking processes can be implemented into art therapy practices in an educational system for youth to address social and emotional communication. This was investigated through the blending of child-based group therapy approaches, school-based art therapy models, hybrid contemporary printmaking practices, art therapy printmaking, and Expressive Therapies Continuum frameworks. This method adapted how printmaking tools, techniques, and materials are used with school youth to be safe and accessible for social and emotional engagement, as well as addressed multiple developmental levels of student youth through specified printmaking processes. The elementary school setting was a fixed structure in which the printmaking method was facilitated through scheduled time frames for set up, safety, and therapeutic processing. The general student body, including particular students in the Art Therapy program, had a specific community culture of educational focus, behavioral expectation and social language that influenced the development of the method. Printmaking was the chosen adaptable media due to its historical and contemporary impact as a communication form for people. It shares information to others, celebrates practices in a collective holding space for individual and collaborative efforts, and the indirect process and product of the artmaking strengthens new perspective of one's own creativity and understanding.
Electrospun Scaffolds for Spinal Cord Explant Cultures
Authors:   , Street Reva , Schauer Caroline L.
Published: July 2021

Spinal cord injury (SCI) affects thousands of patients worldwide every year, and leads to numerous lifelong medical difficulties for these patients. Ex vivo research into strategies for improving neural interfaces is a key area of development for neural prosthetics, a method for restoring function after SCI. Such improved neural interfaces are also important for the ex vivo study of neuronal biology, for example the formation of neuromuscular junction synapses, neuronal survival and axonal outgrowth. This is especially true as in vivo studies are challenging due to technical limitations and a high level of complexity, and in vitro studies do not adequately model native cell populations and architecture. Electrospun fibers are an excellent interface material, as they can not only serve as a topographically tunable culture substrate, but can also be used for controlled delivery of neuroprotective molecules ex vivo. In this thesis, the formulation of electrospun nanofibers for enhanced ex vivo neuronal outgrowth is explored. Firstly, the incorporation of cationic polymer polyethylenimine (PEI) into electrospun gelatin was achieved, using both linear and branched PEI of various molecular weights (Chapter 3). The resulting branched PEI/gelatin scaffolds were demonstrated to increase the outgrowth of neurites from spinal cord explants. Secondly, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) was electrospun with PEI to determine if the addition of PEI could make non-biocompatible hydrophobic PAN into a biocompatible material (Chapter 4). The mats containing 600 MW branched PEI allowed for increased numbers of dissociated spinal cord explant to attach. The mats containing 600 and 10,000 MW branched PEI also demonstrated increased hydrophilicity. This indicates that other electrospun polymers may be made permissible for spinal cord explant growth with the addition of PEI. Thirdly, uric acid (UA) was incorporated into electrospun gelatin nanofibers and released under physiological conditions (Chapter 7). UA is a powerful neuroprotective biomolecule that acts as an antioxidant in vivo, however excess systemic UA can lead to gout and/or kidney stones. This indicates that UA is an ideal candidate for controlled localized release. The UA release achieved was ~ 80 [mu]g, more than the ~21 [mu]g needed for beneficial effect in neuronal cultures with induced peroxynitrite- or glutamate-induced toxicity
Examining the Implementation of Outpatient Palliative Care and its Influence on Quality of Life in Patients with a Life-Limiting Condition
Authors:   , Mendez Jessica L. , Wilson Linda , Prince Douglas , Bhatia Vipul
Published: July 2021

Background: Incorporating home-based palliative care is a new frontier within health care. Many health systems do not have patient access to such services. The need for comprehensive palliative care is inevitable with the aging population. Benefit of initiating palliative medicine for patients with life-limiting illness is known within present literature. The practice gap that exists within palliative medicine is well supported by existing evidence, as is the need to improve access to this style of care. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to embed outpatient palliative care services within the visiting nurses association (VNA) within Wellspan Health. By embedding this service as a needs assessment project, the investigator attempts to demonstrate improved quality of life outcomes and overall improved symptom management. Methods: a pre-test and post-test survey method using a convenience sample within the VNA was conducted assessing symptom control, wellbeing and level of distress. Initial ratings of symptoms including pain, nausea, anxiety, depression, sleep wellbeing, and distress level was documented using the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System and the distress thermometer. Weekly surveys were provided to participants on week one through eight during home visits. Evaluation: Descriptive statistics was used to evaluate the data collected. A Wilcoxon Signed Rank test was used to compare pain, wellbeing and distress scores from initial home visit to the final visit at the end of three weeks. Results: A non-parametric Wilcox Signed Rank test was used to analyze symptom data. When comparing the mean rating from the ESAS from week one (M=35.20, SD= 20.85), to week three (M=30.30, SD= 17.84), overall improvement cannot be generalized with the implementation of palliative care within the home health model. No statistical significance was identified (z= -1.07,p= 0.284). The same was true for the NCCN Distress Thermometer at week one (M= 3.60, SD=2.80), as compared to the end of the study at week three (M= 2.69, SD= 2.69, z= -.049, p=0.623). Clinical Implications: Review of the results does demonstrate some improvement toward improved symptom management, but because of time constraints and limited participation, results were not supportive of the hypothesis of suggested improvement with implementation of outpatient palliative care services within the VNA. Results suggest increase support for completion of symptom management tools and increased study length to demonstrate a more generalizable finding.
A Dance/Movement Therapy Approach to Alcohol Use Disorder Recovery
Authors:   , Clofer Chelsa La. Jaon , Goodill Sherry W. , Chou Jessica
Published: July 2021

