bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeting the DNA Damage Response for the Treatment of Oral Mucosal HSV-1 Infection
Authors:   , Donegan William Edward , Clifford Jane
Published: July 2021

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is a highly prevalent pathogen that infects 67% of the world's population. HSV-1 most commonly infects the oral mucosal epithelium and manifests as herpes simplex labialis (cold sore) or herpetic gingivostomatitis. Patients who have a compromised immune system are at serious risk for developing drug-resistant HSV-1 disease that can become life-threatening through dissemination to internal organs. Treatment options for drug-resistant HSV-1 infection are nonspecific and fraught with toxicity concerns. Thus, there is a critical need for the development of new therapeutics. HSV-1 engages the cellular DNA damage response (DDR) by activating Ataxia Telangiectasia Mutated (ATM) and its major downstream target, Checkpoint Kinase 2 (Chk2). We demonstrate that targeting ATM or Chk2 with small molecule inhibitors suppresses both wild type and acyclovir-resistant HSV-1 replication in normal human oral keratinocyte cells. Furthermore, topical application of ATM or Chk2 inhibitors reduces the severity of herpes simplex labialis in a mouse lip model. We also demonstrate for the first time that ATM signaling is required for circularization of the HSV-1 genome. Interestingly, Chk2 is not required for HSV-1 genome circularization, which suggests that additional functions of the DDR are required for HSV-1 replication. We also elucidate that ATM can be activated in both a de novo-dependent and de novo-independent manner through ICP4. These data establish that targeting the DDR has the potential for treating oral mucosal HSV-1 disease, and furthers our understanding of how the DDR is utilized during HSV-1 infection.
Feature-based 3D Level Set Morphing
Authors:   , Campos Rafael , Breen David E.
Published: July 2021

Morphing, the transformation of one object into another, is a process that has been widely employed in visual effects for film, commercials and other media. Initially, its application was restricted to images, but techniques to morph fully three-dimensional shapes soon followed. In spite of its long history, existing morphing techniques have significant drawbacks and limitations. 3D morphing methods can be categorized as mesh-based or volumetric techniques. The former cannot produce transformations with changes in genus, while the latter has suffered from offering little to no user control. The process of creating a desirable morph between two three-dimensional shapes continues to be challenging. This dissertation describes a novel 3D morphing algorithm based on the volumetric implicit surface representation implemented by level set methods. The new technique leverages the unique properties that level sets provide, such as supporting arbitrary topological changes and not suffering from self-intersections. In combination with a user-driven warp transformation, the method is capable of producing morphs that were not previously realizable. Users can control the morph by specifying feature correspondences between the source and the target models. The warp transformation, derived from the user-placed features, makes the level set morphing art-directable. In addition to the feature correspondences, the method provides users with independent time controls for each of the two processes, level set morphing and warp transformation, that allows for finer-grained control of the morph's dynamics.
Sea turtles and small-scale fisheries
Authors:   , Panagopoulou Aliki , Spotila James Robert , Morreale Stephen J.
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this interdisciplinary study was to provide information useful for the development of management policies for Rethymno, Crete which hosts an important loggerhead turtle rookery for the Mediterranean region and is included in the EU's NATURA 2000 network. I used satellite telemetry, data loggers and ultrasonography to study the behavior of sea turtles during the interesting interval. By satellite tracking 21 turtles I identified internesting habitat utilized by loggerheads, which extended along the northern coast of Crete. Twenty-five percent of turtles exhibited low site fidelity, likely depositing at least one clutch in areas up to 150 km away. MCP and Kernel Density analyses revealed high intensity use areas indicating that existing boundaries of the NATURA 2000 site were insufficient to protect this population. Some females (n = 4) overwintered in neritic habitats around Crete. I studied the diving behavior of 33 loggerhead turtles and found that diving behaviors were consistent with energy conservation strategies. Dives occurred at depths shallower than 10 m (data loggers: 89.2%, n = 8,241; transmitters: 90.1%, n = 30,804), indicating selection for habitats providing protection. Using x2 goodness of fit tests and ANOVA analyses, I found variation in diving behavior among individual turtles and at different times of day. More active behavioral patterns indicated selection for warmer waters or foraging. Females spent > 95% of their time in the top 5 m of the water column between 11:00 and 19:00. I visited 18 ports around Crete, conducting 101 semi-structured, questionnaire based interviews with small-scale fishermen. There was a link between observed decreases in catch (reported by 96.0% of respondents), increased fishing effort and an increase in intensity of interactions with sea turtles. Fishers discussed damages resulting from these interactions, but sea turtles were thought to pose limited (52.5%) or no threat (21.2%). Interactions with large marine vertebrates were included in the 'top three challenges' faced by 66% of respondents, who indicated that the government should provide compensations, suggesting that it was indispensable to prevent intentional killings of animals seen as threats. Respondents also discussed establishing MPAs as favorable interventions for regenerating fish stocks. They also suggested that closures would be acceptable, especially if temporary and combined with compensation for curtailed fishing access.
Uncovered Path
Authors:   , Clark Kaitlyn , Schelly Hill Ellen
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this thematic analysis study was to understand the motivating factors, experiences and influences, and personal attributes and interests that lead one to pursue dance/movement therapy as their career choice. The research question for this study was as follows: What motivating factors, experiences and influences, and personal attributes and interests lead one to pursue dance/movement therapy as their career choice? This study aimed to answer this question through thematic analysis of archived data in the form of admissions essays submitted as part of an application to an accredited dance/movement therapy graduate program, in which applicants were asked to address significant life experiences, personal development, family history, arts background, and service history in an autobiographic essay. Through an essentialist thematic analysis method utilizing initial and focused coding, six major categories were identified: The Experience of Dance as an Expressive Process that Provides Support; Experiences with Trauma and/or Suffering; Influential and Impactful Relationships; Exposure to Dance/Movement Therapy; Exposure to/Experience with Mental Illness; and Interests in Body Work/Creative Arts as well as Helping/Empathetic Attributes and Interests. Themes involving the nature of relationships and an innate propulsion and desire to relate and connect with people through various forms were among the most emphasized themes uncovered.
The connections between culinary education and the restaurant industry
Authors:   , Traud Michael , Bureau W. Edward
Published: July 2021

As restaurants in the United States grow in number, industry professionals are complaining about a lack of a qualified workforce and poor level of education provided in culinary arts curriculum. While some authors have addressed the quality of culinary arts curriculum in relationship to graduates' industry success, few have addressed the issue in an interview format of three main stakeholder groups (educators, restaurant chefs, and recent graduates). Further, none have addressed the professional development standards of these parties in relation to culinary arts education. The purpose of this phenomenological study is to address the current state of culinary education and its relation to workforce needs by members of the restaurant industry. Data will be collected through 15 one-on-one, semi-structured interviews and focus groups with members from each of the three stakeholder groups. The participants will represent faculty in culinary arts facilities in the metropolitan Philadelphia region, culinary arts graduates with zero to three years of experience working in Philadelphia, and restaurant chefs with more than ten years of experience and currently holding a managerial position. Applying a social constructivist framework, the data will be bracketed and analyzed for common experiences and themes to understand the alignment of culinary arts curriculum in relation to the current restaurant industry. The anticipated outcome is to help those involved with culinary arts education determine what skills-if any-are currently missing and needed for graduates entering the restaurant industry and provide recommendations for planning effective professional development and curriculum design for culinary arts educators.
Engaging the Ninth Grade Mind
Authors:   , Whitworth Holly L. , Bureau W. Edward
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this case study was to examine ninth grade student engagement at a comprehensive urban high school. Six hundred fifty ninth grade students were invited to participate in the High School Survey of Student Engagement (HSSSE). Of this group of ninth grade students, 10 were invited to participate in a focus group interview to closely look at individual cases of student disengagement and to understand the students' perspectives of their own disengagement. In addition, 10 teachers participated in individual interviews to gain an understanding of the different teaching methods utilized for lesson design and delivery in different content areas. Data collected sought to answer three research questions: (a) What are the contributing factors to ninth grade student disengagement/engagement in a large comprehensive, urban public high school?, (b) How do teachers impact ninth grade student disengagement/engagement?, (c) How does the transition between middle and high school address students' academic, behavioral, and emotional disengagement needs? The findings identified that connection, relationships, and availability of staff influenced student engagement in school. The research identified that school staff have the ability to facilitate engagement by connecting students' background knowledge to the curriculum being taught in different subjects within the classroom. It was also identified that there is a need for students and their families to be connected to the larger school community. It is recommended that school staff and teachers develop positive relationships with students and families before and as students enter high school. It is recommended that administrators develop and maintain positive behavior support systems for all students in all high school grades to maintain a positive school culture. In addition, teachers need systematic support to effectively incorporate engagement strategies and plan effective academic lessons.
High Gradient Magnetic Repulsion for 1. Separation and 2. Focusing of Cells and Biomolecules for Applications in Medicine and Biology
Authors:   , Vyas Siddharth , Friedman Gary G. , Genis Vladimir
Published: July 2021