A Dance/Movement Therapy Approach to Alcohol Use Disorder Recovery In 2016, The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) reported that approximately 3.7 million adults aged 18-25 and 10.9 million adults aged 26 or older had Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in the past year (https://nsduhweb.rti). Of the 2.2 million people aged 12 and older who needed treatment for AUD, only 10.6 percent received treatment (https://nsduhweb.rti). Alcohol is the third leading cause of preventable death in the United States (https://nsduhweb.rti). Definitions of recovery include a process of physiological and psychological growth which supports a freedom from substance dependency, greater health and well-being, and abstinence; although, abstinence alone does not define recovery. Previous research has found that self-efficacy and coping skills, involvement in healthy rewarding alternative activities, and growing and maintaining relationships with family and friends were treatment goals that were known to support positive short-term outcomes for AUD recovery. These personal resources are offered in Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT), an experiential creative arts therapy. The following literature review will demonstrate DMT's ability to effectively support the recovery process by noting mechanisms of change inherent in DMT which parallel those of recovery models that have shown successful outcomes (mutual help groups, cognitive/behavioral models, medication-assisted treatment).
The Essays on Negative Publicity
Authors:   , Han Jung Ah , Jeon Bang Nam , Anderson Rolph Ely
Published: July 2021

This dissertation establishes the impact of negative information on customers and investors. In the first essay, we examine how the increase in negative information about a brand lead to an increase in awareness and purchase intent for the brand, based on four years of weekly survey data tracking customers' attitudes towards computer and automobile brands. The analysis contributes to the literature on mind-set metrics in marketing mix models, focusing on the role of negative brand information in the mix. In the second essay, we examine the dynamic impact of negative information on customers and investors of the firm. We apply time-series econometric analysis to a firm-level survey and financial data for global car makers. The study suggests important policy implications that when firms are faced with negative information, they should focus their attention on their investor relations for a considerable time period until the long-term effect of the negative information overcomes its short-term impact.
Comparative Analysis of Areas With Buffer Zones vs Areas Without Buffer Zones
Authors:   , Sherman Danitra L. , Brown Darryl , Cohen David S.
Published: July 2021

There has been limited research conducted to understand the impact that anti-abortion protestors have on women seeking abortion - though previous researchers have shown that anti-abortion protestors do have a negative impact on women seeking abortion. This research expands upon existing studies to conduct a comparative analysis to determine if the negative impact of anti-abortion protestors was lessened when proximal optimization was achieved via a buffer zone. For this study, 90 women were interviewed - 45 in Philadelphia where proximal optimization has not been achieved and 45 in Pittsburgh were proximal optimization was achieved. Findings showed that women in Philadelphia (M = 1.3238, SD = .39000) reported to a greater degree negative emotional response compared to women in Pittsburgh (M = 1.0952, SD = .13426), with a p-value of .001. These findings substantiated the initial hypothesis and indicates that when a degree of proximal optimization is achieved via buffer zone legislation, then negative emotions experienced by women seeking abortion services are lessened. There was also a 12-point difference in women feeling upset due to protestor activity between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, with almost 48% of women in Philadelphia reporting varying levels of being upset. These results can be used as contextual information and data to influence policy to establish buffer zone legislation where it is absent, as well as providing substantiating evidence that buffer zones should stay in place if and when contested.
Evaluation of COPD Patient Education Methods
Authors:   , Howard-Mistry Dawn , Douglass Brenda L. , Zuzelo Patti Rager
Published: July 2021

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) affects close to 16 million Americans and is the third leading cause of death in the United States with recent estimates of care costing approximately $49.9 billion. The 30-day hospital readmission rates for this diagnosis are exceedingly high with an estimate of 14%, thus making it imperative that patients have a solid understanding of their disease state. Continuous efforts are being made to improve patient care with the focus on patient education. Educational methods and tools utilized include paper brochures, verbal instruction, and use of Audiovisual tools including the Getwellnetwork(TM). At project inception, no process or protocol existed at the clinical site of interest to ensure that the content of educational materials are consistent with evidence-based and guideline recommendations. Additionally, educational content may not be reviewed to be actionable and understandable to the patients. Thus, revealing no standard method deemed superior to provide patients and caregivers education upon hospital discharge for a diagnosis of this chronic condition. A product evaluation and appraisal of an audiovisual educational platform known as the Getwellnetwork(TM) that is available on demand with the use of a SMART TV was completed. The appraisal was inclusive of a pulmonary interprofessional expert panel to ensure the modules and materials are reviewed from different healthcare disciplines. Panel members utilized the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Audiovisual (PEMAT-AV) materials to assess module content for actionability and understandability. Results from this product evaluation project may be useful for other chronic disease education materials. Keywords: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, COPD, Getwellnetwork (TM), PEMAT-AV, patient education, self-management, AV education
Nature Prescriptions, Community Health Workers, and Evaluation at the Intersection
Authors:   , Gibson Allison , Epstein Nancy , Sarantschin Elisa
Published: July 2021

NaturePHL, with the unique component of a Community Health Worker acting as a navigator for families once they receive the prescription throughout the length of their program. This novel component of the program has the potential to provide added value and improved health outcomes. To show the added value and improved health outcomes from this component effective means of evaluating that role is necessary and the main reason for producing this research paper.
Investigating Na⁺ and lipid homeostasis as targets for antimalarial drugs
Authors:   , Bhatnagar Suyash , Vaidya Akhil B.
Published: July 2021

In an effort to combat the emerging resistance towards front line anti-malarials, novel therapeutics have been discovered that target the parasite's Na⁺ homeostasis. Studies with the pyrazoleamides and spiroindolones indicate that a disruption to the Na⁺ homeostasis leads to a consequent loss in regulation of cholesterol levels within the parasite plasma membrane. Additional compounds were identified that disrupted cholesterol homeostasis independent of Na⁺ homeostasis disruption. A medium throughput assay was established to screen for compounds acting on the cholesterol homeostasis pathway. Screening of 800 open source compounds identified several hits that disrupted cholesterol homeostasis in Plasmodium falciparum. Investigations in P. falciparum using a Na⁺ ionophore with potent anti-parasitic activity established a linkage between Na⁺ levels and cholesterol homeostasis disruption. We showed that the resistance of mammalian cells towards this ionophore treatment stems from their capacity to suppress disruption to their ion gradients while parasites appear to possess no such compensatory mechanism, ultimately leading to their demise. Resistance towards the pyrazoleamide PA21A092 was attributed to mutations in 2 genes: PfATP4 and a putative zinc-finger protein. Using CRISPR/Cas9 we introduced the PfATP4 A211V mutation and observed that the mutant allele of PfATP4 was sole contributor to resistance towards PA21A092. On further investigation into the hypersensitivity of PA21A092 resistant parasites towards spiroindolones, we observed that resistant parasites were subjected to overall higher rates of Na⁺ influx upon treatment with the spiroindolone KAE609 when compared to wild-type counterparts. We were also able to show that PfATP4 mutants have no discernable alteration to their Na⁺ efflux efficiency, although parasites expressing the A211V mutant of PfATP4 showed a significant fitness defect.
Contemporary Classical Female Composer
Authors:   , Anderson Elizabeth , Brody Jean
Published: July 2021

This work explores how working contemporary classical female composers navigate the small male-centric field of composition. It looks at gender roles and stereotypes that are associated with men and women, and how women have been viewed within the composition field. It takes a close look at the careers of six female composers, what they have accomplished as emerging or established composers, and what gender roles and stereotypes they have been subject to within their careers. Through this thesis, and with the women that were interviewed, there were no gender roles or stereotypes that deterred these composers from choosing the path of composition. Though, the limitation of composition and getting young women involved did help to implement programs for the growth of future female composers.
A Duet of Symptom and Structure
Authors:   , Nichols Sara B. , Pollock Kristin
Published: July 2021

This capstone thesis explores the degree of structure in dance/movement therapy (DMT) that best supports the emotional aspects, specifically self-esteem, of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The literature emcompasses various elements related to the school setting, self-esteem development, and treatment approaches for these children. Case conceptualization is included on one individual, age seven, who attends a special education school and recieves individual DMT sessions weekly. The discussion is based on themes that emerged through the six week period including use of imagery and props to elicit emotions, use of open ended structure to support imaginary play, use of strict structure leading to frustration and yearning for individual expression, and increase in self-esteem due to autonmy and normailzation of symptoms. Reflection and conclusion is based on the author's learning through the process of this project regarding the elements of the therapeutic reltionship, openness of individual expression, and the balance of input from the student and the therapist. Through understanding the emotional aspects related to ADHD, the therapist can create mind body experiences to deepen self-awareness, therefore improving behavioral problems as well.
Reinforcing Personal and Cultural Identity for Older Adults with Dementia through Treasured Songs
Authors:   , Choi Grace Jungeun , Ierardi Florence
Published: July 2021