The ability to separate and focus cells and biomolecules enables many biological studies and medical diagnosis. At present most of the commercially available methods of magnetic separation work in batch mode with very limited control over selectivity of separation. In order to improve the selectivity of magnetic separation some researchers have suggested designs that utilize the phenomenon of magnetic attraction in order to pull the magnetic particles that are present in a flow towards a channel wall that's closer to the external attracting magnet. However, such designs require larger channel lengths for improved selectivity of separation as the magnetic field gradients produced by the external magnet are small and cannot exert sufficient attractive forces on the magnetic particles in order to pull them towards the channel wall. In regards to focusing, at present, there are no exclusively magnetic methods available to focus and separate magnetic particles. The few magnetic focusing methods that do exist utilize the phenomenon of magnetic attraction along with secondary sheath flows in order to separate and focus the magnetic particles. However, these methods suffer from poor performance as magnetic particles can only be focused at very low flow rates thereby reducing the number of magnetic particles that can be effectively focused per unit time. At the same time these methods require excellent control over flow rates of analyte and sheath fluid which is difficult to achieve. So far, the use of high gradient repulsive magnetic forces for separation and focusing of magnetic particles has largely been ignored by researchers that are working on magnetic separation and focusing methods. This dissertation investigates the feasibility of high gradient repulsive magnetic forces to separate and focus magnetic particles that are present in a flow. These feasibility studies are performed using simple separation and focusing designs that do not require any secondary sheath flows. Numerical methods are employed to determine the trajectories of magnetic particles in these designs. As an example application, the high gradient repulsive magnetic forces are utilized to separate, focus, and concentrate malaria-infected red blood cells in order to improve the microscopic diagnosis of malaria. In addition, in regards to the magnetic-stent assisted drug targeting systems, the low capture of drug carrying magnetic particles by magnetic stent wires is attributed to the repulsion of magnetic particles that were not captured by the first wire.
Effect of Flow Rate on High Performance Liquid Chromatography Column Re-equilibration after Gradient Elution
Authors:   , Fletcher Michael Robert , Foley Joe Preston
Published: July 2021

In traditional high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), column re-equilibration between gradient elution runs is necessary to prepare a column for subsequent experiments. This process replaces the final mobile phase in the column with the mobile phase employed at the start of the run. The replacement of mobile phase occurs in four regions within the column: (i) between the particles (inter-particle); (ii) within the pores of the particles (intra-particle); (iii) in the interfacial region between the mobile phase and stationary phase; and (iv) in the space between the bonded phase ligands. Column re-equilibration, which we hypothesize is limited by the rate of diffusion within the pores and in the interfacial region, traditionally consumes a large quantity of mobile phase due to the high flow rates commonly employed during the reequilibration process. An alternative approach to column re-equilibration after gradient elution is presented, in which solvent consumption is minimized by substantially reducing the flow rate during column re-equilibration, thus allowing more time for new mobile phase to diffuse into the pores and interfacial region while consuming less solvent. The effect of flow rate on reequilibration time and solvent consumption is studied using a variety of column sizes and stationary phase composition. In addition, the effect of the solvent identity (acetonitrile vs. methanol) and the magnitude of the change in mobile phase composition on the re-equilibration time are also evaluated. The volume of mobile phase needed for re-equilibration is shown to be proportional to the flow rate employed during the re-equilibration process, verifying that a reduction in solvent consumption can be achieved by lowering the flow rate. In addition, the time necessary for re-equilibration is shown to be influenced by two terms: one that is flow rate dependent, and the other that is flow rate independent.
Microsecond Spark as a Source of Compression and its Application as a Pressure Wave Generator
Authors:   , Taylor Nathaniel D. , Dobrynin Danil , Fridman Alexander A.
Published: July 2021

Conventional methods of compression are limited in size due to their mechanical components as the devices which rely on compression are becoming smaller. An alternative to mechanical compressors has been developed to meet the needs of small scale compression using microsecond sparks that require almost no moving components. Pulsed plasma generates fast heating and shock waves which produce pressure waves in the working fluid. Spark pressure wave generation offers the advantages of high frequency pulsing and small size without the need for mechanical components which limit the life of the device and require physical space within the compressor. Microsecond spark has been shown within this dissertation to have the capability of generating a temperature of 5,500 K in approximately 1 [mu]s to produce pressure waves within water, air, and helium. Pressure increase up to a 150% inside of the helium was generated and measured. Devices for the practical application of driving Stirling cryogenic coolers using spark have been designed, manufactured, and tested. Numerical modeling using COMSOL was used to observe and verify the pressure wave production and temperature distribution within the system showing that a plasma pressure wave generator is a viable option for period pressure production. The plasma pressure wave generator was constructed to operate while charged to 20 bar of helium and to integrate with a Stirling cryogenic cooler to produce pressure capable of driving the cryocooler at 100 Hz.
Conducting (suspension) flowable electrodes for water and energy technologies
Authors:   , Hatzell Kelsey Bridget , Gogotsi Yury
Published: July 2021

This thesis focuses on the development a new family of flowable electrochemical systems based on suspension electrodes to address key critical infrastructures needs: grid energy storage and water deionization. The research herein combines classical aspects of electrochemistry, colloidal science, material science, and rheology to describe ion and charge percolation processes in suspension electrodes. A suspension electrodes is an example of a new and emerging multiphase material comprised of an active material suspended in electrolytic medium. Gravimetrically the electrolyte is the majority component and aids in physical transport of the active (charge-storing) material. By continuously replenishing the electroactive region with uncharged material, suspension electrodes allow for continuous charge storage. This enables scalability of solid-state energy storage systems (supercapacitors and batteries). Ultimately, this dissertation outlines the fundamental and underlying electrochemical, kinetic, and rheological properties of suspension electrodes. Carbon-based and inorganic (manganese oxide) materials are studied as the active material in a suspension electrode. The compositional loading and the material properties (conductivity, porosity, texture) are identified and studied for their affects on charge storage and rheological properties in a suspension electrode. With an ultimate goal of achieving high energy density, opportunities for pseudocapacitive suspension electrodes via the addition of soluble organic molecules and redox-metal ions are examined (faradic processes). The role of carbon surface heteroatoms on the combined rheological, electrochemical, and deionizing properties of capacitive suspension electrodes for desalination is studied. High mass loaded suspension electrodes (28 wt% carbon content) based on oxidized activated carbon displayed similar viscosities to lower mass loaded suspension electrodes (20 wt% carbon content) based on non-oxidized activated carbon. This work provides a holistic examination of suspension electrodes and reports key nanoscale material properties and how these properties transition to system level ion removal and charge storage properties.
Predicting Weight-Related Outcomes in Healthy Adolescents
Authors:   , Winter Samantha , Lowe Michael R.
Published: July 2021

Obesity and obesity-related diseases have increased dramatically worldwide in recent years; however, previous studies have shown that weight loss interventions are largely ineffective in the long term. As a result, focus has shifted to determining objective predictors of weight gain, including neural correlates of such weight behaviors. Previous imaging studies have investigated the brain using univariate methods that do not enable detection of the multivariate complex patterns that may separate those prone to weight gain from those who are not. The present study used a supervised machine learning method (SVM; support vector machine) to classify adolescents (N = 135) into those who would gain weight or become weight variable over a 3-year period. Whole brain SVM analyses were performed for a) structural MRI, b) fMRI during milkshake tasting, c) fMRI during an inhibitory control go/no-go task, d) fMRI during a food image task and e) a combination of modalities. Structural scans did not significantly predict weight gain or weight variability. For functional scans in the milkshake and food image paradigms, SVMs significantly predicted weight gain using a linear mixed-effects method. Predictive accuracy increased when these two paradigms were concatenated in a single model. SVMs did not reach significance for classification of weight variability in any of the paradigms. These results support that weight gain proneness can be characterized by different neural activation to food stimuli and that these differences precede weight gain. The findings suggest that SVM may be useful for identifying neural markers of weight gain proneness.
Facile Fabrication of Mechanically Stable LSGM-Based Anodes for Use in Intermediate Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors:   , Housel Gabrielle Marie , Gogotsi Yury
Published: July 2021

In an effort to eliminate carbon emissions in energy production, fuel cells are being developed and improved to provide all of the power required in various applications. Solid Oxide Fuel Cells, or SOFCs, show great promise to displace current stationary power sources. However, they require further development to be practical enough for widespread implementation. Lowering the operating temperature and manufacturing cost is of most interest in the evolution of SOFCs. Strontium- and Magnesium-doped Lanthanum Gallate, or LSGM, has shown great promise for use in Intermediate Temperature SOFCs, and could make existing power generators obsolete. This thesis focuses on facilitating the fabrication of LSGM anodes using tape-casting and infiltration to make manufacture of these types of SOFCs inexpensive. First, an environmentally friendly slurry was developed, using only water as the base and minimizing the use of chemicals that would require special disposal. Once successfully developed, LSGM anode slurries using pore formers of starch, activated carbon, and graphite were investigated for their resultant porosity. Using tape-casting methods, disks were sintered and examined for morphology and microstructure, as well as mechanical stability. Once graphite was determined to be the most appropriate pore former, the viscosity of the slurry for anode production was tested at different temperatures and solid loadings in an attempt to capture the ideal processing parameters for tape casting. This was performed in an effort to determine if higher viscosity would require fewer tape casting steps. The sintering profile of the disks was confirmed through TGA of slurry constituents, and finally the infiltration of these disks was investigated. After testing 1M, 2M, and 3M solutions of nickel nitrate solutions for use in infiltration, disks that were infiltrated with 1M solution were investigated for nickel coverage before and after calcination of nickel constituents. The infiltration proved to be successful, as it did not compromise the mechanical integrity of disks while providing sufficient coverage of pores in sintered anode disks.
Linear TV In The Non-Linear World
Authors:   , Hernandez Carlo Angelo Mandala , Salas Philip W. , Tedesco Albert S.
Published: July 2021