Older adults with dementia may experience changes to their sense of identity that ultimately cause loss of identity as well as loss of memory, which are common symptoms of dementia. Identity is important for individuals as it represents who they were and who they are. As identity and self-esteem are related, loss of identity may impact one's self-esteem and low self-esteem may lead to other conditions such as depression ultimately affecting one's health. The purpose of this capstone thesis was to develop a method using treasured songs to reinforce personal and cultural identity for older adults with dementia at a residential nursing home and rehab setting. The relevant literature was reviewed in order to help developing the method. The reviewed literature demonstrates that music and music therapy can reinforce individuals' personal and cultural identity in some circumstances including those who have dementia. Case vignettes are provided to illustrate how treasured songs are used in music therapy sessions with older adults with dementia to help reinforce their identity. Based on the literature and clinical vignettes, it is suggested that use of treasured songs in music therapy sessions may help reinforce personal and cultural identity in older adults with dementia.
True and False Confessions
Authors:   , Haney-Caron Emily Hannah , Goldstein Naomi E. Sevin , DeMatteo David S.
Published: July 2021

Confession rates in the United States criminal justice system are high, and at least some of those who confess are innocent. Research on false confession frequency among justice-involved individuals either relies on historical self-reported confessions or considers the few cases in which DNA exoneration occurred, which are significant limitations in determining the frequency of or risk factors for false confession. Another line of research, undertaken with community samples, uses laboratory manipulations to examine the conditions under which individuals offer false confessions. Because laboratory false confession research has largely used two paradigms, it is difficult to identify the degree to which paradigm-specific factors (e.g., accusation of something the participant could have accidentally done; uncertainty regarding what the confederate will say happened) influence false confession rates. A valid self-report tool would allow for more accurate estimation of false confession frequency in justice-involved populations with whom laboratory studies are not practical or ethical. The Perceptions of Confession behavior during the Holding and Interrogation Process (P-CHIP) is a reliable, examiner-administered measure of self-reported likelihood of false confession if innocent and prediction of true confession behavior if guilty that has been administered to justice-involved populations, but the validity of the measure is unknown. This study introduced a novel laboratory false confession paradigm to examine the ecological validity of the P-CHIP. Participants were 91 undergraduates who believed they would be completing a study of logical reasoning and police perceptions and who were ultimately accused of cheating on a research task. False confession rates were lower and true confession rates higher than in previous research; almost all guilty participants signed a confession admitting to cheating, and 17.9% of innocent participants signed the confession. Likelihood of an innocent participant confessing was significantly associated with P-CHIP score. Suggestibility, decision-making ability, and age significantly predicted false confession behavior. Results suggest that the P-CHIP measures some aspect of false confession vulnerability or likelihood if the individual is accused of wrongdoing they did not commit. Additionally, this study raises questions regarding the potential role of paradigm choices in rates of confession. Future directions for false confession research are discussed.
Protest and the President
Authors:   , Clark David , Tedesco Albert S.
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this study was to analyze the way that MSNBC Primetime news covered the NFL Kneeling protest in order to see the ways in which their coverage upheld the protest paradigm and delegitimized the protest or dissented against the protest paradigm and gave credence to the protest. This was examined through three areas of research, the words and phrases used in their coverage, the voices and people that participated in the coverage, and the way President Donald Trump was incorporated into the coverage. A content analysis was completed to do this research. Transcripts from All In with Chris Matthews, The Rachel Maddow Show, and The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell from the dates of September 25 through October 13, 2018 were coded for the ways the types of language suppression tactics used, the background of the contributors used, and if the President was incorporated. The results showed that the majority of statements made during the coverage used some sort of language suppression tactic and there was an overwhelming inclusion of or reference to the President's comments in the coverage.
University-housed performing arts centers
Authors:   , Carlson Signe , Brody Jean
Published: July 2021

This thesis explores the topic of how American performing arts centers that are housed by universities and colleges function and are run. In many cases, these centers function as nearly autonomous arms of their parent organization. My purpose was to explore the extent of this autonomy, alongside the best practices that these performing arts centers have embedded in their day-to-day operations over the years. I focused my attention on four institutions: Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan, Gettysburg College in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, the University of North Carolina at Pembroke in Pembroke, North Carolina, and the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College in Colorado Springs, Colorado. All of these centers mainly stage outside performances, and do not focus on student performances. In addition, I also chose to look at how university-housed performing arts centers act as an outreach program to their local communities. Often, community members' only interaction with these universities is through their performing arts centers. I wanted to take a cursory look at outreach programs and other efforts to connect with local communities. Research proved that these performing arts centers are often similar in structure, with parallels in their relationships with their corresponding universities. Additionally, I found that programming within these performing arts centers is done principally autonomously, with few stipulations from the university.