Unprecedented technological innovations in media content consumption have had a profound impact on the network television industry. Television networks' control has waned since the advent of alternative platforms for content viewing. Audiences have been released from the clutches of the linear schedule. They now have the freedom to customize viewing based on their content and platform preferences, and availability. The purpose of this qualitative study is to assess 1) the current value of television linear scheduling and 2) the effectiveness of traditional strategies in this present phase of channel and platform proliferation. An additional goal is to identify new strategies that are employed by broadcasters to accommodate the audience's changing viewing habits. Thus, the author primarily interviewed experienced television executives who were currently in-charge of scheduling television shows. Their insights have led to the conclusion that scheduling remains relevant in this age of non-linear viewing. However, its functions adapt and its scope expands beyond linear. There are also key changes in the approaches and thought-processes in scheduling. Furthermore, new systems have been identified, which are currently utilized in attracting audiences to consume content via live television. As television insiders have differing opinions, it is suggested that the effectiveness of these new systems be researched further. Keywords: television scheduling, television programming, linear scheduling, lead-in, non-linear viewing
Predicting Angular Displacement of Medical Devices in a MRI Scanner Bore Using COMSOL Multiphysics
Authors:   , Ferreira Adam , Kurtz Steven M.
Published: July 2021

Medical devices undergo a series of evaluations in order to determine their performance and level of safety in a magnetic resonance (MR) environment. The standard of focus for this work is ASTM F2052-15 which measures the induced displacement of a device due to the spatial gradient fields present in the MRI scanner bore. This test entails suspending the device from a string near the entrance of the MRI bore and measuring the angle of deflection. Evaluating the performance of medical devices in the MR environment is a costly endeavor, both in time and resources. This work aims to develop a predictive model to help eliminate some of the burden associated with this testing. The current method of testing magnetically induced displacement force is by measuring the deflection angle between the device and the test fixture. The displacement force is then computed using this deflection angle. It is expected that this deflection angle can be recreated within the simulation and the forces acting on the device be accurately displayed, and the associated displacement force estimated numerically. This model provides the freedom of manipulating a device and evaluating its performance almost instantaneously. Extensions of this model have the potential to further the detailed numerical evaluation of medical devices in the MR environment. This information could lead to reevaluation of the current ASTM standards surrounding medical devices in the MR environment.
A pre-study of the effect of challenge system on type A/B personalities in endless runner mobile game
Authors:   , Zhong Shihong , Wagner Michael G.
Published: July 2021

The research explores type A and B personality players and their preferences for competing with high score strangers or non-high score friends in an endless runner game in order to identify a potential method for increase player interactions. The retention rates of endless runner mobile games have been saturated since 2013. Game analysts think that this is a consequence of the lack of social interaction inherent to most endless runner games. To counter this saturation and increase retention, a modified challenge system should be instituted to facilitate interaction between players. However, there is insufficient research regarding player interactions in the context of mobile gaming. Therefore, the current study was conducted, incorporating the fields of PC and console gaming and psychology, focusing on a self-developed endless runner game to investigate player personalities and their preferences for competing with high score strangers or non-high score friends. The type A/B personality theory defined by Friedman and Jordan in the1950s was used to examine ten students from the same class who attend Drexel University. The study revealed that type A students initially liked to compete with strangers but switched competing with classmates after playing the game ten times in a row. Type B students like competing with classmates consistently during the duration of the study. The research found that personality affects player preferences with regard selecting competitors in the endless runner game. This finding offers one way to improve player interactions through the use of a challenge system to encourage players to interact with the preferred kinds of competitors based on their personalities.
Getting Into the Game
Authors:   , Comunale Mary Ann , Grant Allen C.
Published: July 2021

Play learning is natural to all human beings and has been a part human culture since ancient time. Teaching children through games is widely accepted, but as we become adults, learning takes on a more serious construction. Research has shown that game based learning can be motivational and result in positive learning outcomes for all levels of learning. However, higher education has been slow to acceptance and use. By taking a closer look into the stories of early adopters that implemented digital games into higher education, this study utilized a multi-case study approach to understand the basis for the decision to use games, and the faculty experience during the game design and implementation phases. Results indicate that the higher education early adopter's decision to use games was a creative solution to resolve conflicts that occurred in their classrooms, and they were intrinsically motivated even though they would not necessarily consider themselves to be "gamers." Each participant received support from their administrators and peers and described their experience as positive. Recommendations for administrators and faculty interested in pursuing digital game based learning in higher education and for future research are provided.
Assessing "Credible Fear"
Authors:   , Filone Sarah Anne , DeMatteo David S.
Published: July 2021

Recent immigration trends indicate that the United States is home to a remarkably diverse and rapidly growing population of displaced persons. Many of these individuals have survived exceptional trauma and are thus particularly vulnerable to trauma-related behavioral health disorders. Mental health professionals are commonly asked to assess immigrants within this population in the service of immigration court decision making. These assessments present a variety of challenges for clinicians, including the assessment and documentation of trauma-related symptoms across cultural bounds. The Trauma Symptom Inventory-2 (TSI-2) may be uniquely suited to the demands of immigration court assessments; however it has not been previously examined in a culturally diverse sample. The current study provided a psychometric examination of the TSI-2 within a sample of 97 immigrants with histories of trauma. De-identified TSI-2 data were drawn from several clinicians' existing immigration assessment files. Reliability, validity, and standardization sample comparison results indicated that the TSI-2 is appropriate for use within an immigrant population, and the currently available TSI-2 norms are likely acceptable.
On the Synthesis & Characterization of Ti₃C₂T_x MXene Polymer Composites
Authors:   , Carey Michael S. , Schauer Caroline L.
Published: July 2021

An investigation into the synthesis and characterization of Ti₃C₂T_x MXene polymer composites has been made, where an improvement in material properties at low filler weight percents has been achieved. Poly(acrylic acid) based composite material showed improved mechanical performance, namely a 144.8% increase in tensile strain to failure with no reduction in elastic modulus and only slight reduction in ultimate tensile strength. FTIR analysis of these films show evidence for hydrogen bonding between the functional groups of poly(acrylic acid) and the surface functionalization of Ti₃C₂T_x. Nylon-6 based composites loaded at 5 and 10 wt% MXene were successfully produced by both a solvent cast and extrusion method, with MXene content verified by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Samples loaded at 5 wt% exhibited a 30.96% increase in modulus of elasticity, with a 10.9% increase in ultimate tensile strength. A water barrier phenomena was observed in the case of these MXene containing composites, as evidenced by the characteristic shape of the stress-strain plot. Differential scanning calorimetry results reveal a 15 °C increase in the crystallization temperature (T_c) with a enthalpy of crystallization 18% lower than neat nylon-6 and a degree of crystallinity of 60-70%, suggesting that MXene acts as a site for heterogeneous nucleation. X-ray diffraction results indicate that full delamination of multilayer MXene was not achieved through mechanical shearing alone, however improved mechanical properties were achieved despite this, suggesting that further improvements could be made if full exfoliation is achieved.
Extremely Thin Absorber Solar Cells
Authors:   , Majidi Hasti , Baxter Jason B.
Published: July 2021

A typical extremely thin absorber (ETA) cell comprises an extremely thin absorber layer at the interface between nanostructured, interpenetrating n-type and p-type semiconductors. Compared to planar photovoltaics, the large surface area of the nanostructured interface allows a thinner absorber layer to be used without sacrificing absorber volume. Photogenerated charges must be separated at the absorber interfaces before they recombine. Shorter distances for charge separation in ETA cells allow using materials with lower purity and higher defect densities, enabling use of inexpensive, solution-based processing methods. We report on electrodeposition of CdSe coatings onto ZnO nanowire arrays and determine the effect of processing conditions on material properties such as morphology and microstructure. We show that room-temperature electrodeposition enables growth of CdSe coatings that are uniform, and conformal with precise control over thickness and microstructure. Optimal range of current density was determined to achieve uniform and conformal coatings. Absorbers thinner than the charge collection length reduce bulk recombination and enhance charge separation at the interface. The charge collection length is directly related to the microstructure of the absorber coating. We report on the crystallite growth of electrodeposited CdSe coatings on ZnO nanowires during annealing. Both in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and x-ray diffraction (XRD) reveal that the nanocrystal size increases from ~3 to ~10 nm upon annealing at 350 C for 1 h and then to more than 30 nm during another 1 h annealing at 400 C. Increased crystallite size, comparable to the coating thickness, shows a nearly two-fold improvement in power conversion efficiency upon annealing. In addition to the crystallinity of the coating, the absorber thickness affects the charge separation in ETA cells. Coatings that are too thin show poor light harvesting. However, too thick coatings show inefficient charge separation. We demonstrated optimum thickness of CdSe in the planar ETA cell. In addition, extremely thin coatings suffer from large interfacial recombination. Severe shunting in very thin absorbers is tackled by applying an ultra-thin (5 nm) coating of CdS on ZnO nanowires before CdSe electrodeposition. Interface engineering in ETA cells leads to five times improvement in the power conversion efficiency.
The Effect of Using the Muddiest Point Technique in a Large General Chemistry Class
Authors:   , Snead Loraine Palmer , King Daniel B.
Published: July 2021

This study examined the effects of the muddiest point technique on student performance and potential metacognitive benefits in two sections of general chemistry. The muddiest point is a learning model that is used to engage students in large lecture-based chemistry classes. A tally of students' responses to concepts that need the most clarification, hence any "muddy" points was collected. The study analyzed data from three unit tests and one final exam in each of the two experimental sections. Student performance was evaluated based on the muddiest point-correlated exam questions in the four assessments. The two experimental sections were compared against three controlled general chemistry sections in which the instructors did not employ the muddiest point technique. The results of this investigation indicate no statistical differences between the experimental and control sections, but do imply positive benefits for students whose instructor chose to review confusing topics that were chosen by the majority of the students in the class. These conclusions demonstrate a need for further research to determine whether the muddiest point technique benefits specific types of content understanding that were not evident from the multiple-choice questions or data collection used in this study.
Reducing Polypharmacy in Long-term Care Units
Authors:   , Magsalin Maria , Gonzalez Elizabeth W.
Published: July 2021

Background: Polypharmacy is prevalent in nursing home residents and has been associated with negative outcomes such as falls, adverse events, cognitive and functional decline, non-adherence, hospitalization and even death. Despite interventions focused on reducing use of inappropriate drugs in elderly people there is still a need to create a process to safely and effectively reduce polypharmacy in this population. A systemic tapering or discontinuation of unnecessary medication called deprescribing has been documented to decrease polypharmacy and exhibited encouraging results in improving patient outcome in nursing home residents. Purpose: To implement a deprescribing process with the goal of tapering or discontinuing unnecessary medications and evaluate the effect of deprescribing medication to the functional status of elderly living in long-term care facility. Method: A one group pre-test and post-test quasi-experimental design was used to determine differences in functional status and number of medications at baseline and 6 weeks after the implementation of the deprescribing process among older adult residents of a long term rehabilitation facility. Functional status was measured using the modified Katz Activities of Daily Living (ADL: Katz). Patients' responses to the discontinuation of medication were documented for 4 weeks. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired - test. Results: 25 older adults participated in the study. The majority are women ((76%) with a mean age of 84.8 years and average number of prescribed medicine was 9.52 (SD = 4.3). The results showed a significant decrease in the number of medications from baseline and 6 weeks (t = 2.17, p = .007) There was no significant difference (t = 2.06, p = .32) in functional status at baseline and 6 weeks. Conclusion: Deprescribing process in older adults is feasible without adverse effects. Despite the small sample size and short study duration it is encouraging to observe that a patient-centered deprescribing process can safely reduce the number medicines consumed by elderly residents in nursing home without any adverse effect.
Smoking Cessation and Lung Cancer Screening Focus Groups in African American Smokers
Authors:   , Washington Terri L. , Patton Carol M.
Published: July 2021

Background: African Americans have the highest lung cancer mortality rates compared to other ethnic groups. Smoking cessation programs have reported low quit attempt rates in racially diverse groups, including African Americans (Asvat, Cao, Africk, Matthews, & King, 2014). The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) evidence-based practice project assessed smoking behaviors and lung cancer screening beliefs of African American smokers in Philadelphia, PA. The ecological model for health promotion guided the DNP project objectives to identify factors influencing smoking behaviors and resources needed for patient-centered smoking cessation and lung cancer screening programs. Methods: Two focus groups were conducted with African American smokers in Philadelphia, PA using semi-structured questions. The Contemplation Ladder assessed readiness to quit smoking. Heaviness of Smoking Index (HSI) evaluated nicotine dependence. The Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine-Short Form (REALM-SF) assessed reading levels. Thematic data analysis identified factors influencing tobacco use and resources to develop a patient-centered program. Results: The Contemplation Ladder mean score of 5.8 indicated thoughts of quitting smoking but not ready. The HSI 2.25 mean score indicated moderate nicotine dependence. The reading level was 7- 8 grade using REALM-SF. Health reasons influenced thoughts of quitting smoking. Cigarette taxes resulted in decrease in smoking and finding cheaper locations to buy cigarettes. Participants were not aware of lung cancer screening tests. Significance and Implications: Leadership of DNPs is crucial to address nicotine dependence in African American smokers in Philadelphia, PA. The Nurses for Tobacco Cessation program provides a framework for DNPs to develop patient-centered programs.
Health Promotion Lifestyle Profile of Low-Income African American Women During Interconception
Authors:   , Roebuck Deborah Darlene , Wilson Linda
Published: July 2021

African American women are the most at risk population for poor perinatal birth outcomes in United States. To eliminate these ethnic and racial perinatal disparities, The United States Department of Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) adopted the Life Course Perspective conceptual framework (Fine & Kotelchuck, 2010). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) implemented these life course preconception care interventions and policies to improve birth outcomes and maternal health and well-being across women's, especially poor women's, lifespans (Lu & Halfron, 2003). Pender's revised Health Promotion Model supports the framework by adding a nursing explanation of how an individual can improve their own health promoting lifestyles (Gillis, 1993). In particular, the nursing model has an accompanying tool titled the Health Promotion Lifestyle Profiles II (Walker, Sechrist, & Pender, 1995) that measures an individual's characteristics and health promotion behaviors. Therefore, the aim of this study is to utilize the Health Promotion Model and Health Promotion Lifestyle Profiles II to examine the health-promoting behaviors of low-income African American women of reproductive age during the interconception period to better understand and ultimately improve poor women's perinatal birth outcomes. Objectives: The aim of this study is to utilize the Health Promotion Model and Health Promotion Lifestyle Profiles II to examine the health-promoting behaviors of low-income African American women of reproductive age during the interconception period. Patients and Methods: This descriptive quantitative pilot study was carried out on a sample of 52 women of child bearing (18 - 44 years of age) in WIC offices in three low-income locations in the city of Philadelphia. The participants were a convenience sample. The scale for health 10 promotion lifestyle was Walker's Health Promoting lifestyle Profile (HPLP II), which encompasses six healthy lifestyle dimensions. Results: The data collection tools used in the study was 1. Maternal Demographic Information Sheet, 2. Interconception Individual Characteristics and Experiences Questionnaire and 3. Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile II (HPLP II). The results obtained from the study showed that total HPLP II scores indicated that survey participants 'sometimes' to 'often' engaged in health promoting behaviors. The highest scores were obtained on the spiritual growth dimension and the lowest scores on the physical activity dimension.
Does Structure Matter?
Authors:   , Dunston Danielle , Kumanyika Shiriki K.
Published: July 2021

Objective: The aim of this study is to compared the food environment of two different types of food pantries, bag and client choice, in Philadelphia on the food provided to the clients. Methods: The Food Trust, a nonprofit organization that is devoted to having access to affordable, nutritious food and information to make healthy decisions available to everyone, in collaboration with other SNAP-Ed providers in Philadelphia seek to implement the Pennsylvania Healthy Food Pantry Initiative. The Initiative wants to make the healthy choice the easy choice for food pantry clients and will accomplish this through increasing capacity of food pantries to stock, offer, and promote healthier food through training and technical assistance. Food pantries used for this study were those participating in the Initiative; project leaders of the Initiative contacted pantries by telephone and informed them of the Initiative and added the pantry into the sample if they wanted to participate. Data collected for the project was done through in person or telephone interviews with the head coordinator of the food pantry. The instrument used was the Pennsylvania Healthy Food Pantry Initiative Assessment. Questions 1-13 are descriptive and open-ended questions about the pantry; question 8 from this section will be used for this project so that the pantries can be grouped into bag or client choice. The next section, questions 14-21, is categorical questions based on fresh and shelf food that the pantry provides to its clients. These questions are closed ended and investigate the frequency of the foods provided. These questions will be used to investigate the food environment of the pantries. The Mann-Whitney U Test was used to analyze the data. Results: The results indicated that the only significant difference between the food environments of bag and client choice pantries was the frequency in providing fresh produce and lean meat less than 85%. Conclusion: Produce being significantly offered more in one environment than the other, policies should be in created that provide incentives to local grocers and farmers to provide fresh produce to local food pantries and food pantries should create gardens as well.